SlushWire Weekly #51 – December 21, 2025
Sunday – December 21
Bluesky Posts
MSWL
Reddit Posts
[QCrit] When The Stars Stare Back, YA Fantasy, 106k, First Attempt Comments: 4, Upvotes: 2
Hey everyone! This is the query letter of my manuscript, When The Stars Stare Back. It’s the first MS I’m working on publishing, and I want to benefit from PubTips’ expert knowledge. Cheers, Panpan. Dear AGENT. Kaller Rends is chosen to become one of his king’s royal advisors at sixteen. He …
[QCrit] Dark Epic Fantasy Calum George and the Lord of the Hares (87k, attempt #2) Comments: 4, Upvotes: 1
Hi all! Appreciate the feedback on my last post (which I’ve since deleted because it contained a spoiler). Based on it, I’ve updated my query letter and would appreciate any feedback on the below! \—– Dear \[NAME\], My novel, Calum George and the Lord of the Hares is a dark epic fantasy bui…
Submission Status
ashley reisinger – Triada US Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Adult, Young Adult, Middle Grade, Romance, Romantic Comedy, Speculative Fiction, Contemporary, Fantasy, Gothic, Horror, Mystery, Women’s Fiction, BIPOC Literature, LGBTQ+, Cozy Mystery, Disability, Diversity, Grounded Fantasy, Horror Comedy, Middle Grade Graphic Novels, YA Graphic Novels, Neurodiversity, Novels in Verse, Paranormal, Retellings, Sports, Underrepresented Voices, Dark Academia, Light Sci-Fi, Light Fantasy, Romantasy, Author-Illustrator
heather carr – The Friedrich Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Literary Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, General Nonfiction, LGBTQ Nonfiction, General Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Commercial Fiction, Journalism, Investigative, Fantasy, Family Saga, Magical Realism, Science, Popular Culture, Dating Relationships Sex
Saturday – December 20
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[Discussion] I got an agent! Stats, reflections, and pitch events in 2025 Comments: 25, Upvotes: 82
I feel I’m starting this the way everyone always does by saying, “I’ve read these posts forever and they gave me such a boost of motivation!” but it’s super true. I loved hearing about everyone’s journeys and seeing the variations, as well as just having the reassurance that it *can* happen. So, to…
[PubQ] How Do I Send Query With A Referral From Another Author? Comments: 11, Upvotes: 3
Some cavalry in querying has come my way. Through some very minor connections, an author my mom found contact with read my query/1st chapter, liked it, and name dropped me to a couple of agents through which he is signed/knows. He did not send my material to them, so I am to query them still. How d…
[QCrit] Adult fantasy thriller, 103K words, attempt 4 Comments: 6, Upvotes: 3
Hi all, I made some edits based on the feedback I got from last time. As always, feedback is appreciated. \*\*\* Dear \[Agent Name\] Scout Lia is a devoted soldier of the Golden Empire, only held back by her unfortunate habit of asking questions. Questioning her superiors has ruined her reputat…
[QCrit] YA Fantasy – THE ASHEN LEGACY. (87k Words, Attempt 3) Comments: 7, Upvotes: 2
Hi again. Thanks to some great advice I overhauled the query completely and wrote it from Grif’s point of view. I’m feeling better about this version. Hopefully the feeling would be mutual. Dear \[name of agent\] I am seeking representation for “THE ASHEN LEGACY”, a character-driven YA fantasy …
[QCrit] SELF-HELPLESS: A NOVEL, Contemporary/Literary Fiction, 97,000 Words, First Attempt Comments: 8, Upvotes: 1
Hello, I’ve recently finished a new draft of my manuscript. After many revisions and edits, I feel that it is in a good spot for querying. Appreciate any and all feedback. Thanks in advance and good luck to all of the prospective writers out there! Dear X, Getting laid off may be the best (worst?…
[QCrit] WHAT WE BURIED Adult Psychological Thriller 65,000 words – 1st attempt Comments: 5, Upvotes: 3
Hey, This is my first attempt at writing a query for my novel WHAT WE BURIED. I love writing but find writing queries extremely hard. I have done some research into how a query should be laid out and what information should be included but still feel lost. I would appreciate the input! Wh…
Submission Status
maria vicente – P.S. Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Childrens, Fantasy, General, Graphic Novel, Horror, LGBTQ, Literary, Middle Grade, Picture Books, Short Story, Young Adult, Biography, History, Illustrated, Journalism, Memoir, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Contemporary YA, Diversity, Essay collections, Lifestyle, Literary YA & MG, Magical Realism, Speculative Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Socially conscious critiques, Creative Nonfiction, Cross-genre, Feminist, Historical, Humor, Investigative Reporting, Nature/Environmental, Music Journalism
clare coombes – The Liverpool Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Comedy, Humour, Satire, Commercial, Contemporary, Crime, Detective, Police, Cross-over fiction, General fiction, Historical fiction, Intersectional fiction, Inclusive fiction, LGBTQ+, Literary fiction, Mystery, Reading group fiction, Romance, Sagas, Thrillers, Suspense, Upmarket, Womens fiction
