Lit Match
Abigail K. Perry
A podcast made to help writers find the best literary agent for their writing and business career.
Lisa Montanaro ON: How to Use Real-Life Experiences to Inspire Memorable Fiction, Writing in Multi-POV and Dual Timelines, and Crafting Secrets in Storytelling
If you have real-life experiences that have shaped you, but you want to write a fiction—not nonfiction—story, then don't miss this episode. In this conversation, I talk to the mesmerizing author and public speaker, Lisa Montanaro, about her heartfelt debut, EVERYTHING WE THOUGHT WAS TRUE. This is a jam-packed conversation, filled with invaluable insights on writing and publishing fiction, like: How Lisa transitioned from being a published nonfiction author to a fiction author Finding the balan
Feb 27, • 1:07:41
First Chapter Deep Dive: Outlander by Diana Gabaldon (with Savannah Gilbo)
Do you love historical romance? Do you want to learn what makes a first chapter capture a reader's (and literary agent's!) attention? Then you need today's episode. In today's episode, book coach and developmental editor Savannah Gilbo returns for a deep dive into the uber-popular, time-traveling romance, OUTLANDER by Diana Gabaldon. This conversation is jam-packed with insightful tips on how to pull readers into your story with world-building, set ups, and memorable, interesting characters w
Feb 14, • 1:00:27
Diagon Alley Deep Dive: Scene Analysis of Chapter 5 in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
If you're unsure how to write or analyze well-structured scenes in your novel, you need today's episode. Today, book coach and developmental editor Savannah Gilbo returns for a deep dive and scene analysis...only this time, it's extra special because it not only features a chapter from one of our favorite books, it is also the book Savannah analyzes in her Writer's Guide: The Writer's Study Guide: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Story Grid Publishing). When writers reach out to Savannah
Jan 21, • 50:06
Zoe Norvell ON: Everything You Need to Know About Book Covers (and How to Find the Perfect Designer for Your Story)
If you've written a book and are in need a book cover, this is a super important episode for you to hear. In this conversation, I talk to the brilliant book cover designer, Zoe Novell, who is also the founder of the one-of-kind book designer directory, available on her website, I Need a Book Cover. In this special conversation, Zoe and I cover a range of invaluable and interesting information about book covers, including hot topics like what makes a book cover stand out, book cover trends based
Nov 19, 2024 • 1:00:50
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: A Complete Breakdown of the Main Plot Line
If you're planning your novel or have a finished draft and don't know where to begin with revisions, you need to hear this episode. This is a special two-part discussion with the brilliant book coach, developmental editor, and author Savannah Gilbo as she breaks down the main plot line—or the big picture—in J.K. Rowling's debut and phenomenon, HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE (HPSS). In today's high-level discussion, Savannah and I chat about some foundational knowledge that can greatly b
Nov 5, 2024 • 57:18
Karyn Fischer ON: Writing a Memorable Narrative Voice for Middle Grade and Young Adult Fiction
Abigail sits down with Karyn Fischer, a book coach and past literary agent of Bookstop Literary Agency, to discuss narrative voice and how to differentiate a character’s voice in middle grade and young adult novels. If you’re writing a middle grade or young adult novel—or you get consistent feedback that something is just “off” with your voice—this episode is for you. Karyn shares specific (and practical) tips that can help you improve your narrative voice, and she even takes a deep-dive into
Sep 24, 2024 • 47:42
BONUS Part 2: How Rowling Created A Cast of Compelling Characters (An Interview With Savannah Gilbo & Abigail K. Perry)
Join Savannah Gilbo and Abigail for the second part of an inside interview with Tim Grahl, CEO of Story Grid, on our latest book, a masterwork analysis guide to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (now available for purchase!). In this interview, we discuss how Rowling created an unforgettable cast of quirky and relatable characters in the Harry Potter series. You’ll learn insights and tips like: How to think about the number of characters you include in your story (and what we
Jul 30, 2024 • 34:34
BONUS Part 1: What Made Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone A Best Seller
What made Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone a worldwide bestseller? Why does this story still resonate with readers almost thirty years later? And why did Savannah Gilbo and I agree to spend so much time dissecting every single scene and page to find out how and why it works?! Tune into this episode to hear Savannah Gilbo and I talk to Tim Grahl (the CEO of Story Grid) about what it was like to study Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone—why we chose this book, what we learned from our analy
Jul 26, 2024 • 26:17
First Chapters: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (with Savannah Gilbo)
The third (and final!) analysis in a 3-part episode series! Abigail and Savannah return for their final first chapter analysis in The Hunger Games series, this time analyzing the first chapter (and scene) of MOCKINGJAY by Suzanne Collins. Learn why they think this first chapter makes a splash, and how it emotionally pulls fans into the final chapter of a high stakes trilogy. Some key elements they explore include: How can you spell out a crisis without stiffening the stakes? How does this fi
