SlushWire Weekly #47 – November 23, 2025
Saturday – November 22
Bluesky Posts
MSWL
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] What to expect in an agent meeting? Comments: 3, Upvotes: 3
I submitted a query letter and 20 pages to an agent match program with a literary conference in a few months and I matched with a bunch of agents, which means I’ll meet with them at the conference! I’m over the moon, and terrified! Has anyone had that kind of meeting before? What should I expect? Ho…
Submission Status
morgan strehlow – The Bindery
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: sports, sports fiction, education, pop culture, religion, spirituality, cultural social issues, journalism, women’s issues, general fiction, upmarket fiction, women’s fiction, health & lifestyle, politics, society & current affairs, non-fiction, mind body spirit, commercial, dating relationships sex, literary fiction, nonfiction health, nonfiction how-to, nonfiction lifestyle, nonfiction memoir, nonfiction narrative, nonfiction parenting, nonfiction pop culture, nonfiction religion/spirituality, nonfiction sports, nonfiction general/other, nonfiction advice/relationships, law legal
amanda wooden – SBR Media
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Romance, Thrillers, Cozy Mystery, Young Adult, Mystery, General Fiction, Suspense Fiction
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
clara chuiton – The Rights Factory
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: adult fiction, romance, contemporary romance, feminism, gothic horror, paranormal romance, romantic suspense, historical romance, horror, LGBTQ fiction, new adult fiction, science fiction, women’s fiction, upmarket fiction
nalini akolekar – Spencerhill Associates
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: commercial fiction, “womens fiction”, historical fiction, romance, thriller, horror, suspense fiction, crime, action, literary fiction, general nonfiction, debut fiction, inspirational fiction, mystery/crime fiction, paranormal fiction, middle grade fiction, young adult fiction
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
pam gruber – High Line Literary Collective
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, Parenting, Literary Fiction, Science Fiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Commercial Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Horror, Multicultural Fiction, True Crime, LGBTQ Fiction, Satire, Humor Fiction, Women’s Issues, Women’s Fiction, History, Upmarket Fiction, Family Saga, Magical Realism, Contemporary Fiction, Juvenile Nonfiction, Romance
Friday – November 21
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] How important is the AGENCY when choosing between agent offers? Comments: 14, Upvotes: 18
I’m in a few days into the two week notice period after an offer of rep and fortunate enough to have received my second offer this morning, so it’s looking like I have some tough decisions ahead. In evaluating the pros and cons of each agent, how important a consideration is the AGENCY itself? For…
[PubQ] respond to full manuscript rejection? Comments: 18, Upvotes: 10
I woke up to a rejection on a full manuscript today. She said I was a great writer, but she didn’t feel that she really needed to have it which I completely understand. I’m assuming the answer is no but I also feel bad leaving her on read, is it normal to just reply with a “Thank you for taking the …
[QCrit] What the Forest Remembers – Adult Wilderness Horror, 90K, First Attempt Comments: 9, Upvotes: 8
Long time lurker, first time sharing a query. Thanks in advance for any and all feedback. I’m stalled on my current WIP and am hoping that trying something new will get me out of my rut. I have a rough outline for this but I’m still brainstorming logistics so I thought fresh eyes might help me see …
[QCrit] GLIMMERS OF GOLD, romantic fantasy, new adult, 100k words, 1st reddit attempt Comments: 12, Upvotes: 1
Hi everyone! I’ve been slogging this out on my own for way too long. I’ve sent 11 queries out, and received my first form rejection today. Fire away! And many thanks for your time and assistance. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_…
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy – Pebbles Cascading Change (114k/Eleventh Attempt) Comments: 6, Upvotes: 3
I had a 1-on-1 with someone in the literary world, and they suggested condensing my three paragraphs on plot/summary/characters/etc. down to one—make it even more concise. I know some maintain the three paragraph format; I’m not interested in a debate on formatting the query letter—I’ll try both. Fo…
[QCrit] Contemporary Fiction – BEFORE EVERYTHING ELSE (78K Words / Attempt 3) Comments: 6, Upvotes: 1
Thank you for the incredible feedback on my last post. Hopefully attempt #3 better captures the MC’s motivations and the spirit of the book. Appreciate any feedback, thank you! ******** Dear [agent], [Add personalization] Simone is in Los Angeles for her first book reading, when her ex-boyfrien…
Submission Status
allison hunter – Trellis Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: memoir, “womens issues”, narrative nonfiction, popular culture, politics, society, family sagas, suspense, commercial fiction, “womens fiction”, genre romance, crime, thriller, domestic suspense, literary fiction, LGBTQ fiction, LGBTQ nonfiction, satire, humor fiction, film entertainment, gift novelty, history, mystery, celebrity, science, lifestyle, psychology, how-to, upmarket fiction, medical medicine, romance, crime fiction, historical fiction, technology, parenting, cultural social issues, self-help, journalism, business books, young adult fiction, new adult fiction, chick lit, true crime, health wellness, religion, music, commercial fiction, contemporary fiction, family saga…
ginger hutchinson – Movable Type Management
Submissions are CLOSED
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
aemilia phillips – Stuart Krichevsky Literary Agency, Inc.