lori galvin – Aevitas Creative Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: memoir, narrative nonfiction, horror, western fiction, LGBTQ fiction, mystery, lifestyle, psychology, fiction: crime, family saga, historical, horror, literary, mystery, thriller, women’s fiction, nonfiction: journalism, psychology, true crime, food and cookery, memoir, autobiography, short stories, commercial fiction, upmarket fiction, design, suspense fiction, upmarket women’s fiction, genre romance, action adventure, cultural social issues, fitness, contemporary fiction, speculative fiction, science fiction, multicultural fiction, health wellness, graphic/illustrated, feminist fiction, historical fiction, pop culture, crime fiction, spy/spy-like novels
chelsea eberly – Greenhouse Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Now at: Greenhouse Literary Agency
Genres: middle grade, young adult, graphic novels (childrens & YA), womens fiction, picture book illustrators, childrens picture books, juvenile nonfiction, literary fiction, commercial fiction, upmarket fiction, fantasy, mystery, crime/thriller, action/adventure, comedy, contemporary, family sagas, narrative nonfiction, new adult fiction, autobiography/biography, history/events
michelle brower – Trellis Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Literary Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Suspense, Commercial Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Crime, Thriller, Action, Narrative Nonfiction, Multicultural Fiction, Short Story Collection, Memoir, Fantasy, Upmarket Fiction, Family Saga, Magical Realism, Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Debut Fiction, Mystery/Crime Fiction
Krista Van Dolzer – The Unter Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: ‘adult nonfiction’, ‘biography’, ‘history’, ‘journalism’, ‘middle grade fiction’, ‘middle grade contemporary’, ‘middle grade fantasy’, ‘middle grade historical’, ‘middle grade literary’, ‘middle grade mystery’, ‘middle grade science fiction’, ‘narrative nonfiction’, ‘psychology’, ‘science/technology’, ‘sports’, ‘young adult fiction’, ‘young adult christian’, ‘young adult contemporary’, ‘young adult fantasy’, ‘young adult historical’, ‘young adult literary’, ‘young adult mystery’, ‘young adult paranormal’, ‘young adult paranormal romance’, ‘young adult romance’, ‘young adult science fiction’
elizabeth pratt – Trellis Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Fiction Debut, Fiction Horror, Fiction New Adult, Fiction Paranormal, Fiction Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Fiction General, Fiction Literary
allison hellegers – Stimola Literary Studio
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, General fiction, Romance, Suspense/thriller, Mind/body/spirit, Health, Lifestyle, Childrens books, Young Adult, Middle Grade, Picture Books, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Horror, Family, Mystery, Cookbook, BIPOC Fiction, Psychology, Women’s Issues, Upmarket Fiction, Historical Fiction, Crime Fiction, Parenting, Literary Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Graphic Novel, Multicultural Fiction, Health Wellness, Commercial Fiction, Cultural Social Issues, Poetry, Self-Help, Journalism, Juvenile Nonfiction, Illustrated, Humor Nonfiction, Dating Relationships Sex, Biography, Family Saga, Magical Realism, Contemporary Fiction, Food Drink
allegra martschenko – BookEnds, LLC
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Science Fiction, Action Adventure, Commercial Fiction, Fantasy, New Adult Fiction, Adult, BIPOC, BIPOC Fantasy, BIPOC Horror, BIPOC Sci-Fi, Childrens, Cozy Fantasy, YA, LGBTQ Fiction, General Fiction, Genre Romance, Horror, Adventure/Action, Family Sagas, Young Adult Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Cross-genre, Upmarket SFF
Agent Activity
maria vicente – P.S. Literary Agency
Sales: “Sam Maggs THE FANGIRLS GUIDE TO THE GALAXY (pop culture, feminism, fandom handbook) to Quirk Books”
Genres: Childrens, Fantasy, General, Graphic Novel, Horror, LGBTQ, Literary, Middle Grade, Picture Books, Short Story, Young Adult, Biography, History, Illustrated, Journalism, Memoir, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Contemporary YA, Diversity, Essay collections, Lifestyle, Literary YA & MG, Magical Realism, Speculative Fiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Socially conscious critiques, Creative Nonfiction, Cross-genre, Feminist, Historical, Humor, Investigative Reporting, Nature/Environmental, Music Journalism
katherine odom-tomchin – Folio Literary Management
Sales: “AT POUPONS TABLE by Kermit Lynch – Digital Fiction – Podium Publishing – 2025”, DOWN THE HILL by Susan Hendricks – True Crime – Hachette Books – 2023, THE SEPTEMBER HOUSE by Carissa Orlando – Debut Fiction – Berkley – 2023, MILLION DOLLAR DEAL by Josh Flagg – Business/Finance – Harper Leadership – 2021, MEMOIRS OF A GAY SHAH by Reza Farahan – Memoir – Sourcebooks – 2020, PLAN YOUR YEAR LIKE A MILLIONAIRE, THE DAILY SEVEN, SIX-FIGURE SIDE HUSTLE…
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+
charlie serabian – Martin Literary Management