May 21, 2024 • 56:58
First Chapters: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins (with Savannah Gilbo)
The second analysis in a 3-part episode series! Abigail and Savannah are back to analyze the first chapter of CATCHING FIRE by Suzanne Collins, the sequel in The Hunger Games phenomenon, and the second analysis in The Hunger Games first chapter deep dive episodes. Come listen to why Abigail and Savannah think this first chapter hooks, and why it sets the stage for arguably their favorite book in the series. Some key elements they explore include: How does the first chapter set up expectations
May 7, 2024 • 1:01:44
First Chapters: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (with Savannah Gilbo)
The first analysis in what will be a 3-part episode series! Abigail and Savannah analyze the first chapter of the YA dystopian phenomenon, THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins. This is one of Abigail's and Savannah's favorite series....ever...and their passion for this story shines in their discussion about what (1) sets up big picture expectations for the main plot, and (2) what makes the opening pages a great first chapter. Tune in now to hear Abigail and Savannah's analysis, and don't forge
Apr 2, 2024 • 1:07:19
Jen Craven ON: Her Shift from Self-Publishing to Traditional Publishing
Abigail sits down with domestic suspense author, Jen Craven—her first *returning!* guest. In Jen's previous episode, Abigail and Jen discussed her writing career as a self-published author. In this episode, Jen talks about her latest books and what it's been like to shift from self-publishing to traditional publishing. Some of the big discussion topics Abigail and Jen explore include: Why Jen decided to switch from self-publishing to traditional publishing What she likes about traditional publ
Mar 26, 2024 • 1:03:00
First Chapters: Remarkably Bright Creatures (with Savannah Gilbo)
Abigail and Savannah analyze the first chapter of the bestselling and award-winning novel REMARKABLY BRIGHt CREATURES by Shelby Van Pelt. This was one of Abigail's favorite reads in 2023, and there are great reasons it received (and continues to receive) such hype! Together, Abigail and Savannah discuss why these opening pages hook readers and set up big picture expectations for the story. Some key elements they take deep dives on include: 7 Key questions to analyze that set up big picture expe
Feb 27, 2024 • 55:52
Kate McKean ON: Demystifying Book Publishing Contracts
Take out your notepads! Abigail sits down with literary agent Kate McKean for a very special conversation about book publishing contracts. This is a topic that intimidated Abigail early in her career—as it does many writers who are interested in traditional publishing. It's also extremely important for writers to understand what makes a good deal, and who better to learn from than an expert agent with over 17 years experience. Kate has worked as a literary agent at Howard Morhaim Literary Agen
Feb 6, 2024 • 1:17:10
First Chapters: Fourth Wing (with Savannah Gilbo)
Abigail is back with book coach and editor Savannah Gilbo! Today, Abigail and Savannah analyze the first chapter of the bestselling fantasy novel FOURTH WING by Rebecca Yarros. Together, they discuss why these opening pages hook readers and set up big picture expectations for the story. Some key elements they take deep dives on include: How to raise the stakes (and why they're so important) Structuring multiple scenes in a single chapter Romantasy as a genre and New Adult as a category Characte
Dec 19, 2023 • 1:11:56
Megan Tady ON: Resiliency and How She Turned Rejections into a Published Debut
Abigail sits down with Megan Tady (Super Bloom, May 2023) to discuss her debut and path to publishing. Humble and resilient, Megan shares her experience and knowledge about a wide range of writing tips from the importance of accountability partners and writing strategies to game-changing mindset tips and what to expect as a published author. Some of Abigail's favorite takeaways include: How Megan became a story of resiliency Ways to turn fear and a scarcity mindset into confidence Why que
Dec 5, 2023 • 56:58
Meghan Stevenson ON: Her Literary Agent Matchmaking Strategy, the Pitfalls of Traditional Publishing, and Publishing Myths that Need to be Busted
Abigail sits down with Meghan Stevenson (Meghan Stevenson Books) to talk about all things traditional publishing. After an editing career at a traditional publisher, Meghan left her job and started Meghan Stevenson Books (2012). Meghan and her team have helped their clients earn over $5,000,000 in advances from top publishers. In total, their books have sold millions of copies and helped thousands of people. Packed with experience and knowledge, Abigail di
Nov 28, 2023 • 1:03:33
First Chapters: The Magicians (with Savannah Gilbo)
Abigail sits down with certified editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of Lev Grossman's THE MAGICIANS (and it's a doozy of a first chapter!). Both fantasy lovers, Savannah and Abigail come to this first chapter with a unique approach: Savannah is a super fan of this book and Abigail has only read it once—and several years ago. With these different perspectives, Savannah and Abigail compare their notes to see how this impacts their first chapter analysis
