SlushWire Weekly #45 | 3 NOV
Weekly Alert Summary
Monday – November 03
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[QCrit] GRAVITY OF YOU – Adult speculative – 3rd attempt Comments: 6, Upvotes: 5
I sent out a few queries with my previous version and received no requests so far, so starting to get a bit discouraged. Rewrote my query, hopefully it’s more engaging now – is the plot understandable? is anything still vague or wishy-washy? Any issues you may find? Emese “Mesi” Takács is Hunga…
[QCRIT], Adult Dystopian Fantasy, The Statue of Saturday, 70000words. Second attempt Comments: 4, Upvotes: 2
Thank you guys for helping me out! I’ve taken in your advice and drafted a second version of my blot paragraph: what do you think of this one: In a place called Saturday the rule’s simple: everyone wears a price tag, is she worth less? She is worthless and worthlessness is destined for punishment…
[QCrit] Speculative horror, Fimbulvinter, 73k, attempt #1 Comments: 3, Upvotes: 3
While I am deep in the query trenches (and clicking update continously in my inbox for the agents who have my full manuscript), I am thinking ahead with my current manuscript. Any feedback appreciated. My last query letter felt much easier to write than this one… Dear X, I am seeking repres…
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy, BALLAD OF THE BOLD, 100k, 4th Attempt Comments: 1, Upvotes: 3
Like my second attempt, this one is focused on Alan ([here](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1jsir98/qcrit_adult_fantasy_ballad_of_the_bold_100k_2nd/), along with the first 300 words if you want to give feedback). Thanks in advance to anyone who reads and comments. Dear **BLANK** *Balla…
[QCrit] Cozy Romance-HERE TO STAY, 90K, 3rd Attempt Comments: 2, Upvotes: 2
Hi everyone! Thanks to all who offered such helpful feedback on the first two attempts – hoping this one is a keeper? Writing these letters is such a struggle! Dear [Agent], It’s not everyday that someone moves in with their contractor to save money on roof repair, but that’s what happens to Amy …
[QCRIT] Adult romantasy/dark academia: TIME AND TIDE (84k, #1st attempt) Comments: 2, Upvotes: 2
I’m querying my dark academia romantasy in the new year so am getting a head start on the summary for query. I’d really appreciate your insights and constructive criticism. The mermaids are extinct. That’s what the newspapers say. But former officer, merologist Nikaldr Sjostad, refuses to beli…
[QCrit] Adult Fiction, Dear You ( 64k / First attempt) Comments: 1, Upvotes: 2
This is my debut novel. I have sent out a few queries and received form rejections. I am hoping that changing up my query may help generate more interest. Any and all recommendations are welcome. Thank you for reading! Dear XXX, I am seeking representation for my epistolary novel *Dear Yo…
Submission Status
emily keyes – Keyes Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: picture book, juvenile nonfiction, middle grade fiction, young adult fiction, fantasy, graphic novel, historical fiction, horror, magical realism, multicultural fiction, science fiction, upmarket fiction, women’s fiction, humor nonfiction, LGBTQ nonfiction, pop culture, women’s issues
michelle hauck – Storm Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: middle grade fiction, young adult fiction, adult speculative fiction, fantasy, science fiction, horror, historical fiction, cozy mystery, mystery, thriller, genre romance, juvenile fiction, diversity, epic fantasy, high fantasy, humor, magical realism, military sci-fi, space opera, urban fantasy, multicultural fiction, BIPOC fiction, LGBTQ fiction, dystopian fiction, contemporary fiction (quirky, fun, light)
rachel crawford – Wolf Literary Services
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Literary Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Young Adult, Memoir, Women’s Fiction, Art, Nature, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Horror, Commercial Fiction, Western Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Satire, Humor Fiction, Film Entertainment, Gift Novelty, History, Business Book, Mystery, Celebrity, Money Finance, Science, Gardening, Lifestyle, Psychology, Women’s Issues, Upmarket Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Medical Medicine, Historical Fiction, Crime Fiction, Technology, Politics, Environment, Science Fiction, Graphic Novel, General Fiction, Current Events Affairs, Multicultural Fiction, True Crime, Short Story Collection, Religion, Music, Cultural Social Issues, Self-Help, Journalism, Thriller,…
becky thomas – Johnson & Alcock Ltd
Submissions are CLOSED
Now at: Johnson & Alcock Ltd
Genres: commercial fiction, contemporary fiction, general fiction, intersectional/inclusive fiction, LGBTQ+ fiction, literary fiction, reading group fiction, “womens fiction”, poetry pamphlets and collections, short stories, novellas, art/crafts/photography, autobiography/biography, cultural/social issues, entertainment, essays, food/lifestyle including cookbooks, general non-fiction, journalism, lifestyle including fashion, memoir, music, narrative, nature/ecology, popular culture, sports, travel, “womens issues”, religion, family saga fiction, romance fiction, romantic comedy fiction, humor/gift non-fiction, juvenile/graphic non-fiction, memoir non-fiction, nature/ecology non-fiction, cultural/social issues non-fiction, food and cookery non-fiction, history non-fiction
sam farkas – Jill Grinberg Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: General fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense/thriller, Fantasy/science fiction, Juvenile fiction, History, Health, Travel, Lifestyle, Cookbooks, “Childrens books”, Science
Agent Activity
sara megibow – Megibow Literary Agency, LLC
Sales: 2025 debut authors including Christy Climenhage, “International rights: Margaret Rogersons An Enchantment of Ravens to Kossuth (Hungary)”, “Audio rights: Jason Starrs The Next Time I Die, Twisted City, Cold Caller three-book deal to Tantor Media for 2025”, “NYT bestseller Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson”, “NYT bestseller Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston”, “NYT bestseller Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse”, “NYT bestseller The Ones Who Got Away by Roni Loren”, “Dungeons & Dragons: The Fallbacks: Bound For Ruin…
Genres: Science Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Chick Lit, LGBTQ Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Thriller, Erotic Fiction, Action Adventure, Fantasy, New Adult Fiction, Paranormal, Commercial, Genre Romance, General Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Magical Realism, Romance, Adult Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy/Horror adult market, Picture Books (fiction and nonfiction), All sub-genres of MG and YA
michelle hauck – Storm Literary Agency
Sales: “Sabrina Fedels GUARD MY HEART Delacorte Romance (Spring 2027)”, “Paige Ewings OBSIDIAN PRINCE City Owl Press (Nov 2024)”, “Sabrina Fedels ALL PATHS LEAD TO PARIS Delacorte Romance (Summer 2025)”, “Michael Simons EXTINCTION Podium Publishing (2024)”, “Ry Hermans THIS PRINCESS KILLS MONSTERS Dial Press (Summer 2025)”, “Michael Simons FIRST COMMAND Aethon (Winter 2024)”, “Crystal J Bells THE LAMPLIGHTER Flux (Summer 2024)”, “Paige Ewings EXPLOSIVE CHEMISTRY City Owl Press (Fall 2023)”, “Nicholas Georges A DEADLY WALK IN DEVON Kensington (Spring 2024)”, “Mindy…
Genres: middle grade fiction, young adult fiction, adult speculative fiction, fantasy, science fiction, horror, historical fiction, cozy mystery, mystery, thriller, genre romance, juvenile fiction, diversity, epic fantasy, high fantasy, humor, magical realism, military sci-fi, space opera, urban fantasy, multicultural fiction, BIPOC fiction, LGBTQ fiction, dystopian fiction, contemporary fiction (quirky, fun, light)
Sunday – November 02
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] crossover genre for debut vs sticking with one?
Comments: 30, Upvotes: 3
Preview: I got my second rejection on a full that seemed really nice. The first rejection was more standard (imo). There are some genuine feedback and I’d love to know anyone’s opinion on the issue. The main feedback I got was is (paraphrasing a bit) > Where I’m hesitating is market positioning: right n…
[PubQ] super complimentary rejection
Comments: 6, Upvotes: 25
Preview: I’m an author who writes literary fiction and poetry, I don’t expect my stuff to be that commercial but I ended up writing something that tilts that way and decided to try for an agent. I got a few full requests which are still out and one that came back rejected (loved a lot but couldn’t connect to…
[PubQ] Do agents take translated work?