Genres: Action/Adventure, BIPOC Literature, Childrens, Commercial, Crime, Fantasy, General, Historical, Horror, LGBTQ, Literary, Middle Grade, Mystery, New Adult, Religious, Romance, Science Fiction, South Asian Literature, South East Asian Literature, Thriller, Young Adult, Biography, Cookbooks, Health, History, Illustrated, Journalism, Memoir, Parenting, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Sports, Travel, True Crime, Big Idea/Think, #ownvoices, Adult Horror, Adult SFF, Self-help, Social Issues, Thrillers, Upmarket Fiction, Commercial, Current Affairs, Spy
chelsea eberly – Greenhouse Literary Agency
Sales: “PICTURE BOOK: Gavin Aung Thans Baa Baa Black Belt, Scholastic Australia, two-book deal, summer 2023 & spring 2024”, “GRAPHIC NOVEL (MIDDLE GRADE): Gavin Aung Thans Myth Valley Medical, First Second, pre-empt, spring/summer 2024”, “GRAPHIC NOVEL (YA): Mela Rogers Love Light, Holt Childrens, winter 2025”, “YA: Gabriela Martins Bad At Love, Underlined/Delacorte, summer 2022”, “YA: Kelis Rowes Finding Jupiter, Crown, two-book deal, summer 2022 & 2023”, “MIDDLE GRADE: Katryn Burys Drew Leclair Gets a Clue, HMH, two-book preempt, spring 2022 &…
Genres: middle grade, young adult, graphic novels (childrens & YA), womens fiction, picture book illustrators, childrens picture books, juvenile nonfiction, literary fiction, commercial fiction, upmarket fiction, fantasy, mystery, crime/thriller, action/adventure, comedy, contemporary, family sagas, narrative nonfiction, new adult fiction, autobiography/biography, history/events
Friday – December 19
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Should you query agents/agencies who are only looking for underrepresented authors? Comments: 26, Upvotes: 31
Recently I’ve seen quite a few agents or agencies saying they’re only open to queries from diverse/BIPOC/marginalised authors, and as someone who fits into these categories, I appreciate them wanting to see more underrepresented voices. However, (and this might just be me overthinking it), it’s hard…
So I had two people read my first chapter and got extremely varying feedback. What do I do now? Comments: 51, Upvotes: 2
I’ve been writing off and on for a while now. The genre I’m in is contemporary romance currently. I tried fantasy but the world building was just a lot for where I’m at now skill wise. The first person I had read it, doesn’t read contemporary romance but has an eye for good writing and is willing …
[PubQ] Decided to rewrite. Then I got a full request. Can I wait to send? Comments: 4, Upvotes: 7
Hi, I know similar topics have been covered but I didn’t find an exact answer…I sent out queries in September. No bites. So after getting some feedback from a published author friend I decided to do another pass in January. I’ve already rewritten the first 20 pages of the book. I know sending a f…
[QCrit] Adult Romance WHEN HEAD MEETS HEART attempt# 4 Comments: 13, Upvotes: 2
Full disclosure, I wrote and queried this project out about two years ago. Recently, a Bookends video stating that most agents don’t read sample pages inspired me to give it one last shot with a small batch of agents. I have linked my first two query letters from way back when. Complete at 92,000…
[QCrit] Adult Scifi-Romance, STRANGE SALVAGE, 90k, 1st attempt Comments: 10, Upvotes: 3
Hello, this is my first attempt ever at writing a query letter, so I am sure there is plenty here for feedback. It was quite difficult to condense the plot and world-building. For the sake of brevity, I have trimmed a lot, but now I wonder if what I have is clear or interesting enough. As for the c…
[QCrit] Literary Women’s Fiction – I DON’T WANT TO BE HERE ANYMORE (93K/5th Attempt) Comments: 10, Upvotes: 2
I know you’re all probably sick of hearing from me, but I’m determined to get this query letter right and this group has been so helpful to me. Previous comments have been not enough description of plot or stakes. I’m hoping this draft fixes those: Olivia doesn’t want to kill herself, but she wo…
[QCrit] Supernatural Horror – THE COVEN (80k/First Attempt) Comments: 4, Upvotes: 7
*Trigger Warning: Horror Elements, Infertility, Loss of Child* Hi y’all! This is a horror project I’ve been working on for the past year. I’ve written novel-length projects for fun since high-school, but this is my first attempt at querying one, so any and all critiques/advice welcome! Dear \[Age…
Submission Status
mariah stovall – Trellis Literary Management
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: BIPOC Voices, Feminist, Fiction, Historical, Journalism, Investigative Reporting, LGBTQ Voices, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Environmental, Nonfiction, Political, Pop Culture, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Black Literary Agents, Contemporary Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, History, Science, Women’s Issues, Psychology, Upmarket Fiction, Art, Philosophy, Historical Fiction, Technology, Politics, Environment, Sports, BIPOC Nonfiction, Current Events, Multicultural Fiction, Short Story Collection, Music, Cultural Social Issues, Health & Lifestyle, Biography, Family Saga, Multicultural Nonfiction
deidre knight – The Knight Agency, Inc.