Nov 9, 2023 • 1:23:01
First Chapters: A Discovery of Witches (with Savannah Gilbo)
Abigail is back with book coach and editor Savannah Gilbo! Today, Abigail and Savannah sit down to analyze the first chapter of the bestselling fantasy novel A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES by Deborah Harkness. Together, they discuss why these opening pages hook readers—and model other outstanding elements of fiction, some including: A micro-analysis of a well-structured scene (while planting set ups that pay off later in the book) How this chapter sets up expectations for the main stakes in the novel,
Jul 13, 2023 • 57:51
First Chapters: Untamed (with Suzette Mullen)
Abigail sits down with book coach and memoir writer Suzette Mullen to analyze the prologue and first chapter of Glennon Doyle's bestselling and groundbreaking memoir, UNTAMED. Together, they discuss the differences between memoir and fiction writing—and also why writers can benefit greatly from reading and analyzing both genres. In addition to their analysis (using the 7 Key First Chapter Questions from Paula Munier's book THE WRITER'S GUIDE TO BEGINNINGS and the 5 Commandments of Storytelling
Jun 27, 2023 • 1:14:25
Ariele Fredman ON: The Difference Between a Book Publicist and a Literary Agent, Her Mission to Expand Commercial Fiction, and How to Understand Where a Book Fits in the Market
Abigail sits down with Ariele Fredman, a book publicist turned literary agent at United Talent Agency (UTA). Ariele is actively seeking commercial fiction in: General fiction, Mystery, Romance, Suspense/thriller, Feel-Good Fiction, Women's Fiction, and YA. Ariele joined UTA after working 12 years at Atria Books, where she worked across genres and launched bestselling campaigns from Colleen Hoover and Fredrik Backman to Zakiya Dalila Harris and Lisa Jewell (among others!). She has an exceptiona
Jun 13, 2023 • 1:00:05
First Chapters: Legendborn (with Savannah Gilbo)
A special episode that shares a piece of Abigail and Savannah's May Book Notes meeting! In this episode, Abigail and book coach companion Savannah Gilbo share a piece of their May virtual book club meeting; they take a deep dive into the first chapter (and prologue) of Tracy Deonn's YA fantasy bestseller LEGENDBORN. Here's a preview of what they discuss: First chapter summary How they split the chapter into two scenes (and why these scenes follow the 5 Commandments of Storytelling from Story G
May 30, 2023 • 23:17
First Chapters: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe (with Sara Gentry)
In this episode, Abigail takes a first chapter deep dive with kidlit book coach and author, Sara Gentry. Together, they discuss the first chapter of C.S. Lewis’s beloved masterwork, THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE (book two in The Chronicles of Narnia series). In addition to their analysis of how the first chapter (and part of chapter two) sets up big picture expectations and creates a well-structured scene, Sara explains why burgeoning MG fantasy writers can use this book as a masterwork
May 23, 2023 • 56:32
First Chapters: The House Across the Lake (with Samantha Skal)
In this episode, Abigail takes a first chapter deep dive with Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense book coach expert and author, Samantha Skal. Together, they discuss the first chapter of Riley Sager's THE HOUSE ACROSS THE LAKE and why its prologue and first chapter hook readers and set up big picture expectations. Plus, Abigail picks Samatha's brain about several elements that make MTS novels special, like how Riley Sager masters misdirection with this bestseller, how to write exceptional plot twist
May 16, 2023 • 1:19:49
Mikki Brammer ON: The Collected Regrets of Clover and Her Writing, Querying, and Publishing Experience
Abigail sits down with author Mikki Brammer to discuss her (amazing!) contemporary fiction/upmarket debut, THE COLLECTED REGRETS OF CLOVER. This story features a socially stunted death doula whose obsession with documenting her clients’ final words sends her on the adventure of her life. This is one of Abigail's favorite reads in 2023—and releases May 9th, 2023! Together, Mikki and Abigail explore Mikki's inspiration for the novel, what it's about, and the many lessons she learned as a burgeonin
May 2, 2023 • 1:07:35
Victoria Marini ON: Atmospheric Writing, Balancing External Events and Interiority, and the Dos and Don'ts of Tropes
Abigail sits down with Victoria Marini, a literary agent at Irene Goodman Literary Agency (IGLA). Victoria is actively seeking page-turning fiction for all audiences from middle grade through adult, and is expanding her Upmarket Book Club lists. She enjoys novels with high-concepts and distinctive voices in a variety of genres including: fabulism and fantasy, psychological and domestic suspense, thriller, procedurals, historical (particularly lesser known cultures, peoples, and histories), myste
Apr 11, 2023 • 56:16
Jen Craven ON: Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing and How to Decide What's Best For Your Book and Career
Abigail sits down with indie author Jen Craven (BEST YEARS OF YOUR LIFE) to discuss why she decided to self-publish her book—even though she was getting requests on her manuscript while querying it. Jen makes it very clear that she has nothing against traditional publishing, and that for many authors, this is the best publishing path. (She remains open to publishing differently in the future, but not because she disliked indie). Jen also shares why she decided that her first contemporary book (w