Comments: 8, Upvotes: 5
Preview: Hi everyone, I’m writing a novel in my native language, and I thought about sending it to publishers in my country. The market here isn’t perfect, and many publishing houses ask for money if they accept it in the first place. I thought about translating it into English and send it to an agent. …
[PubQ] Alerting Agents on a Revise and Resubmit?
Comments: 3, Upvotes: 3
Preview: Hi, all! Bit of a confusing one?! This is about the third full request rejection I have received. It’s a ‘revise and resubmit’, but not as I’ve seen it! I have had three rejections on my full now, with invitations to send over any other work when ready. I have been lucky to get great comments des…
[QCRIT] THE TENURE GAMES 70k Contemporary Satire 2nd attempt
Comments: 4, Upvotes: 6
Preview: The first attempt can be found [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1ofrsg5/comment/nlz2bho/). I’m sincerely grateful for the first round of feedback, and I’ve reworked it to incorporate the suggestions. Dear \[Agent\]: Five assistant professors. One tenure slot. Let the games begin. …
[QCrit] Adult Romantasy EMBRACE OF THE SHADE (107k / 1st Attempt)
Comments: 6, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hello! This is book one in a larger series of previously self published Romantasy. We are a co-author pair, and have decided to do a re-release of the series, including substantial edits to the first three books of the series. This time around, we’re looking to go a more traditional route with the p…
[QCrit] Adult Dark Fantasy- The Crone’s Apprentice (117k, first attempt)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 3
Preview: **Rosalie and Laurel Webbe will capture your attention, but only one will capture you mind, body, and soul.** **Daughters of the local coven leader and a retired alchemist, the sisters are about to begin training as witches when a letter arrives from the mage institute where their father studied. …
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy Romance: A SPECTRUM OF BLUE, 120k, 2nd attempt
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Trying to keep the hook to around 200 words or so. Any feedback is appreciated. \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Callan Grey escapes the xenophobic Human Cities for Raythasa, the dazzling capital of the Goblin Queendom. A bookbinder who taught himself the goblin tongue from contraband scro…
[QCRIT] Adult, romantic fantasy, 80k, THE ENGINES OF THE ISLAND, 2nd Attempt
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 1
Preview: Hello! This is my second time trying this bad boy, so please lemme know what I need to work on. Born as an Undesirable to two indentured criminals, Titania has spent her entire life maintaining the magical engine that keeps the island above her afloat. Despite her unfair circumstances, Titania car…
[QCrit] ADULT Thriller – GIHW (78K/First attempt)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 1
Preview: Grief is like a decomposing body—it rots you from the inside out until all that’s left is the skeleton of who you were. When Maggie’s husband, Darren, is found murdered in their North Carolina home, she becomes the widow everyone pities. She joins a grief group, clings to her dog Wussie, and tries …
Submission Status
beth phelan – Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, “Childrens & YA Nonfiction”, Multicultural Fiction, Commercial YA, Contemporary YA, Funny MG, High-concept YA, Humor YA, Literary YA/MG, MG Action Adventure, MG Fantasy, MG Contemporary, Magical Realism YA, YA Crossover, YA Fantasy, YA Mystery, YA Romance, YA Thrillers, YA Rom Com, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
esty loveing-downes – Howland Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: BIPOC Literature, “Childrens”, Commercial, Contemporary, Fantasy, General Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Middle Grade, New Adult, Picture Books, Romance, Women’s Fiction, Young Adult, Cultural Criticism, Humor Nonfiction, Memoir, Relationships and Family, #Dis, #ownvoices, Accessible Literary Fiction, African Diaspora, Asian Diaspora, Chick Lit, Cross-genre, Disability, Fairytale Retellings, Fantasy Romance, High Concept, Immigrant Voices, Intersectional Feminism, LGBTQ+, Marginalized Voices, Own Voices, Rom-com, Underrepresented Voices, Upmarket Fiction, Book Club Fiction, Classic Retellings, Coming of Age, Commercial, Diverse and Own Voices, Friendship…
meagan burgad – SBR Media
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: erotic fiction, fantasy, historical fiction, humor fiction, LGBTQ fiction, new adult fiction, romance, satire, science fiction, general nonfiction, biography, celebrity, LGBTQ nonfiction, memoir, military war nonfiction, narrative nonfiction, pop culture, travel, true crime, debut fiction, horror fiction, paranormal fiction, women’s/romance fiction, humor nonfiction
adria goetz – KT Literary
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Picture Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Graphic Novels, Adult Fiction, Romantic Comedy, Thrillers, Upmarket Fiction, Debut Fiction, Mystery/Crime, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Women’s/Romance, Multicultural Fiction, Chick Lit, LGBTQ Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Suspense, Family Saga, Magical Realism, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Health & Lifestyle, Other Non-fiction, Religion, Food and Cookery, Genre Romance, Crime, Action
hannah andrade – Bradford Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: BIPOC Literature, Caribbean Literature, East Asian Literature, Fantasy, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, LGBTQ, Magical Realism, Middle Grade, Mystery, New Adult, Psychological Thriller, Romance, Science Fiction, South Asian Literature, South East Asian Literature, Speculative, Thriller, West African Literature, Women’s Fiction, Young Adult, Journalism, True Crime, #ownvoices, AAPI Fantasy, Action-Adventure, Adult, Adult Romantasy, Adult SFF, African Fantasy, African Sci-Fi, Asian Diaspora, Asian Fantasy, Asian Sci-Fi, Author-Illustrator, BIPOC Fantasy, BIPOC Mystery, BIPOC Sci-Fi, Contemporary Fantasy, Dark Female Friendships, Dark Humor, Disability, Diverse Protagonists,…
alex adsett – Alex Adsett Literary
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: “Childrens fiction”, “Childrens & YA non-fiction”, Narrative Non-Fiction, Commercial, Science fiction, Genre romance, Fantasy, Crime, Thriller, Action, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Young adult fiction, “Childrens picture books”
Saturday – November 01
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Signing with an agent due to editor interest from a new imprint?
Comments: 17, Upvotes: 4
Preview: So, a few author friends and I were approached by a new horror imprint of an already established fantasy/sci-fi publisher. One of my friends has signed with them, and he is now represented by an agent from the Tobias Literary agency. My question is: Is this a possible and common route to skip the …
[PubQ] How do you sort your QueryTracker data?
Comments: 3, Upvotes: 1
Preview: So, I paid for the membership that allows you to see the data on agents’ queries, percentages, etc. And I am at a complete loss as to how to use it! I’ve seen writers on here say they’ve chosen agents for various reasons listed on the site. How do you sort your data? What makes an agent more appeal…
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy/Magical Realism/Upmarket – Nymph’s Pond (80k)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 10
Preview: Hello! My friends suggested that I send my query letter for a critical eye by you guys. As the title makes it clear, the genre is a bit of a question mark. My friends believe I’m sending my queries to the wrong batch of agents (mostly fantasy agents) – are they right on the money? I am also open to …
[QCrit] YA Fantasy – Sokha and the Greenthumbs (94K / Attempt #2)
Comments: 10, Upvotes: 1
Preview: Hello all. Two months ago, I attempted a query letter and got some excellent feedback from some nice people here. So I’d like to see if this attempt is any better. I feel like it is a little stilted between the hook and the next line. So if there is any advice on how to smooth out the wrinkles, I’d …
[QCrit] Upmarket Thriller THE CAMERAS ARE SHOOTING (72k/Attempt 1)
Comments: 7, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hey there! This is the first time I post a query on here. My main points of doubt are: \- does this not sound too much as if it’s a story of revenge (because it’s way more than that)? \- the text in bold, I would like to put it in another way or leave out if possible. \- the main plot of the st…
[QCrit] Lyrical Picture Book – THE MOON FINDS ME- 471 words/ First Attempt
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 6
Preview: Dear Writers! This is my very first attempt in a query critique. I want this to be the best it can be, so please let me know all your thoughts! Thank you very much in advance. Dear (Agent) In a world where no one understands, it is nice to know that the moon will always find you… I hope that you…
[Qcrit] Epic Space Opera – AND UP SHE RISES (121k / Attempt #3)
Comments: 3, Upvotes: 3
Preview: Leaving this here while I do a final polish of the manuscript and try to hack off the last one or two thousand words ———- Dear Agent, AND UP SHE RISES (121,000 words) is an epic space opera that draws inspiration from traditional sea shanties, as if Andor were crossed with the Wellerman. While a…
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy – THE BARRIER PRINCE (120K/Third Attempt)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 3
Preview: Hello! It’s been many months since my last query attempt due to lots of RL stuff, but I’ve recently been looking at this again so here’s my third try. *Huge* thanks to [CallMe\_GhostBird](https://www.reddit.com/user/CallMe_GhostBird/) and [Radiantte](https://www.reddit.com/user/Radiantte/) for all …
[QCrit] MOSAIC, YA MYSTERY/ROMANCE, 51K, First Attempt
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 2
Preview: ***Looking for feedback !!!*** Dear Agent, MOSAIC is an upper YA mystery/romance crossover, told from the perspectives of three Muslim sisters complete at 51,844 words. With its blend of scandal and emotional depth, this novel would appeal to fans of Jennifer Lynn Barnes’s *The Inheritance Games* …
[QCrit] The Golden Sacrifice, Fantasy, Adult, 113k, First Attempt
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Here is my first query letter ever. Open to critiques please help lol. This is an adult fantasy novel with multiple POVs, a romance B plot which I didn’t have room for in this version (should I include that?) Thanks for any help/advice!! Dear Agent: I am seeking representation for my multi-POV fan…
Submission Status
elana roth parker – Laura Dail Literary Agency, Inc.
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: “Childrens Fiction”, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Adult Contemporary Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Romance, Mystery, Thriller, Fantasy, Science Fiction (light), Contemporary Romance, Contemporary YA, Diversity, Fantasy YA, Magical Realism, Multicultural, Psychological Thrillers, Speculative Fiction, YA Romance, “Childrens & YA Non-fiction”, “Childrens Picture Books (author/illustrators only)”
kaitlyn katsoupis – Belcastro Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, New Adult Fiction, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction, Adult, Disability, Mental Health, YA, Contemporary, CLOSED to Submissions
mara hollander – Jennifer Azantian Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Adult Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Fantasy, Political Fantasy, Romantasy, Light Science Fiction, Romance, Thrillers, Mystery, Women’s Fiction, Upmarket, Book Club, Commercial Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder, American Health Care, Academic Research, Business, Sports, Gender and Sexuality, Race and Ethnicity, Psychology, Science, True Crime
ginger hutchinson – Movable Type Management
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Bookclub, Commercial, Crime, Domestic Thriller, Family Saga, Historical, Horror, LGBTQ, Literary, Mystery, Psychological Thriller, Speculative, Thriller, Upmarket, Women’s Fiction, Beauty Fashion Style, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, Family, History, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Travel, True Crime
erica bauman – Aevitas Creative Management
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Adventure/Action, Mystery, Commercial Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Science Fiction, Horror, Historical Fiction, Genre Romance, Fantasy, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Graphic Novel, LGBTQ Fiction, Humor Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Magical Realism
louise buckley – Hannah Sheppard Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via Online Form
Genres: Adult Fiction, Literary Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Book Club Fiction, Crime Fiction (cosy, humorous), Thriller, Domestic Thriller, Family Saga, Fantasy (cosy, gothic, literary, magical realism, speculative, dark fantasy), Gothic Horror, Psychological Thriller/Suspense, Rom-com, Romance, Speculative Fiction/Thriller, Time Travel/Time Travel Romance, Underrepresented Voices, WWII Fiction, Campus Novel, Dark Academia, Ghost Story, Literary Suspense, Memoir (especially motherhood, unusual journeys)
hannah sheppard – Hannah Sheppard Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via Online Form
Genres: adult fiction, “childrens fiction”, young adult fiction, graphic novels, middle grade, fantasy, LGBTQ+, mystery, romance, action/adventure, comedy, commercial fiction, contemporary, crime/detective/police, cross-over fiction, general fiction, historical, horror, intersectional/inclusive fiction, new adult, reading group fiction, speculative fiction, thrillers/suspense, upmarket, “womens fiction”, psychological thrillers, rom-com, diversity, feminism, family sagas, literary fiction, non-fiction (selected)
christine goss – FinePrint Literary Management
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Young Adult Fiction, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, General Nonfiction, Beauty Fashion Style, Cookbook Cooking, Health Wellness, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Parenting, Pop Culture, Self-Help, Adult, Adult Horror, Adult Rom Com, Adult Romantasy, BIPOC Fantasy, BIPOC Horror, BIPOC Mystery, BIPOC Sci-Fi, Action-packed graphic novels
maggie cooper – Aevitas Creative Management
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: literary fiction, speculative fiction, LGBTQ nonfiction, pop culture, narrative nonfiction, short story collection, LGBTQ fiction, cultural social issues, history, gift novelty, commercial fiction, “womens issues”, food and cookery, family sagas, “womens fiction”, historical fiction, genre romance, general fiction, cookbook cooking, illustrated, upmarket fiction, art, how-to, humor nonfiction, books about books, cultural criticism, essays, hybrid, illustrated/gift, LGBTQ romance, beach reads, book club fiction, campus novel, epistolary novels, queer, BIPOC voices, creative nonfiction, cross-genre, feminist, graphic/illustrated, LGBTQ voices, magical realism, romance
lauren scovel – Laura Gross Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Memoir, Literary Fiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Narrative Nonfiction, Multicultural Fiction, True Crime, LGBTQ Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, BIPOC Nonfiction, History, Young Adult Fiction, Journalism, BIPOC Fiction, General Fiction, Juvenile Fiction, “Childrens Books”, Juvenile Nonfiction, Contemporary Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction, “LGBTQ+, Womens Issues, Politics, Society & Current Affairs”, Commercial Fiction
cole lanahan – The Seymour Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Young Adult Fiction, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Magical Realism, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Business, Celebrity, Cookbook, Crafts/DIY, Dating/Relationships/Sex, Family, Fitness, Health/Wellness, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical/Medicine, Money/Finance, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, True Crime, Women’s Issues, #ownvoices, Adult Horror, Adult Rom Com, Adult Romantasy, Adult SFF, Asian Fantasy, Asian Horror, Asian Sci-Fi, BIPOC Fantasy, BIPOC Horror, BIPOC Mystery, BIPOC Sci-Fi, Business, Career Development,…
sera rivers – Speilburg Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Children’s: Graphic Novel, Children’s: Middle Grade Fiction, Children’s: Middle Grade Non-Fiction, Children’s: Picture Book, Children’s: Young Adult Fiction, Children’s: Young Adult Non-Fiction, Graphic Novel, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, “Childrens picture books”, “Childrens fiction”, LGBTQ Fiction, author and illustrator submissions only, closed to submissions
courtney donovan – Writers House
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Fantasy, Science fiction, Juvenile fiction, “Childrens books”
mara cobb – Lighthouse Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Memoir, Family, 1800s+ historical, Accessible Literary Fiction, Amish Fiction, Amish Romance, Apocalyptic, Bible studies, Character-Driven History, “Childrens and Young Adult Fiction and Nonfiction”, Christian, Christian romance, Commercial MG, Commercial YA, Commercial and Literary, Contemporary Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary YA, Cozy Mystery, Dystopian, Female Friendships, Found Families, Historical Fiction YA, Historical RomCom, “Historical Womens Fiction”, Historical mysteries, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Literary MG, Literary YA, MG Sci-Fi, MG contemporary, MG mystery, MG/YA, Middle Grade Contemporary, Middle Grade Humor, Middle Grade…
melissa jeglinski – The Knight Agency, Inc.
