Why it's important to follow submission guidelines and research agents before querying.

I love to receive queries, and hear from authors! I'm excited to read your work and see if we would be a good fit. However, as part of the querying process it's important to make sure the agent you are querying is looking for the type of story/genre that you are submitting for his/her consideration.

I've received a number a queries that just don't fit into the genres (please see my call for submission and our web site to see what I'm considering.) I am looking for at this time. If I notice that your query does not fit into the genres I'm representing, I will most likely move on to the next query. And while I would love to respond to each query, alas, time just doesn't allow me to provide feedback to every submission.

Along with researching agents, it's important to follow submission guidelines. At our agency we ask for certain materials, such as query, synopsis and sample pages, to help us determine if we'd be interested in seeing more of your work. If your submission is missing some materials, I am unable to decide if I would like to see more and, unfortunately, it would be a decline. We also ask that you do not include attachments. Submission guidelines differ from agent to agent/agency to agency, so it's extremely important to know who you're querying and his/her guidelines.

I have also received a number of queries that just have a link. Your query is sort of like an interview, and just sending us a link would be like submitting a job application with just your name filled out. I'd also like to mention that you should NEVER query more than one agent in an email.

I'm sure many of you are already familiar with querying, but I hope you guys find this entry helpful. Please just drop me a comment (with email if you'd like a response) if you have any questions.

WISHING YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR AND BEST WISHES FOR 2013!

Wow! It's Christmas already?

It's December 19, 2012, less than a week until Christmas. It just seems like we were getting ready to hand out candy and cook Thanksgiving dinner. I can't believe how fast this year has gone. What an amazing ride. There is so much I am thankful for this year. My friends and family. My dog Bernie!

I am also very thankful to Marisa Corvisiero. She took me under her wing, guiding me and allowing me to learn and grow as an agent. I wish the whole Corvisiero team much success.

Brittany Booker, most excellent friend and my partner at The Booker Albert Literary Agency; I'm so thankful that we have the opportunity to work together. It's been an amazing journey so far...looking forward to great things in the future. Love ya, girl!

Also, shout out to my clients (love you guys!), and the great friends I've met through Twitter/fb, new and old.

I wish you all a wonderful Holiday, and best wishes for 2013!!!

Now, just waiting for Doctor Who Christmas Special...CAN'T WAIT.