A quick #querytip to follow my thread last night: think the words "zoom out" when writing your blurb/hook in your query. What would an advertisement show about your book? It wouldnt show much history or character insecurities. It would show who, what happens, where&how. Zoom out.

I will of course be answering all email queries sent before today. And I’ll do those first. I’m one of those “in the order received” sticklers. #querytip

As always: just my opinions. I hope they help some of you on your #amquerying journey! #writetip #querytip

Query Tip: I really do love reading your bio or your inspiration for your story in your query - but I do not love it when it comes before the hook. Your hook/story is the most important part of your query. Don't bury it!

#querytip #amquerying #WednesdayWisdom #amwriting

I see lots of MG novels that are seemingly about a series of developmental/familial conflicts instead of a central conflict. I understand that friendship break ups and periods and divorce are all important at that age, but I still need you to tell me what the HOOK is. #querytip

Update on when I'm reopening to queries, today on the blog: nepheletempest.com/2020/10/13/que… #pubtip #querytip #submissions #amwriting

There’s A LOT going on BUT….

LDLA is switching to QueryManager on 10/15, links forthcoming. All email queries prior to that will be answered via email. All new email queries will get an auto-reply sending them to QM. #querytip #amagenting

I have officially lost count of how many queries I've read today that start with the character waking up.
Next most popular opening has been on an airplane.
#querytip #amquerying

This really should go without saying, but querying me at my *personal* email address is not appropriate. #querytip

Remember, I currently don't rep nonfiction, suspense/thriller, graphic horror, hard sci fi, or anything under upper MG. #amquerying #querytip #amagenting

#QueryTip: Sometimes I get queries via a third party rather than an author. My first response will always be to ask to speak directly to the author. There is no advantage (and sometimes it can be worse!) to have someone query on your behalf. #WritingCommunity

#QueryTip I am open to seeing revisions and welcome resubmissions. (I've signed more than one client after a R&R)

But please follow @AndreaBrownLit guidelines:

Wait six months; then send a *significant* revision.

Make it so good, I can't say no.😉

Good luck, #amquerying!

Query Tip: Is your MC the most interesting, important, & exciting thing on your first few pages? Your MC should standout over setting, other characters, world building, etc to establish the bond between MC and reader.
#query #querytip #amquerying #amwriting #WednesdayWisdom

As always, just my opinion! First few chapters are often rough. It'll really give your manuscript an edge if you re-sculpt your opening in a seamless way for readers to absorb. Many,many MSs I reject are for this reason. And I don't want to reject! I want to request&fall in love.

I'm wrestling w/ this in my own WIP right now as I re-work the opening one final time making sure the information doesn't disrupt the experience. Ironing in the little bits that matter, but only WHERE they matter. Making sure emotion doesn't take a back seat to info delivery. 10/

Here's a quick tip: your reader does NOT need to learn it all at once. In fact, the more gradually&naturally you deliver information through your MC, the more satisfying the read will be in the end. Your reader should explore and discover alongside your MC. There is no rush. 9/

Instead, I'll have a conversation later that processes thru those deeper issues. Characters are the same; you will give your readers a more impactful experience if they can interact w/your characters like people, rather than reading big chunks of Stuff Author Wants You To Know 8/

Above all, make sure the information in the scene is relevant TO THAT SCENE. Example:when I'm interacting w/someone and my trust issues are flaring up, I do not go back and narrate to myself the origin of those issues or note that many ppl like me have them. They just exist. 7/

If opening scene starts OUTSIDE the castle/whatever, you have an excuse to show it. If your opening dialogue is between 2 ppl w/ different views, that's an opportunity to demonstrate balance of beliefs in the world&foreshadow tensions ahead. Break something. Start a fight. 6/

So how do you do it?
Make a list of all the things your reader needs to understand. Do this on your second or third draft, not the first. Then, shape your opening few chapters in a way that allows the reader to witness how the characters interact with these elements. 5/