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Middle Grade Fiction, Mystery, “Womens Fiction”, Historical Fiction, Genre Romance, Contemporary Romance, Category Romance, Inspirational Romance, Young Adult
bridget smith – JABberwocky Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Middle Grade, Young Adult, Chick Lit, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Debut Fiction, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, General/Other Fiction, Children’s Graphic Novel, Children’s Middle Grade, Children’s Young Adult, Children’s Fantasy
Ciara Smith – Spencerhill Associates
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: [‘adult’, ‘fantasy’, ‘historical fiction’, ‘horror’, ‘lgbtq+’, ‘new adult’, ‘nonfiction’, ‘romance’, ‘science fiction’, ‘speculative fiction’, ‘thriller’, ‘young adult’]
kelly van sant – KT Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Middle Grade Upper, Young Adult: fantasy, sci-fi, speculative, historical, contemporary, romance (undercurrent), Adult: contemporary romance (rom-com, queer), SFF (high fantasy, romantasy, sci-fi), Nonfiction: witchcraft, magick, tarot, occult, esoteric, #ownvoices, Inclusive narratives, LGBTQIA+, Indigenous, Black, POC creators, Character-driven, intricate world-building, Magical realism, Cozy fantasy, High fantasy, Historical fantasy, Intersectional feminism, Urban fantasy, Speculative fiction, Supernatural elements, Occult nonfiction, Mind Body Spirit, New Age, Commercial fiction, Juvenile nonfiction, LGBTQ fiction
sarah n. fisk – The Tobias Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Fantasy, LGBTQ, Middle Grade, Romance, Science Fiction, Young Adult, Nonfiction: Cultural criticism, Fitness, Health, History, Journalism, LGBTQ, Memoir, Pop Culture, Psychology, Relationships, Science, True Crime, Wellness
sally kim – Andrea Brown Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: picture book, chapter book, juvenile nonfiction, middle grade fiction, middle grade nonfiction, graphic novel, multicultural fiction, multicultural nonfiction, children’s graphic novel, children’s middle grade fiction, children’s middle grade nonfiction, children’s picture book, children’s general, children’s fantasy
keir alekseii – Jennifer Azantian Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Fantasy, Genre romance, Horror, Science fiction, Adventure/Action, Family Sagas, Young adult fiction, Gay/Lesbian Fiction, Multicultural Fiction
annie romano – Olswanger Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: closed to submissions, BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Satire, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, General Nonfiction, BIPOC Nonfiction, History, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, True Crime, Diversity, Multiple POV, Psychological Thrillers, Relationships, RomCom, Speculative, Contemporary
Donovan Levine – Neighborhood Literary
Submissions OPEN via E-Mail
Genres: [‘adventure’, ‘coming of age’, ‘crime’, ‘family saga’, ‘fantasy’, ‘historical fiction’, ‘memoir’, ‘mystery’, ‘narrative nonfiction’, ‘new adult’, ‘romance’, ‘science fiction’, ‘thriller’, ‘upmarket fiction’, ‘young adult’]
saribel pages – Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Picture Book, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Action Adventure, BIPOC Fiction, Fantasy, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Science Fiction, General Nonfiction, History, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Pop Culture, Science, Africanfuturism, Asian Diaspora, BIPOC Fantasy, BIPOC Horror, BIPOC Mystery, BIPOC Sci-Fi, “Childrens and Young Adult Fiction and Nonfiction”, Cyberpunk, Graphic Novels (all ages), Romantic Comedy, Solarpunk, Speculative Fiction, Action-packed graphic novels, Afrofuturism, Board books, “Childrens diversity”, “Childrens graphic novels”, Queer horror
amy giuffrida – Belcastro Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: general fiction, romance (limited to baseball, skiing, farmer/cowboy/lumberjack, dog rescue romances), suspense/thriller, pop culture, narrative nonfiction, self-help (women and teens), young adult, adult, upmarket & commercial fiction, horror (adult, feminist, gothic, dark fantasy), science fiction (SFF, dystopian, grounded sci-fi, feminist SF/F), fantasy (including romantasy), BIPOC fiction, diverse and own voices, women’s fiction, family sagas, lifestyle, crafts/DIY, psychology, true crime, cultural social issues, commercial fiction, thriller, juvenile nonfiction, multicultural nonfiction
ashlee maccallum – Howland Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: children’s,middle grade, middle grade, contemporary, middle grade, fantasy, middle grade, horror, middle grade, mystery,picture book, picture book, author, picture book, author/illustrator,young adult, young adult, contemporary, young adult, fantasy, young adult, historical, young adult, horror, young adult, mystery, young adult, paranormal, young adult, paranormal romance, young adult, romance, young adult, thriller/suspense
alexandra weiss – Jennifer Azantian Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Nature, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, “Childrens Picture Books”, Narrative Non-Fiction, Science, Technology, Juvenile Fiction, Environment, Travel, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Pop Culture, History, Gift Novelty, Graphic Novel, Cultural Social Issues, Women’s Issues, Juvenile Nonfiction
jessica alvarez – BookEnds, LLC
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: “womens fiction”, romance (all heat levels, including inspirational, category, erotica), historical romance, romantic suspense, single-title romance, commercial fiction, general fiction, upmarket fiction, mystery, cozy mysteries, suspense/thriller, memoir, true crime, nonfiction: biography, cookbooks, crafts/DIY, history, humor, illustrated, journalism, LGBTQ+, pop culture, psychology, science, travel, LGBTQ fiction and nonfiction, “womens issues”, psychology, science, food and cookery, humor nonfiction, literary fiction, Christian fiction, self-help, narrative nonfiction
gina panettieri – Talcott Notch Literary Services
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: memoir, nature, LGBTQ nonfiction, narrative nonfiction, horror, LGBTQ fiction, history, mystery, cookbook, science, lifestyle, women’s issues, juvenile nonfiction, upmarket fiction, suspense fiction, medical, romance, paranormal fiction, middle grade fiction, technology, politics, environment, literary fiction, science fiction, chick lit, true crime, young adult fiction, self-help, fantasy, dating relationships sex, food drink, travel, inspirational fiction, pop culture, film entertainment, gift novelty, general fiction, suspense thriller, juvenile fiction, reference, biography, business investing finance, religious, health, “childrens books”, sports, African-American, celebrity bios, relationship, career,…
laura zats – Headwater Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, Romance, Mystery, Thriller, Literary fiction with speculative elements, Select contemporary fiction, Select historical fiction, Erotica, General fiction, LGBTQ fiction, Magical realism, New Adult, Suspense
amanda wooden – SBR Media
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Romance, Thrillers, Cozy Mystery, Young Adult, Mystery, General Fiction, Suspense Fiction
mary c. moore – Aevitas Creative Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, “Womens Fiction”, General Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense/Thriller, Fantasy/Science Fiction, Juvenile Fiction
mackenzie brady watson – Stuart Krichevsky Literary Agency, Inc.
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Narrative Nonfiction, LGBTQ Fiction, History, Business Book, Literary Fiction, General Nonfiction, Money Finance, Cookbook Cooking, Science, Photography, Psychology, Upmarket Nonfiction, Juvenile Nonfiction, Art, Young Adult Nonfiction, Technology, Fiction Debut, Fiction Mystery/Crime, Fiction General/Other, Fiction Literary, NF Biography, NF Business/Investing/Finance, NF Health, NF History/Politics/Current Affairs, NF How-To, NF Humor, NF Illustrated/Art, NF Memoir, NF Narrative, NF Parenting, NF Pop Culture, NF Science, NF Sports, NF True Crime, NF General/Other Non-Fiction, Non-Fiction Advice/Relationships, Children’s Graphic Novel, Children’s…
Kaylyn Aldridge – Metamorphosis Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: [‘coming of age’, ‘lgbtq+’, ‘romance’, ‘young adult’]
kim lindman – Stonesong
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Literary Fiction, Science Fiction, Action Adventure, Crafts, LGBTQ Nonfiction, General Fiction, Pop Culture, Narrative Nonfiction, Horror, Short Story Collection, Health Wellness, LGBTQ Fiction, Cultural Social Issues, Commercial Fiction, Mystery, Self-Help, Cookbook Cooking, Science, Lifestyle, Psychology, Journalism, Thriller, Investigative, Illustrated, Mind Body Spirit, Fantasy, Food and Cookery, Travel, Women’s Fiction, General Nonfiction
camille burns – Solas Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: contemporary, fantasy, historical, literary, mystery, paranormal, romance, science fiction, action/adventure, comedy, LGBTQ+, “childrens middle grade”, young adult, non-fiction, academic, animals, art/crafts/photography, autobiography/biography, business, creative non-fiction, cultural/social issues, current affairs/politics, decorating/design, entertainment, environment, essays, finance/economics, food/lifestyle, gardening/horticulture, general non-fiction, gift/novelty books, health/fitness/nutrition, history, how to, humour, journalism, literary non-fiction, LGBTQ+ non-fiction, medical/veterinary, memoir, military, mind, body & spirit, multicultural, music, narrative, nature/ecology, parenting, personal development, philosophy, popular culture, psychology, reference, relationship/dating, religion/spirituality/theology, science/technology, self-help, sports, travel, true crime, wellbeing, “womens issues”,…
Agent Activity
paul feldstein – The Feldstein Agency
Sales: Emma Disappeared by Andrew Hughes April 2024 Hachette Ireland, Being with Cows by Dave Mountjoy May 2024 Bedford Square, Sub-agents: Hannah Whitaker Rights People London WC2B 6XF
Genres: Upmarket/literary fiction, Crime/thriller, Adult fiction excluding romance, historical, sci-fi, fantasy, Memoir, Narrative non-fiction, Irish interest, Travel, Science, Politics, Society & current affairs, Religion, Mind, Body, Spirit, Food and Cookery, History, “Womens fiction”, General fiction, Mystery, Suspense/thriller, Biography, Health
Friday – October 31
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Does it mean anything when a literary agency isn’t listed/searchable on Query Tracker?
