What We Look For In Query Submissions
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A beginning hook that mesmerizes us and forces us to keep reading.
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A fresh voice with a writing style that fits the tone of the story.
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Interesting new plots and ideas. If writing for the category romance market, the overall theme must fit the publisher’s formula. (Note: Tip sheets are available online or by mail from most romance publishers.)
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Strong dialogue that will pull the reader into the story. Dialogue MUST move the story along. If it isn’t essential to the story, delete it.
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Well-developed, strong characters.
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A page-turning story.
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A manuscript minus clichés and purple prose.
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Correct pacing. Scenes that follow a logical sequence.
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A well-researched plot! This is VITAL to every type of manuscript. When in doubt: research, research, research! There is nothing that pulls the reader out of a story quicker than a statement the reader knows is incorrect.
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An author who is confident, friendly and enthusiastic about his/her work and is willing to make editorial changes if necessary.
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The number one thing we require is professionalism.