Podcasts about literary agents

Listen to a replay of 2025's other 3rd most popular episode (it was a statistical tie)! Bestselling author and literary agent Betsy Lerner spoke with me about being a “late bloomer,” what 35 years in publishing has taught her, and portraying mental illness in her debut novel SHRED SISTERS. Betsy Lerner is the author of the popular advice book to writers, The Forest for the Trees, and the memoirs Food and Loathing and The Bridge Ladies. With Temple Grandin, she is the also co-author of the New York Times bestseller Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns and Abstractions. Her debut novel, Shred Sisters, is described as “... an intimate and bittersweet story exploring the fierce complexities of sisterhood, mental health, loss and love.” The book was longlisted for The Center for Fiction First Novel Prize, a New York Times Notable Book of 2024, and a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice and Best Book of the Year So Far, among many other accolades. Betsy received an MFA from Columbia University in Poetry and was selected as one of PEN's Emerging Writers. She also received the Tony Godwin Publishing Prize for Editors. After working as an editor for 15 years, she became an agent and is currently a partner with Dunow, Carlson and Lerner Literary Agency. [This episode is sponsored by Ulysses. Go to⁠⁠ ⁠ulys.app/writeabook⁠⁠⁠ to download Ulysses, and use the code FILES at checkout to get 25% off the first year of your yearly subscription."] [Discover⁠ The Writer Files Extra⁠: Get 'The Writer Files' Podcast Delivered Straight to Your Inbox at⁠ writerfiles.fm⁠] [If you're a fan of The Writer Files, please⁠ click FOLLOW to automatically see new interviews⁠. And drop us a rating or a review wherever you listen] In this file Betsy Lerner and I discussed: Getting kicked out of film school How "No Bad Dogs" inspired her to write The Forest for the Trees about writer personalities Working with punk rock icon Patti Smith The secrets behind her writing process Why she wants to have dinner with filmmaker Greta Gerwig And a lot more! Show Notes: ⁠betsylerner.com⁠ ⁠Dunow, Carlson & Lerner Literary Agency⁠ ⁠Shred Sisters by Betsy Lerner⁠ (Amazon) ⁠The Forest for the Trees: An Editor's Advice to Writers by Betsy Lerner⁠ (Amazon) ⁠Betsy Lerner Amazon Author Page⁠ ⁠Kelton Reid on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Literary agent and TV producer Sandra Martin shares exciting stories of her unique journey in publishing and media -- from growing up on a farm in Bracey, Virginia to becoming a literary agent in New York City. Sandra Martin's career as an agent and executive producer for television has been devoted to bringing inspiring, boundary breaking authors, books and television documentaries, in the fields of spirituality, self-help and consciousness, to the mainstream public -- featuring renowned authors like Dr. Dean Radin.During the 90s Sandra was among the first agents to develop her own publishing imprint when she launched ParaviewBooks -- now Simon and Schuster's Para View Pocket Books. Paraview holds a unique position in the media industry aimed at the worldwide audience of “Cultural Creatives” -- a huge, growing audience interested in consciousness, deep spirituality, healing and the paranormal.CONTACT : Sandra Martin thesandramartin33@gmail.comFOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/ASMALPodcastVISIT OUR WEBSITE: http://www.asmallmediumatlarge.coEMAIL: asmallmediumatlargepodcast @gmail.com Show Produced by Green Valley Production StudioMusic by DJ Booda: http://www.djbooda.com

We're speaking with Richard Breitman, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of history at American University about his 45+ year career, and his 12 books. We talked about how research on FDR and the Holocaust spawned many research projects; how convenience and cost affects archival projects; how an agent can helpfully shape a writing project; how journalists can play a useful role in disseminating academic research; how even successful co-authoring has its rough patches; and getting past the “Hasn't that been done before?” challenge to a book idea. Don't forget to rate and review our show and follow us on all social media platforms here: https://linktr.ee/writingitpodcast Contact us with questions, possible future topics/guests, or comments here: https://writingit.fireside.fm/contact

Send us a textNote: For the most up-to-date information on Erin's submission status, interests, and availability, visit https://erincaseywestin.com.Episode SummaryIn this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid talk with Erin Casey Westin, associate agent at Galt & Zacker Literary Agency, about the current kidlit market and how agents evaluate queries and manuscripts. Aspiring authors will gain insight into writing stronger query letters, understanding agent decision-making, and knowing when a manuscript is truly ready to submit.Guest BioErin Casey Westin is an associate agent at Galt & Zacker Literary Agency, where she represents children's literature. She is especially drawn to projects with strong voice, vivid worldbuilding, and authentic, thoughtful representation. Erin is passionate about stories that allow every child to see themselves reflected on the page. She is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.Key Discussion PointsThe state of the kidlit marketErin shares what she's hearing from editors, including cautious optimism around middle grade and continued demand for humorous, character-driven picture books.How sales track records affect authorsWhy prior sales aren't everything, how agents strategize around them, and when switching publishing houses can make sense.What makes a query letter stand outClear, specific stakes; strong voice; and careful attention to submission guidelines—plus why vague, high-level stakes often fall flat.Common query mistakes to avoidWriting queries in first person as the character, misquoting agents, careless personalization, and over-reliance on AI-generated text.How Erin evaluates manuscriptsThe step-by-step mental checklist: polish, voice, character connection, plot and pacing, and whether the story sustains momentum beyond the opening pages.When a manuscript isn't ready yetWhy rushing to query out of frustration can hurt your chances, and when putting a book away for a few months can actually help.What Erin wants to see more ofMiddle grade and YA survival stories—especially fresh, modern takes featuring underrepresented protagonists.ConclusionThis episode reminds writers that strong queries and manuscripts are built on clarity, specificity, and patience. Erin Casey Westin offers a transparent look at how agents read, evaluate, and decide—helping authors approach querying with more confidence and intention.Links & ResourcesErin Casey Westin: https://erincaseywestin.comGalt & Zacker Literary Agency: https://www.galltzacker.com/QueryTracker: https://querytracker.net