Comments: 24, Upvotes: 7
Preview: I was recently asked for a full manuscript from an agent who uses a Query Tracker form—which is how I queried him, linked under his bio on his agency’s page—but neither he nor his agency are in the Query Tracker database for agents. Like, I can’t find him or the agency when I search for them by name…
[PubQ] expectation on agent listing editors by name in The call?
Comments: 9, Upvotes: 11
Preview: Hi! I’ve been seeing conflicting advice on this so I wanted to ask the group here. I went into the call with the understanding that “if they can’t name editors confidently when asked about publication/submission strategy, it’s a red flag”. This was the primary thing I was worried about, since this…
[PubQ] Querying After An Offer of Rep
Comments: 4, Upvotes: 10
Preview: I’m a previously agented author who’s unfortunately back in the query trenches. When I was querying for the first time, it seemed standard to ask for two weeks post offer of representation to make a decision. But during this two week period, the author wasn’t supposed to keep querying because that w…
Advice on Querying Part 1 vs. Whole project?
Comments: 6, Upvotes: 0
Preview: Working on a novel that I believe will best be packaged as two separate books. I’ve reached a natural “break” between the two at about 150k words in. My question is related to the pros and cons of querying agents with a manuscript of just that Part 1 (once edited and beta-read of course), vs. the …
[QCrit] Adult Contemporary Romance – KNEADED TOGETHER – 94K words/ Attempt 2
Comments: 13, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Once again, I’ve cut the sign off and ‘Dear Agent’ part. Hopefully this is better than the first attempt 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻 I’m pleased to share my contemporary romance novel, KNEADED TOGETHER (94,000 words), perfect for readers who love the cosy, small-town charm of The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore …
[QCrit] Adult Romantasy THE LIGHT THAT HIDES US (130K Attempt #1)
Comments: 11, Upvotes: 4
Preview: Hello everyone, this is my first time posting and my first attempt at a query. I know it probably needs about a million drafts to go but we all have to start somewhere, right?, Dear Agent I am seeking representation for THE LIGHT THAT HIDES US, my 130000 word, dual pov, adult fantasy romance, t…
[QCrit] Adult Inverted Mystery 61k Second Attempt
Comments: 13, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Dear Agent, We are seeking representation for our inverted mystery, (Title), our debut novel at 61,130-words. Seventeen years have passed since Bill Jackson and three other men accidentally hit and killed a young wife and mother. The life-altering decision to leave her body behind have consequence…
[QCRIT] Adult Speculative Fiction/Sci-Fi. Revelation Roulette. 112,000 Words. First attempt.
Comments: 9, Upvotes: 4
Preview: Hello! I’d love some feedback on my query. This is the second time I’ve tried querying after the first book I wrote didn’t receive much feedback. I tried learning from some mistakes then but know I have much left to learn. Any and all constructive comments will be greatly appreciated! Thank you! De…
[QCrit] Adult Contemporary Rom-Com SOMEDAY SOMEONE (93K/PubTips Attempt #1)
Comments: 7, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hi, all! I started querying a week ago and have sent out 12 queries. I’ve had one full request, one partial, and three rejections. One was personalized to say the agent didn’t buy the stakes of “a wedding date.” (For context, this agent does rep rom-coms.) That note stuck with me, so I’m hoping for…
[QCrit] Gaslamp fantasy THIEF OF MAGES (114k words, 1st attempt)
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 5
Preview: Dear Agent, I’m seeking representation for THIEF OF MAGES, a 114,000-word gaslamp fantasy novel with elements of historic fantasy, romance (sweet, not spicy), steampunk, and gothic horror. Lady Susabelle ran away at 17 to avoid an arranged marriage and joined a gang of literary thieves. Three …
[QCRIT] Adult Chick Lit RUN FOR THE MONEY (65k, Attempt 2)
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 4
Preview: Hi again! I’m about to jump into some rewrites after my first round of beta readers and figured I’d make a second attempt at my query letter. My first attempt was ok but I need to explain the competition (and the anonymity) a little more clearly and add a second comp title. Please let me know what…
[QCrit] Mask of Meat – Sci Fi – 77000
Comments: 3, Upvotes: 2
Preview: # Hi All! First time posting and first-ever query letter. Need any advice on all aspects of my current draft, structure, writing style, etc. Anything confusing? Good or bad – Let’s hear it! Dear (Agent), I am seeking representation for my novel, MASKS OF MEAT (77,000 words), a gothic sci-fi/…
[QCrit] – Long Live Humans – Upmarket Thriller – 131k – First Attempt
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 1
Preview: Hello PubTips community. First of all, thanks for stopping by. I’m currently seeking any feedback on my query letter (good or bad). I’ve been working on it like all day to get the sweet spot between the important elements like characters, conflict, stakes, premise, and stuff. And finally, I’ve come …
[QCrit] RUSH TO THE DEEP – Paranormal Thriller (60k/Second attempt)
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 1
Preview: Dear \[Agent’s Name\], I am seeking representation for my 60,000 word adult paranormal thriller novel with romance elements and a gothic-horror overtone. I am reaching out to you because of your work with \[Author/Book/Project\] and your interest in \[specific genre/theme\]. I admire \[short detai…
[QCrit] Speculative Fiction, EXAPTATION, 77k, *Third Attempt*
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 1
Preview: Yes, the novel is longer now. I’ve been revising: Dear \[Agent Name\], \[One-sentence personalization.\] EXAPTATION is an adult literary-speculative novel with thriller propulsion, complete at 77,000 words. It combines the first-contact unease and ethical inquiry of Ray Nayler’s *The Mounta…
Submission Status
gaia banks – Sheil Land Associates Ltd
Submissions OPEN via E-Mail
Now at: Sheil Land Associates Ltd
Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Historical, LGBTQ+, Literary, Mystery, Romance, African-American, Biography, “Childrens books”, Commercial, Contemporary, Crime/Detective/Police, Cross-over fiction, General fiction, Intersectional/inclusive fiction, New Adult, Reading group fiction, Sagas, Thrillers/Suspense, Translation, Upmarket, “Womens fiction”, Health & Lifestyle, Mind/body/spirit, Middle Grade Fiction, Science, Memoir and autobiography, Science fiction, Genre romance, Crime, Thriller, Suspense, Juvenile fiction
katie reed – Katie Reed Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: book club,fantasy, fantasy, contemporary/urban, fantasy, high/epic, fantasy, magical realism, fantasy, paranormal,historical,romance, romance, contemporary, romance, fantasy, romance, historical, romance, paranormal, romance, thriller/suspense,speculative,thrillers/suspense,women’s fiction,young adult, young adult, fantasy
melanie ostell – Melanie Ostell Literary
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: general fiction, mystery, suspense/thriller, juvenile fiction, biography, history, science, literary fiction, select middle grade fiction, society, politics
Agent Activity
gaia banks – Sheil Land Associates Ltd
Sales: Janice Hallett: The Examiner, The Christmas Appeal, The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels, The Twyford Code, The Appeal (5 Sunday Times bestsellers), Julie Soto: Not Another Love Song, Forget Me Not (2 USA Today bestsellers), Michelle Frances: The Girlfriend (#1 bestseller, Amazon Prime series), Sisters, The Boyfriend, “Paterson Joseph: The Secret Diaries of Charles Ignatius Sancho (Royal Society of Literature Christopher Bland prize, Historical Writers Association Debut Crown 2023, Walter Scott Prize shortlist, British Book Award Nibbie shortlist)”, “Rachel…
Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Historical, LGBTQ+, Literary, Mystery, Romance, African-American, Biography, “Childrens books”, Commercial, Contemporary, Crime/Detective/Police, Cross-over fiction, General fiction, Intersectional/inclusive fiction, New Adult, Reading group fiction, Sagas, Thrillers/Suspense, Translation, Upmarket, “Womens fiction”, Health & Lifestyle, Mind/body/spirit, Middle Grade Fiction, Science, Memoir and autobiography, Science fiction, Genre romance, Crime, Thriller, Suspense, Juvenile fiction
Thursday – October 30
Bluesky Posts
MSWL “Send me books about surfing! Romance, fantasy, non-fiction—I’d love to see them all!”
