The Chopping Blog

If a manuscript isn’t ready for representation, it generally does not indicate a lack of skill. It indicates a lack of time and feedback.

Nonfiction these days demands a strong author platform.

There needs to be a strong story arc throughout the book, as well as smaller arcs of change within each chapter or even within each scene. Characters should be growing and evolving with every new plot development.

When I first became an agent, I made myself a promise: that I would never forget what it feels like to be on the other side.

Set up the urgency about why this book now and why you are the perfect person to write it. Then I’ll definitely want to read!

"I want to feel like I'm a part of this world, so when you stop to take a page and half to tell me about the inner workings of things, it doesn't feel like I'm living it."

I’m always drawn in by the known unknowns—when I can tell something’s off, but I don’t know what it is yet, or there’s a detail which doesn’t make sense and I need to keep reading to find out what it is.

I’m old-fashioned enough to be put off by terrible grammar and sloppy technique.

It really is 99% about the writing.

Given how competitive every step is in the journey to publication, it’s imperative to be up-to-speed and knowledgeable about, at the very least, publishing 101.

For the query letter, it’s important that the author can clearly and concisely explain the heart of the story. What makes your story unique? You want a strong, attention-grabbing synopsis.

A common snag is when there is too much telling and summary in the opening chapters and writers try and cram in too much information without letting the story get going and unfold organically.