Prophetic Gatekeepers guard the gates of God's truth! In a world saturated with endless information, discerning truth from falsehood is more critical than ever, especially within the prophetic realm. Let's take a deep dive into the vital role of a Prophetic Gatekeeper Manuscript Specialist – those who stand guard, protecting God's flock from harmful attacks and ensuring the purity of His message is NOT distorted by deceitful lies. Our mission is to help nonfiction authors, literary agents, and publishers prepare and release prophetic books that empower, equip, and encourage the body of Christ with God's truth without falsehood. In today's world, there's a growing trend of mixing New Age practices with Christianity, often for profit, but it deeply hurts God's flock! This can be incredibly damaging to believers; leading them astray, distorting their understanding of God's truth, and keeping them knitted with the enemy! Let's ensure that prophetic books and content accurately represent Jesus with integrity and purity, free from New Age influences, heresy, false religions, and fake healing practices. Chapters: 00:00:00 Prophetic Gatekeepers Role 00:00:35 Gatekeepers: Watchmen & Truth Tellers 00:01:08 New Service for Prophetic Authors 00:01:29 Manuscript Specialist: Safeguard God's Truth 00:02:28 Integrity & Fear of the Lord 00:03:09 Prophetic Calling with Integrity 00:04:06 Mission: Empower with His Truth 00:04:49 Manuscript Review Framework 00:05:47 Defending the Gospel as Gatekeepers 00:06:48 We Are God's Temple 00:07:12 Gatekeepers Protect from Falsehood 00:08:01 Gatekeepers: Righteous & Godly 00:08:38 Protect your Temple's Gates 00:09:13 Gatekeepers are Trusted Officials 00:09:45 Gatekeepers Keep Out Uncleanliness 00:10:23 A Day in God's Court 00:10:52 Training Future Gatekeepers 00:11:53 Manuscript Message: Does it Matter? 00:12:45 Avoid Mixing New Age & Christianity 00:13:26 Obedience for Purity & Truth 00:14:00 New Age in Health & Fitness 00:14:34 Mission: Release Truth-Filled Prophetic Books 00:15:00 Call to Partner with Authors, Literary Agents & Publishers 00:15:32 Spread the Love of Jesus 00:16:12 Grow God's Kingdom 00:16:24 Blessings   Blessings xo- Prophetic Gatekeeper Manuscript Specialist -> https://meliadiana.com/prophetic-gatekeeper-manuscript-specialist Melia's Courses -> https://meliadiana.com/vertical-relationship-academy Melia's Services -> https://meliadiana.com/our-services Melia's Books ->https://meliadiana.com/books Melia's Prophetic Mentorship-> https://meliadiana.com/vertical-ambassador-mentorship      

“ It's essentially a marketplace. You want to shop around. You want to make sure that this person has a good reputation and you want to talk off the record in confidence with other writers.”— Beth BaranyFinished your novel and ready to land a literary agent? In this How To Write the Future episode, Beth Barany shares how to research reputable agents, start smart conversations with fellow writers, evaluate fit, and communicate professionally—so your submissions stand out and your interests align.RESOURCESGET HELP WITH YOUR WORLD BUILDING - START HEREFree World Building Workbook for Fiction Writers: https://writersfunzone.com/blog/world-building-resources/Support our work for creatives!Buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/bethbaranySHOW PRODUCTION BY Beth BaranySHOW CO-PRODUCTION + NOTES by Kerry-Ann McDadeEDITORIAL SUPPORT by Iman Llompartc. 2025 BETH BARANYhttps://bethbarany.com/Questions? Comments? Send us a text!--- For fiction writers! You've finished your first draft! Congrats! Now what? Are you ready to edit your novel? If you're not sure, then get this checklist and video series and find out! => https://bethbarany.com/htwtfreadytoedit Want to be interviewed on the podcast?Email us! CONNECT WITH BETH via email via LinkedIn CREDITSEDITED WITH DESCRIPT (Affiliate link)MUSIC: Uppbeat.ioDISTRIBUTED BY BUZZSPROUT: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1994465

We're talking with film historian Noah Isenberg, the Charles Sapp Centennial Professor and former Chair of the Department of Radio-Television-Film at The University of Texas at Austin. Isenberg is the author of the Los Angeles Times bestseller, We'll Always Have Casablanca: The Legend and Afterlife of Hollywood's most Beloved Movie, and several other books about film. We talk about why and when we might drop theory from our writing; finding a literary agent; the excitement of finding your audience and readers through community events; making the most of our research through multiple publications; the backlash and stigma academics can face when they “go popular,” and how academics help academic presses by writing more accessible books. Don't forget to rate and review our show and follow us on all social media platforms here: https://linktr.ee/writingitpodcast Contact us with questions, possible future topics/guests, or comments here: https://writingit.fireside.fm/contact

The Bull Pups are reviewing part one of Second Stain on Sherlock & Co., Watson and his Literary Agent probably don't meet, and colorful phrases from one of Watson's earlier cases can serve as fandom titles.

Unlock the secrets to writing and publishing your book with renowned literary agent and author, Sarah Bullen! In this insightful episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Sarah to discuss her two-decade journey in publishing, strategies for commercial success, and her unique "Write Your Book in 100 Days" system. Whether you're an aspiring author, a thought leader, or simply passionate about storytelling, this conversation is packed with actionable advice, myth-busting truths, and inspiration for your journey from blank page to published book.Sarah shares candid lessons from her career, explores the rise of self-publishing and hybrid models, and reveals what separates those who finish their books from those who don't. Dive into the world of drafts, discover how technology is (and isn't) shaping creativity, and learn how discipline and tenacity can overcome the notorious writer's block!

Today I am in conversation with not one but three guests! We're talking about the incredible impact of the Women's Prize Discoveries from three perspectives - 2026 Judge and Curtis Brown literary agent Ciara Finan, 2022 shortlistee and author of the extraordinary debut novel Ordinary Saints, Niamh Ni Mhaoileoin and Alice Trew, 2024 shortlistee who has just secured a 2 book deal, the first of which The Hungry Dark, will be out in 2027. Ciara talks us through her work as a literary agent and what she'll be looking for amongst entries in the 2026 prize, and Niamh and Alice talk about their experiences as shortlistees and the incredible impact it has had on their careers and their community as writers. The Women's Prize Discoveries is open to all women aged over 18 who are unagented and unpublished, resident in the UK and Ireland, and writing in English, in any adult fiction genre. The deadline for the 2026 prize is January 12th. Submission is free and requires 10k words and a synopsis. See the link below for more details. LinksWomen's Prize Discoveries Ordinary Saints - Niamh Ni MhaoileoinCurtis Brown CreativeCiara Finan at Curtis BrownAlice on InstagramNiamh on Instagram This series of the podcast is sponsored by award winning audio book app xigxagListeners of Not Too Busy To Write can receive their second book FREE To redeem, download the xigxag app from the App Store or Google Play. Go to My xigxag/Settings, then click on Account. Under Vouchers, click on the ‘Enter code' button and add your voucher code TOOBUSY to your account. After your first purchase, your second title will be free!

A little news on CBS Watson's coming family member and they into discussion of the penultimate Sherlock & Co. Hound episode. And Schenectady, New York gets it's moment in the Literary Agent's Ten Percent. 