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: Memoir, Young adult fiction, Sports fiction, Health & lifestyle, Business & finance, Nonfiction narrative, Religion, Mind, body, spirit, Food & cookery, Commercial fiction, Womens fiction, Paranormal romance, Genre romance, Fantasy, Middle grade fiction, LGBTQ nonfiction, Pop culture, Mystery, Romance, Suspense/thriller, Fantasy/science fiction, Juvenile fiction, Inspirational/religious fiction, Self-help, LGBTQ fiction, Film entertainment, Celebrity, Cookbook, Science, Gardening, Psychology, Animals, Technology, Parenting, Politics, Current events, Chick lit, True crime, Health wellness, Music, Cultural social issues, Commercial fiction, Thriller, Food & drink, Fitness, Travel
lauren sharp – Aevitas Creative Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, Technology, Current Events, Narrative Nonfiction, Pop Culture, True Crime, Psychology, Arts, Business and Finance, Science, Politics, Society & Current Affairs, Other Non-fiction, Memoir and Autobiography, History, Cultural Social Issues, Business Book, Journalism, Art
ali lake – O’Connor Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: juvenile nonfiction, young adult fiction, young adult nonfiction, action adventure, commercial fiction, contemporary fiction, fantasy, general fiction, horror, literary fiction, mystery, new adult fiction, romance, suspense fiction, thriller, upmarket fiction, general nonfiction, art, cookbook, cultural social issues, fitness, health wellness, history, journalism, memoir, narrative nonfiction, pop culture, science, self-help, technology, adventure, contemporary YA, fantasy YA, magical realism YA, psychological thrillers, rom-com, social issues, speculative fiction, campus novel, mystery
lucy carson – The Friedrich Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Memoir, Literary Fiction, Science Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, General Nonfiction, Current Events, Pop Culture, Narrative Non-Fiction, Suspense, Commercial Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Mystery/Crime, Thriller, Autobiography, Cultural Social Issues, History, Biography, Magical Realism, Crime Fiction
tamara kawar – DeFiore and Company
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Commercial, Fantasy, General, Graphic Novel, Historical, Horror, LGBTQ, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Young Adult, Illustrated Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Juvenile Nonfiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Art, Cultural Social Issues, Memoir, Photography, Fiction Debut, Fiction Horror, Fiction Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Fiction Women’s/Romance, NF Illustrated/Art, NF Pop Culture, 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, Children’s Fantasy
Thursday – December 18
Reddit Posts
[QCrit] Adult Spec – GODCAT (80k, 1st attempt + 300 words) Comments: 6, Upvotes: 10
Hi! This is still a WIP, but I’m writing it faster than I expected, so I wanted to get a pulse on things before I got too far ahead of myself. Thanks in advance! Trigger warning for animal abuse. \— I’m writing to you because you are particularly interested in \[personalization\]. GODCAT is an…
[QCrit] The Fountain of the Muse, upmarket cosmic horror, 78k, attempt #2 Comments: 6, Upvotes: 6
Trying this again with (hopefully) a better understanding of basic query structure. Thank you to the mods for the previous feedback and to you, for any feedback you might have for me. \*\*\* Dear \[agent name\], Steven Saine is preparing to do the hardest thing he’s ever done: give up on his drea…
[QCrit] DO UNTO OTHERS (upmarket women’s fiction 35-70, 103K, first attempt Comments: 6, Upvotes: 5
Thank you in advance for looking over my query. All feedback is greatly appreciated. Sadly, I wasted a ton of money on an editor/coach who did anything but help her clients. I’m so thankful to have found this group. Trigger warning: my book and query contain the subject matter of child abuse. If you…
[QCrit] Adult science fiction, THE LAW OF NINES (90k, 3rd attempt) Comments: 5, Upvotes: 3
Thank you for all the input so far. This is a revision from [Attempt #2](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1pk93da/qcrit_adult_scifi_the_rule_of_0999999_90k_2nd/), into which I’ve tried to incorporate the very helpful feedback from last time (noted below). Hopefully it is getting close! \–…
Submission Status
rachelle gardner – Gardner Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Young Adult Fiction, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Mystery, Religious Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Animals, Art, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, Design, Environment, Family, Gardening, Gift Novelty, History, How-To, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Military War Nonfiction, Multicultural Nonfiction, Nature, Parenting, Photography, Pop Culture, Psychology, Religion, Self-Help, Spirituality, Travel, True Crime, Women’s Issues, General fiction, Romance, Suspense/thriller, Biography, History, Religious, Mind/body/spirit, Health, Lifestyle, African-American
kemi ogunsanwo – The Seventh Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy/Humour/Satire, Commercial, Contemporary, Cross-over fiction, Fantasy, General fiction, Literary fiction, Reading group fiction, Religious/Inspirational, Romance, Science fiction, Speculative fiction, Thrillers/Suspense, Upmarket, Womens fiction, Autobiography/Biography, Business, Cultural/Social Issues, Current Affairs/Politics, Food/Lifestyle, Gift/Novelty books, Humour, Lifestyle (inc. fashion), Memoir, Relationship/Dating, Religion/Spirituality/Theology, Self-Help, True crime, Wellbeing, Womens issues, Young Adult, Childrens fiction, Popular Culture, Crime, Thriller