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, Politics, Literary Fiction, BIPOC Nonfiction, Current Events, Reference, Narrative Nonfiction, Multicultural Fiction, General Nonfiction, General Fiction, Biography, History, Travel, Lifestyle, Science, Journalism, Women’s Issues, Magical Realism, Cultural Social Issues
amanda bernardi – High Line Literary Collective
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Non-fiction, Art, Biography, Cookbooks, Crafts/DIY, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events, Dating Relationships Sex, Design, Environment, Fitness, Food Drink, Health Wellness, History, Humor, Illustrated, Journalism, LGBTQ, Memoir, Parenting, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Sports, Travel, True Crime, Women’s Issues, Fashion, Business, Celebrity, Film Entertainment, Gardening, Gift Novelty, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Photography, Politics, Technology, True Adventure, Mind/body/spirit, African-American
meg thompson – Thompson Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, Nature, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Narrative Nonfiction, Film Entertainment, Animals, Gift Novelty, History, Business Book, Celebrity, Money Finance, Cookbook Cooking, Science, Gardening, Lifestyle, Photography, Psychology, Anthology, Biography, Business/Investing/Finance, Cooking, Health, History/Politics/Current Affairs, How-To, Humor, Illustrated/Art, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative, Parenting, Pop Culture, Reference, Religion/Spirituality, Science, Sports, True Crime, General/Other Non-Fiction, Advice/Relationships, Autobiography/Memoir, Graphic/Illustrated, Healing/Health, Nonfiction, Political, Young Adult, Design, Art, Medical Medicine, Technology, Parenting, Environment, Politics, Sports, Current Events Affairs, Health Wellness, Religion, Music, Spirituality, Cultural Social Issues, Self-Help, Journalism,…
Agent Activity
jenni ferrari-adler – Aevitas Creative Management
Sales: THE HOUSE IN THE PINES, WHITE IVY, FOUR AND TWENTY BLACKBIRDS, VAN LEEUWEN, LITTLE MOVEMENTS by Lauren Morrow, FOOD PERSON by Adam Roberts, APRIL MAY JUNE JULY by Alison Hart, TRUTH IS THE BOW MERCY IS THE ARROW by Steve Almond
Genres: Literary Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Memoir, Cookbooks, Food Writing, Suspense, Mystery, Thriller, Young Adult Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Juvenile Fiction, Graphic Novel, Short Story Collection, Women’s Fiction, General Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Autobiography, Food and Cookery
Thursday – November 20
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
How do you keep track of submissions/pitches? Comments: 9, Upvotes: 2
When you’re juggling multiple pieces, how do you stay organized? I’m bouncing between notes, voice memos, and spreadsheets, and it feels chaotic…
What to do after querying everyone? Comments: 10, Upvotes: 0
I’m querying a middle grade novel right now, and have run out of agents/agencies, except for ones who are closed. I’ve still got 70+ queries pending, so maybe someone will be interested, but if not, what should my next steps be? Self publishing?