How do you set realistic expectations in publishing? If a book doesn't sell, how do you cope with rejection? Literary agent and author Kate McKean chats about her latest book Write Through It! She also shares tips for honing your writer's intuition, pitching your book, and what queries stand out in the slush pile.Kate McKeanWebsite: https://www.katemckean.com/Social: @kate_mckeanGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BWriting Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqNEW! Show and Tell: https://amzn.to/4kCc4noFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/

Send us a textIn this episode of Talking Book Publishing, hosts Kathleen and Adanna sit down with Naomi Kim Eagleson, writer, editor, and founder of The Artful Editor, for a deep dive into the full editing journey—whether you're self-publishing or going the traditional route. Naomi takes us through her four-phase editing model and explains why many manuscripts spend too long in “line-edit purgatory” when what they really need is a developmental overhaul.We talk manuscript critiques vs. developmental edits vs. line-editing vs. proofreading — Naomi breaks each one down, explains when they belong in your publishing timeline, and shows why waiting too long (or paying too early) can hurt your book. She also shares veteran insights on what agents look for in your first 5–10 pages, why voice matters more than perfect punctuation at query time, and how simple tactics like reading your work aloud or letting Word speak it back can reveal structural problems you'll miss by eye alone.Whether you're polishing your first draft or prepping your launch, this episode delivers practical, actionable advice to elevate your manuscript and position your book for success.Resources: • Website ArtfulEditor.com • Instagram: @artfuleditor • Facebook: @artfuleditorAbout our guest: Naomi Kim Eagleson is a Los Angeles-based writer and editor who founded The Artful Editor, an editorial agency dedicated to helping writers of all stripes elevate their manuscripts for publication. Originally from Hawai‘i, Naomi began her career at Manoa, an award-winning literary journal, where she honed her editorial expertise. After earning her MFA from the Iowa Writers' Workshop, she moved to California in 2010 and launched her own agency offering full-service editing—developmental edits, copyedits, and query reviews. With more than a decade of experience guiding authors toward their publishing goals, Naomi brings deep respect for craft, clear process, and a compassionate edit-mindset to every project.Related Episodes: • Season 5 | Episode 8 • Kim Dower • Season 5 | Episode 7 • Penny SansevieriReady to level up your manuscript? Subscribe to Talking Book Publishing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platform—and please leave us a review! Your feedback helps more writers discover these conversations. We'd like to hear from you. If you have topics or speakers you'd like us to interview, please email us at podcast@talkingbookpublishing.today and join the conversation in the comments on our Instagram @writerspubsnet.

Anna Davis, novelist, agent, and founder of Curtis Brown Creative, shares how to turn a messy first draft into a strong, market-ready novel through diagnostic editing, practical rewriting tools, and a clear understanding of what agents actually look for.You'll learn:Why every writer's process is different (and why messy drafts are fine).How to diagnose problems mid-novel and bring a manuscript back to life.The Rewrite Doctor method: creating distance, interrogating your story, and planning the edit.How to stress-test structure, plot, and pacing without relying on rigid templates.Using prompts and “play” to loosen up when you're stuck.How to choose between competing novel ideas and know which has real legs.What agents are truly looking for and how to make your submission stand out.Common myths about publishing (and what actually happens behind the scenes). Resources and Links:Curtis Brown Creative CoursesCBC Editorial Services Friend Request by Laura Marshall  The Rewrite Doctor CourseEdit and Pitch Your Novel Book a consultation with Curtis Brown CreativeWriters' Hour  About Anna DavisAnna Davis is the founder and Director of Curtis Brown Creative, a leading UK writing school she launched in 2011. She's the author of five novels published in twenty languages, a former journalist and Guardian columnist, and previously worked as a literary agent at Curtis Brown and a creative-writing lecturer at the University of Manchester. For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.For free writing sessions, join free Writers' Hours: writershour.com.*FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS' SALONTwitter: twitter.com/​​WritersSalonInstagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalonFacebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalonIf you're enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!

Literary agent and author Kate McKean shares how to pitch like a human, read rejection letters usefully, and protect your joy so you can build a durable writing life. You'll learn:How to build a clear 1–2 line pitch others can repeat and sell.How to read rejection letters, spot strong notes, and decide when to revise.Query etiquette and timelines: when to follow up and how resubmissions work.Fixing weak nonfiction proposals with clearer scope, audience, and takeaway.Write for the reader: comp titles, positioning, and a useful synopsis.US vs UK agenting models and what that means for money and process.Why agents don't steal ideas and why execution is what matters.Self-publishing realities: expectations, track records, and when it helps the book. Resources and Links:

Send me a Text Message!What if the secret to writing unforgettable characters isn't interrogating them with questionnaires, but letting them reveal themselves organically? In this episode, bestselling author Bianca Marais shares how she "pantsed" her way through writing her newest novel, A Most Puzzling Murder. It's especially impressive because this novel is a complex mystery with 12+ POVs, choose-your-own-adventure chapters, interactive puzzles, and a character who emails readers back. If you've ever wondered how to build three-dimensional characters that feel alive, balance ambitious storytelling mechanics without losing narrative control then this conversation is perfect for you! Bianca reveals the unique writing techniques that allowed her to juggle multiple perspectives while maintaining emotional depth, and why giving up control might be the key to unlocking your best work.Bianca's InstagramBianca's WebsiteThe Art of Dual POV & Crafting Psychological Thrillers with Liz AltermanWriting Character Backstory with Author Liz AltermanLiterary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing IndustryGet the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

This week, Rose and Crystal talk with literary agent Eryn Kalavsky about what really happens between a cookbook idea and a book deal. From crafting a proposal to navigating rejection, Eryn shares what agents look for, how trends shift, and why voice and clarity matter (sometimes) more than follower count. Along the way, they swap stories about Hartwood, Guerrilla Tacos, Small Victories, Tartine, and even The Betty Crocker Cookbook — the books that shaped how we cook and dream on the page.Books called out in this Episode:Eric Werner and Mya Henry, “Hartwood: Bright, Wild Flavors from the Edge of the Yucatán”Wesley Avila, Richard Parks III, “Guerrilla Tacos: Recipes from the Streets of L.A.”Molly Baz coversJulia Turshen, “Small Victories: Recipes, Advice + Hundreds of Ideas for Home-Cooking Triumphs”Betty Crocker CookbookElisabeth Prueitt, Chad Robertson, “Tartine”Kitchen Tape is hosted by Rose Wilde ⁠@trosewilde⁠ and Crystal Slonecker ⁠@crystalslonecker⁠, edited by Dressler Parsons  ⁠@dresslerparsons⁠ of The Regenerative Baking Podcast, with original theme music by Dan Crabtree.Follow us on Instagram ⁠@kitchentapepodcast⁠ and hit like and subscribe to stay up to date on new episodes and behind-the-scenes crumbs.