Wednesday – December 17
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
So I’ve written a novel… How do I go about getting it published now? Comments: 9, Upvotes: 0
This. I’m not new at writing, but I’m new at trying to actually make something out of it. I’ve been writing ever since I can remember, but I never sent anything to anyone, it’s always been like a private hobby of mine. In the past couple of years I’ve rediscovered how honing my creative skills make…
[PubQ] How do I address an email to a lit agent who gave me an R&R response? Comments: 3, Upvotes: 3
In June, I queried a literary agent whose manuscript wishlist highly aligned with my manuscript. She replied a few days later saying that while she was interested in my story, she wanted me to cut the word count significantly (from 120k to under 95k) to consider my query further. I said that I would…
Are most UK agencies accepting US-style letters? Comments: 0, Upvotes: 0
I’ve been discussing this with a number of different people and I’m hearing that most UK agencies (and Canadian ones) are happy to accept and request and/or offer on “covering letters” which use the US format that shows voice, active narration, 4-5 MC components, etc. Would you agree that it’s safe…
[QCrit] Adult Horror, SALT ANGELS, 30k, 1st Attempt Comments: 7, Upvotes: 18
Hi all! This is a historical horror novella, so not something really worth querying agents with. There are at least a handful of reputable small horror presses that take novellas, so I’m going to be submitting this to those rather than to agents. I’m aware that *Little Eve* is a bit old for a comp, …
[Qcrit] Literary Fiction – BYRON, OR THE SUMMER DIARY OF A WAYWARD POOL BOY – 106k – 2nd attempt Comments: 13, Upvotes: 4
Dear Agent, Byron’s mother is dead, and his best friend has kicked him out of their house. It is summer 2017 on Long Beach Island, New Jersey. And what’s worse, Byron has no desire to remedy his situation, to heal, or to move on. His inability to grieve pushes him into self-indulgent punishments an…
[QCrit] Reasonably Absurd – Adult Science/Fantasy (100k, Fifth Attempt, 300 words) Comments: 11, Upvotes: 4
Fifth attempt 🤦 I’m really wishing I wrote an easier to pitch novel. Here are my [First Attempt](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1kh31bh/qcrit_sciencefantasy_reasonably_absurd_85kfirst/), [Second Attempt](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/comments/1ks1ohw/qcrit_sciencefantasy_reasonably_abs…
[QCrit] Adult Romance, HOW YOU HEAR ME (93k, attempt 9) Comments: 5, Upvotes: 6
Back again! My goal is to have this thing worked out before the end of the year. This time I really focused on stakes. I got some really interesting feedback last time, some of it contradicting. But I read through it all, and I decided to focus on my FMC, her motivations, and the stakes from her per…
Submission Status
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
maria whelan – Mushens Entertainment
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, General Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Short Story Collection, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction, General Nonfiction, Art, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events, Food & Drink, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Photography, Psychology, True Crime, Adult Horror, Book Club, Climate Fiction, Complicated Relationships, Contemporary Culture, Dark Female Friendships, Dark Humor, Diverse Protagonists, Diversity, Fairytale Retellings, Feminist Horror,…
elizabeth guthrie – Lucinda Literary
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: crime/police,fantasy, fantasy, magical realism,historical,lgbtq,literary fiction,romance, romance, historical,thrillers/suspense
jessica saint jean – Root Literary
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: childrens books, picture book, chapter book, juvenile nonfiction, middle grade fiction, middle grade nonfiction, young adult fiction, young adult nonfiction, graphic novel
heather jackson – Heather Jackson Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: general fiction, romance, suspense/thriller, business/investing/finance, history, mind/body/spirit, health, lifestyle, science, popular psychology, social issues, big ideas, politics, intriguing narratives
Alice Speilburg – Speilburg Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: ‘action/adventure’, ‘fantasy’, ‘historical’, ‘horror’, ‘mystery’, ‘science fiction’, ‘suspense’, ‘thriller’, ‘upmarket’
rachel neely – Mushens Entertainment
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: commercial, contemporary, crime/detective/police, cross-over fiction, general fiction, historical, intersectional/inclusive fiction, LGBTQ+, literary fiction, mystery, reading group fiction, thrillers/suspense, upmarket, genre romance, action
nina richner – Howard Morhaim Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
juliet mushens – Mushens Entertainment
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: commercial, contemporary, crime, detective, police, fantasy, general fiction, historical, intersectional, inclusive fiction, LGBTQ+, reading group fiction, science fiction, thrillers, suspense, young adult fiction, womens fiction, paranormal romance, literary fiction, gothic
Tuesday – December 16
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
Agents for Authors with Disabilities? Comments: 3, Upvotes: 12
Hey everyone! I am a deaf-blind author and I am wondering if anyone has worked with any agents that support authors with disabilities? In theory everyone says that they support marginalized authors – but I am wondering if there is anyone used to the nuances of actually working with someone who has…
[PubQ] A call, but not The Call? Comments: 3, Upvotes: 9
Hello fellow PubTippers! I have an unusual agent situation and have found this sub so helpful in the past. I queried my completed cosy fantasy novel in September and got a few fulls. Nearly all of them have turned in to no’s, but one agent said she loved my writing so much she wanted to know if I h…
Do you state if a submission is simultaneous in your cover letter? Comments: 9, Upvotes: 0
I am currently sending a truck load of pieces for submission, mostly to magazines that allow simultaneous submissions. I have been told by several people to state that fact that the submission is simultaneous in the cover letter. This doesn’t really make sense to me, as I would think it would lower …
[pubQ] When to nudge after submitting requested 2nd sample chapter? Comments: 6, Upvotes: 2
I sent an abridged query to an agent via a short form on his website (only method allowed). Several days later, he responded by email, said it sounded interesting and to send a full proposal (which included a sample chapter). A week after I sent it, he wrote to say it all sounded good, but asked for…
Are most UK agencies accepting US-style query letters? Comments: 0, Upvotes: 1
I’ve been discussing this with a number of different people and I’m hearing that most UK agencies (and Canadian ones) are happy to accept and request and/or offer on “covering letters” which use the US query format that shows voice, active narration, 4-5 MC components, etc. Would you agree that it’…
[QCrit] SAD INDIE KIDS (YA realistic fiction, 68K, first attempt) Comments: 26, Upvotes: 6
Hi! I’m pretty new to the publishing side of writing and this sub has been hugely helpful. I’ve been working on my query for a bit now and I think I’m at a place where I could use an outside perspective. Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to read it and offer feedback! (Also, I’m not com…
[QCrit] Nonfiction, Memoir – THE GRAVITY LEVER (75k / Attempt #4 + 300 words) Comments: 10, Upvotes: 3
Six years after [attempt #3](https://www.reddit.com/r/PubTips/s/eB1uhzLWHO), I’m brushing cobwebs off this manuscript to tackle the structural edits (and probable rewrite) it badly needs. Meanwhile, I’ve added comps, and I’ve tried adding more specifics to the query. Wondering how well it works. –…
[QCrit] To Bewitch a Saint, Adult Romantic Fantasy, 112k Words, 2nd Attempt Comments: 8, Upvotes: 5
Hi again! Everyone’s feedback was so helpful! Edited the query below, and also edited the first few hundred words following it if curious. Let me know if you all like it more, or if there’s still much room to grow (I promise while I’m generally emotional in real life, I’m quite practical when it com…
[QCrit] Adult Literary Fiction – THE SONS OF DAHLIA – 77k words – (1st attempt) Comments: 11, Upvotes: 2
Hi everyone! This query has been out for a few months, and I haven’t had a single bite. Some form rejections, but nothing else. Please help! Dear (Agent), Benny, a young man with autism and a fierce love of music, has spent his life under the care of his protective older brother, Beck, and his pa…
Submission Status
lara perkins – Andrea Brown Literary Agency
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: juvenile nonfiction, graphic novel, childrens picture books, childrens middle grade fiction, childrens middle grade nonfiction, childrens young adult fiction, childrens young adult nonfiction, childrens fantasy, middle grade fiction, middle grade nonfiction, young adult fiction, young adult nonfiction, authors and illustrators only, member AALA
lindsay davis auld – Writers House
Submissions OPEN via E-Mail
Genres: Fantasy, Genre romance, Historical fiction, Mystery, Adventure/Action, Childrens fiction, Childrens picture books, Young adult fiction, Middle Grade fiction
nicole cunningham – Trellis Literary Management
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Nature, Parenting, Environment, Literary Fiction, BIPOC Fiction, General Fiction, Pop Culture, Narrative Nonfiction, Family, Health Wellness, LGBTQ Fiction, Cultural Social Issues, Commercial Fiction, Photography, Women’s Issues, Upmarket Fiction, Health & Lifestyle, Politics, Society & Current Affairs, Memoir and Autobiography, History, Women’s Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Family Saga, Art, Contemporary Fiction, Magical Realism, Crime Fiction, General Nonfiction, Fiction-Fantasy, Fiction-Historical, Fiction-Literary Fiction, Fiction-Speculative, Fiction-Upmarket, Non-Fiction-Health-Fitness, Non-Fiction-Memoir, Non-Fiction-Nature-Ecology, Non-Fiction-Womens Issues
alexandra d’amico – The Rights Factory
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: closed to submissions, new literary agents, young adult fiction, commercial fiction, fantasy, horror, romance, history, LGBTQ nonfiction, lifestyle nonfiction, narrative nonfiction, pop culture nonfiction, spirituality nonfiction, fiction book club, fiction commercial, fiction fantasy, fiction historical, fiction horror, fiction romance, fiction comedy, fiction speculative, fiction young adult, fiction young adult fantasy, fiction young adult historical, fiction young adult horror, fiction young adult romance, fiction young adult speculative, non-fiction food lifestyle, non-fiction narrative, non-fiction pop culture, non-fiction religion spirituality
Agent Activity
lindsay auld – Writers House LLC