[QCrit] Adult Science Fiction – The Celestial Madrasa – 98,000 words Comments: 8, Upvotes: 7
Hi all! This is my first attempt at a query. Any and all thoughts are welcome, particularly in regards to if I should add any detail to my bio. I can’t mention the game I’m working on that specifically relates to my setting in any greater detail because it’s unreleased, but I’m hoping that the othe…
[QCrit] Adult Fantasy The King’s Oath (103k Words, Attempt 4) Comments: 11, Upvotes: 3
[Attempt 2 Post](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1ngwkok/qcrit_epic_fantasy_111000_words_the_kings_oath/) [Attempt 3 Post](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1ow2snq/qcrit_adult_fantasy_the_kings_oath_103k_words/) After last week and a lot of the helpful advise I got, I went back …
[QCrit] Science fiction romance, MANE,117k Comments: 9, Upvotes: 5
Hi all! I finally got the word count down, and here’s my first goodish attempt at a query letter. Please dissect at will 🙂 Dear \[Agent’s Name\], I seek representation for my science fiction novel, MANE, complete at 117,000 words. Mane combines the stakes, found family, and the politics of buildi…
[QCrit] Adult Dark Fantasy – THE COLOUR OF THE TRAITOR (97k, attempt #2) Comments: 7, Upvotes: 1
[Attempt 1](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1ouhndw/qcrit_adult_dark_fantasy_the_colour_of_the/) Gave it a wee break from everything related to this ms, nice week of peace. Back to the battle! I *think* this version is much better wise, but I just can’t tell stakes wise. There are two p…
Submission Status
ali herring – Spencerhill Associates
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Science Fiction, Genre Romance, Fantasy, Literary Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Horror, Thriller, Suspense Fiction, Contemporary Inspirational Romance, Romantic Suspense, Christian Fiction (adult romance and women’s fiction only), Upmarket Fiction, Action/Adventure, Dystopian Fiction, BIPOC Fiction
hannah strouth – Sanford J. Greenburger Associates
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: literary fiction, upmarket fiction, commercial fiction, family saga, historical fiction, gothic fiction, horror, humor fiction, LGBTQ fiction, mystery, psychological thriller, romance, rom-com, speculative fiction, women’s fiction, short story, memoir, cultural criticism, journalism, pop culture, psychology, relationships and family, self-help, wellness, climate fiction, southern fiction
maeve maclysaght – Aevitas Creative Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: General fiction, Mystery, Romance, Fantasy, Science fiction, Juvenile fiction, “Childrens”, Commercial fiction, Graphic novel, Horror, LGBTQ fiction, Middle grade fiction, New adult fiction, Short story, Thriller, Young adult fiction, Paranormal, Adventure/Action, Historical fiction, Genre romance, Magical realism, Multicultural fiction
barry goldblatt – Barry Goldblatt Literary Agency, Inc.
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: “Childrens books”, Young Adult, Middle Grade Fiction, Chapter Book, Picture Book, Juvenile fiction, “Childrens & YA non-fiction”, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Animal fantasy
t.s. ferguson – Jennifer Azantian Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Graphic Novel, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Agent Activity
Sasha Landauer – Writers House
Genres: [‘business’, ‘investing’, ‘finance’, ‘general fiction’, ‘history’, ‘mystery’, ‘romance’, ‘science’, ‘technology’, ‘suspense’, ‘thriller’, ‘travel’]
paul lucas – Regal Hoffmann & Associates
Genres: memoir, economics, narrative non-fiction, commercial fiction, science fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, crime, thriller, action, literary fiction, middle grade fiction, horror, family, history, business, mystery, money finance, science, BIPOC fiction, how-to, suspense fiction, medical medicine, crime fiction, technology, politics, BIPOC nonfiction, upmarket fiction, general nonfiction, graphic novel, general fiction, current events, multicultural fiction, reference, health wellness, military espionage fiction, cultural social issues, mind body spirit, humor nonfiction, biography, family saga, multicultural nonfiction
Wednesday – November 19
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[AMA] Writer and Stanford lecturer Laura Goode Comments: 45, Upvotes: 35
THE AMA IS NOW CLOSED, PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE MORE QUESTIONS. Hi Pubtips! The mod team is thrilled to welcome our AMA guest: Laura Goode. We have posted this thread a couple of hours early so you can leave your questions ahead of time if necessary, but Laura will be around from 2pm-4pm EST. Laura…
[PubQ] Exclusive Full Request – etiquette questions Comments: 12, Upvotes: 15
Hi, I had a recent pitch session with my dream agent at a conference. The agent requested the full manuscript on exclusive, saying they would get back to me in 4-6 weeks. The agent is very prestigious. I agreed on the spot. I haven’t queried anyone else yet. Initially I told them I’d send in Q1 ne…
Shall I keep querying or self-publish? Comments: 6, Upvotes: 0