Send me a Text Message!New York Times bestselling author Chevy Stevens pulls back the curtain on what separates a good thriller from an unforgettable one. And it might not be what you think. In this episode, Chevy reveals her unconventional process for crafting antagonists that readers love to hate. She also shares the exact mindset shift that helped her sustain an eight-book career.If you are... struggling to create believable villainsfeeling stuck in your thriller's plotwondering how to build a lasting writing career in today's marketThis conversation will give you the tools to break through. What Listeners Will Learn:• How to create antagonists that traditional publishers love• The "enough juice" test for evaluating thriller concepts• Why your second book matters more than your firstConnect with Chevy:WebsiteTwitterInstagramChevy Stevens lives on Vancouver Island with her husband and daughter. When she isn't working on her next book, she's spending time with her family and their two dogs. Her books, including Still Missing, a New York Times bestseller and winner of the International Thriller Writers Award for Best First Novel, have been published in more than thirty countries.Episodes I think You'll Love:Author Liz Alterman Reveals Her Weekly Writing Ritual That Transforms First Drafts Into Gold And How to Know When Your Story Idea Is Worth WritingLiterary Agent Amy Nielsen on How to Fix Your Opening Pages Literary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's EyeHow to Write an Opening Chapter that Keeps Readers Reading with Author David McCloskey Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Head of Books at the Madeleine Milburn Agency, Liv Maidment, shares how literary agents read, evaluate, and champion submissions (from pitches and comps to strategy, timelines, and today's AI-driven market), helping writers pitch their work clearly and confidently.You'll learn:How to build a snappy 1–2 line elevator pitch that helps everyone down the chain sell your book (“the art of summing something up in one or two sentences”).Tips for writing comp titles and using them smartly.Blurbs vs synopses: how the pitch sells your book while the synopsis tells your book.What strong synopses and author bios must include: how much to reveal, and why they matter.Why agent editorial and development with an agent still matter.Today's submission etiquette: realistic timelines, when to chase, and how resubmissions work.Market and positioning: genres currently on the rise, platform and geography demystified (do you need social media, does location matter).Implications of AI in today's publishing landscape: contracts, transparency, and more.More exclusive insight and advice for writers from an expert on the other side of the publishing industry. Resources and Links:

Send me a Text Message!Struggling with how to write a thriller that grabs readers immediately? In this interview, writing expert Daniel David Wallace shares game-changing writing tips for crafting plots that keep readers hooked from page one. Daniel, creator of the Character First Writing Approach and host of Escape the Plot Forest summit, reveals why traditional plotting advice often fails thriller writers.And he offers three essential strategies for developing compelling, character-driven narratives. Whether you're working on your first manuscript or polishing a novel for traditional publishing, these writing techniques will help you avoid the common pitfalls that cause readers to abandon your story. Learn how to create protagonists with immediate momentum, maintain emotional connection through plot twists, and structure midpoints that trap both your characters and your readers in the story.Learn more about Daniel here...Daniel David Wallace is the host of Escape the Plot Forest, an annual online conference for writers. He spent four years of a PhD researching new ways to help writers tell a great story.His stories, reviews, and essays have been published in great magazines like Tampa Review, McSweeney's Internet Tendency, Air Schooner, and his writing has won him awards like the Toni Brown scholarship and the Hodges prizes.Daniel designed a way of teaching plot, the "character-first" approach that aims to return writers to their original love of storytelling (because it teaches you to write according to how your ideal readers will experience your book).This approach has resonated with so many people: more than 13,000 writers read his newsletter each week.Literary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing IndustryFirst Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript OpeningHow to Edit Your Own Writing with Author & Editor Chantelle Aimée Osman Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

This week we're treated to the deep expertise, wisdom, and compassion of agent Regina Brooks. Regina has lots of experience shaping and selling memoirs to publishers. In this week's show, we talk about what makes a memoir saleable, but also about what Regina looks for when memoir projects cross her desk. We cover author platform, celebrity memoir, and advice for memoirists looking to get published. Regina even invites our listeners (when they're ready) to send her their proposals. A great and much-needed publishing interview, memoir-style. Also, in today's Book Trend Brooke and Grant take the space to apologize for a recent ad spot run on Memoir Nation that they did not and do not endorse. Regina Brooks is the founder and CEO of Serendipity Literary Agency in New York, the largest African American–owned agency in the US. She is the president of the Association of American Literary Agents (AALA) and coproducer of the People of Publishing Conference and a founding member of Literary Agents of Change (LAOC) and the Black Book Accelerator. Brooks is the author of Writing Great Books for Young Adults and You Should Really Write a Book: How to Write, Sell, and Market Your Memoir. Brooks is a copublisher with Open Lens, an imprint of Akashic Books. Brooks has been highlighted in The New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and elsewhere. When she's not agenting, she's gardening, fishing, and flying her own plane (always in a dress). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we're treated to the deep expertise, wisdom, and compassion of agent Regina Brooks. Regina has lots of experience shaping and selling memoirs to publishers. In this week's show, we talk about what makes a memoir saleable, but also about what Regina looks for when memoir projects cross her desk. We cover author platform, celebrity memoir, and advice for memoirists looking to get published. Regina even invites our listeners (when they're ready) to send her their proposals. A great and much-needed publishing interview, memoir-style. Also, in today's Book Trend Brooke and Grant take the space to apologize for a recent ad spot run on Memoir Nation that they did not and do not endorse. Regina Brooks is the founder and CEO of Serendipity Literary Agency in New York, the largest African American–owned agency in the US. She is the president of the Association of American Literary Agents (AALA) and coproducer of the People of Publishing Conference and a founding member of Literary Agents of Change (LAOC) and the Black Book Accelerator. Brooks is the author of Writing Great Books for Young Adults and You Should Really Write a Book: How to Write, Sell, and Market Your Memoir. Brooks is a copublisher with Open Lens, an imprint of Akashic Books. Brooks has been highlighted in The New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and elsewhere. When she's not agenting, she's gardening, fishing, and flying her own plane (always in a dress). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matthew Carnicelli is the president of Carnicelli Literary Management, located in New York City and the Hudson Valley. He represents bestselling and award-winning authors publishing books in the areas of history, current events, sports, business, memoir, biography, health, literary fiction, and graphic novels. Since becoming an agent in 2004, he has focused on helping leading thinkers, journalists, academics, and others with exceptional stories or messages develop clear and original book ideas and partnering them with the best editors and publishers for their books. Matthew is a graduate of Washington University, with a B.A. in English literature and political science, and received an M.A. from the University of Toronto in English literature. He has taught college-level nonfiction writing and is a frequent guest on various writing and publishing-industry panels. I've known Matthew for a long time, he's articulate and funny, and I simply like him. I'd recommend him in a minute to anyone who writes the kind of nonfiction he handles. On the show we talked about what he's looking for, comps, the author bio, ageism, interpreting rejection, referrals. and much more. For more information on Writers on Writing and to become a supporter, visit our Patreon page. For a one-time donation, visit Ko-fi. You can find hundreds of past interviews on our website. You can help out the show and indie bookstores by buying books at our bookstore on bookshop.org. It's stocked with titles by our guest authors, as well as our personal favorites. And on Spotify, you'll find an album's worth of typewriter music like what you hear on the show. It's perfect for writing. Look for the artist, Just My Type. Email the show at writersonwritingpodcast@gmail.com. We love to hear from our listeners! (Recorded on December 1, 2023)  Host: Barbara DeMarco-BarrettHost: Marrie StoneMusic: Travis Barrett (Stream his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Etc.)