Mar 28, 2023 • 1:12:59
First Chapters: Atomic Habits (with Barbara Boyd)
Abigail is joined by nonfiction book coach expert, Barbara Boyd, to analyze James Clear's nonfiction book (a personal growth book) phenomenon, ATOMIC HABITS. What makes this deep dive particularly interesting is that Barbara and Abigail decide to analyze not the first chapter, but the introduction—something Barbara explains is crucial for a nonfiction book and book proposal that hooks a literary agent (and target readers). They use the 7 Key First Chapter Questions that set up big picture expec
Mar 16, 2023 • 1:13:24
First Chapters: The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue (with Savannah Gilbo)
A special episode that shares a part of Abigail and Savannah's latest Book Notes conversation! In this episode, Abigail and book coach companion Savannah Gilbo share a piece of their latest Book Notes Book Club meeting. Abigail and Savannah started Book Notes, their virtual book club, to teach fiction writers how to read like a writer by (a) reading and analyzing a bestselling book and (b) engaging in a craft-based discussion that spotlights specific elements in fiction that likely made it a po
Mar 8, 2023 • 39:15
Howard Yoon ON: The Core Components of a Book Proposal, Reveals and Results of the DOJ-PRH Antitrust Trial, and How Publishing Merges Art and Commerce
Abigail sits down with Howard Yoon, a literary agent and principal of the Ross Yoon Agency. Howard specializes in narrative nonfiction, history, memoir, science, current events, politics, and popular culture. In this conversation, Howard shares his wealth of expertise in publishing as a nonfiction literary agent and what makes a great nonfiction book. He enlightens Abigail about various topics from important business insights on news like the Penguin Random House trial to craft-focused conversat
Feb 23, 2023 • 59:01
Dani Abernathy ON: The Enneagram Personality Test and Why it Might Be a Writer's Next Favorite Tool
Abigail sits down with book coach and fantasy writer, Dani Abernathy, to discuss a unique tool that Dani uses with her clients: the Enneagram Personality Test. Many writers love personality tests (Abigail included), but in this episode, Dani shares how to use the Enneagram test effectively—and with this knowledge, it won’t become a resource that sends writers down a research rabbit hole. How does this work? Dani explains how, by deeply understanding the Enneagram test, writers can develop a more
Feb 15, 2023 • 58:52
Maria Vicente ON: WTF is a Literary Agent, How She Supports Her Clients, and First Chapters that Hook
Abigail sits down for an insightful conversation about agenting and craft with Senior Literary Agent, Maria Vicente, of P.S. Literary Agency. While Maria has a love for and strong list of children’s books and graphic novels, she’s also looking to expand her list with adult fiction and nonfiction. Learn about Maria’s MSWL and her agenting style, along with other solid pieces of writing and business advice, in this episode. Some key takeaways from this conversation include: How Maria got into a
Feb 8, 2023 • 55:54
Gail (Gigla) Hayes ON: How Words and Music Inspire Change (a Tribute to Her Joy and Life)
This week's episode deviates from the normal Lit Match episode structure in order to honor the life of Abigail's aunt, Gail Hayes, who was a talented writer, devoted mother and wife, and active fundraiser—some of her many roles in life. Gail (who Abigail called Gigla or Gig) passed away on January 24, 2023 from Glioblastoma (brain tumor) after courageously fighting this disease for 21-months. In this episode, Abigail pulls her interview with Gail from her first podcast, Story Effect. She interv
Feb 3, 2023 • 48:09
First Chapters: Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover (with Savannah Gilbo)
This week, book coach and developmental editor Savannah Gilbo joins Abigail for a first chapter deep dive analysis of a Colleen Hoover mega-hit, UGLY LOVE. This is also a particularly special episode because it pulls a small clip from the first meeting of Savannah and Abigail's virtual book club, Book Notes. In this episode, you'll learn how the first chapter of UGLY LOVE gives readers insight into what the Big Picture is all about, and how it works as a well-structured scene that hooks readers
Jan 25, 2023 • 59:40
First Chapters: Lessons in Chemistry (with Sarah Dickinson)
Today, Abigail brings on a guest who is an avid reader and professional book reviewer—and popular podcast host!—Sarah Dickinson. Together, they take a first chapter deep dive analysis of one of 2022’s most popular books (what NYT called the Best Book of the Year!), and one of their favorite reads in 2022: LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY by Bonnie Garmus. This episode is particularly fun since Sarah, as a reader, shares her analysis based on her reaction as a reader, paired with Abigail's editorial viewpoin
Jan 10, 2023 • 1:14:48
Andrea DeWerd ON: The Writing Community's Mass Departure from Twitter and Book Marketing Strategies that Work for Authors
Abigail sits down with book marketing expert (with 13 years Big 5 publishing experience), Andrea DeWerd, to discuss the writing community's mass departure from Twitter. In this conversation, Andrea explains what's really happening on Twitter, why eight percent of the writing and publishing community have left this platform, and what this means for writers who want to find information about the publishing business, discover agents (among other professionals in the book industry), and sell books