Marina Green #MSWL
psliterary.com/submissions/
writingcommunity Hey, folks, I have an article up at @chillsubs.bsky.social about form rejection letters. What they mean, and what they don’t. You know, rejectomancy stuff. 🙂
Check it out.
#writingcommunity #writersofbluesky
www.chillsubs.com/blog/what-yo…
writingcommunity This is why you find ‘good’ novels with meh writing craft skills.
Your hook may be buried in chapter five as you wandered around in the first five chapters finding the novel problem. It’s okay, you are a new writer. Editing lops off those five chapters later.
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Compliments in rejections on full: just bs softening the blow?
Comments: 14, Upvotes: 27
Preview: Hey folks, Queried my book here awhile ago and got a bunch of fulls. All but one is outstanding, but in the rejections the feedback is all pretty much the same: didn’t really connect with why the protagonist kept wanting to push forward. That said, they also keep saying: you’re a really good wri…
[PubQ] Starting a second round of submission while stuck at acquisitions?
Comments: 4, Upvotes: 8
Preview: We’ve been stuck at acquisitions for nearly 8 weeks now. I can’t help but look at this waiting period as precious time that we could be subbing the book elsewhere. We’ve been out on this round for 5 months, and have heard back from almost everyone. The book already went to acquisitions once, but nev…
[PubQ] For those of you who have done agent/editor consultations through MSWL, what was your experience?
Comments: 3, Upvotes: 1
Preview: I’m a couple of months into my query journey with only one full request and a bunch of “maybe” piles. The rejections slowed down a while ago, thankfully, but since they were all form rejections, I’ve had trouble telling whether it was my query that didn’t sell them, the sample pages, or if maybe the…
[QCrit] Adult Gothic Fantasy PENTIMENT (69k, 1st Attempt)
Comments: 4, Upvotes: 8
Preview: Hiya! Any feedback (good and awful) would be so very appreciated. Dear Agent So and So, **PENTIMENT** is a 69,000-word gothic fantasy novel about memory and motherhood. It will appeal to readers who enjoyed the cloistered religion of Rachel Gillig’s THE KNIGHT AND THE MOTH, the sardonic …
[QCrit] FINDING ECHINACEA – Upmarket Historical (84K/Third attempt) +300 words
Comments: 7, Upvotes: 3
Preview: Hello again! After implementing lots of feedback including that of an actual agent (!) I have come up with a third version for you all to look over. The main thing I did was cut down on backstory and work to create a sort of mini story structure instead of ending on a summery beat. I am still stru…
[QCrit] Adult Historical Adventure MULLIGAN’S RANGERS (78K words, 1st Attempt)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 6
Preview: Dear (Agent) I am seeking representation for my historical adventure novel MULLIGAN’S RANGERS (78,000 words). A standalone novel with series potential, it follows the journey of a plucky teenage orphan from the back streets of rural Ireland to the front lines of Queen Victoria’s army. County Mayo…
[QCrit] Adult Dystopian Sci-fi – ACHROMA (61k, 4th Attempt)
Comments: 3, Upvotes: 5
Preview: I have been querying for the last two months, and I have yet to be asked for a partial or full manuscript. I have received many formal rejections, and before I send out more letters, I need help—if anyone can—with my query letter. I have changed it four times with every one getting rejected. This is…
[QCrit] SALT, CLAY, SUN – Adult Fantas (134k, 1st attempt)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 6
Preview: Hi there! It’s been a while since I’ve frequented this sub so I hope I’m not breaking any new rules regarding QCrits. Either way, I’ve been working on this letter on-and-off for well over a month now so I thought I’d post it here and see if I’m at least on the right track. Some things I know might …
[QCrit] Science Fantasy, AESTHESIA, 110k, 2nd Attempt
Comments: 6, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hi all! I submitted about a month ago with a different name (sixth sense) and have reworked several elements since then (the feedback was so helpful!) I have condensed the wordiness, focused the scope of the query, and hopefully made the stakes clearer, but totally open to any and all feedback:) Tha…
[QCrit] Adult Urban Fantasy – ALL ROADS LEAD TO HELL (70k, Attempt #1 + First 300)
Comments: 4, Upvotes: 4
Preview: Dear all, I’ve found some amazing advice in this sub. While querying is still a couple of months ahead, I thought I’d start putting it into practice and submit a draft for your valuable feedback. I’m particularly at a loss when it comes to comps. the ones that I feel would fit the best (Dresden Fil…
[QCrit] Sci-Fi Thriller, Ralphie Studd: Secrets of The Minds (84k, 2st attempt)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hello, I have finished my manuscript. What started as notes on my iPhone has manifested itself into a book. Which is crazy because I never thought I would see it. After some great advice, I am looking for more options; tear it down if you like. Too wordy? Do the comps sound good? Thanks!!! Ralph…
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy – SAINTFIRE (125k, Attempt #1)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hello PubTips! I’m about to start querying in earnest, so I’m hoping you all can help me improve my pitch before I really start. This is what I have, after a few days of workshopping with an agented writer friend of mine: \– Dear \[Agent\], I am querying SAINTFIRE, an adult dark fantasy with hor…
[QCRIT] YA Urban Fantasy – UNLOCKED FATE (79K Words, Fourth Attempt)
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hello all, back again after doing another pass of edits on my manuscript, updating my query based on previous feedback here, and reading many posts in this very helpful subreddit. Huge thank you to anyone who takes the time to read and give feedback! I’m also about to start getting some beta reader…
Submission Status
kimberly fernando – Olswanger Literary
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: closed to submissions, new literary agents, AALA member, dystopian fiction, espionage military fiction, fantasy, general fiction, historical fiction, horror, literary fiction, mystery, romance, science fiction, suspense fiction, thriller, western fiction, general nonfiction, cookbook cooking, environment, gardening, health wellness, how-to, medical medicine, narrative nonfiction, nature, science, technology, true adventure, fiction debut, fiction horror, fiction mystery/crime, fiction new adult, fiction paranormal, fiction sci-fi/fantasy, fiction thriller, fiction women’s/romance, fiction general/other fiction, nonfiction cooking, nonfiction health, nonfiction how-to, nonfiction science
Agent Activity
helen lane – Ki Agency
Sales: Shadowed Moonlight trilogy (Hodderscape, Hachette, 2024-2025), Dead in Transit trilogy (Second Sky Books, Hachette, Summer 2025), Blood and Magic duology (Gollancz, Hachette & Ace, Penguin, Autumn 2025), Rear View (Carina Press, HarperCollins, late Summer 2025), “Digging Dr Jones and Hunters Treasure (One More Chapter, HarperCollins, 2025-2026)”
Genres: Adult Fantasy, YA Fantasy, Science Fiction, Horror, Paranormal Romance, LGBTQ+ Romance, Action & Adventure, Thrillers, Romance, Suspense/Thriller, Mystery, Paranormal Fiction, Crime, Young Adult Fiction
stephen hanselman – LevelFiveMedia, LLC
Sales: “Billy Oppenheimers THE WORK IS THE WIN to Portfolio”, “Dallas Willards THE SCANDAL OF THE KINGDOM to Zondervan”, “Rolf Pottss THE VAGABONDS WAY to Ballantine”, “Victoria Wellmans BEFORE YOU SAY ANYTHING to St. Martins”, “Kamal Ravikants LOVE YOURSELF LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT to HarperOne”, “Ryan Holidays STILLNESS IS THE KEY to Portfolio, #1 NYT Bestseller”, “Jason Harriss THE SOULFUL ART OF PERSUASION to Currency, WSJ Bestseller”, “Chase Jarvis CREATIVE CALLING to Harper, WSJ & USA Today Bestseller”, “Donald…
Genres: General fiction, BIPOC Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Religious Fiction, General Nonfiction, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business, Computers/Technology, Cookbooks, Diet/Nutrition, Fitness, Health/Wellness, History, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind/Body/Spirit, Money/Finance, Philosophy, Reference, Religion, Self-Help, Sports, Travel, African-American
Wednesday – October 29
Bluesky Posts
10queries I just about cried of joy when I saw the email this morning… 🥹 Thank you so much @ashpreads.bsky.social for the #10Queries feedback! I can’t wait to get back into querying with this much-needed validation!