Send me a Text Message!What if the setting you choose could be as morally complex as your protagonist? In this episode, USA Today bestselling author Aaron Philip Clark pulls back the curtain on how he crafts crime fiction that thrills and matters. Aaron reveals:his process for weaving heavy themes into page-turners without slowing the pacewhy he writes from a place of frustration and injusticehow to make every setting choice deliberate and loaded with meaning. If you're tired of writing surface-level thrillers or struggling to add depth without killing your momentum, this conversation will change how you approach your craft. Aaron's insights on creating "literary humans" instead of plot devices alone are worth the listen, but his framework for balancing suspense with substance is something I personally will be implementing in my work.https://www.aaronphilipclark.com/https://x.com/RealAPCBookshttps://www.instagram.com/realapcbooks/Episodes I think you'll love...How to Develop Characters and Themes with Author Aaron Philip ClarkWriting Action Scenes with Author Aaron Philip ClarkLiterary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing IndustryFirst Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript Opening Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Send me a Text Message!What if the tropes you love are actually holding your thriller back? In this episode, Charlene Wang reveals how she transformed the beloved campus novel into a feminist revenge thriller by strategically subverting genre expectations. And the results landed her a major book deal. You'll discover the counterintuitive truth about "wasted" drafts (spoiler: nothing is ever wasted), learn how to weaponize social media as a character psychology tool rather than just a plot device, and understand why the most compelling morally gray characters make us root for their goals while questioning their methods. If you're struggling to make your thriller feel fresh or your contemporary setting feel authentic, this conversation will fundamentally change how you approach revision and might just save you years of trial and error.Learn more about CharleneBio: Charlene Wang was born in Beijing and, after immigrating to the US when she was three, has lived in seven different cities from Los Angeles to Rockville to Biloxi. Graduating with a B.A. in English from Dartmouth College and a J.D. from University of Virginia School of Law, she worked as a litigator for six years before quitting to pursue her childhood dream of becoming an author. She now lives in Brooklyn, NY, with her fiancé and their dog Winky.Episodes I think you'll love...Agent Carleen Geisler Reads a Submission & Shares How Agents Evaluate Opening PagesWriting Your Opening Scene with Thomas MullenWriting Unique Openings to Grab Literary Agent Attention: Jason Powell AuthorGet the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Send me a Text Message!What if I told you that right now, while established agents are drowning in hundreds of submissions, there's a brand new literary agent who's actively building his client list and genuinely excited to discover your manuscript? In this episode, Tommy Dean shares what makes him your ideal partner in this industry. Tommy shares... the insider secrets that separate professional queries from amateur oneswhy newer agents might actually be your best bet for building a career-long partnership,some hard truths about what's instantly killing your chances in the query process. If you're serious about traditional publishing, this conversation could be the game-changer that gets your work noticed.Bio: Tommy Dean is an associate literary agent with Rosecliff Literary, the author of two flash fiction chapbooks, Special Like the People on TV (Redbird Chapbooks, 2014) and Covenants (ELJ Editions, 2021), and a full flash collection, Hollows (Alternating Current Press, 2022). He lives in Indiana, where he is currently the editor of Fractured Lit and Uncharted Magazine. A recipient of the 2019 Lascaux Prize in Short Fiction, his writing can be found in Best Microfiction 2019, 2020, 2023, and Best Small Fiction 2019 and 2022. His work has been published in Monkeybicycle, Laurel Review, Moon City Review, Pithead Chapel, Harpur Palate, and many other litmags. He has taught writing workshops for the Gotham Writers Workshop, The Writers Center, and The Writers Workshop. Find him at tommydeanwriter.com and on Twitter @TommyDeanWriter.Episodes I think you'll love...- How to Find Your Literary Agent with Carey Blankenship-Kramer- Literary Agent Michelle Z. Jackson Helps Writers Navigate the Querying Process- Literary Agent Jennifer Chevais Shares What Grabs Attention in a Query SubmissionGet the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Jane Dystel, has been a literary agent since 1986, and, as the president of Dystel, Goderich & Bourret, represents bestselling writers like Colleen Hoover and Samantha Young. Jane spoke to us about what she looks for in a new writer; why she sometimes advises her clients not to take the biggest advance; and what she reads for fun.

Today marks the beginning of a 5-part interview series with all sorts of incredible authors and industry pros! I am so thrilled to kick things off with this fabulous interview with my literary agent, and the founder of Mad Woman Literary Agency, Danielle Burby! Danielle and I focused our conversation on post-debut and mid-career authors. So instead of the typical questions about how to query, we dive deep into strategic career planning, what to do when a book as a “challenging sales history,” how to make a big pivot to a new age category or genre, and so much more! You can learn more about Danielle (and what she's currently looking for in her query inbox) on the Mad Woman Literary Agency website. And don't forget to follow the agency on Instagram! *** The publishing industry is hard. That's why I created The Confident Author Academy. My 6-month coaching program (+ online course) helps you build the mindset & emotional resilience you need to thrive as an author. To learn more and get on the waitlist for when spots open again, go to http://www.isabelsterling.com/academy Looking for even more author advice and notifications about upcoming workshops? Sign up for my weekly Real Talk for Writers newsletter by clicking here. DM me on Instagram & let me know what you thought of this episode!

Brent Taylor started at Triada US as an 18-year-old intern and has since built a successful career representing children's and adult fiction. Hear his thoughts on what's booming in the market, what will be hot next year, the rise of romance, tips for querying authors, hybrid publishing and more!Brent TaylorWebsite: https://www.btaylorbooks.com/Triada USGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BWriting Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqNEW! Show and Tell: https://amzn.to/4kCc4noFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/

Send me a Text Message!You're going to love this exclusive conversation with Chantelle Aimée Osman, Senior Editor at Simon & Schuster's new imprint, Simon Maverick. Chantelle reveals how the publishing industry is evolving to meet indie and hybrid authors where they are. And why audio is becoming the new frontier that could transform your writing career. Discover the submission strategies that actually work, learn why your biggest strength might be the one thing editors can't fix, and find out how to reframe rejection in a way that accelerates rather than derails your publishing journey. Whether you're traditionally published, indie, or still figuring out your path, this conversation offers insider insights that could change everything about how you approach your writing career.Past Episodes with Chantelle- How to Edit Your Own Writing with Author & Editor Chantelle Aimée Osman- Chantelle Aimée Osman Interview Series: An Editor's Advice for Writers- Rethinking Rejection & How to Form a Team for Your Work with Chantelle Aimée OsmanWhat You'll Learn:Why audio publishing is the new gold rush opportunityThe one manuscript element editors absolutely cannot fixHow to reframe rejection as progress toward your goalClick here to learn more about Chantelle Aimee Osman Guest Bio: Chantelle Aimée Osman (she/her) is senior editor at Simon & Schuster's newest imprint, Simon Maverick. Prior to joining Simon & Schuster, Chantelle Aimée Osman was an acquiring editor at Amazon Publishing, where she worked with bestselling authors such as Robert Dugoni, Mark Sullivan, Suzanne Redfearn, Megan Chance, Victoria Helen Stone, and Simon Tolkien. Previously, she helped found Agora Books, an imprint of independent press Polis Books, focusing on crime fiction and horror with unique social and cultural voices—themes which still hold a special place in her heart. She's online at chantelleaimee.com Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Longing can lead us to unexpected places. In this intimate conversation, literary agent–turned–debut author Samantha Browning Shea unpacks the themes behind her novel Marrow—from fertility and “wellness” culture to coming home, belonging, and the power (and danger) of wanting something deeply.We also go behind the scenes of agent life: what submissions actually look like, how editorial advocacy works after a book sells, and why your author–agent relationship matters just as much as your editor. Samantha closes with thoughtful book recs if you loved the emotional core of Marrow.

Kate McKean is a literary agent who has built a diverse client list of New York Times Bestselling Authors, in genres from fantasy, TA, humour and horror. A few years ago, she started a newsletter with all the backstage secrets of agent life, and tips on how you can make it happen.Now she's got a book out, filled with even more help. It's called 'Write Through It: An Insider's Guide to Publishing and Creative Life'. We discuss how she came to write a book like this, and how you'd go about planning a book like this. We run through Kate's writing routine, writing space, and life in the industry. You can hear the vital steps in getting an agent, what they'll do if you're signed, and how important the first sentence is.This week's podcast is sponsored by the 'Quick Book Reviews Podcast'. Take a listen here - https://linktr.ee/quickbookreviewsSupport the show at -patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutineGet a copy of the book here - uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutine@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julie Satow and Alice Robb sit down with Laura McGrath, the author of Middlemen to tell the surprising story of how literary agents went from magazine brokers to the most powerful figures in American publishing. Through archival sleuthing, vivid fieldwork, and data that brings catalogs and auction-room drama to life, this episode traces pivotal moments — from the first auctions to the birth of the super agent — and the intimate, sometimes fraught relationships that shape what readers get to see on shelves. Listen as they weave anecdotes about deals, loyalty, and gatekeeping with sharp reporting on today's shifts: agents as editors, agents on Substack, and the ways technology and consolidation are rewriting old rules. It's a fast-moving, character-driven narrative that reveals not just how books get made, but who gets to decide.

Send me a Text Message!Tamara Miller's debut thriller INTO THE FALL has launched her career with a two-book publishing contract. But her path from government policy analyst to published author wasn't built on talent alone. It was strategic business thinking that made the difference. In this episode, Tamara Miller reveals the approach that got her agent's immediate attention and explains why treating your query like a business proposal changes everything. She also shares some immersive writing techniques that keep readers turning pages. Whether you're struggling with submissions or wondering how to make your manuscript stand out, this episode's practical insights will shift how you think about the publishing game.What You'll Learn:Why query letters must be business proposals first, pitches secondThe "equation" for writing immersive scenes that hook agents instantlyHow to research and position your book for commercial successClick here to learn more about Tamara MillerGuest Bio: Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Tamara L. Miller earned her PhD in Canadian history before embarking on a career working for the federal government. Miller began as a doe-eyed policy analyst and eventually moved into an executive role with the Government of Canada. She later left public service, older and perhaps a little wiser, to become a writer. Tamara is past president of Ottawa Independent Writers and has written several articles published online by the likes of CBC and Ottawa Life Magazine. Into the Fall is her first novel.Over the years, the author has called many Canadian cities home but now lives in Ottawa with her family and two long-suffering cats. She's always been fascinated by the raw beauty of the wilder places in the world and escapes to them whenever possible.Episodes I think you'll love...Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Send me a Text Message!Literary agent Lori Galvin reveals exactly what makes a query letter irresistible. She breaks down the specific elements that make agents request materials, and the common mistakes that lead to instant rejections. Whether you're crafting your first query or your fiftieth, this episode delivers the agent perspective that every fiction writer needs to hear.What You'll Learn:Why manuscript word count can kill your chances instantlyThe test some agents use to evaluate opening pagesHow to prove you're serious about writing in your bioClick here to learn more about Lori Galvin Guest Bio:  Lori Galvin, has been with Aevitas Creative Management since 2015 and represents a wide variety of bestselling, award-winning, and critically acclaimed writers of both fiction and nonfiction including Wanda M. Morris, Nishita Parekh, and Kwame Onwuachi. Prior to her agenting career, she was an editor at America's Test Kitchen as well as Houghton Mifflin. She has also worked as a restaurant cook and managed a bed-and-breakfast in coastal Maine. She lives in Massachusetts. Lori only accepts submissions through Query Manager: QueryManager.com/QueryLoriGalvinEpisodes I think you'll love...Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

In this bonus episode, we're wrapping up Season 7 with a stitched-together master episode featuring all five segments from our Querying Literary Agent series.Whether you're just starting your submission journey or navigating the silence after sending your pitch, this complete guide has you covered.

In this episode, I sit down with my literary agent Abby Saul for a deep dive into the querying process, the realities of an agent's role, and what makes a submission stand out. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of querying, you won't want to miss her top advice for catching an agent's eye in a crowded inbox.We also debunk common myths about what agents actually do, break down what grabs their attention in a query letter, and explore current market trends—plus, how to balance industry awareness with staying true to your unique voice. And for writers facing rejection, Abby shares words of encouragement to help you keep going.Whether you're just starting to query or refining your pitch, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the path to representation with more confidence!For more on Abby Saul, visit larkwords.comFor more on Portland Book Festival, visit PDXBOOKFEST.ORG

Send me a Text Message!Ever wondered why it feels nearly impossible to land a literary agent these days? In this episode, I had a chat with Vicky Weber, a literary agent, bestselling children's author, and marketing strategist, who pulls back the curtain on the harsh realities facing today's publishing industry. Vicky reveals why the bar for getting agented has skyrocketed, how agents are making just $20 on some deals, and why editors no longer do the developmental work they used to. But more importantly, she shares a few of the strategies that helped one of her books profit over $18,000 and explains exactly what agents are really looking for when they say a manuscript "isn't the right fit." If you're serious about getting published, this conversation will fundamentally change how you approach querying, revisions, and building relationships in the industry.What You'll Learn:Why developmental editing now falls on authors, not editorsThe marketing plan framework that can ensure your book doesn't flopHow to signal coachability and professionalism in queriesClick here to learn more about VickyAt Home Author BlogGuest Bio: Vicky Weber is a literary agent, bestselling children's book author, and publishing industry expert with years of experience helping authors navigate both traditional and self-publishing. As the founder of At Home Author, she has guided countless writers through the process of crafting, publishing, and marketing successful books. With a background in education, Vicky is passionate about breaking down complex industry concepts into actionable steps. Whether securing book deals for her clients or sharing insights on the ever-evolving publishing market, she is dedicated to helping authors turn their creative dreams into reality.Episodes I think you'll loveTurn Your Manuscript into a Page-Turner Using The Central Question Framework with Julie Tyler RuizAuthor Liz Alterman Reveals Her Weekly Writing Ritual That Transforms First Drafts Into Gold And How to Know When Your Story Idea Is Worth WritingLiterary Agent Amy Nielsen on How to Fix Your Opening Pages (Part 2)Literary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's Eye Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

How many times can one talk about Star Trek in a podcast about John H. Watson and never mention Giordi LaForge? A lot more than you would think! One of the worst reviews of an episode of Sherlock & Co. we've seen during an episode of the Watson podcast dedicated to people who are driving around Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico for Sherlockian fannish reasons. Come for the news bits, stay for the first ever Literary Agent's Ten Percent segment with a stardate!