Jan 3, 2023 • 59:48
First Chapters: The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory (with Book Coach Rona Gofstein)
Come join Abigail and certified book coach, Rona Gofstein, as they analyze the first chapter of bestselling author Jasmine Guillory’s USA Today bestselling novel, THE WEDDING DATE. Abigail and Rona explore many of the important elements of contemporary romance, as well as what makes this first chapter so engaging. Read the first chapter, listen to this conversation, and join Abigail and Rona as they share their craft knowledge and observations. In today’s episode, you’ll learn: How the first
Dec 22, 2022 • 1:07:53
CeCe Lyra ON: Layered Stories that Exemplify Good Writing, Why Publishing is so Competitive, and the Importance of Persistence over Insistence
Join Abigail as she interviews CeCe Lyra, Associate Literary Agent at P.S. Literary Agency and the brilliant co-host of the popular writing podcast, The Shit No One Tells You About Writing. Abigail’s said it in more places than one: This conversation will be one that Abigail thinks about (and refers back to) for many, many years. Here are some of the multitude of important, insightful topics CeCe covers—like the writing process, the realities of the publishing industry, and even questions that
Dec 15, 2022 • 1:09:47
First Chapters: Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng (with Bestselling Author Jennifer Klepper)
Come join Abigail and USA Today bestselling author, Jennifer Klepper, as they perform a first chapter deep dive analysis of Celeste Ng’s bestselling masterpiece, LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE. Abigail and Jennifer agree, Celeste Ng is an exceptional author and LFE is a book that every writer can learn from. And the first pages prove why. Abigail admits that she found this scene particularly challenging to analyze, and she’s curious what YOU think. Read the first chapter, listen to this conversation, a
Dec 7, 2022 • 1:08:03
First Chapters: The Midnight Library (with Book Coach Sharon Skinner)
"Between life and death there is a library, and within that library, the shelves go on forever. Every book provides a chance to try another life you could have lived. To see how things would be if you had made other choices . . . Would you have done anything different, if you had the chance to undo your regrets?" — Blurb for Matt Haig's bestselling novel, THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY Abigail sits down with certified book coach Sharon Skinner to analyze the first chapter of THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY. This is
Dec 1, 2022 • 1:23:04
Inside Interview: Jeff Kinney, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and 5 Big Writing Takeaways and Assignments to Apply to Your WIP
The first episode in a new Author Interview + Writing Tips and Assignments series on LIT MATCH! In today’s episode, Abigail pulls one of her favorite interviews from her her old podcast (pub. 2020) and revamps it for the Lit Match listeners. Abigail sits down with the bestselling author of the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series, Jeff Kinney. Listen to this episode to get an inside look at the makings of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, writing comics, and other valuable writing tips. Then, join Abigail for Par
Nov 9, 2022 • 1:13:02
Comparable Titles: What They Are, Why Writers Need Them, and How to Find (and Pitch!) Ones that are Irresistible
After writing a book comes publishing it, and to do so (or if you want to do it well), you need to know your target readers and the market. One of the most important tools a writer, literary agent, editor, and publisher uses to give a quick, clear, and catchy idea of what a story is about—and what everyone can predict for sales—is comparable titles (or comps). That’s what Abigail covers in this episode. She pulls from her first-hand experience as an editorial intern and various insightful articl
Nov 2, 2022 • 37:33
First Chapters: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
We're back with the final episode! Abigail sits down with certified editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS. This is a particularly special episode in the series being the final Harry Potter book and first chapter episode, as well as Abigail's favorite book in the series. In this conversation, Abigail and Savannah discuss how the first chapter sets up expectations for the big p
Oct 26, 2022 • 1:14:15
10 Unforgettable Writing (and Life!) Tips from My Favorite Author Presentation
Taking a different direction for this week’s episode, Abigail speaks directly to listeners about ten pieces of writing (and life!) tips she absorbed from what she considers her favorite in-person author presentation. Last month, Abigail was lucky enough to attend bestselling author Fredrik Backman’s book tour for the third book in his Beartown series trilogy, THE WINNERS. Abigail had been wanting to read Backman’s books for years but constantly failed to prioritize them on her reading list—unt
Oct 19, 2022 • 35:46
First Chapters: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
We're back with book six! Abigail sits down with certified editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE. This is an extra special episode since HBP is Savannah's favorite book in the series—plus, both Abigail and Savannah agreed that this first chapter was the most difficult to analyze, at least so far in the series—which makes for a fun challenge and discussion. In this analysis, Abigail and Savannah discuss how the fi
