10 Things Literary Agents Look for in a Book

[RK Wallis]

 

[Ancora Imparo]

Thanks for this, Rach. Very interesting. Must admit I'm a bit confused as to why he mentions we now shouldn't use the term "narrative voice"...? Shame he didn't elaborate on that.

 

[RK Wallis]

the term "narrative voice"...

Ooh, that bit slipped by me (my hubby could've interrupted that bit). I'll go back and listen. Let you know if I glean any insight

 

[Ancora Imparo]

It's right at the beginning – probably first few minutes?x

 

[RK Wallis]

hmmm... I can't imagine why they wouldn't want to use the term voice. I thought it the be-all and end-all.

 

[Hannah Faoileán]

I don't think they said not to. I think they were saying it is a term often misunderstood and it really means writing style. So when an agent talks about looking for the voice that's what they mean: do you have a writing style that sets you apart.

 

[Jonny]

Yes, what Hannah says. I think they got in a little bit of a tangle and should've had a retakekk there.

Interesting video Rachel - always good to be reminded of all these things.

 

[gbhunt]

One thing that struck a chord with me was when she said sometimes she reads the query letter, and the writing just hooks her, regardless of the topic. I read some books where I don't really care what the plot is, I'm just enjoying the process.