Hey everyone, I’m looking for a bit of advice and outside perspective because I’m feeling pretty stuck right now. I finished writing my novel back in July. It was my 4th draft, thoroughly edited, and I finally felt confident enough to start querying. Since then, I’ve queried 21 agents. A few replie…
ken sherman & associates interview Comments: 1, Upvotes: 1
hi!! i was just wondering if anyone on here has had any experiences (querying, interning, or working for) ken sherman & associates literary agency. i got a call about “discussing possibilities” yesterday but i’m seeing really mixed reviews of the internship online. i’m a college senior who has…
Should I Be Concerned About My Pitch? Comments: 1, Upvotes: 0
Recently, I’ve aspired to be a journalist. After completing a bunch of research and establishing I plan, I think I have my first submittable story for a magazine. After completing additional research on which magazine might work for me, I wrote a pitch following the writers’ guidelines listed on the…
[QCrit] Upmarket Women’s Fiction – I DON’T WANT TO BE HERE ANYMORE (95K words; 3rd attempt) Comments: 12, Upvotes: 5
Hi, I’ve rewritten this query letter more times than I can count, but this is my third time sharing here. All feedback is appreciated! Dear \[AGENT’S NAME\], It’s March of 2019 when twenty-six-year-old Olivia gets dumped by her first serious boyfriend over lunch at Chipotle. She was worried thi…
[QCRIT] Adult Visionary Fiction, 118k words, Akua Comments: 12, Upvotes: 2
Hi! I just finished my 11th round of edits on my manuscript. This last round of editing brought down a 139.8k manuscript to 118k words. The first time I was querying was with that obtuse wordcount, so I know I got auto-rejected most of the time. I just wrote up a (first draft! please be kind) of a n…
[QCrit] Adult Mystery – ALL SHE TOLD US (72K/Attempt 1) Comments: 4, Upvotes: 7
Thank you for any feedback on this attempt! Dear Agent, Your agency stood out to me because of x, and I saw you are seeking submissions for mystery novels. Alice, a human resources assistant and new mom struggling to regain her footing, accepts a last-minute invitation to her frenemy Lena’s 40th…
[QCRIT] ADULT FANTASY, 99k THE WHISPER OF RAVENS Comments: 4, Upvotes: 5
[QCRIT] ADULT Fantasy, 99k, THE WHISPER OF RAVENS Hello everyone! I had taken a pretty extensive break from querying as life got crazy and I wanted to rework my letter a bit. But I am back with a new attempt. Based on previous comments, I have tried to remove any confusing proper nouns and terms th…
Submission Status
vanessa campos – Vanessa Campos Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Now at: Vanessa Campos Literary
eric lupfer – Calligraph
Submissions OPEN via E-Mail
Genres: Memoir, Technology, Politics, Economics, Government, Sports, Current Events, Education, Pop Culture, Narrative Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Cultural Social Issues, History, Business, Finance, Upmarket Nonfiction, Self-Help, Science, Lifestyle, Photography, Journalism, Military War Nonfiction, Biography, Food Drink, Art, Medical Medicine, Science Politics Society Current Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex
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
kerry d’agostino – Curtis Brown, Ltd.
Submissions OPEN via E-Mail
Genres: literary fiction, upmarket fiction, general fiction, family saga, suspense fiction, thriller, young adult fiction, young adult nonfiction, juvenile nonfiction, narrative nonfiction, memoir, historical fiction, “womens fiction”, short stories, commercial fiction, debut fiction, children’s young adult fiction
patricia nelson – Looking Glass Literary & Media
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Children’s Fantasy
jess hoare – Calligraph
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, General Nonfiction, Cookbook, Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Environment, Food Drink, Gardening, History, Investigative, Journalism, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Science, Fiction Debut, Fiction Literary, NF Cooking, NF Narrative, NF General/Other Non-Fiction
james mcgowan – BookEnds, LLC
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: “Childrens fiction”, “Childrens picture books”, Middle Grade fiction, Mystery, Suspense/thriller, Horror, Humor, Fantasy/science fiction, Pop culture, Psychology, Science, Non-fiction picture books, Popular culture, Politics, Society & current affairs, Mind, body, spirit, Literary fiction, Self-help, YA non-fiction, Upmarket fiction, Action
philippa milnes-smith – The Soho Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Children’s picture books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Children’s & YA non-fiction, Graphic novels – children’s, Action/Adventure, Comedy, Contemporary, Fantasy, Fairy tales, Historical, General fiction, LGBTQ+, Literary, Mystery, Romance, Science fiction, Speculative fiction, Crime/Thriller, Activities/Puzzles, Animals, Art/Crafts/How to, Autobiography/Biography, Concept books, Cookery/Food, Entertainment/IP, Geography (including Atlases and maps), Gift/Novelty books, History/Events, Humour, Illustrated, Music, Nature/Environment, Science/Technology, Self-help (PHSE topics), Sports
