Trends in publishing are such a hard thing to point to, because often times when you spot it, it’s already happened?

I do know a lot of editor friends are asking for more MG/YA horror, and works in verse. #askPSLA

For me, I generally read in chronological order, but that might change if I receive something high on my wish list, someone receives an offer of rep, etc. #askPSLA

It depends. Someone like me, who works on memoir in essays, I like to see a body of published work. Chances are your essay collection is about something. I like to see you’re an expert there.

IE: @JamesTateHill’s query is a good example. ericsmithrocks.com/blog/2021/7/26… #askPSLA

There's not much that results in an INSTANT no (aside from racist/sexist/etc. remarks), but I have some common mistakes listed on my website: mariavicente.com/blog/10-common… #askPSLA

Address your query letter to both of us and let us fight over it. @ericsmithrocks, it's time for battle. #askPSLA twitter.com/LizHansonBooks…

Say that the project you're querying will be your debut book...that's a very cool thing! I also like to see some personality (where you're from, what you're passionate about, what you do to pay the bills) and a few words about your WIP is a great idea. #askPSLA

Nope! It’s all about the story. Most of the authors I work with didn’t major in writing.

I only look at credentials in nonfiction, because you’re supposed to be an expert. Past publications really help in that space. #askPSLA

It should be fine.

Nudge now.

Whenever you think you, and your CPs can no longer realistically improve it, then it is ready.

Not to my knowledge. Rely, preferably, on your own reading experience.

I don't know. It depends on the book, not the timing per se.

Matthias Brandt.

Question by email: "Kate, as an unagented author, how can I get advice on a publishing contract?"

🟠 @Soc_of_Authors offers a free contract service for members

🟠 Consult a lawyer e.g. @Harbottle_Lewis or @HarperMacleod

🟠 Find a literary agent to represent you

#AskAgent

A tale of sharp practice this morning.

Unagented author in haste signs a publishing contract where terms were substantially less compared to a "sample contract" the author had been shown.

⚠️ Authors, never sign a contract in haste
⚠️ Seek advice before signing

#askagent

Agency websites have details on how to submit - ours are here: katenashlit.co.uk/submissions/
Importantly, there should be no cost to you or 'reading fee'. We're looking at writing we might take on to represent and reputable agencies do not charge fees for considering work. #askagent

Agents are not the arbiters of everything and must consider their own tastes, and their perceptions and experiences of the market. However, any feedback on craft is way less likely to be down to personal taste/market and more empirical. #askagent

If a literary agent considers your submission, says no and takes the time to explain why, please don't come back and tell us we are wrong / stupid / failing.

The agent's feedback may or may not be useful to you but it was freely given in a spirit of goodwill.

#askagent

Varies from agent to agent and ms to ms but I will often sign authors knowing we will do several round of edits (and make this clear to them upfront). I want to give the author the best possible shot! #askagent

Any good publisher will consult the author every step of the way, from first concept to the final product. There's usually a good dialogue and collaboration. #AskAgent