Oct 5, 2022 • 1:01:44
First Chapters: Counterfeit (with Special Guests, Bestselling Author Kirstin Chen and Executive Editor Jessica Williams
Abigail sits down for a first chapter analysis of the bestselling and Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick, COUNTERFEIT. She takes a deep dive into the first chapter analysis—and she enthusiastically welcomes the author and editor of the book to join her in this dissection and discussion. KIRSTIN CHEN is the New York Times best-selling author of three novels. Counterfeit, her latest and the book discussed in this episode, has sold the translation rights in seven languages and television rights have
Sep 28, 2022 • 55:23
First Chapters: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
We're back with book five! Abigail sits down with certified editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX. Abigail and Savannah return with a discussion on how the first chapter in the OOTP sets up expectations for the big picture and creates, to the reader's discretion, the most exciting first chapter in the Harry Potters series yet. Once again, Abigail and Savannah use tools like the seven key questions to ask about
Sep 14, 2022 • 1:04:55
Allison Hunter ON: What Makes a Great Beach Read, How to Use Comps, and Why Secrets are Imperative in Fiction
In today’s episode, Abigail sits down with another amazing Trellis Literary Management co-founder, Allison Hunter. Allison is an expert in commercial fiction and shares exactly what she’s looking for in a manuscript wishlist, as well as other invaluable writing and publishing tips like: How to use comparable titles to pitch and market your book (with examples!) What makes a page-turning beach read Why secrets are imperative in engaging fiction How publishing is moving away from the term “wome
Sep 8, 2022 • 55:05
First Chapters: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
We're back with book four! Abigail sits down with certified editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE. Abigail and Savannah return with a discussion on how the first chapter in GOF sets up expectations for the big picture story using Paula Munier's seven key first chapter questions (THE WRITER'S GUIDE TO BEGINNINGS). They also nerd out about whether or not GOF is a thriller or an action story, why Frank models a sympathet
Aug 18, 2022 • 1:00:55
How to Write a Query Letter (Part 3): Paragraph Three, the Author Bio (and Final Tips)
This is the third episode in a three-part series of episodes on how to write a query letter. Abigail teaches writers how to write the third (and final!) paragraph of the query letter, or the author bio. Sometimes writers overthink the author bio, putting undue stress on themselves and this paragraph. This episode covers some tips on how to write this paragraph, som including: The Dos and Don’ts of the Author Bio (great tips especially pulled from Kelly Simmons blog on Career Authors!) Do you
Aug 10, 2022 • 21:21
How to Write a Query Letter (Part 2): Paragraph Two, the Blurb (or Back Cover Copy)
This is the second episode in a three-part series of episodes on how to write a query letter. In it, Abigail teaches writers how to write the second paragraph of the query letter, otherwise known as the blurb or back cover copy. The back cover copy is the most important section in a query letter. Abigail shares important details writers need to make it stand out, some including: 3 Key Details Needed in Every Back Cover Copy: Character: Who is the main character? What do they want? What makes
Aug 3, 2022 • 39:55
How to Write a Query Letter (Part 1): Paragraph One, the Hook
In the first episode of a three-part series of episodes on how to write a query letter, Abigail teaches writers how to write the first paragraph of their query letter. To do this, she covers important elements like: What a query letter is and why a writer who wants to traditionally publish needs one 4 essential details in every first paragraph 4-5 factors that determine a strong comp (comparable title) More! Plus! Abigail offers a free critique of the first paragraph to the first 10 writers o
Jul 20, 2022 • 20:29
First Chapters: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
We're back with book three! Abigail sits down with certified editor and book coach Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN. Following the normal first chapter analysis format, Abigail and Savannah discuss how the first chapter in POA sets up expectations for the big picture story using Paula Munier's seven key first chapter questions (THE WRITER'S GUIDE TO BEGINNINGS). They take a special look at how Harry's balance of internal feelings
Jul 13, 2022 • 53:10
Quick Query Tips: 3 Strategic Ways to Research Literary Agents
Welcome to the first Quick Query Tips episode! While Abigail books more literary agents and editors for the show, she turns the focus from interviews with literary agents to the research and submission process. In this episode, Abigail shares three of her favorite and strategic ways to research literary agents. This is a very hands-on episode as Abigail shares how she researches literary agents, editors, and authors for the show. Although the spreadsheet she uses is slightly different than what
Jul 6, 2022 • 31:13
First Chapters: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