Literary agent Richard Curtis was a pioneer in the e-book industry. Having worked in publishing for nearly 50 years, he understands nuances, trends, and the long arc of what makes authors and publishers successful. He adapted his agenting model to accommodate the consolidations of the publishing houses and what those changes meant for agents and writers. He's written several books on those topics, and authors the popular Substack newsletter, Inside Agenting. But earlier this year, Richard discovered an A.I. tool that shocked even him. NotebookLM, a Google product released in 2023, turns difficult topics into engaging conversations. It can summarize PDFs, websites, YouTube videos, audio files, Google Docs, or Google Slides, and create realistic podcasts about the topic. We tasked it with introducing Richard on the podcast. You'll hear that introduction, produced in less than five minutes, and what Richard thinks of it. He talks with Marrie about what these A.I. tools mean for writers and publishers, and how writers should be reacting in the moment. He also provides his thoughts on chasing industry trends, how to target the right agent for your work, how technology has always been upending the industry, and what might happen in this next revolutionary round of upheavals. For more information on Writers on Writing and to become a supporter, visit our Patreon page. For a one-time donation, visit Ko-fi. You can find hundreds of past interviews on our website. You can help out the show and indie bookstores by buying books at our bookstore on bookshop.org. It's stocked with titles by our guest authors, as well as our personal favorites. And on Spotify, you'll find an album's worth of typewriter music like what you hear on the show. It's perfect for writing. Look for the artist, Just My Type. Email the show at writersonwritingpodcast@gmail.com. We love to hear from our listeners! (Recorded on July 31, 2025) Host: Barbara DeMarco-Barrett Host: Marrie Stone Music: Travis Barrett (Stream his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Etc.)

Send me a Text Message!Developmental editor and former literary agent Mary Kole breaks down the exact process that transforms manuscripts from "just okay" to "must-read." In this episode, you'll learn why most writers approach feedback and revision completely wrong.You'll discover the important difference between revision and editing. And you'll master the "boring edit" technique that ensures your story grips readers from page one to the end. Mary reveals When to seek feedback (and when not to)How to create a mission statement that guides every revision decisionWhy cause-and-effect logic is the secret weapon of successful storytellers. Whether you're drowning in feedback or paralysed by perfectionism, this episode gives you the roadmap to finish your manuscript and make it as good as you'd always hoped it would be.What You'll Learn:How to filter feedback and reject notes that don't serve your story.The mission statement technique that guides every revision decision.Why big-picture changes must come before sentence-level editing.Click here to learn more about Mary Kole Guest Bio: Former literary agent Mary Kole provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres. She founded Good Story Company in 2019 to create valuable content for writers—like the Good Story Podcast, YouTube channel, and Writing Craft Workshop classes and resources. ​​Mary has presented at hundreds of regional, national, and international writing conferences, and guest lectured at Harvard, the Ringling College of Art and Design, the Highlights Foundation, and the Loft.  She also develops unique and commercial intellectual property for middle grade, young adult, and adult readers with Bittersweet Books.Episodes I think you'll love…Agent Carleen Geisler Reads a Submission & Shares How Agents Evaluate Opening PagesLiterary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing IndustryTurn Your Manuscript into a Page-Turner Using The Central Question Framework with Julie Tyler RuizFirst Page Formula: Author and Writing Coach April Davila on What Agents & Readers Want to See in Your Thriller Manuscript Opening Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Send me a Text Message!Former Scholastic editor Shelly Romero just made the leap to literary agent. And she's spilling the industry secrets most writers never hear. After eight years of editorial experience and now with an agent's perspective, Shelly reveals…What really happens when agents read your opening pagesWhy manuscripts need to be more polished than everThe submission mistakes that trigger instant rejections. What You'll Learn:Why voice trumps plot in manuscript submissionsExact polish level needed for today's publishing marketQuery red flags that guarantee instant rejectionsClick here to learn more about Shelly RomeroConnect with Shelly on InstagramGuest Bio: Shelly Romero began her publishing career in 2017 at Scholastic, where she rose up the ranks from editorial assistant to associate editor, where she acquired her own titles and assisted on series publishing for The Bad Guys and Goosebumps. She later joined Cake Creative as Lead Editor, and she was most recently a freelance editor. She graduated from Stephens College with a bachelor's degree in English and attended the 2017 NYU Summer Publishing Institute. Shelly was selected as a 2020 Publishers Weekly Star Watch Honoree and is a member of Latinx in Publishing & People of Color in Publishing. Born and raised in Miami by Honduran parents, she now resides in New York City, where she might be found at a movie theatre viewing the latest release from her Letterboxd watchlist.Episodes I think you'll love…3 Keys to Nailing the Opening of Your NovelLiterary Agent and Author Jenna Satterthwaite on Making it in the Publishing IndustryTurn Your Manuscript into a Page-Turner Using The Central Question Framework with Julie Tyler RuizLiterary Agent Jessica Berg Shares How to Catch an Agent's Eye Get the list of 125+ Literary Agents who rep Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, and Crime Fiction Study the Opening Paragraphs of the Top Authors Writing Thrillers Right Now

Join me for an illuminating conversation with literary agent and doctoral researcher Erin Niumata about the past, present, and future of women's fiction as a genre. With nearly 20 years at Folio Literary Management and ongoing PhD research into women's publishing history, Erin shares her unique perspective on how the genre has evolved over time to today's market challenges. She discusses the fluid nature of women's fiction, the rise of cross-genre storytelling, and how her academic research has influenced her approach to working with authors. Erin also offers practical advice for writers on positioning their work, the importance of perseverance, and why authors should write for themselves first. Tune in to hear more!Find more on Erin Niumata: Website | SubstackFind more on Nicole Meier: Website | Substack

