Note to querying authors: our system allows us to see your submission history. So when you query one of us and then two days later query someone else in the agency we know. #SlushInsight #querytip

We are CLOSED to submissions for the summer. Polish up that manuscript for when our submission window opens on Sept. 4. anaiahpress.wordpress.com/2018/06/19/clo…
#AmWriting #AmEditing #PubTip

I love classic tropes-they work for a reason. But if you're going to do something classic, make sure to put your own unique twist on it. I'm seeing a lot of stuff in my inbox that's been done the same way a million times. Find a way to break out old themes in new ways! #querytip

#pubtip If your current story is not progressing as fast as you want it to, look at your schedule. How much time daily are you actually writing?

If one editor at @anaiahpress rejects, please do not query another editor. A no from one is a no from all. #querytip

#subtip #querytip - your synopsis of your book shouldn't be longer than the excerpt of your work in your query. I really don't want to read ten pages of synopsis, you can usually do that in a paragraph or two, unless it's a graphic novel or similar.

Pretty please, let agents know if you have an offer (even if you're withdrawing bc you've found your perfect match). It sucks to start falling for a project only to learn it was recently rep'd. My query system has a spot for that, and I keep messages open. #querytip #amquerying

PEOPLE! Some agents want endings revealed in the synopsis. Some don't.

THIS IS WHY YOU RESEARCH AND TAILOR SUBMISSIONS ACCORDINGLY!

Stop acting like publishing is one size fits all. #amwriting #amediting #amquerying #querytip

#QueryTip = yes, it's 100% ok to say, "I don't have any books published yet" in your query letter to me!

Don't be shy about being new - the vast majority of my clients are debut writers.
#debut
#agenting

What is a platform? I have a broad definition. It’s anything that makes you more visible as a writer, evidencing an engaged audience. It’s critically important for non-fiction writers to establish and expand their platform prior to pitching an agent. #pubtip #publishing

When #amquerying fiction, you don’t need to talk about marketing, platform, etc. Describe the characters and plot, add a short bio, and you’re done. #querytip

Fast way to get rejected? Tell me you need a response asap because you want to submit to someone else. #querytip.

In terms of writing queries, I strongly suggest you get a group separate from your critique partners to critique only queries. #askagent #querytip

A couple things I'm noticing in the query box that I am NOT the right agent for:
1) graphic rape
2) agency dependent on pregnancy/marriage (includes loss of pregnancy)
3) drug/physical/sexual abuse main plots (light touches okay)
4) thriller or suspense
#querytip #amquerying

Query Box update: I am officially caught up to June! If you didn't get a response, maybe check spam? I answer all queries, so no one should be left unanswered before June. #querytip #amquerying

#pubtip Although meeting authors face to face in a pitch session is great, reading a well put together query, synopsis and partial gives us a better insight without the pressure.

I've now gotten six submissions from different folks in the past few days addressed to David - there is no David at ELM. If somebody named David is telling people he's an agent at @Einstein_Lit, he... is not. Small PSA. #subtip #querytip

Aaaand @RaeLoverde brings up another point: language! How many? Who speaks what and why? Are any forbidden? You don't need to write out a Tolkien Elf language itself, but understand how language influences culture & vice versa. Are there accents? Language barriers? Translators?

By no means is this list exhaustive. And as always these are just my own opinions. But if you need a jumping off point for how to develop a thorough, immersive SFF world, I hope this helps open your mind and expand your worldbuilding beyond what you’ve already read and watched.

Once you’ve developed many of these elements, developing your magical system/plot/monsters becomes easier because you can clearly see where your MC sits in society and history, and WHAT THEY FEAR OR NEED, which is what drives your plot. This is motivation. This is stakes.