laurie dennison – Creative Media Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Young Adult Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Cultural Social Issues, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Women’s Issues, Fiction: Debut, Fiction: Women’s/Romance, Fiction: General/Other Fiction, Nonfiction: Lifestyle, Nonfiction: Memoir, Nonfiction: Narrative, Nonfiction: Pop Culture, Children’s: Young Adult Fiction
tina bennett – Creative Artists Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Now at: Creative Artists Agency
Genres: middle grade fiction, young adult fiction, general fiction, graphic novel, romance, general nonfiction, biography, business book, cultural social issues, current events, dating relationships sex, health wellness, history, medical medicine, memoir, money finance, narrative nonfiction, parenting, politics, pop culture, religion, science, self-help, spirituality, technology, true crime, multi-cultural, psychology, journalism, autobiography/memoir, historical, investigative reporting, nonfiction
camille kantor – Kimberley Cameron & Associates
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Action Adventure, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Short Story Collection, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Biography, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events, Environment, History, Journalism, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Science, Technology, True Adventure, Climate Fiction
Agent Activity
joe veltre – The Gersh Agency
Sales: Ernest Hemingway (Estate), Just Mercy (Warner Bros Film), Hustlers (Annapurna / STX Film), Annihilation (Paramount Film), Inventing Anna (Shonda Rhimes/Netflix), Dietland (AMC Series), The World According to Garp and works of John Irving, Into the Wild and works of Jon Krakauer, Be Water (ESPN Films), Persona (HBO / CNN Films), Jim Harrison (Estate), Budd Schulberg (Estate)
Genres: General fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense/thriller, Fantasy/science fiction, Juvenile fiction, Biography, Business/investing/finance, History, Mind/body/spirit, Health, Lifestyle, Cookbooks, “Childrens books”, Sports, African-American, Science
kathleen foxx – The Rights Factory
Sales: “Emily A. Weedons HEMO SAPIENS (Fall 2025)”, “Nicole Hacketts MOM BRAIN and unnamed project (2-book deal, August 2024)”
Genres: 1800s+ historical, Adult Horror, Adult Rom Com, Book Club, Character-Driven Horror, “Commercial Womens Fiction”, Commercial YA, Commercial adult fiction, Domestic Suspense/Thriller, Female Friendships, Gothic Horror, Hauntings, Historical Fantasy, Fantasy Grounded In Reality, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ+, Literary Horror, Literary Thriller, Magical Realism, Magical Realism YA, Mysteries, Paranormal, Psychological Horror, Psychological Suspense, Psychological Thrillers, Romantic Thriller, Southern Gothic, Speculative Thriller, Supernatural Horror, Tarot, Time Travel, True Crime, Upmarket Fiction, “Upmarket Womens Fiction”, ghost story, historical mystery, witches
Tuesday – November 18
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PUBQ] Full Manuscript Rejection Question Comments: 30, Upvotes: 21
Hi everyone! I recently received a full-manuscript rejection that included feedback, and I’m trying to use it constructively as I plan my next round of revisions. I’ve had seven full requests so far, and while two earlier rejections gave me no notes at all, I’m genuinely grateful that this one final…
[QCrit] MY GUY- 62k- Adult Upmarket- First attempt plus first 300 Comments: 4, Upvotes: 13
*Normal People* meets Netflix’s *Adolescence* in MY GUY, a piece of contemporary upmarket fiction complete at 62,000 words. 2022: Thirty-somethings Charlie and Scott are close friends and newfound housemates about to embark on what they think will be the best years of their lives. 2025: One has ki…
[QCRIT] All-American Malaise, Literary Fiction. (55,000 words, second attempt) Comments: 10, Upvotes: 7
Hello everyone, it was many months ago that I presented my first query to this forum. No surprise that it was far too early in the process to be dabbling in that. After much revision here’s attempt number two. Thank you for your time. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Hello [Agent], I’m s…
[QCrit] Loving You is a Bad Idea – 97k words (2nd Attempt) Comments: 9, Upvotes: 4
Hello again! My first post got taken down because there wasn’t much info so now I’ve rewritten my query letter draft. I have since then added meat to my letter and hope it reads much better now. I would still appreciate any feedback before I submit this! Thank you so much again! Dear \[agent name\]…
[QCrit] New Adult – Romance – IT’S NOT THAT (90k/1st attempt) Comments: 6, Upvotes: 6
Okay, so this is a story I’ve been kicking around for a while that I’m not sure if has the legs to stand on, so I thought I’d mock up a query for it to see if it does. It’s also just a good practice for me to mock up a query bc I currently suck at it. I’d love insights on how the mechanics sound/if …
Submission Status
