#querytip: I’ve noticed a considerable uptick in the number of queries of projects that have already been self-published. Friends, I can’t really do much with that. Try me with your next, unpublished book.

Why Your Query Letter Should Focus On Plot Not Theme bit.ly/2peMSxr via @carlywatters #querytip #amquerying

Sending out offers and passes today. Bittersweet... Just because an editor passes does NOT mean your book isn't good! It just means it isn't right for that particular editor. #pubtip #querytip

Authors please double space your sample pages
Signed,
An agent who probably needs glasses
#subtip #querytip #SlushInsight

When I read this, it just signals to me that you don't really know where your book belongs (on the shelf). If it's a YA thriller, throw all of your pitching weight behind that! No book is for every audience! Trying to appeal to every market weakens your pitch. #querytip

#querytip

I’m not the right agent for marriage plots, whether it’s YA or adult. Even in fantasy/royal situations—it’s just not my thing.

But please for the love of all the gods don’t take this as not wanting love stories ROMANTIC SUBPLOTS ARE MY JAM I WANT THEM ALL TO KISS

I want to expand a touch on what I said in my previous Tweet about "predictability" in SFF. There are certain elements that have been done in a similar pattern so many times in SFF that it's pretty easy for me to guess what will happen next. #amquerying #amwriting #querytip But..

Writers, be conscious of font in your query. You want it to be easy for agents to read! You will NEVER ever ever go wrong with 12 pt Times New Roman. No need to try to stand out this way - let your writing shine on its own! #querytip #amwriting #amquerying

Ya'll, I do not want to be phone pitched. Please just query by email. Thanks! #querytip

Uuuuh #subtip #querytip I guess. I wouldn't think this needs to be said, but every few months I get one of these.

#Querytip This should be obvious, but please follow submission guidelines. For example, I do not like pages pasted into the email body. It won't stop me from reviewing, but it's a pain. In my case, I prefer an attachment.

Some advice to creators: if you are not a client, please do not follow up every few days - every couple weeks is fine to too soon. #subtip #querytip

Clients comes first & many agents have second jobs. I know you're anxious, but be kind to us please. Most of us are always dying.

(I'm also seeing an grievous uptick in LinkedIn / DM pitches, and in outrageously offensive language/content in queries, but I'm sure no one following me on twitter dot com would ever do such sins!!!!)
#querytip

Struggles I'm seeing recently:

-Missing sample pages or a random number thereof despite clear guidelines on our website (you have no business querying an agent whose website you haven't visited)

-Word counts that are absolutely wild for your category

#querytip

Try to stay away from over exaggerations and use adverbs ending in -ly sparingly. It doesn't help to get your point across, and let's be honest, which is stronger:
"She's extremely angry and goes to hunt them down."
"She hunts them down, anger raging inside her."
#querytip

Make sure you include the basics at a minimum:
WHO is your character?
WHAT do they want (goal)?
WHEN does it all blow up in their faces (inciting incident)?
WHERE does this lead them?
HOW does this change their goal/character?
WHY is this new goal so important (stakes)?
#querytip

This is also why sending your query to multiple beta readers and CPs is so important. I consistently ask for multiple reads of pitches because I know I utilize these weaker words and that my friends can help me pick them out. Make friends. Help friends. Ask for help. #querytip

I struggle all the time qith using powerful words in queries and submissions. Some of my weakest are usually verbs like "thinks," "comes to find," "extremely," etc.. It's HARD, but these all make your character quite passive and aren't as strong as they could be! #querytip

Use your manuscript's strengths to your advantage. Have a nice genre-bending manuscript that's creepy/atmospheric, but also has family ties? Make one query accentuating the creepy atmosphere and another accentuating the family ties and be smart about who you send to. #querytip

Make sure you do your research, and if we don't specifically mention a genre or age range, it's probably because we don't represent it. I don't represent non-fiction but have received MANY queries in non-fiction that I've had to unfortunately turn down. Please research. #querytip