This summer, while I continue to heal from surgery and dream up Season 6, I am re-airing our most popular series: Creative Archetypes! If you are unfamiliar with the Enneagram, you can listen to the intro episode from the original 2023 series here. And if you are familiar and know your number, might I suggest you listen to each episode (even those that aren't about your number) to develop empathy and understanding of those who see the world differently. The Enneagram is a powerful tool for personal and relationship transformation, for artists and everyone! If you have episode ideas, dream guest suggestions, or other feedback for me, drop me an email hello@artistsforjoy.org Original Show Notes: In this episode of our Creative Archetypes Series, Merideth chats with Enneagram 5s about their internal experience as artists. Guests Marsha Crockett (spiritual director and author), Kate Riney (creative marketing strategist, content creator, storyteller, and coach), and Morgan Strehlow (literary agent and freelance author) chat about the castles 5s create in their minds, how to overcome analysis paralysis, and the 5s secret weapon in the creative process: enthusiasm. Plus, our favorite Enneagram coach, Lee Fields of Enneagrammatic, pops on to share some insights, including how to be a good friend to a 5. Invitation: Follow your enthusiasm wherever it goes. Ask: "What am I curious about? What is that thing, maybe random or seemingly silly, that I really care about?" Do some research about it and explore it, let your enthusiasm lead the way. After you do some research, call your favorite friend and share with them what you are learning. Marsha Crockett, Spiritual Director and Author Kate Riney, Content Creator, Storyteller, and Coach Morgan Strehlow, Literary Agent and Freelance Author (including Morgan's manuscript wishlist) David Gate Enneagram Poems Enneagram Workshop with Artists for Joy Buy Merideth a coffee

Jessica Faust, President of BookEnds Literary Agency, details her 26-year career as a literary agent, growing the company from a small boutique firm to a large agency representing fiction and nonfiction for adult and children's markets. Listen in as she shares insights on current publishing trends, including the resurgence of romance, the reimagining of the cozy mystery genre, and the challenges facing the middle grade and young adult markets.BookEnds LiteraryWebsite: https://bookendsliterary.com/Social: @bookends_literaryGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BNEW! Writing Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/

Start watching Will's proposal course here: https://will-anderson-fde4.mykajabi.com/proposalsmadesimple Want to publish your book but don't know where to start? In this episode, Will Parker Anderson sits down with former coaching client Vanessa Reyner to share the behind-the-scenes story of how she went from self-publishing to landing a literary agent. Together, they unpack the process of building a compelling book proposal—one that clarified Vanessa's concept and ultimately opened the door to traditional publishing. If you've got a message to share but feel lost on how to pitch it, this conversation offers practical insight, encouragement, and a glimpse into the Proposals Made Simple process that helped Vanessa take the next big step in her writing journey. Will's proposal course: https://will-anderson-fde4.mykajabi.com/proposalsmadesimple Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

How do you write a great query letter, find the right agent, and stand out in today's crowded submissions inbox? In this special compilation episode, four top literary agents: Ed Wilson, Lucinda Halpern, Madeleine Milburn & Sam Copeland, share their honest advice on getting signed, writing marketable books, and navigating today's publishing industry.*Timestamps:Ed Wilson - 1:01Lucinda Literary -  19:11Madeleine Milburn - 37:20Sam Copeland - 48:47 ABOUT THE LITERARY AGENTS Ed Wilson is a literary agent and director at Johnson & Alcock, a London-based literary agency with a diverse and developing list of authors of fiction and nonfiction. He represents everything from award-winning literary fiction to bestselling crime, science-fiction, and fantasy. Ed's profile at Johnson & AlcockEd's Twitter accountJohnson & Alcock's submission guidelinesFull LWS episode: #071: Ed Wilson — Submitting to Agents & Navigating Publishing, Junior vs Experienced Agents, How to Follow up with Agents, Smaller vs Larger Literary Agencies*Lucinda Literary is a New York literary agent and the author of Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published Author. She represents a range of New York Times and internationally bestselling authors in the categories of business, health, lifestyle, popular science, narrative nonfiction, memoir, and upmarket fiction. *Get Signed: Find an Agent, Land a Book Deal, and Become a Published AuthorLucinda LiteraryFollow up question? Get in touch with Lucinda here.Full LWS episode: #96: Lucinda Halpern — How to Get Signed With a Literary Agent, Unlock Your Book's Big Idea, Query Letter Essentials, Unconventional Ways to Engage With Beta-Readers*Madeleine Milburn has been responsible for discovering some of the highest-selling and award-winning contemporary authors who consistently hit the bestseller lists in the New York Times, including Nita Prose (The Maid), Costa Book Award winner and bestseller Gail Honeyman (Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine). She represents bestselling crime and thriller brands including C.L. Taylor, C.J Tudor, Mark Edwards and Teresa Driscoll.WebsiteSubmitting your work to the Madeleine Milburn AgencyFull LWS episode:  #064: Madeleine Milburn — Catching an Agent's Eye & Building an Author-First Agency*Sam Copeland was shortlisted for Literary Agent of the Year at the 2020 and 2021 British Book Awards and selected for the Bookseller's Most Influential People in Publishing in 2020. He welcomes e-mail submissions and can be contacted on sam@rcwlitagency.com. He is also a children's author.  His Charlie Changes series was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book of the Year shortlistedSam Copeland RCW Literary AgencyFull LWS episode: #118: Sam Copeland — How to Catch The Eye Of A Literary Agent, Compelling Pitch Letters & Writing Funny Children's Fiction For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.com.For free writing sessions, join free Writers' Hours: writershour.com.*FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS' SALONTwitter: twitter.com/​​WritersSalonInstagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalonFacebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalonIf you're enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!

Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com   Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com  **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102   See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire   See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/  

In this episode, I speak with Wife, Mom, Literary Agent, Podcaser at the PrayEveryDay Show, Scripture Artist, Speaker, and Author on her new book Most Overlooked Women of the Bible. Listen as Mary shares on how your longing to be noticed does not define who you are in Christ. Learn how women in scripture can teach you how to remedy your own self doubt and feelings of being devalued. Mary urges women to consider that being behind the scenes can be a position of great significance.  Find Mary :    the website Listen to FBH on Humble Beginnings Ep. 201 Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.   Titus 2:3-5 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.   Proverbs 22:4 Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.   Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosperyou and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.   Ruth 3:11 And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character.   Additional Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:1-27, Colossians 3:12, Philippians 4:19, 2 Timothy 1:7,  REGISTER @ CFLEX Academy Arts Enrichment   Listen to our sister podcast:  Abundantly Rooted   Other Resourses: Join the Abundantly Rooted Life Community email to receive encouragement and updates   Grab your Artza Subscription Box and bring home a bit of Israel.  use promo code: ARTZAKRISTINARISINGER for 25% off   Check out our Linktree   Get the Books:  Life After Losing A Loved One: How to Turn Grief Into Hope Strength and Purpose Adventures of LiLy and Izzy Bee: The Imagination Journey 

When it comes to publishing, I like to explain the process as a little bit of science and a little bit of magic. We can do ALL THE THINGS, and follow all the “rules”, and still have to hand that work over to someone to assess, to review, and to judge. The work is the science, but it's the relationships that are the magic.  I'm a big believer in alignment. When I work with my clients, I tell them that their book proposal is the biggest piece of self-advocacy they have, which will allow them to find the right-aligned partner in an agent and a publisher. And one of the ways I help people find that alignment is by introducing them to the best people in the biz! This week on Bound + Determined, I'm sitting down with literary agent and author, Lucinda Halpern. In this episode, we go behind the scenes to discuss what she loves about the job, her unique views on authorship, and how to land the agent of your dreams.