I’ve found that when authors can’t find comps it’s not because the book isn’t out there and need to look out a wider field. Comps are hard for everyone! #askDVpit

If we could predict this, we'd be printing money! 😉 Certain categories, esp. in YA, are crowded, but that doesn't mean inventive new stuff won't sell. Rom-coms are in, but there are a lot in the queue at pubs already. You can't write to trends; you'll never catch them! #askDVpit

we've been doing april and october but that is subject to change at any time #askdvpit

Yup!! You can even schedule pitch tweets to make the day less stressful! #askDVpit

i say an evocative title can add to the intrigue!!! #askdvpit

i think it's best to go by what feedback resonates with you. getting more eyes on your work is good and you should keep an open mind, but everything is subjective and ultimately we want YOU to be happy with your book #askdvpit

Yes to both! But if your comps are wildly different from each other take a second look--in general, they should be on the same wavelength. Also, love a good film or tv comp ;) #askDVpit

With any feedback, you want to listen to why fits your vision and what speaks to you. While there can be general overlap in critique, everyone has different eyes. It’s a combo of your own gut, CPs, and eventually agent and editor. It’s a collaborative thing. #askDVpit

Depends if it’s other world, but in general can go as high between 80K-100K for fantasy #askDVpit

I should also note here that 13, especially if the themes tread upward, is an in-between age that sometimes gets stuck between middle-grade and YA. Do write the book + character you wanted to write, but this can affect where you'll have most success selling it! #askDVpit

I wouldn’t put in title unless it strengthens your pitch, somehow. And mentioning if it’s a series - it feels like there are better areas to focus your word count in a pitch like story and character. Those are things you can put in the query. #askDVpit

i like a good, compelling title, so if it's a strength, include it! and no you can save that for the query #askdvpit

The key to "what makes a book YA" is voice. Does the narrative mood of your book inhabit the immediacy and spirit of BEING a teen, or is it more mature or even nostalgic? If you don't feel ready to make this call, you might want to do more reading in recent YA fiction. #askDVpit

yeah this and also consider bandwidth. i have authors that write in several categories and others that are staying put, at least for now. you want to be able to build somewhat consistently but depends on which categories and series and other unique factors #askdvpit

2. I think it’s vital for writers to have ideas for multiple projects with the confidence they can work on and complete them. Because you want to have another book to be completed if first one doesn’t work. #askDVpit

if it's own voices then it's own voices and i think that's fine to include but it's definitely up to you how much you feel comfortable disclosing. #askDVpit

I don’t think there’s a certain number of books an author should write before seeking an agent. It’s smarter and easier for authors to resolve in writing in one/similar genres when starting out to build a brand, as well. #askDVpit

Chronic illnesses are absolutely a valid experience. While you should never feel pressured to disclose this, please know that your experience is always valid #askDVpit

i know this is a common concern and it's totally a personal choice #askDVpit

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Invisible illnesses are valid and so are stories about them. I would say you shouldn’t feel pressured to self-ID, but don’t self-reject your story out the gate. #askDVpit