We're back! Abigail sits down with Savannah Gilbo to discuss and analyze the first chapter of HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS. This is an especially interesting conversation on first chapters since the first chapter of HPCOS is also the first chapter in the sequel to middle grade fantasy phenomenon, HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE. In it, they discuss the big picture for HPCOS using Paula Munier's seven key questions to analyze a first chapter—shortly followed by a debate: Does t
Jun 22, 2022 • 55:08
Jennie Nash ON: What Makes a Great Book Coach, Fundamental Questions Writers Need to Ask (and Answer), and Why Writers Should Invest in Their Work
"Working with a book coach is an investment, and there's no guarantee. No book coach is going to say, ‘I guarantee that you will get an agent and a book deal.’ That would be dishonest. They can't do that. So you're paying money to give yourself the best shot.” – Jennie Nash, Book Coach and Founder of Author Accelerator Abigail K. Perry sits down with leading book coach and the founder of Author Accelerator, Jennie Nash. Together they discuss what exactly a book coach is, when a writer should hi
Jun 8, 2022 • 58:16
Michelle Brower ON: What Makes a Great Book Club Pick, Creating Community, and How to Write Through the Middle
"I love books that sort of take you through the pain of living in some way. Life inherently has tragedy and hardship. And I love books that take you to that, but also give you an opportunity to see a way out and to see hope in even dark places." – Michelle Brower, Literary Agent at Trellis Literary Management Abigail K. Perry sits down with literary agent and co-founder of Trellis Literary Management, Michelle Brower. Together they discuss how Michelle and her co-founders formed Trellis (and
Jun 1, 2022 • 50:53
First Chapters: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
QUICK NOTE! THE BOOK VS. THE AUTHOR As much as I love the HARRY POTTER series, I am saddened by and do not condone JKR’s attacks on the trans community. It’s this reason that, for these first chapter episodes featuring the Harry Potter books, I choose to separate my love for the books from the author’s public actions. I decided to do this because the series has taught me indispensable lessons about great storytelling, and I believe such examples can also benefit burgeoning writers. However, i
May 25, 2022 • 1:08:44
Tee Moore ON: Becoming a Career Author and How to Find a Literary Agent
"I'm becoming more intentional about my dreams because my purpose didn't just die when I became a mom, it actually became more realized. Being a mom was just part of my purpose. It's part of the path. I meant to be a mother to these three kids, but I'm also meant to write these stories.” – Tee Moore, Author Abigail K. Perry sits down with author Tee Moore (rep. by Jemiscoe Chambers-Black, Andrea Brown Literary Agency) to discuss her writer’s journey turned life as a career author and how to f
May 11, 2022 • 38:29
Stephanie Winter ON: Millennial Fiction, the Difference Between Voice and Style, and How Agents Work with Editors
"I'm here to answer any questions and help create a strong positioning for the work. Whether that means, figuring out how the creator needs to receive feedback, that they can best process the information or adjusting to their communication style so that they can process the information that's what I'm here to do." – Stephanie Winter, P.S. Literary Agency Abigail K. Perry sits down with Stephanie Winter to discuss her manuscript wishlist with a special focus on millennial fiction. Stephanie als
May 4, 2022 • 33:08
Emmy Nordstrom Higdon ON: Predicting the Market, A Love for Weird Stories, and How to Lift Up Diverse Books in Traditional Publishing
"You can't really pick what you're going to represent or what you're going to pitch based on what people are excited about today. You need to be thinking about what's going to be happening three years from now or four years from now.” – Emmy Nordstrom Higdon, Westwood Creative Artists Abigail K. Perry sits down with Emmy Nordstrom Higdon to discuss their career shift from a bookseller to a literary agent—and why both taught them how to predict the market. They also share their love for books
Apr 27, 2022 • 49:11
Tara Gilbert ON: What Makes a Character-Driven Story, YA vs. MG Novels, and How to Emotionally Connect with Your Reader
"I think it's really just grounding your reader in the story, making sure that they are right up front aware of who this character is or what they want and what their goal is, you want to make sure you're grounded in the character and even a little bit of the world, too, so you know where your character is coming from, and then obviously use that to make a reader laugh or cry or pull at their heartstrings.” – Tara Gilbert, Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency Abigail K. Perry sits down with Tar
Apr 20, 2022 • 36:15
Paula Munier ON: How to Identify and Capitalize on the Selling Points of a Story and What Makes a Story Unique
"Stories are what get us through, stories are how humans have encouraged one another to survive the dark times and given pointers about how to survive the dark times.” – Paula Munier, Talcott Notch Literary Abigail K. Perry sits down with Paula Munier to discuss her manuscript wishlist and valuable publishing insights, some including: what’s selling in the 2022 market, why there’s no such thing as an original story (and how to make your story unique), how to identify and capitalize on the selli