Genres: Childrens, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Middle Grade, Mystery, New Adult, Upmarket Speculative, Women’s Fiction, Young Adult, Action-Adventure, BIPOC, Commercial Fiction, Literary Fiction, Environment, Folklore, Gothic Fantasy, Historical Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Illustrators, Author/Illustrators, Immigrant Voices, Multigenerational, Speculative, Romantasy, Witches, Juvenile Nonfiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Nonfiction, Humor Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Romance, Satire, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction
jennifer newens – Martin Literary Management
Genres: Juvenile fiction, Cookbooks, Childrens books, Food/Beverage
Monday – December 15
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Agent expressed interest in representing me, but haven’t heard response in 10 days. Is this typical or ghosting? Comments: 16, Upvotes: 14
Hi, first time YA fiction author who has been in the depths of querying for the last 8 weeks. I was so excited to hear from an agent I admire after sending a full manuscript who expressed they would “love to discuss next steps for representation.” Of course I was quick to respond, but it’s been cric…
[QCrit] Adult Literary Romance, BADLY BEHAVED BOYS (96k, First Attempt) Comments: 22, Upvotes: 4
Dear Agent, I am seeking representation for Badly Behaved Boys, a 96,000-word literary romance situated within contemporary women’s fiction. It will appeal to readers who loved the quiet intensity of Normal People by Sally Rooney and the emotional complexity of Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenki…
[QCrit] adult literary dark fantasy – THE DUSK BRINGER (120k/Attempt #1) Comments: 13, Upvotes: 4
I’ve recently realised my book doesn’t function as pure genre fiction and I’ve been querying it completely wrong. I have a lot of clarity now, but I’ve lost my footing. I’d really appreciate any help or insight you have! I tried to get the plot paragraph up to 200 words so I can post here – it’s at…
[QCrit] Kindred Spirits, Adult Romantic Fantasy/ Dark Academia, 95k, Attempt #1 Comments: 5, Upvotes: 7
Hello, long time lurker, first time poster here. I’m currently in the last leg of polishing my novel and hoping to start querying in a month or two. Also, regardless of whether you decide to comment on this qcrit or not, I have to say a massive thank you to this community. Even if I’ve only been lu…
Submission Status
abigail nathan – Alex Adsett Literary
Submissions OPEN via QueryManager Form
Genres: general fiction, crime, thriller, action, fantasy, genre romance, horror, paranormal romance, science fiction, paranormal, young adult fiction, middle grade fiction, fiction-action-adventure, fiction-chick-lit, fiction-commercial, fiction-contemporary, fiction-crime-police, fiction-fantasy, fiction-fantasy-urban, fiction-fantasy-magical-realism, fiction-horror, fiction-middle-grade-contemporary, fiction-middle-grade-fantasy, fiction-middle-grade-historical, fiction-middle-grade-mystery, fiction-middle-grade-science-fiction, fiction-military-espionage, fiction-multicultural, fiction-mystery, fiction-new-adult, fiction-offbeat-quirky, fiction-romance-category, fiction-romance-contemporary, fiction-romance-historical, fiction-romance-paranormal, fiction-romance-thriller-suspense, fiction-science-fiction, fiction-thrillers-suspense, fiction-womens-fiction, fiction-young-adult-contemporary, fiction-young-adult-fantasy, fiction-young-adult-historical, fiction-young-adult-mystery, fiction-young-adult-paranormal, fiction-young-adult-paranormal-romance, fiction-young-adult-romance, fiction-young-adult-science-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
alexandra grana – P.S. Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Liliths Brood by Octavia Butler, The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden, House of Hunger by Alexis Henderson, House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski, The Echo Wife by Sarah Gailey, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Non-fiction, History, Family Sagas, Mystery, Science Fiction, Horror, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Crime, Thriller, Action, General Fiction
marina green – P.S. Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: fantasy,horror,literary fiction,mystery,romance,speculative,thrillers/suspense,young adult
carly watters – P.S. Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Adult fiction, Memoir, Pop Culture, LGBTQ Fiction, BIPOC Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Historical Fiction, Domestic Suspense, Literary Mystery & Thrillers, Psychological Thriller, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Speculative Fiction, Book Club Fiction, Narrative Non-Fiction, Platform-Based Non-Fiction, Business, Cookbooks, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle Non-Fiction, Parenting, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Journalism, Children’s & YA Fiction and Non-Fiction, Commercial Adult Fiction, Unique Memoirs, Cultural & Social Issues, Women’s Issues, Suspense, Family Saga, Magical Realism, Crime, Thriller, Food and Cookery
curtis russell – P.S. Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: fiction-commercial, fiction-literary-fiction, fiction-mystery, fiction-romance, fiction-thrillers-suspense, non-fiction-business-finance, non-fiction-current-affairs-politics, non-fiction-health-fitness, non-fiction-history, non-fiction-humor-gift-book, non-fiction-memoir, non-fiction-pop-culture, non-fiction-psychology, non-fiction-science-technology, non-fiction-sports, commercial fiction, literary fiction, narrative nonfiction, middle grade fiction, young adult fiction, childrens picture books, childrens fiction, psychology, sports, health & lifestyle, business and finance, popular culture, science, politics, society & current affairs, memoir and autobiography, history, suspense, mystery, genre romance, crime, thriller, action, general fiction
