A question I often get: Do you consider previously self-published novels? We do, so long as they fit what we're looking for. #querytip

Query Tip: Never send one query email to multiple agents (more than one agent in the to/cc/bcc is a no-no). This states you didn't research any of the agents or put forth the necessary work to understand the query process. (1/2) #querytip #amquerying #WednesdayWisdom

Querying writers! Be sure to check your records when querying. I get so many of the exact same query that I’ve already responded to. Save yourself (and us! Agents are swamped!) time by keeping track of who you’re querying and what they say! #querytip

Seconded! #AmQuerying #QueryTip

I get Emily and Amy a lot, I have two last names, and people mix up my honorific and pronouns all the time. I appreciate when people get it right, but I get that it takes practice. It's not worth stressing out over, I promise!

Replying to a rejection by pitching another project is not the way to go. #querytip

I am trying SO hard to catch up on queries today, but the queue is laughing at me. LAUGHING AT ME. #querytip #amagenting

Query Don’ts:

—insult other books
—say your book defies genre
—use negative self talk
—ignore guidelines

Query Do’s:

—Give us the hook/high concept pitch
—Show your summary to someone who hasn’t read the book
—send it to agents individually
—write another book!

#querytip

When clients ask how to get their book into Target, Walmart & Costco, my answer is to make it a bestseller. Books at these outlets are managed like other inventory like electronics & toys, requiring steady demand. #pubtip

I realize this can be unfair to those who don't have the same access. If you don't, show your lived experience. Get endorsements from experts on the topic. Get published by outlets known for rigor. Prove you can be trusted to tell the story. #pubtip

#querytip

The THIS X THIS formula can apply to popular movies or TV shows. I have seen STRANGER THINGS X (title of book) be successful

Comps. aren't always books (but do make sure to have 3-5 book comps)

#WritingCommunity

The best thing you can do is look at debut authors from your genre and category from the last three years and check their word counts. #querytip #amwriting #writingtip

Writers, please note, word count estimates change every couple years depending on market. PLEASE only trust sources that were posted within the last 3 years when deciding on your novel's word count ❤️ #querytip #amquerying

#querytip #amquerying #writerscommunity #writers
When you’re querying an agent, use their name. Otherwise it’s:

Subject Line: “What more do you need to know to merit publishing my book?!” 😐
Gentlemen, please do better. I know you can. #querytip #commonpolitenesstip

Query Tip: Don't query an idea, 1st draft, 1/2 a draft, etc. Only query when your MS is complete and the best you can make it.

#querytip #amquerying #WednesdayWisdom #writers

Tried to see as much of #LatinxPitch as possible today! I'm not open to queries unless I specifically asked for them, but please keep an eye out for my new MSWL in the coming weeks! Hoping to reopen to all queries by November! #querytip #amquerying

Sad as sending out passes is (because I've been on the other side of that fence), it makes it that much sweeter when I get to send out an offer. #publishing #pubtip

More often than not I have to send out passes (I prefer that word to rejection, because I like to think I'm passing the novel on the editor who is right for it), because I have only so many openings. #publishing #pubtip

#QueryTip? #WritingTip? #EditingTip? Personal preference? Either way: never use two adjectives when one specific adjective would do the job. Pick one.

#querytip

Keep spreadsheets of submissions, and keep track of when you sent it. It's totally fine to follow up after a waiting period.

Spreadsheets are your best friend
#WritingCommunity