katherine odom-tomchin – Folio Literary Management
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
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+
valentina sainato – JABberwocky Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: fantasy,horror,science fiction,speculative,young adult, young adult, fantasy, young adult, horror, young adult, science fiction
milly reilly – Colwill & Peddle
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Comedy, Humour, Satire, Contemporary, Cross-over fiction, General fiction, Intersectional fiction, Inclusive fiction, LGBTQ+, Literary fiction, Reading group fiction, Translation, Upmarket, Western, “Womens fiction”, Academic, Animals, Art, Crafts, Photography, Autobiography, Biography, Business, Cultural issues, Social issues, Current affairs, Politics, Decorating, Design, Entertainment, Environment, Essays, Finance, Economics, Food, Lifestyle, Gardening, Horticulture, General non-fiction, Gift books, Novelty books, History, Journalism, Mind body spirit, Multicultural, Music, Narrative, Nature, Ecology, Parenting, Personal development, Philosophy, Popular culture, Psychology, Relationship, Dating, Religion, Spirituality, Theology, Science, Technology, Self-help,…
Monday – November 17
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Is it a good or bad idea to include praise/recommendations from other authors/public figures in query letter? Comments: 13, Upvotes: 4
What do you think about doing this? I attended a seminar by a literary agent (US based) who suggested doing this. I have some praise quotes from well-published authors and podcast hosts that I could include in my query letter. They are really nice quotes. However, something about it doesn’t sit quit…
[PubQ] Am I being scammed by an agency? Comments: 14, Upvotes: 0
After months of being in the trenches and with four full requests out, I’ve got my first positive response back saying the agent loved the manuscript and wants a video call to discuss things further. I know this should be a huge \*yay\* moment but I have some doubts. Mainly, that the agent has sai…
[Discussion] Short story was optioned by a major film studio several years ago, now I’m querying for the full novel. Should I lead with the option offer in my query or lead with the novel info? Comments: 7, Upvotes: 6
Hello everyone, Wondering if anyone has a strong opinion or experience with this. Brief background, I had a short story optioned but not purchased by a film studio about five years ago. This year, I decided to expand the short story into a full novel and I’m close to querying for the first time. I…
[QCrit] FATE CAN BE A MONSTER Adult Contemporary Fantasy with Elements of Sci-fi (9th Attempt, 70k) Comments: 10, Upvotes: 3
Hello. On this version my goal was to add even more agency to the MC. \- Dear Agent, Sam’s obsessed with staying awake. Sometimes he stays up for multiple nights in a row. He suffers from repeating nightmares. After pulling another all-nighter to avoid another horrific dream, he finds the day …
[QCRIT] MY LONG SICKNESS – Literary Fiction (87k, second attempt) Comments: 12, Upvotes: 1
Hi writer friends, after some substantial revisions, I’m back to try again. I appreciate any feedback you’re willing to share. Dear Agent, I have a literary noir project that might interest you. Complete at 87,000 words, MY LONG SICKNESS combines the environmental dread of Michael Farris Smith’s *…
[QCRIT] Quirky Adventure (commercial fiction) THE TROUBLE WITH TIKI (99k, Second attempt) Comments: 9, Upvotes: 3
Thanks for taking a moment to review my query. I see you have a focus on adventure and humor, both of which feature in my layered, genre-spanning debut novel, The Trouble with Tiki. Abandoned by his father six years earlier, the circumstances of twenty-something, directionless Gilley Martin’s …
[QCrit] Adult Litfic/upmarket, ADJOURNMENT, 62k, v2 Comments: 7, Upvotes: 5
Hi everyone! Thanks so much for your advice last time. I’ve managed to shorten the blurb down to 280 which feels okay–is it still too long? I’ve also adjusted some of the wording throughout. I know the common advice here is Rooney’s too big to comp, but Intermezzo is so similar both stylistical…
Submission Status
rebecca scherer – Jane Rotrosen Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Literary Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Suspense, Commercial Fiction, Crime, Action, General Fiction, Romance, Book club, Upmarket fiction, Suspense Fiction, Crime Fiction
Alice Speilburg – Speilburg Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: [‘action/adventure’, ‘fantasy’, ‘historical’, ‘horror’, ‘mystery’, ‘science fiction’, ‘suspense’, ‘thriller’, ‘upmarket’]
sally kim – Andrea Brown Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
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
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
Sunday – November 16
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
What Gets You Hooked In The Prologue/First Chapter? Comments: 8, Upvotes: 2
Hi, What techniques and tropes always get you guys hooked in the first chapter or prologue of a book? Even further what makes a great first sentence?