carleen geisler – P.S. Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: memoir, women’s fiction, art, LGBTQ nonfiction, pop culture, horror, LGBTQ fiction, cookbook, science, gardening, lifestyle, BIPOC fiction, upmarket fiction, suspense fiction, romance, debut fiction, new adult fiction, thriller, general fiction, literary fiction, speculative fiction, crafts, health & lifestyle, mind, body, spirit, food and cookery, genre romance, multicultural fiction, short story collection, spirituality, commercial fiction, cultural social issues, dating relationships sex, contemporary fiction
rose ferrao – P.S. Literary Agency
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: BIPOC Literature, Commercial Thriller, Domestic Thriller, Erotica, Fantasy, Gothic, Horror, LGBTQ, Literary, New Adult, Psychological Thriller, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction, Young Adult, Business, Cookbooks, Cultural Criticism, Fashion, Feminism, Health, History, Journalism, Memoir, Pop Culture, Psychology, Relationships and Family, Science, Self-help, Sports, Travel, True Crime, Wellness
alexandra levick – Writers House
Submissions are CLOSED
Genres: Childrens picture books, Middle Grade, Young Adult, Adult Literary Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Science Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Feminism, Gothic Horror, Historical Fantasy, Literary Noir, Narrative Nonfiction, Social Issues, Upmarket YA, Multicultural Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Graphic Novels, Family Saga, Magical Realism, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, BIPOC Fiction, Adventure/Action, Thriller (non-police procedural), Authors and illustrators only for picture books
Agent Activity
cameron mcclure – Donald Maass Literary Agency
Sales: “Emily Winslows THE WHOLE WORLD to Bantam Dell (two-book deal)”, “David Sundstrands sequel to SHADOW OF THE RAVEN to Thomas Dunne Books”, “Keith Sterns QUEERS IN HISTORY (BenBella Books)”, “Carolyn Crookes THE DISILLUSIONISTS (Bantam)”, “Robert Bennetts MR. SHIVERS (Orbit Books)”
Genres: Memoir, Nature, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Horror, Western Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, History, Mystery, Science, Lifestyle, Erotic Fiction, Women’s Issues, Upmarket Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Technology, Religious Fiction, Politics, Environment, Literary Fiction, Science Fiction, Graphic Novel, Chick Lit, True Crime, Short Story Collection, Music, Fantasy, Humor Nonfiction, Dating Relationships Sex, Food Drink, Travel, Inspirational Fiction, Pop Culture, Satire, Humor Fiction, Film Entertainment, Women’s Fiction, Biography, Business Book, Money Finance, Photography, Psychology, Action Adventure, Young Adult Fiction, Historical Fiction, Crime Fiction, Parenting, Current…
Sunday – December 14
Bluesky Posts
Reddit Posts
[PubQ] Requests for full memoir ms after query letter said ‘close to completion’
Comments: 8 | Upvotes: 2
Because the guidelines are mixed on whether to write a non-fiction proposal or a complete ms for memoir, I’m confused. I sent out a query letter with my first 3 chapters and have had a request for a full ms. My query letter stated that the book is ‘close to completion’. I have a full proposal but no…
[PubQ] Nudge WME UK agent on full request?
Comments: 1 | Upvotes: 6
I’ve queried an agent at WME that is based in the UK. I’m looking at the agency submission guidelines and at the end they say “In the meantime, please keep us posted with any developments on your project.” Does this mean they would like to be nudged on full requests? That tends to be common with UK…
Types of rejections?
Comments: 4 | Upvotes: 0
I submitted to Kenyon Review in August and Conjunctions in October. Today I received a rejection from Conjunctions. This was my first time ever submitting to any literary magazine or contest. I googled more about how rejections are worded and found out that there are multiple types of rejections. Ho…
[QCrit] Literary Fiction, FOR YOU, ANYTHING, 75k, 1st Attempt
Comments: 20 | Upvotes: 5
Hi all! Thanks for any feedback/insight. I’m the world’s worst marketer and am struggling with this. Being literary fiction, the stakes are relatively low compared to the other queries I’ve seen. Dear <Agent>, *Personalized context as to why I’m querying this agent.* Adam’s exacting reve…
[QCrit] Adult Literary Fiction – PHANTOMS IN BRICK AND IVY (80k | Second Attempt)
Comments: 7 | Upvotes: 7
Back with my second attempt! My first attempt was already super helpful in drafting my query. I’ve revised things and made my query more detailed, hopefully in a way that pulls a reader’s interest. I’m also including my first 300(ish) words. I still haven’t decided whether I should start with my imp…
[QCrit] SKIMPY, LGBTQ+ Adult Suspense 75k, Query First Attempt
Comments: 11 | Upvotes: 2
Dear Agent, Imagine *Frankenstein* meets Grindr. Because you’re a champion for #ownvoices, I’d be thrilled to have someone like you represent SKIMPY, an LGBTQ+ Suspense, complete at 75K words. The novel will appeal to adult readers who enjoyed the gripping tension of P.J. Vernon’s *Bath Haus* and t…
[QCrit] Contemporary Romance YA, IWYTW (89k First attempt)
Comments: 10 | Upvotes: 2
Dear Agent, I am seeking representation for I WISH YOU THE WORST, a YA contemporary romance novel complete at 89,000 words. Personalization here Senior year at Chandler Hills Academy is supposed to be Leia-Jade Alvarez’s victory lap: A transcript packed with AP classes, the perfect GPA, and a perf…
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