Apr 13, 2022 • 44:21
First Chapters: Read Until You Understand by Farah Griffin
Abigail K. Perry takes an in-depth look at READ UNTIL YOU UNDERSTAND by Farah Jasmine Griffin. In this special BONUS episode, Abigail uses the five commandments to analyze the structure in the first scene, and seven key questions every reader can use to determine if the first chapter will hook its readers. READ UNTIL YOU UNDERSTAND is a great example of how to start a memoir that blends other elements of nonfiction books like history and art. The goal of these bonus episodes is to provide w
Apr 11, 2022 • 30:40
Katie Shea Boutillier ON: Audio Rights, What Makes an Imperfect Character, and How Writers Can Define and Develop Their Voice
"If you don't know how to write characters that have problems and issues and you're actually not writing any human that's realistic, cause we're all at fault at some point, and you should always take that into consideration.” – Katie Shea Boutillier, Donald Maass Literary Agency Abigail K. Perry sits down with Katie Shea Boutillier to discuss her manuscript wishlist and other publishing insights, like: the importance of audio rights and how, as Rights Director, she sells them for clients, when
Apr 4, 2022 • 37:08
Tanya McKinnon ON: What Makes Great Nonfiction, Why Stories Encourage Empathy, and How She Helps Clients Craft a Powerful Proposal
"Every time you pick up a good book, you enter someone else's mind, you see the world through their lens. And that's deeply exciting for me. I also think it allows for empathy, and empathy and kindness are the core components of a successful civilization.” – Tanya McKinnon, McKinnon Literary Agency Abigail K. Perry sits down with Tanya McKinnon to discuss her career and expertise with serious nonfiction, literary fiction, children’s books, and graphic novels. They discuss how 
Apr 1, 2022 • 37:53
First Chapters: The Chandler Legacies by Abdi Nazemian
“I'm rooting for Beth, as she prepares to submit her essay for consideration...There's this sense of, I may be insecure, but at the same time reminding yourself that you have value and you have worth…and can stand up for yourself.” – Abigail K. Perry on the first chapter in THE CHANDLER LEGACIES by Abdi Nazemian Abigail K. Perry takes an in-depth look at THE CHANDLER LEGACIES by Abdi Nazemian, a YA book and author represented by literary agent John Cusick. In this special BONUS episode, Abigail
Mar 28, 2022 • 35:36
John Cusick ON: What Makes a Manuscript Stand Out, Blending Passion and Business, and Why He Loves Kidlit
“Without any kind of moralizing or didacticism, I think that what kidlit provides is a space for young people to grow their own sense of themselves and their role in their community and their role in the world.” – John Cusick, Folio Literary Management Abigail K. Perry sits down with John Cusick to discuss his love for kidlit. John shares how he got into agenting and why his role differs from an editor’s role. He also discusses what makes a manuscript stand out at the query and commercial level,
Mar 23, 2022 • 39:47
First Chapters: Take It Back by Kia Abdullah
“Regardless of what POV you choose, a strong voice is necessary for great books, and it’s not uncommon for an agent or editor to pass on a story that lacks a defining voice, or embrace one that is exceptional. ” – Abigail K. Perry on the first chapter in TAKE IT BACK by Kia Abdullah Abigail K. Perry takes an in-depth look at TAKE IT BACK by Kia Abdullah, a book and author represented by literary agent Jessica Faust. Next to a query letter, the most important pages a writer needs to master in o
Mar 21, 2022 • 43:47
Jessica Faust ON: Her Mission to Represent Marginalized Voices, Advocating and Mentoring Authors and Agents, and Defining Success
“Authors who are marginalized are writing to a marginalized audience. And I think it's time that they be given the voice to write to all audiences. I'm really making it a mission to do that.” – Jessica Faust, Principal Literary Agent and Founder of BookEnds Literary Abigail K. Perry sits down with Jessica Faust to talk about her mission to bring more marginalized voices into publishing. She also shares her goals as a leader, including how she mentors the team at BookEnds so that they can cont
Mar 16, 2022 • 47:25
First Chapters: Girls with Bright Futures and a Special Conversation with Co-Authors Tracy Dobmeier and Wendy Katzman
“I think the reason to start here was because this is the inciting incident that led to all the madness that is going to unfold.” – Tracy Dobmeier and Wendy Katzman, Authors of GIRLS WITH BRIGHT FUTURES Abigail K. Perry sits down with co-authors Tracy Dobmeier and Wendy Katzman to discuss the first chapter of their debut novel, GIRLS WITH BRIGHT FUTURES. Abigail considers their book one of the most chilling and stunning debuts she’s read in the last few years, and particularly marvels at Tracy
Mar 16, 2022 • 28:57
Carly Watters ON: Her MSWL, How to Define Commercial Fiction, and the Power in an Author-Agent Relationship
“I think it's really important to be working with creators that have a really strong point of view, and they know how to communicate that point of view.” – Carly Watters, Senior Literary Agent and SVP at P.S. Literary Agency Abigail K. Perry sits down with Carly Watters to talk about her manuscript wishlist (#MSWL) and the role she plays in the agent-author relationship. From there, Carly shares her insights on the publishing industry and expertise that come from her eleven years working at P.
Mar 16, 2022 • 37:20