[PubQ] Alert agents with Fulls to editor interest? Comments: 2, Upvotes: 6
Hi PubTips, This summer, I was at a convention where I met an editor and discussed the manuscript I was working on and said that I was planning to have it completed by the end of the summer/early fall. She thought it sounded interesting and asked me to send her the first three chapters when it w…
[PubQ] Querying revised project to same agency Comments: 1, Upvotes: 1
Some agencies explicitly say not to submit to more than one agent, “no means no from the agency” etc. If I have made significant revisions to my project, is it okay (and should I mention this in my letter) or is that bad form and I should just avoid that agency until I have a totally different MS to…
[QCrit] Adult LGBT Romance- SOULHATES (75k, fourth attempt) Comments: 4, Upvotes: 11
Dear Agent, Maya Sathyaraj is a sham of a Good Indian Daughter. She’s struggling to follow the cultural script: have a perfect career (failed; she’s shite at it). Marry a suitable boy (failed; he only sees her as a friend). Bring honour to your working-class, immigrant family (failed; Maya’s a r…
[QCrit] Upmarket thriller, FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES (74k/ Attempt 2) Comments: 9, Upvotes: 3
Dear (agent) I hope to appeal you with my multi-POV Upmarket Thriller FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES of 74,000 words. It brings together the raw humanity as portrayed in Bella Mackie’s WHAT A WAY TO GO and the continuous tension of Amy Tintera’s LISTEN FOR THE LIE. A public shooting shakes up Prince-N…
[QCrit] The River, Adult Fantasy/ Spec Fic, 130K, Attempt#2 + 1st 300 words Comments: 9, Upvotes: 2
I appreciated the feedback on my first attempt! Thank you to everyone who commented. Dear (name) It is True Dorian’s turn to run the River Race, a sacrificial ritual which marks the gateway to adulthood. To her dismay, she is unable to participate after a suspicious accident leaves her partiall…
[QCrit] Post Apocalyptic Fantasy – The Bone forest (120K Words / first attempt + first 300) Comments: 4, Upvotes: 3
Hi all, Long time lurker and (nervous) first time poster, I’ve learned loads from this group and am finally ready to share my own query. I’m deep into the editing stage and hoping to get this out there in the new year. Would appreciate any feedback in the meantime, and thank you in advance! …
Submission Status
lori steel – SteelWorks Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: “Childrens fiction”, “Childrens nonfiction”, Young Adult fiction, Middle Grade fiction, Picture books, Graphic novels (all ages), Cross-genre, Fabulism, Fantasy grounded in reality, YA fantasy, YA historical fantasy, YA romcom, YA romantasy, Magical realism, Historical fiction YA, Literary YA/MG, MG action adventure, MG fantasy, Multiple POV, Novels in verse, Picture book nonfiction, Clever picture books, Found families, Feminist, “Childrens and YA diversity”, “Childrens graphic novels”, Coming of age, Cookbooks, Narrative nonfiction YA/MG, Groundbreaking structures, High-concept YA/MG, Illustrators and author/illustrators, Accepting submissions,…
Agent Activity
Ciara Smith – Spencerhill Associates
Sales: [“‘Bippity, Boppity and Boop'”]
Genres: [‘adult’, ‘fantasy’, ‘historical fiction’, ‘horror’, ‘lgbtq+’, ‘new adult’, ‘nonfiction’, ‘romance’, ‘science fiction’, ‘speculative fiction’, ‘thriller’, ‘young adult’]
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)
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