Speaking of querying, I’m SO excited to reveal my new agent guide during
writingcommunity Happening NOW!
Join us here: www.youtube.com/live/eo-06a7…
MSWL “I am looking for upmarket stories and narratives that push the boundaries of genre and form.”
Marina Green #MSWL
psliterary.com/submissions/
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Agent requested video call
Comments: 27, Upvotes: 22
Preview: Hi everyone. Posting here to get some advice after someone else stopped by with a similar issue. A few months ago, I sent out about thirty queries and received three full requests. One agent reached out a week after a full request and said they want to set up a video call. I replied, but I didn’t…
[PubQ] Need Help With Email To Agent
Comments: 16, Upvotes: 20
Preview: Hey PubTippers, I’m looking for advice on what to do. Here’s the short version: my first book on sub is essentially dead. We’ve sent it out to all the editors we had in mind. I accept this and am ready to start prepping book 2 for sub, but my agent has said they only do one book at a time. I figur…
[QCrit] ADULT Weird fiction – MAGGOT (56k/Attempt #1)
Comments: 9, Upvotes: 15
Preview: Dear XX I would like to suggest my novel MAGGOT, for your consideration. I attach a sample and short synopsis. *Lucy Harris has been waiting forty-eight years for her life to start. Beryl has been waiting sixty-six million.* If she’s honest with herself, Lucy Harris has always felt trapped one …
[QCrit] YA fantasy – THIS TWISTED MAGIK (84K/ first attempt) + First 300
Comments: 8, Upvotes: 6
Preview: Apologies for the previously incorrect tag. THIS TWISTED MAGIK is an 84k word YA fantasy pitched as ‘Squid Games’ meets ‘Once Upon A Broken Heart’. The story is standalone with series potential and will appeal to fans of Kiera Azar’s whimsical worldbuilding in *Thorn Season*, and the costly magic…
[QCrit] Contemporary Lit Fic – FLOWERS WE WATER (62K) – 2nd attempt
Comments: 6, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hi everyone, I want to say thank you to everyone who helped out with my first version of this query. I’ve implemented your changes and feel like it’s a lot better. I’d love to receive some more feedback and thank you so much again! \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\…
[QCRIT] Dark Adult Fantasy – Formerly THE AFFLICTION (106k, 11th Attempt)
Comments: 5, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Hey, it’s been a while, and I’m ready to get hurt again. I revamped the novel. New working title: THE WRONG BLOOD. My last three attempts before the big changes: [10th](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1kcf3lh/qcrit_dark_adult_fantasy_the_affliction_112k10th/), [9th](https://www.reddit…
[QCrit] Adult Romantasy – A WICKED WAGER – 84K, Attempt #1
Comments: 3, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Should I comp a song? I thought it was a fun way to stand-out in the slush pile and add personality to the query. And the comp 100% works. However, I am new to this and I realise I may be committing a query sin. I am seeking representation for A WICKED WAGER, a standalone adult romantasy complete …
[QCrit] Adult Romantasy – THE FIFTH FACTION (90K/Attempt 2)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 3
Preview: Hello! This is my second attempt, I reworked a few sentences and added some more detail. I felt maybe it wasn’t really drawing people in and tried to make it more engaging and hook-y. I hope it worked! I also changed the title. **Delly has engineered everything from security traps around her farm …
[QCrit] Adult Specualtive Thriller – THE QUIET THAT FOLLOWED (87k, New attempt)
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 3
Preview: A bit of a disclaimer: Over a year ago, I had posted queries for this story here multiple times, but I just couldn’t nail it. I eventually stepped away from the book and moved on to a Sci-fi I was excited to write. At some point, I took a 6-month break from writing altogether, not really motivated u…
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy, Ascension (~81k, 1st attempt)
Comments: 2, Upvotes: 2
Preview: While I wait for the feedback from betas, I’m working on the query process. Never done this before so I’d love feedback/any comps you think might work better! ***please let me know if you think including the educational info is irrelevant and silly—I read a blog that said include that, but I’m l…
[Qcrit] Adult Fantasy Romcom – STEEL YOUR HEART (99k words, 3rd attempt)
Comments: 1, Upvotes: 2
Preview: Howdy! Here’s my third query letter rendition. As a lot of people suggested, I ensured this one had equal show of Haven and Sylas. I don’t want to make the book more Haven’s than it is Sylas’s, despite what the market prefers, as that would be disingenuous to the story. So I’m ok with challenging th…
Submission Status
hana el niwairi – Cooke McDermid Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Fantasy, Gothic Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Cultural Social Issues, History, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science
laura pink – SBR Media
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Christian Fiction, Erotic Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction
lane heymont – The Tobias Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Young Adult Fiction, Fantasy, General Fiction, Horror, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction, General Nonfiction, Celebrity, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events, Environment, History, Journalism, Memoir, Nature, Philosophy, Politics, Pop Culture, Science, Technology, True Crime, Fiction: Horror, Fiction: Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Fiction: Thriller, NF: History/Politics/Current Affairs, NF: Illustrated/Art, NF: Narrative, NF: Pop Culture, NF: Science, NF: True Crime, NF: General/Other Non-Fiction
jennifer chen tran – Glass Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: BIPOC Literature, Bookclub, “Childrens”, Commercial, Graphic Novel, LGBTQ, Literary, Magical Realism, Middle Grade, Picture Books, South Asian Literature, South East Asian Literature, Speculative, Women’s Fiction, Young Adult, Art, Business, Cookbooks, Feminism, History, Illustrated, Journalism, Memoir, Psychology, Relationships, Science, Self-help, Sports, Travel, True Crime, Wellness, Witches/Witchcraft, Accessible Literary Fiction, Activism, Adult, Adventure, Asian American Literature, Asian Diaspora, Biography & Memoir, California, Chick Lit, “Childrens Nonfiction”, “Childrens and Young Adult Fiction and Nonfiction”, Classic retellings with BIPOC characters, Commercial MG, “Commercial Womens…
rachel estep – D4EO Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: chick lit,commercial,contemporary,erotica,fantasy, fantasy, contemporary/urban,gothic,historical,lgbtq,middle grade, middle grade, contemporary, middle grade, fantasy, middle grade, historical, middle grade, mystery,mystery,new adult,offbeat/quirky,romance, romance, contemporary, romance, thriller/suspense,thrillers/suspense,young adult, young adult, contemporary, young adult, fantasy, young adult, literary, young adult, mystery, young adult, romance
maile beal – Arc Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, “Childrens & YA nonfiction”, Health & Lifestyle, Business and Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Food and Cookery, History, “Childrens fiction”, “Childrens picture books”, Young adult fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Technology, Politics, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Current Events, Pop Culture, True Crime, Art, Film Entertainment, Gift Novelty, Cultural Social Issues, Business Books, Journalism, Cookbook Cooking, Science, Lifestyle, Photography, Women’s Issues, Picture Book, Humor Nonfiction, Biography, Food Drink, Multicultural Nonfiction
kristin ostby – Salky Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: children’s general, children’s graphic novel, middle grade fiction, picture book, young adult fiction, commercial fiction, contemporary fiction, crime fiction, crime/thriller, fantasy, mystery, debut fiction, literary fiction, women’s/romance, historical fiction, humor fiction, satire, suspense fiction, thriller, upmarket fiction, women’s fiction, adventure/action, family sagas, science fiction, writer/illustrators (children’s)
johanna castillo – Writers House
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, LGBTQ Fiction, History, Lifestyle, BIPOC Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Suspense, Commercial Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Picture Book, Romance, Debut Fiction, New Adult Fiction, Women’s/Romance Fiction, General/Other Fiction, Biography, History/Politics/Current Affairs Nonfiction, Memoir Nonfiction, Children’s Picture Book, Children’s Young Adult Fiction, Politics, BIPOC Nonfiction, Graphic Novel, General Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Current Events Affairs, Cultural Social Issues, Thriller, Family Saga, Women’s Fiction, General Nonfiction, Multicultural Nonfiction
bethany weaver – Weaver Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: romance, fantasy/science fiction, juvenile fiction, “childrens books”, middle grade fiction, young adult fiction, action adventure, chick lit, commercial fiction, contemporary fiction, crime fiction, erotic fiction, general fiction, graphic novel, horror, magical realism, mystery, new adult fiction, religious fiction, suspense fiction, humor nonfiction, journalism, LGBTQ nonfiction, pop culture, spirituality, true crime, women’s issues
connor eck – The Eck Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: general fiction, romance, suspense/thriller, juvenile fiction, business/investing/finance, history, sports, African-American, science
francesca riccardi – Kate Nash Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: adventure/action, commercial fiction, historical fiction, crime, thriller, mystery, suspense
katherine odom-tomchin – Folio Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, Technology, Politics, Economics, Science Fiction, Horror, True Crime, LGBTQ Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Cultural Social Issues, Psychology, Narrative Non-Fiction, Science, Self-Help, Journalism, Thriller, Women’s Fiction, Business, How-To, Upmarket Fiction, Suspense Fiction, LGBTQ+
sheyla knigge – High Line Literary Collective
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: BIPOC Literature, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ+ Fiction, Middle Grade, New Adult, Thriller, Young Adult, Science Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Erotic Fiction, Magical Realism, Paranormal, Mystery, Commercial Fiction, Romance, Adult Rom Com, Adult Romantasy, Author-Illustrator, Category Romance, “Childrens”, Cozy Fantasy, Cozy Mystery, Dark Academia, Dark Fantasy, Diverse and Own Voices, Epic Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Gothic Fantasy, Gothic Horror, Historical Fantasy, LGBTQ+ Romance, LGBTQ+ Fantasy, MG Fantasy, Middle Grade Graphic Novels, Contemporary Fantasy, Contemporary Romance, Commercial MG, Commercial YA, Commercial…
Agent Activity
laurie abkemeier – DeFiore and Company
Sales: THE STORY OF CO2 IS THE STORY OF EVERYTHING by Peter Brannen (Ecco), THE ANATOMY OF BOREDOM by Andreas Elpidorou PhD (Oxford University Press), “ITS ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA by Kimberly Potts (Gallery)”, FLASHES OF BRILLIANCE by Anika Burgess (Norton), THE VANISHING TRAIL by Nathalia Holt (One Signal), FACE WITH TEARS OF JOY by Keith Houston (Norton), KILLJOY by Andreas Elpidorou (Oxford University Press), THE SUMMER OF DEATH by Geoff Williams (Pegasus), “MIND TRICKS by Kimberlee DArdenne PhD and Samuel…
Genres: Narrative Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, Biography, Business/Investing/Finance, History, Health, Sports, Science, Nature, Pop Culture, Upmarket Nonfiction, Cookbook/Cooking, Lifestyle, Photography, Psychology, Women’s Issues, BIPOC Voices, Journalism/Investigative Reporting, How-To, Art, Politics, Environment, Current Events/Affairs, Reference, True Crime, Self-Help, Memoir/Autobiography, Food/Drink, Multicultural Nonfiction, Humor Nonfiction, Dating/Relationships/Sex, True Adventure
Tuesday – October 28
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Elevator pitches
Comments: 10 | Upvotes: 4
Preview: Does anyone have examples of an elevator pitch for query letters? Is it similar to a one sentence pitch? I’ve only seen one query ask for it and I’m not sure exactly how to go about it
[QCrit] Adult Horror, WE FEED THE GARDEN (89k, 1st attempt)
Comments: 11 | Upvotes: 22
Preview: Hello! I’m almost done with my first draft and before heading into my first round of editing, I wanted to get opinions! I’m still deciding on comps, but if anyone has any recommendations, it would be greatly appreciated! Also, is my genre too wordy? Thanks in advance! *** WE FEED THE GARDEN is an …
[QCrit] Adult Upmarket Speculative Fiction – THE UNMAKING 96k words – Attempt 1
Comments: 15 | Upvotes: 3
Preview: Hey everyone! Here is my query letter and first 300 words. I’d love some feedback especially from a more literary perspective if possible because so much of the guidance out there is for genre commercial fiction. Thanks in advance!!! Dear [Agent’s Name], Every memory she’d ever stolen, every fract…
[QCrit] Upmarket – HAG (86k/1)
Comments: 7 | Upvotes: 9
Preview: Thanks in advance everyone! \- Dear {Agent name}, In Proulx Falls—a closed community full of mystics, where psychics hawk tinctures from their porches and everyone claims to talk to the dead—Evelyn Heath practices the Appalachian folk magic her grandmother taught her. People visit from all over w…
[QCrit] Upmarket Fiction – Lies We Tell – 90k, first attempt
Comments: 6 | Upvotes: 6
Preview: Hello! Currently in the final editing stages of my novel, *Lies We Tell* (working title, it will change) and am working on my fine-tuning my query. I’m struggling with comps because while this novel has elements of a political thriller and is set in D.C., it also has romance and humorous dialogue. …
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy – I AM EZLI – 85k + First 300 – 5th Attempt
Comments: 10 | Upvotes: 1
Preview: Hi everyone I’m back with attempt number 5. If youd like to see previous versions, they’re in my profile. As always all feedback is appreciated. Thank you! Dear agent, I’m seeking representation for my 85,000-word adult fantasy novel, I AM EZLI, a standalone with series potential. In the empir…
[QCrit] YA Dystopian, MODIFIED, 83k words, 5th attempt
Comments: 6 | Upvotes: 3
Preview: Hi all- back with my fifth and final attempt. I’m going to start querying this week. I’m looking for specific feedback on the hook in the opening paragraph, and any other thoughts you may have. Thanks in advance to everyone who reviews and posts. It’s been a long journey of learning and absorbing…
[QCrit] Middle Grade Fantasy, WILDKIN, 60K, 1st Attempt
Comments: 6 | Upvotes: 3
Preview: Hey everyone! I’ve written other books, but this is my first middle grade novel. I’ve queried a bunch of agents thus far, but have yet to receive any requests for full or partial manuscripts, so I seek your wisdom to find the problem. Thanks so much in advance. **Here is my current query version:** …
[Qcrit] SHEDDING SKIN, Queer Horror Romance, 80k v4
Comments: 2 | Upvotes: 4
Preview: I’m still waffling on comps so any suggestions are appreciated. “Feel comfortable in your skin, or else.” The Silence of the Lambs’ Buffalo Bill meets Germanic folklore Prince Lindworm in this 80,000-word queer horror romance titled SHEDDING SKIN. My novel will appeal to fans who lov…
[QCrit] Adult Romantic Fantasy — DEATH OF THE SATRAP’S BLADE — 108k — Attempt #3
Comments: 1 | Upvotes: 4
Preview: DEATH OF THE SATRAP’S BLADE is a 108,000-word standalone adult romantic fantasy. Like T. Kingfisher’s Swordheart, the novel explores romance through a lens of consent and feminism. Like S.A. Chakroborty’s The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi, it features a competent and thoughtful middle-aged protagoni…
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