Very interesting. And yet it leaves me conflicted. Other agents say they want to know what the book is about—spoilers and all. Authors are left trying to formulate a query that inevitably misses the mark. I do appreciate your help navigating these murky waters though.
I think, after reading this that it makes sense for an editor to try to determine whether a writer can carry through a theme from first word to last, especially knowing how much time writers devote to the start, knowing that, for sure, is a make or break point. I know, for myself, I was drained by the time I wrote the end to my debut novel, “The Nazi’s Daughters.” I knew how it was supposed to end, but making it happen was a slog because I was ready to move on to the next project.
Interesting. I'm trying to work out how this relates to your 200 word synopsis request for submissions. Does your preference not to know the endings mean you want a synopsis less like a list of events and more an over arching impression?
Now this is interesting- as far as I’m aware most UK literary agents insist on a synopsis complete with spoiler! That makes you something of a rarity-but you know that already:-) So question for you, how does an author navigate that thorny issue?
That’s because it’s the name of a famous playwright. Sadly I am not she! 😂 tho I do have an author name of Bella Frances for when I wrote Mills and Boon. I would love to come up with a wonderful collection of syllables to grace a cover. Is there story to your name? I do love it.
Brilliant. I started out writing in advertising. The last line should always connect to the headline. My hope is that my reader finishes the last page then goes straight back to the prologue. The clues are in there. Kinda like the first kiss.
Very interesting. And yet it leaves me conflicted. Other agents say they want to know what the book is about—spoilers and all. Authors are left trying to formulate a query that inevitably misses the mark. I do appreciate your help navigating these murky waters though.
I think, after reading this that it makes sense for an editor to try to determine whether a writer can carry through a theme from first word to last, especially knowing how much time writers devote to the start, knowing that, for sure, is a make or break point. I know, for myself, I was drained by the time I wrote the end to my debut novel, “The Nazi’s Daughters.” I knew how it was supposed to end, but making it happen was a slog because I was ready to move on to the next project.
Thank you for this article. Revising seems like a never ending process. I stumble, revise, and reappear in 47 different iterations of my book.
So no ending spoilers in query letter synopsis to Mr. Ivan. Is this a common sentiment among agents? If so, whoops!
I wonder what you thought of an author who was simultaneously writing and adapting their draft chapters into an audio-play?
https://thelunagrove.substack.com/p/from-the-stars-chapter-3-electrostatic
Interesting. I'm trying to work out how this relates to your 200 word synopsis request for submissions. Does your preference not to know the endings mean you want a synopsis less like a list of events and more an over arching impression?
Now this is interesting- as far as I’m aware most UK literary agents insist on a synopsis complete with spoiler! That makes you something of a rarity-but you know that already:-) So question for you, how does an author navigate that thorny issue?
I was thinking exactly that.
Would you consider reading my work if it's 5 chapters out of 20? There would be no end spoilers definitely:)
Thanks. And…useful, even though I’m selfpub and unlikely to change that status.
That’s because it’s the name of a famous playwright. Sadly I am not she! 😂 tho I do have an author name of Bella Frances for when I wrote Mills and Boon. I would love to come up with a wonderful collection of syllables to grace a cover. Is there story to your name? I do love it.
Brilliant. I started out writing in advertising. The last line should always connect to the headline. My hope is that my reader finishes the last page then goes straight back to the prologue. The clues are in there. Kinda like the first kiss.
Summed up brilliantly 👍
That has made me sit back and think - thanks for this perspective
Thank you Posy. Comments like these are disproportionately encouraging. Ivan
If buy a book on the basis of your name Ramona Moth!