Why Plot and Specificity are a Query Letter's Best Friends

In this episode of Books with Hooks, hosts Bianca Marais, Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra welcome querying author Debbie Whittal to discuss her query letter for her debut novel, 'Linda/Linda.' Carly and CeCe address the challenges of representing a quiet novel in a query format. The discussion transitions to the pages of the manuscript, highlighting the strengths of Debbie's writing and the need for a more engaging presentation of her story's drama. The critique discusses the complexities of character relationships, particularly focusing on characters in Debbie’s novel. The hosts offer advice on exploring themes of sapphic romance, emotional stakes, and the dynamics of power in their interactions. Carly and CeCe provide constructive feedback on Debbie’s narrative choices, scene structure, and character development, emphasizing the importance of clarity and reader engagement. The conversation also highlights the significance of psychological elements in relationships and the need for stronger emotional stakes in the storytelling. Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency. Upcoming in person event you won't want to miss! A 'Most Puzzling Murder' Book Launch! Get your tickets at: https://blueheronbooks.com/item/FEHiE_RNkHAGOSqfUUiVXw To sign up for the Beta Reader Match Up, go to https://www.biancamarais.com/beta-reader-match-up.html To sign up for Circling the Building of Your Work, go to: https://www.biancamarais.com/courses-and-recordings.html Find us on our socials: Threads: https://www.threads.net/@the_shit_about_writing https://www.threads.net/@biancamarais_author https://www.threads.net/@carlywatters https://www.threads.net/@cece_lyra_agent Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_shit_about_writing/ https://www.instagram.com/biancamarais_author/ https://www.instagram.com/carlywatters/ https://www.instagram.com/cece_lyra_agent/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSNOTYAW Websites: www.theshitaboutwriting.com, www.biancamarais.com, www.carlywatters.com and www.cecilialyra.com Bookshop.org affiliate page: https://bookshop.org/shop/theshitnoonetellsyouaboutwriting To sign up for our Substack newsletter, head to https://theshitaboutwriting.substack.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands