Note from Rebecca: Recently a book by my wonderful author RZ Nicolet has launched, and I'm so excited to talk about it at the end of the newsletter! For this newsletter, she wrote about her experience with writing classes and what sort of education she had before she got a book deal. I always encourage Creative Writing education, but that doesn't necessarily mean paying for a course or a degree. There are a huge variety of free resources out there, and of course, the best teacher is experience!

I’ve never taken a creative writing class.

By RZ Nicolet

There were a couple of times that I almost did. High school? Storytelling was taught by the drama teacher, so it was more about reading, analysis, and performance than writing. Undergrad? The cool science fiction writing class conflicted with a physics elective, so physics it was. Grad school? By the time I discovered a class I wanted to take, I was deep in my thesis and couldn’t figure out how to make it fit into my schedule.

It's not that I haven’t learned about writing. The full bookshelves at my house can tell you how much I read. I’ve watched through Brandon Sanderson’s video lectures on YouTube. (I strongly recommend these, for both craft and understanding publishing.) I’ve read about a zillion blog posts.

At the end of all that, though, it comes down to writing (and editing) until you’ve got something worth reading. I wasn’t serious about that at first. I wrote a couple of mediocre manuscripts, with NaNoWriMo as a supportive mechanism. Outside NaNoWriMo, I didn’t write as much.

I eventually realized that if I ever wanted to have something worth putting in front of other people, I needed to write more regularly. So, I watched the Sanderson lectures and outlined a book featuring weird aliens and their problems and made a resolution to write it in a year.

I made that resolution in January of 2020.

The worldbuilding and outline were done in February, just in time for… well, the rest of 2020.

I wrote the book anyway. (It didn’t take that much longer than a year.) I sent hopeful query letters around. And, following the “just keep writing” principle, I started on a completely different book.

When working on one of those two books, I discovered that if I managed to write in the morning – even if it’s only a hundred words before I log in to the day job – I’m just a little happier for the rest of the day. I’ve accomplished something, even if everything else feels like it’s falling apart.

And that, I think, is something else you can’t get from a writing class, and which Sanderson alludes to.  Writing process is personal. It can even vary from book to book. Writing in the morning is best… for me, but no good for a night owl. I always know the ending before I get there. Other folks are more spontaneous. You only really figure that out by trying stuff and seeing what works.

Which of those two books I mentioned is my debut? Neither! Instead, it’s the book after that.  I wrote the first chapter as a lark, without an outline or a real plan, because a story from the magic cloak’s point of view stuck me as very funny. Plot, and the outline, came later. (See: process can vary!)

Do I regret not having taken a formal class? A bit.  I’m sure I’d have picked up some useful tools.

But a class wouldn’t have written the words for me.

The Cloak and Its Wizard: A Whimsical Mix of Fantasy and Superhero

I loved this book from the first time I read the query letter. The Cloak and Its Wizard compelled me to read it all in one sitting — I just couldn't put it down.

Writing a story from the perspective of an inanimate object can be tricky, but the magical cloak at the heart of this story has such personality that it functions as the comic relief while also providing deeply compelling lore and backstory in a way I have not really seen written anywhere else.

Veronica, the other main character, is equally compelling though we only ever see her through the experience of this immortal magical cloak. What was so excellent about the overall plot was how as the two main characters confront the external conflicts (world-eating monsters, a rule-obsessed society of wizards, irritating superheroes), they must also face deeply personal internal conflicts. At its heart, the cloak yearns for companionship, while Veronica loves her career and wants nothing to do with the magical, superhero, or monstrous. The way their internal and external conflicts intertwine makes for a tightly written and — despite the comic moments — deeply heartfelt story.

One of the most refreshing things about The Cloak and Its Wizard is how it blends fantasy and superhero elements in a way that feels wholly original. As genre-mashing becomes more mainstream, it's still rare to find a book that sits so confidently at the intersection of two genres — and this one pulls it off beautifully.

The Cloak and Its Wizard is available now on Amazon. If you've had the chance to read it, I'd love to know what you thought — please consider leaving a review. Reviews make an enormous difference for debut authors, and a book this good deserves to find its audience.

Blurb

A sentient cloak. A reluctant wizard. Wizards, superheroes, and monsters — oh my.

I don’t choose my wizards lightly. It’s a lifetime commitment. Their lifetime, that is. I’ll outlast them all. Unless the world ends. Which is looking increasingly likely…

After a century of boredom in the library of the secret Order of the Open Eye, the Cloak of Sunset and Starlight finally chooses a wizard. Unfortunately for the cloak, Veronica Noble isn’t thrilled. A brilliant doctor, Veronica has been dragged into the Order against her will, and doesn’t want to be saddled with a glittering, starlight-covered cloak that sneaks through vents, sets off car alarms, and refuses to leave her shoulders.

When Veronica accidentally reveals her powers to all of Minneapolis, superheroes take notice. The Order threatens to reclaim the cloak. And sea serpents from other dimensions keep crashing into reality.

Now the cloak must do everything in its power to keep its wizard safe—even if that wizard isn’t sure she wants it.

Books Available for Preorder

The Color of Time

"Dune" meets Charles Perrault's fairy tale "donkeyskin" with a sci-fi hopepunk twist.

The Seller of Secrets

Inspired by historical Florence, Italy, and based on legends of the Renaissance-era Medici family, The Seller of Secrets is a YA romantasy novel with a sensory and elemental–based magic system.

We, The Missing

From Arwyn Sherman and Sobelo Books in 2026, WE, THE MISSING evokes the theme of powerlessness as in The Devil All the Time and is reminiscent of the dark world of Constantine.

New Deals

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Love

By Rebecca Lawrence

As an editorial agent, I feel like I should occasionally write about grammar. As someone who grew up slightly dyslexic (I repeated first grade because I couldn’t read — ironically enough), commas were especially hard for me to learn how to use. I remember going up to an English teacher in college and asking her to sum up the comma rules. She responded by recommending I look at a style guide, which wasn’t all that helpful. What I was really asking was: what are the most common comma uses? What’s a hard-and-fast, quick guide? I wanted something like this:

Quick Refresher: Objective Comma Rules (No Debating These)

BUT it turns out, it is not just this simple.

Subjective Commas: The Gray Area of Punctuation

One reason commas can be so tricky? Not all of them follow hard-and-fast rules. Yep, some comma placements are subjective.

Don’t get me wrong: there are plenty of clear, objective comma rules. For instance, a comma (or period) should never go outside quotation marks in American English.

❌ “For example”,
✅ “For example,”

(Yes, this applies to periods too. See CMOS 6.9)

You might think the Oxford comma (the one before and in a list) falls into the subjective category, but according to The Chicago Manual of Style, it’s absolutely recommended. (CMOS 6.19)

Other non-negotiable comma rules include:

• Before coordinating conjunctions joining independent clauses (CMOS 6.22)

• With direct address (CMOS 6.53)

• In dates and addresses (CMOS 6.45–6.46)

• Around quotations (CMOS 6.38–6.39)

• Between coordinate adjectives (CMOS 6.36)

But that’s not why we’re here.
Let’s talk about the squishier side of commas—the subjective stuff.

What Are Subjective Comma Uses?

Subjective comma usage is where things get… well, flexible. It’s about clarity, style, rhythm, and even personal voice. Here are some of the most common areas where writers have a say:

1. Short Introductory Phrases

You can leave out the comma after a short introductory phrase, usually if it's fewer than five words, unless it’s needed for clarity.

Without comma: By noon we were done.
With comma: By noon, we were done.

This one’s up to you. (CMOS 6.31)

2. To Prevent Misreading or Ambiguity

Sometimes, a comma helps your reader understand what you're actually trying to say. Like in the famous—Let’s eat, Grandma!
(Without the comma: Let’s eat Grandma!—eek!)

The choice isn’t about grammar; it’s about avoiding confusion. Sometimes though it is hard to pin down when something can be misread. This is where getting a second option is helpful.

3. Stylistic Pauses or Rhythm

Commas can be used to add a breath or pause, kind of like stage directions for your reader’s voice.

He turned, slowly, and walked away.

This isn’t required, but it adds a certain rhythm or emphasis. If it feels natural in your voice, go for it. Just try not to overuse it.

4. Omitting the Comma Before Short Independent Clauses

Technically, you should use a comma before a coordinating conjunction that links two independent clauses. But if the clauses are short and closely related, you’re allowed to skip it.

I ran and I fell.
(But also correct: I ran, and I fell.)

It’s optional. (CMOS 6.22 Note)

5. Using Commas with Parenthetical Phrases

Sometimes, you add extra information to a sentence, a little aside, a clarification, or a descriptive detail. That’s what we call a parenthetical phrase. It’s not essential to the main point of the sentence, but it adds something extra.

These phrases are usually set off with commas (though dashes or parentheses can work too). The key is that the sentence would still make complete sense without the extra info.

Example: She waited for hours, scanning the horizon, hoping he would return.

You could remove “scanning the horizon” and the sentence would still work:

She waited for hours, hoping he would return.

That’s how you know it’s parenthetical. It’s there for style, rhythm, or added meaning, but it’s not grammatically required.

Use commas to wrap these phrases and help the sentence breathe.

See CMOS 6.31 and 6.48 for more guidance on setting off parenthetical elements.

Commas are the unsung heroes of punctuation. Yes, there are rules, but there’s also room for your style and judgment—especially when it comes to clarity and rhythm.

Mastering commas takes practice, but knowing where you have choices can make the process feel a lot less intimidating.

Tress of the Emerald Sea: A Fairytale Twist on Sanderson’s Epic Style

For several years, Brandon Sanderson has held the crown as my personal favorite author. (Though with the most recent Stormlight Archive book ending on a massive cliffhanger, I might have to demote him to just one of my favorites—With five more books in the series planned, I’m not sure if I’ll can take waiting another 10-15 years for a final resolution.)

But Tress of the Emerald Sea reminded me exactly why I fell in love with his writing in the first place.

This book is whimsical and deeply unique, but at the same time, it’s easy to read. Epic fantasy often asks you to play detective—piecing together magic systems, charting family trees, and juggling lore—but Tress doesn’t weigh you down like that. Instead, it sweeps you along for the ride. The seas themselves are one of the most inventive parts of the book—vast oceans made of spores that shift and react in surprising (and dangerous) ways. It’s clever without being exhausting, charming without being shallow.

The voice of the narrator, the creativity of the setting, and the heart of Tress herself all come together in a story that feels like a modern fairytale. It’s cozy and warm, but still carries that unmistakable Sanderson depth and spark.

If you’ve ever wanted to dip into fantasy without the pressure of a thousand-page tome or the feeling of homework-level analysis, Tress of the Emerald Sea is the perfect entry point. And if you’re already a Sanderson fan? You’ll find a new side of him here—lighter, but no less brilliant.

Blurb

A quiet island girl. A stolen friend. An ocean with filled with spores.

Tress has lived her whole life on a lonely rock in the Emerald Sea, content with simple pleasures—collecting cups brought by passing sailors and listening to the stories of her dearest friend, Charlie. But when Charlie is taken by the dreaded Sorceress of the Midnight Sea, Tress’s sheltered world shatters.

Determined to save him, she stows away aboard a ship and sails into oceans unlike any other—seas made of spores, where a single drop of water can unleash instant death. Each spore sea brings new perils: vines that strangle ships, crystalline forests that erupt from the waves, and pirates who rule with cutlasses and cunning.

Among a ragtag crew of misfits, Tress learns to survive as a sprouter, turning the seas’ dangers into weapons. Her courage grows with every trial, from fending off raiders to outwitting cursed monsters. All the while, the voice of a mysterious storyteller—Hoid—guides her journey with wit and wonder.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

I’m excited to spotlight one of my incredible authors, Sheri, whose novel The Seller of Secrets recently sold! In this interview, she shares valuable insights about her path to representation and the publishing process. Her journey is both inspiring and encouraging—especially for anyone navigating the query trenches.

The Road to Representation: How did you get here?

So Sheri, first off tell us about the book that just sold, THE SELLER OF SECRETS. What inspired you to write it? What are some tropes that readers should expect? What is your favorite part?

THE SELLER OF SECRETS is the story of a girl who sees her magical gift as both dangerous and a safeguard against the world around her. It comes out of my own experience of moving from the safety of my childhood home to the responsibility of adulthood. I wrote it for myself and for everyone else who has experienced that unsteadiness and fear when we realize how much power we have as individuals. We get to choose what to do with that power: hide it away, dominate other people, or, like Bell, use it to bring light and goodness to the world.

It's hard to choose a favorite part. But the most fun scenes for me to write are the Night Bazaar—the rich magic atmosphere there—and the ones in Bell's garden. I really want a garden shed made out of a magical vine!

Let’s rewind: When did you officially start querying THE SELLER OF SECRETS? Did you revise the book between each round of querying agents? Was THE SELLER OF SECRETS the first book you queried?

What a long process this was! I'm grateful for every step, though. I learned so much that prepared me for where I am now.

First, TSOS was the second novel I've completed and queried. My first book, a dark romantasy, was too complex for my skill set at the time. After receiving feedback, I shelved my first book and began work on THE SELLER OF SECRETS.

I officially began querying TSOS in Summer 2021. I submitted to a few agents and some small publishers. While I received only rejections that round, one of the publishers was kind enough to give me feedback. Again, the changes/problems they discussed were beyond my ability, and after some deliberation, I hired a developmental editor.

A note here: I'd always been afraid of hiring an editor. I couldn't afford to hire one with every book, so why do it with the first one? I didn't realize how much I would learn with that first edit and be able to apply to all my books going forward.

After that developmental edit was completed, I geared up for a second round of querying in 2023. I made a spreadsheet and made a list of 75–100 agents I thought would be interested before I began. I sent queries out in batches of 5–10, personalizing each query as much as possible.

The rejections began to roll in, but my determination only grew, and I recorded each one on my spreadsheet. Then I started to get some requests for full manuscripts. By the time you made an offer, I was just sending out the last of my batches. I had over 75 rejections (if I count the no replies), and I was rather proud of them, haha!

How long were you in the trenches before getting an offer of representation?

I tried off and on for about seven years, but 2021–2023 was the two-year period where I really doubled down.

Was there ever a moment you were about to give up—and what kept you going? (Chocolate and sheer spite are valid answers.)

Honestly, I'm really determined. I wasn't very afraid of rejections once I realized that hearing anything at all is a plus. The feedback I was getting made me realize my book was good enough—it just wasn't a good fit for anyone yet. I've rarely seriously considered giving up.

Did you do anything to level up your skills while querying?

Yes! I'm always doing this. I take writing courses and go to conferences when I can afford them, and read craft books. Maggie Stiefvater has a few incredible writing courses that have changed how I write stories. The Writer's Sanctuary also has taught me quite a bit. I was always working on a book or short story while querying too. I never put all my hopes in the book being sent out.

I know you have editorial experience. Can you talk about how that has contributed to your career as an author?

Yes, I'm a certified proofreader. I've enjoyed being part of the book-making process for other authors. It's a satisfying job to find all the little mistakes! While I'm sure none of my books will be typo free, I do think it helps me catch little errors without trying too hard.

Life is so busy. Is writing your escape? Does it ever become a chore?

Writing can be an escape, and a refreshing job. It can also feel like a chore when I'm stuck in a plot hole or can't figure out how a scene is supposed to feel.

If you could time travel back to day one of querying, what’s the one piece of advice you’d give past you?

Remember that rejections are a good thing. They are a normal part of the publishing process. No one can accept your book if you don't send it first.

Thank you so much Sheri for being willing to share your insights!

Please support her by subscribing to her own newsletter or connecting with her over her socials https://sheriyutzy.substack.com/p/how-i-got-my-literary-agent

sheriyutzy.com

Instagram 

Facebook

And of course, stayed tuned for a publication date for her upcoming book Seller Of Secrets!

The Merciful Crow: A Fresh Take in a Saturated Genre

A few days ago, my sister started telling me she had some Audible credits to use up—and immediately followed it with a rant about how all the audiobooks she’d chosen lately were disappointing.

“Jessica,” I said, “I’m a literary agent, for goodness’ sake. Ask me for recommendations.”

So I told her to read The Merciful Crow.

I read this duology a minute ago, but it’s stuck with me ever since. In a genre where originality is hard to come by, Margaret Owen delivers something that feels sharp, unique, and genuinely original. The worldbuilding is one of the book’s strongest points—clever, brutal, and layered. The magic system tied to caste and teeth is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and it’s introduced so organically that you’re never lost, just pulled deeper. (Really gave me that Brandon-Sanderson-worldbuilding-vibe.)

This book has the kind of pacing that inspires late night reading. Every scene drives the story forward, and the tension builds in a way that makes it nearly impossible to put down. And through it all, the heart of the story is Fie.

I love Fie. She’s fierce, practical, angry, compassionate—and most of all, real. She shoulders so much and still pushes forward with grit and integrity. You root for her from page one.

If you’re feeling burned out on YA fantasy, The Merciful Crow is the reset button you didn’t know you needed.

Blurb

A future chieftain. A hunted prince. A kingdom built on bones.

Fie has spent her life as part of the Crows, a caste of mercy-killers who are reviled for their role in disposing of the dead and tending to the sick. Born into a life of survival and duty, she’s prepared to do whatever it takes to protect her people. When the kingdom is struck by a deadly plague, it’s the Crows who step in to save those who would otherwise be abandoned—no matter the cost.

But Fie’s world is turned upside down when she’s thrust into a deadly game of politics and survival. A royal family’s betrayal leads to a dramatic escape, and Fie is forced to protect Prince Jasimir, the very heir who betrayed his family’s bloodline, alongside his volatile guard, Tavin. With ruthless enemies hot on their trail, Fie must navigate a world where nothing—and no one—is as it seems.

As the journey becomes darker and the stakes higher, Fie must decide if she’s willing to risk everything to change the future of her caste, her kingdom, and the people she’s sworn to protect. Caught between power-hungry royals, deadly secrets, and an ancient magic that runs through her veins, Fie is forced to make impossible choices that could either break or unite her world.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Cassandra Murphy

Welcome, readers! I’m Cassandra, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve joined The Booker Albert Agency as an intern! With my life mission of connecting with others through storytelling and my career goals of working in the publishing industry, this opportunity is an exciting stepping stone–I’m eager to learn more about the world I aspire to be a part of and make a meaningful impact in. As a lifelong book lover, active member of the online book community, and an aspiring author, I’ve found so much inspiration and insight through the stories I read–and I hope this newsletter brings a bit of that to you, too. I usually gravitate toward thrillers, romance, horror, and general fiction, but psychological thrillers are my favorite. I love getting lost in unsettling settings and tangled up in unforgettable characters. More than anything, I love the conversations that books spark. Connecting with others through stories is one of the best parts of being a reader, and I can’t wait to hear what you’re reading and what’s been on your mind lately.

What Makes a Hit
The Fiction Phenomena of the Past Five Years

As a reader who primarily gravitates toward thrillers and romance, I’ve read 7 out of the 20 most successful fiction books of the last five years—and here are my raw thoughts.

I’m no literary expert, but I am an avid reader. And honestly? I found most of these titles genuinely enjoyable! My ratings mostly fall in the four- to five-star range—with one solid two-star read that I just couldn’t connect with. (We’ll get to that.)

This got me thinking: What exactly makes a book blow up in such a big way? Why these titles, at this particular moment in time?

After reading and reflecting, I think it comes down to two key things:

1. These books are heartfelt and easy to digest.
They often strike a careful balance—emotionally resonant but never too heavy, often plot-forward, and very readable. Not to say they’re fluff. Many of them touch on real emotional terrain: grief, mental health, heartbreak, trauma, hope. But they tend to present these themes in an accessible, hopeful way that keeps the pages turning.

2. Social media is the new word of mouth.
I first heard about every single one of these books through social platforms like #BookTok and #Bookstagram. The book community online is incredibly powerful—news travels fast, reviews are deeply influential, and a single viral video can launch a book to the top of the charts.

In fact, one of the biggest surprises for me? Every single book on this list has either already been adapted or is currently in talks for a film or TV adaptation. Isn’t it wild to think that, as readers, we’re helping shape the pop culture narrative in real time?

That’s a powerful—and beautiful—thing. This shared influence, this community we’re all part of, matters more than we might think. When we post, review, gush, recommend, or lend a book to a friend, we’re adding to a momentum that can ripple all the way to Hollywood.

A Few Quick Stats:

Here’s what else stood out to me about this list of the top 20 bestselling fiction books of the last five years:

• Genre Breakdown:

  • Romance & Romantasy: 40%

  • Thriller/Mystery: 20%

  • Fantasy/Sci-Fi: 20%

  • Historical Fiction: 10%

  • Contemporary Fiction: 10%

• Authorship:

  • 12 of the 20 books were written by women

  • Only 3 of the 20 were debut authors

• Common Themes:

  • Women-led stories

  • Genre mashups (Romance + STEM, fantasy + romance, etc.)

  • Mental health, grief, healing, and transformation

  • Plot-driven but emotionally engaging writing

  • Nearly all books are between 350–400 pages and average over 3.5 stars on Goodreads

What I Hope to See Next

Looking ahead, one thing I’d love to see in the next wave of bestsellers is more debut authors and fresh, diverse voices. Especially considering only three of the twenty books on this list came from debut authors.

That’s why we read, right? Whether it’s to escape or to better understand the world we live in, encountering new perspectives helps shape our own. And to me, that’s one of the most wonderful parts of being a reader.

The Books I’ve Read From the List:

So far, I’ve read 7 of the 20 titles, and here’s how they stacked up for me:

• Favorites (4-5 stars):
  The Silent Patient, The Midnight Library, The Housemaid, The Guest List, and The Love Hypothesis

• One I Struggled With (2 stars):
  It Starts With Us – This was the one that didn’t quite land for me. I know it’s beloved, and I get the appeal, but I personally found it a little slow and predictable.

And now? I’ve got 11 more books from the list currently sitting on my shelves—and I’m especially excited to dive into The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab. That one’s been calling my name for a while now.

Which of these top-selling books from the last five years stood out to you the most? Any on your TBR that you’ve been saving for the perfect reading mood?

Let’s compare notes—because if there’s one thing this list proves, it’s that the best reads are the ones we talk about together.

The Last Time I Lied: A Perfect Spooky Summer Camp Adventure

As I read my way through Riley Sager’s backlist, The Last Time I Lied was the natural next pick. I was craving a thriller set at a summer camp by a lake–and so far, it hasn’t disappointed me. The setting is pitch-perfect; I feel like I’m right there at camp, completely immersed. It has transported me back to my own adolescent summers–playing games, building friendships, and trying to fit in with the older, seemingly more confident girls.

Sager really nails that universal teenage desire to belong. The story captures all the hallmarks of girlhood: awkward moments, whispered secrets, embarrassing missteps, and flashes of carefree fun. One of my favorite Sager signatures is that constant, unsettling question: Is something paranormal going on… or is someone pulling the strings? That blurred line creates this delicious paranoia that makes you devour pages faster, always second-guessing what’s real.

I’m almost finished, and I can’t wait to see how the truth finally unfolds. I’ve grown so invested in these characters and need to know how it ends. After this, the only Sager novel I have left is Survive the Night–and I’m already excited to dive into that one, too!

Blurb

Two Truths and a Lie—Vivian, Natalie, Allison, and Emma played it constantly in their cabin at Camp Nightingale. But the game ended the night Emma, half-asleep, watched the others slip silently into the woods. The last thing she—or anyone—saw was Vivian pausing at the door, pressing a finger to her lips to hush Emma before disappearing into the dark.

Fifteen years later, Emma is a rising star in the New York art world, channeling her haunted past into large-scale paintings—canvases of tangled branches and shadowy leaves framing spectral girls in white dresses. When her work captures the attention of Camp Nightingale’s wealthy owner, Emma receives an unexpected invitation: return to the newly reopened camp as a painting instructor.

Driven by lingering guilt—and perhaps a need for answers—Emma agrees to go back. Camp Nightingale looks almost untouched, the same midnight-dark lake, the same familiar faces. She’s even placed in her old cabin—only now, a security camera watches her door.

As unsettling clues about the camp’s history begin to surface, Emma becomes determined to uncover the truth of what happened that night. But the answers she seeks might cost more than she’s prepared to give.

NEW DEAL ALERT!!!

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By AJ Van Belle (they/them)

A note from Rebecca: Buckle up everyone. Today this month’s newsletter has been written by my fellow agent A.J. Van Belle! We are hearing about their client, and I am so intrigued by the books (unpublished and published) that are mentioned. Next time I’ll also be featuring a client, and check out the New Deals section for a new Publishers Marketplace announcement! Stay tuned for more updates.

Oaths, Magic, and Mercenaries: Meet Fantasy Author Lee A. Everett

An introductory note from A.J.:

My client Lee A. Everett writes gorgeous, sweeping fantasies with powerful female leads and romance to die for (and that’s absolutely NOT a spoiler for her on-submission book, nope, not one bit … even if it IS inspired by Romeo and Juliet).

With Lee’s powerful grasp of the novel-writing craft, she has an incredible career ahead of her. We wanted to give you the chance to get to know her a bit better, so we asked her a few questions.

Can you tell us a little about your book on submission, THE OATHS THAT BIND US?

Yes! I had a lot of fun working on this one. I wrote the first scene several years ago, which was adapted from a vivid dream (feels cliche to admit, but it’s true!), and it sat while I worked on another manuscript. When the time came, it felt like I wrote it quickly, perhaps because it had been simmering in my brain for so long. Ultimately, I wanted to tell a story not about those in power or who want power, but from the perspective of those important “helpers” who believe in their cause and will do whatever they can for it–and what happens if those loyalties start to shift. (Because who doesn’t love a good conflict in loyalties??) It is an adult fantasy with a strong romantic subplot, featuring a lot of my personal catnip:

🩸 ill-advised oaths

⚗️ potions, poisons, political coups

🗡️ a mercenary who should(n't) be trusted(?)

🌊 disguised identities

💔 star-crossed lovers 

🐎 only one horse

Here’s the formal pitch: Amid an epic clash of nations, Lyn is absolutely loyal to her empress. She’s also a magical Oathmaker: every oath someone speaks to her becomes immutably binding. When she’s kidnapped by—and accidentally Oathbound to—a mercenary captain who wants to burn the empire down, Lyn realizes that her curse might be a gift … and her empress might be the true villain in this war.

How long have you been writing? How many manuscripts did you write before OATHS?

I’ve been writing since I was a child (lots of short stories of myself and cousins going on small adventures). In high school and college, my main hobby was writing fanfiction online, which was a fun way to interact with the fandom, get immediate feedback on my writing style and storytelling techniques, and play with characterization. Basically, I loved writing and knew I had my own stories to tell, but I didn’t know how to develop them.

I’ve been writing with the hope and intention of one day becoming a published author for about 15 years, although for a large part of this time I was pursuing day-job professional goals and not able to focus on writing consistently. When I could, I started studying writing as a craft, and slowly gathered my group of writing friends and critique partners. Various NaNoWriMo projects became the “zero” drafts of several full-length novels–including OATHS. 

I have finished three manuscripts but only truly polished (and queried) one other project prior to finishing OATHS. The project before OATHS was my real “learning” manuscript, where I figured out pacing and character motivations, and re-wrote it probably too many times trying to get it right. And also delved with it, for the first time, into the query trenches. Working through that novel truly developed my revision skills and the ability to take feedback regarding “a darling”, and I feel the years I spent on that book put me in the position, skill and mindset-wise, to write OATHS. And most importantly, it was through working on that book that I met AJ!

How do you balance writing with your day job? What does your writing routine look like?

 It can be difficult, because my job can wear through my reserves of concentration and focus by the time I get home. I have found the best success with trying to write consistently and aiming to hit a certain word goal 5 days a week. This is sustainable and keeps me itching to work on the next scene, but also gives time for me to think ahead on what I want to write the next day. However, I will take breaks to “refill the well” as I need to, to avoid burnout. I think it’s more important now than ever to cherish and protect what brings us joy!

I work off of a very loose outline (my critique partners will laugh at this–it is very loose). I lean a lot on exploration and letting the characters guide the scene, though I have gotten better at starting with certain plot/character “goals” for each chapter. (Maybe not the most efficient process, but it’s how my brain works.) Revising that rough draft, tweaking it and implementing feedback and taking it from zero draft to polished, is where I find the most fun in the writing process.

What led you to sign with the Booker Albert Agency?

My relationship with AJ! I very much trust them with my writing projects and career, and feel we work very well together. AJ was an intern with the agency and had great things to say about the support they received working with Jordy, so it made me confident that the agency will be a good home for me. 

Do you want to share anything about your future plans and dreams for your writing career?

Only that I’m very excited to be embarking on this adventure! I have several other fantasy and science fiction ideas up my sleeve–and perhaps even a full romance–and hope to see my books at the bookstore one day!

A Sorceress Comes to Call: A Horror-Fantasy with Heart

When I picked up A Sorceress Comes to Call, I was expecting a horror version of The Goose Girl fairy tale. After all, in years past I’d read Shannon Hale’s Books of Bayern series, an intricate version of the tale for teen readers, one that could be said to be horror-adjacent. So I was expecting dark. Murky. Maybe even enough to scare me (and not much on the page does). I should have known that where the name T. Kingfisher is attached, there’s always humor, joy, and heartfelt relationships. Not to mention incredibly inventive departure from the inspirational source material. So, yes, A Sorceress Comes to Call is a horror-fantasy. Yes, it takes inspiration from The Goose Girl. But it’s also a fest of tragedies that lead to joyous triumphs, a jaundiced look at death and greed that never loses its sense of humor, and a wholly original and surprising story. I read it fast, so it’s really more of a “just finished” than a current read. In short, this 2025 Hugo-nominated novel is definitely worth checking out!

Blurb

Cordelia knows her mother is... different. Their house has no doors between rooms—"no secrets in this house!" her mother says—and Cordelia isn’t allowed even a single friend. Unless you count Falada, her mother’s striking white horse. Only when riding him does Cordelia feel truly free.

But her mother’s eccentricities go far beyond the odd or unusual. Other parents don’t demand that their daughters sit perfectly still—silent and obedient—for hours, even days. Other mothers aren’t sorcerers.

After a suspicious death rocks their small town, Cordelia’s mother forces them to flee under cover of night, riding away on Falada’s back and leaving behind everything Cordelia has ever known. They arrive at the secluded estate of a wealthy older man, the Squire, and his sharp, unmarried sister, Hester. Cordelia’s mother has a plan: ensnare the Squire in marriage. Cordelia is certain this spells disaster—for the bumbling gentleman, and especially for his kind, perceptive sister.

And Hester notices. She sees how Cordelia flinches under her mother’s gaze, how she sits like a statue at dinner. Hester realizes that to save her brother—and the frightened girl under this witch’s control—she must confront a sorceress more dangerous than she ever imagined.

Check out these new releases!!!

Flirty Dancing

Druid Cursed

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Biweekly! Join us today to hear my thoughts on what makes the perfect hook. The above for example is not an extraordinary hook. This is the intro to a newsletter, which by nature tends to be quite formulaic. But surprisingly, even for the creative arts, there is a method to the madness. Nearly every aspect of the creative process starts with some sort of formula, and the hook is no different.

How to Catch an Agent—Hook, Line, and Sinker

Have you ever sent your book to a friend or family member, only to hear nothing back? You know they didn’t read much of it.

Throughout high school and college, I have had many friends express interest in reading my novels. They were fascinated by my intricate worldbuilding and characters. "Send me the book!" they would say.

And I did. Then—crickets.

Over time, I realized they were more interested in my passion than in spending hours reading an unedited, amateur novel. I don’t blame them, but it left me with one pressing question: How do you grab someone from the very first line of your book?

As I’ve gained experience as a creative editor, that question has become less mysterious, though it retains an incredibly subjective element. Below, I break down how to craft a hook that keeps me reading until I sign the book.

Examples of Effective Hooks

These are some raw, unedited hooks from some of the books that captured my attention and encouraged me to continue reading the until I signed that author:

• THE SELLER OF SECRETS—On the island of Bardia, the attuale magic stirred.

• WHEN LIBERTY WEPT—There are four of them. They fill the doorframe, spilling into the front hall.

• DEATH LIVES IN THE ATTIC—The crisp autumn weather this October seemed extra still, as if someone had put it on pause.

• THE CLOAK AND ITS WIZARD—I’m picky about wizards.

• THE TWIN SOULS OF NOKLYN—“There were three heartbeats,” Acolyte Locke says to himself while wiping his bloody hands on a cloth rag.

What Makes These Hooks Work?

Nearly every successful hook does one or more of the following:

• Creates tension

• Introduces an intriguing concept

• Communicates the initial tone by describing a visually stunning scene

Here’s how the hooks above fit into these categories:

• Concept/Scene Setting — On the island of Bardia, the attuale magic stirred.

• Tension/Scene Setting — There are four of them. They fill the doorframe, spilling into the front hall.

• Scene Setting — The crisp autumn weather this October seemed extra still, as if someone had put it on pause.

• Concept — I’m picky about wizards.

• Concept/Scene Setting/Tension — “There were three heartbeats,” Acolyte Locke says to himself while wiping his bloody hands on a cloth rag.

What Can We Learn from Famous First Lines?

Now that we have looked at hooks from my personal experience, let’s study what works. Let’s look at some well-known fantasy openings:

• "The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed."
  — Stephen King, The Gunslinger

  This line immediately creates tension. There is immediate action. We don’t know who the man in black is or why he’s being chased, but we already want to find out.

• "In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit."
  — J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

  This line introduces a concept. What are hobbits? And why do they live in the ground?

• “The studio was filled with the rich odor of roses, and when the light summer wind stirred amidst the trees of the garden, there came through the open door the heavy scent of the lilac, or the more delicate perfume of the pink-flowering thorn.”

  —Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray
  This descriptive line sets the scene and the tone for the beginning of this book. From this readers will expect that more beautifully visual lines like this. It also sets the tone of decadence and beauty, setting the stage for the novel's exploration of aestheticism and the conflict between outward appearance and inner corruption.

But not all hooks are created equal. Here’s an example of what not to do:

• "Once upon a time in a land far, far away, there was a kingdom where magic existed."

  Why it fails: This feels generic. There’s nothing unique or intriguing—no reason for the reader to keep going. The author of this might consider rewriting it to focus on a unique aspect of their premise. Something like: "One cool October evening, the king’s most trusted wizard disappeared without a trace."

• "The sun rose over the tranquil village, casting golden hues on the thatched rooftops."

  Why it fails: This feels generic. Tranquil is not very specific. There is nothing voicey about this description. It might evoke some atmosphere and an image in your head, but it could be much stronger.

  This line needs more voice. Something like: “The sun dragged itself up over the sleepy village, casting lazy golden light that knocked against each thatched rooftop and slipped through the cracks between shutters, informing the town it was time to wake.”

• “"He stepped into the dark alley, glancing over his shoulder, but there was nothing behind him."

  Why it fails: This does have the potential to be an interesting tension inspiring hook. The action of entering a dark alley and looking over the shoulder sets up some tension, but the anticlimactic reveal that there’s nothing behind him diffuses any sense of danger.

  Could be stronger as: “When the unmistakable echo of footsteps came from behind him, he turned—and saw nothing.”

Be Sure to Avoid Information Overload

While an intriguing premise is great, too much information too soon can be overwhelming. If I wanted to rewrite one of my authors’ hooks into something ineffective it would be like this:

• THE CLOAK AND ITS WIZARD—As a magical artifact who has a lot of opinions about wizards, I really take my time when looking for the perfect wizard to bond with.

Why doesn’t this work?

• It overexplains instead of creating curiosity.

• It isn’t punchy or memorable.

• It suggests readers will have to wade through more dense exposition.

If you’re writing a hook that introduces your world, keep it simple and intriguing. Readers aren’t invested yet. They don’t have the drive to listen to the gritty details yet, and they don’t want to be confused from the very first line. Give them just enough to make them want more.

Crafting a Strong Hook

Want to write a killer first line? Try these approaches:

Use Tension — Start with action or a moment of suspense.
Example: "Over the harsh sound of his own breathing, Baltsaros could hear his pursuers splashing in puddles and shouting to each other in the dark."
— Nicole Luiken, The Simple Queen (Unpublished)

Paint a Picture — A visually stunning line can set the tone and create atmosphere.
Example: "The sky above the port was the color of television, tuned to a dead channel."
— William Gibson, Neuromancer

Hint Toward Your Unique Concept— A great hook makes the reader wonder what happens next.
Example: "It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen."
— George Orwell, 1984

At the end of the day, the best hooks do one thing: they make the reader ask a question they absolutely need answered. That’s the key to keeping them turning pages.

Booker Albert Update

We are unfortunately saying goodbye to Andie Smith! Though we are sad to see her go, we wish her well on all her endeavors! See you around Andie!

A Song to Wake a Thousand Sorrows: A Hauntingly Beautiful Fantasy

Some books just hit you. When I first picked up A Song to Wake a Thousand Sorrows, I had no idea what was in store. Just look at this first line: The creature in the swamp could not remember being a woman, though its form remained that of a human female.

I’m going to be honest, this book isn’t really a current read since I read it all in a single sitting. The hook does a fabulous job of inspiring questions about the concept and evoking tension, causing me to wonder about the future conflict (will she become human again?). Very much in the same vein as When the Moon Hatched, it’s a story that describes the powerful journey of recovering from trauma—something that lingers long after the final page.

Fair warning: This book is quite dark, and it ends on a cliffhanger. I would recommend checking out the trigger warnings before reading this book.

I can’t wait to read the sequel!

Blurb

Clare Brighton has spent her life clawing her way toward security, determined that the horrors of her past will never touch her again. Armed with nothing but a battered guitar and the rare gift of a Songweaver, she arrives in the capital of the Faelhorn Provinces, ready to claim her place among the elite. But Clare harbors a secret far more dangerous than her music. An ancient force she calls the Song stirs within her—restless, insatiable, and no longer willing to be contained. And the ruthless Jackal King has spent years searching for such power. If he discovers what she carries, the cost will be far greater than her life. Clare has vowed that no one will ever control her again. But escaping the Jackal King’s notice will require something she never wanted: allies. A pair of noble lords who see more than she’d like. A second prince hiding secrets of his own. And, in the end, the Song itself—if it does not consume her first.

Check out these new releases!!!

Flirty Dancing

Druid Cursed

Stay tuned every Thursday 10 AM.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Biweekly! I'm thrilled to be writing this week’s newsletter about the query process!

Did We Read Your Query Before Rejecting It?

I think most people who are in the query trenches wonder how much time literary agents dedicate to each query they get. Literary agents receive hundreds and sometimes thousands of queries per month. Personally, I try to give every query a fighting chance when it comes through my inbox. I think most agents are genuinely interested in hearing what you have to say—after all, if we don’t read our queries, how can we find our next client?

BUT there are some reasons your query might be rejected before it is even read. After speaking with my fellow agents, I’ve compiled a list of what you can do to ensure that we actually get to your query.

Automatic Rejections

Adhere to the Guidelines

Every agency has submission guidelines, and they exist for a reason. These guidelines help agents manage the volume of queries they receive and ensure they’re reviewing submissions in a way that best fits their workflow. If an agency requests a query letter, a synopsis, and the first ten pages, don’t send a full manuscript or just a blurb. If they specify genres they represent, don’t send something outside of those categories. Ignoring guidelines often results in an automatic rejection.

It is also a good idea to do some quick research on the agent that you want to submit to. For example, I do not represent picture books. Anything tagged as a picture book in my inbox will be automatically rejected.

If your book includes triggering topics, consider each agent’s Manuscript Wishlist to see if they have specified what topics they don’t represent. It also would be a good idea to include trigger warnings in your query letter.

Only Pitch Unpublished Books

This may seem like an obvious rule, but I still receive queries for self-published books multiple times a month. If you’ve already self-published your book and are seeking representation, most agents will pass. Traditional publishers generally want first-time English rights, meaning the book hasn’t been published anywhere before.

This includes querying foreign rights. If you published your book in Australia and want to release it in the U.S. or Europe, an agent still can’t represent it in the same way as an unpublished manuscript. At Booker Albert, we are primarily interested in First Time English Rights.

Only Pitch the First Book in a Series

If you’re writing a series, that’s great! But when querying, only pitch the first book. If an agent is interested, they’ll ask about series potential. Including a lengthy explanation of multiple books in your query can be overwhelming and unnecessary—focus on making the first book stand out. If you have already self-published the first book in the series, we typically are not interested in the rest of the series.

Your Sample Pages Should Start on Page 1

Unless an agent explicitly states otherwise, always submit sample pages starting from the beginning of your book. The opening pages are designed to hook the reader, and agents want to see how you introduce your story. Submitting a random chapter in the middle of the book can make it difficult for us to evaluate your writing properly.

Pay Attention to Word Counts

I sometimes hear people say that because Harry Potter broke the wordcount for its target audience that means that word count standards are meant to be broken. While there are always exceptions, these exceptions mostly center on already successful authors. As a debut author, a mismatched word count will result in agents (and acquiring editors for that matter) to automatically reject the pitch. Most agents look for books that fall within standard industry word count ranges for their genre. A debut novel that is far too short (e.g., a 30,000-word adult fantasy) or far too long (e.g., a 250,000-word YA novel) raises red flags. Do your research on the expected word count for your genre before submitting.

Include a Pitch in Your Query Letter

If I see a query letter that is only a paragraph long, it’s usually missing a crucial element: the pitch. A query letter should introduce your book, provide a brief but compelling pitch (similar to a book jacket summary), and include relevant information about you as the author. Agents need to know what your book is about before they can decide whether to request more pages!

There are tons of resources out there on how to write a great query letter. If you want to pursue a career as an author, researching this query-letter-writing process is key!

If You Have Submitted to Another Agent at the Same Agency

Most agencies have policies about querying multiple agents at the same firm. Some allow it, but many don’t. Here at Booker Albert, we want you to make sure the agent you have submitted to has passed before submitting that manuscript to another agent at our agency. Before sending a query to a second agent at the same agency, check the agency’s website. If their policy states that a rejection from one agent is a rejection from the whole agency, don’t submit that manuscript again unless explicitly invited to do so.

Bad Practices

Avoid Bad Comps

Some writers try to justify their book by explaining why the market needs it or by comparing it to wildly successful bestsellers. While recently published comps are helpful, saying your book is “the next Harry Potter” or “better than The Hunger Games” can come across as unrealistic.

Don’t Apologize or Undermine Your Work

Many writers include lines like, “I have no experience yet” or “This probably isn’t good enough, but…” in their queries. Confidence is key! Agents want to see that you believe in your book. Let your writing speak for itself without unnecessary self-doubt. If you have no relevant writing qualifications, that is okay! But pointing it out is probably unnecessary. Instead write your bio about yourself, where you live, what you do. If you don’t include it, we will assume that you don’t have any previous writing or publishing experience.

Skip the Cliffhangers in the Synopsis

Your synopsis should include all of the twists and the end of the book. Agents aren’t afraid of spoilers! Avoid saying things like, “To find out what happens next, you’ll have to read the manuscript!” Agents need enough information to decide if they want to see more.

These are just a few common reasons your query might be rejected before an agent fully reads through it. If you’re unsure about query etiquette, a quick Google search or a YouTube video on “how to write a good query letter” can be incredibly helpful. Research is key. Agents want to find great stories, so give your query the best chance by following these simple guidelines!

We look forward to reading your work!

Squire: A Graphic Novel Worth Your Time

As an agent who is an artist, I love to see stories conveyed visually on the page. Last month I was loitering around Barnes & Noble and stumbled upon Squire by Nadia Shammas and Sara Alfageeh. I love the aesthetic. There’s something about a beautifully illustrated coming-of-age tale that pulls you in, but the reason I picked it up was to experience the compelling action scenes. Conveying action (especially fight scenes/hand-to-hand combat) is difficult in written form, and when a graphic novel can successfully do this, it displays a mastery of both written and visual storytelling.

Blurb

In a war-torn empire where only the privileged can become knights, Aiza, a determined girl from an oppressed class, dreams of earning her place among them. When she is accepted into the competitive Squire training program, she sees it as her chance to prove herself and secure a better future. But as she undergoes grueling training and forms unexpected friendships, Aiza begins to uncover dark truths about the empire and the role of the knights she once idolized. Faced with a choice between loyalty and justice, she must decide where she truly belongs before it’s too late.

A laugh-out-loud spicy adventure romcom. Perfect for fans of The Lost City, Lyla Sage and Christina Lauren.

A surprise gift is exactly what Adriana Jones needs to improve her vacation, and a bracelet with gems will do the trick. Except once it’s on, she’s faced with two problems:

—The bracelet is actually meant for Andrew Jones—the renowned and utterly gorgeous archaeologist.

—It will not come off, no matter how hard she tries…

Andrew Jones needs this bracelet if he wants to find an ancient lost treasure deep in the jungles of Colombia. And there’s no way he’s letting Adriana’s mistake cost him his career. There’s only one solution: Adriana must accompany him on his quest. Trekking through jungles and crawling through crypts wasn’t on Adriana’s vacation agenda, but an adventure with the very sexy Dr Jones might just be the treasure she’s been seeking…

What to expect:

• Forced Proximity

• Opposites Attract

• Fish out of Water

• Destination romcom

• Slow burn

• Spicy

It sounds super fun! Paperbacks will be available for purchase on May 8th, 2025, and the eBook will be available on May 2nd, 2025.

Instagram: @oliviajacksonbooks  @onemorechapterhc

Stay tuned the first Thursday every month at 10 AM.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Newsletter! Just have a quick announcement that we are going down to once a month for the newsletter. Going forward stay tuned for the first Thursday of every month for more!

We will be back on the 7th of March!

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Biweekly! Join us this week for a pek at some of our backstories here at Booker Albert!

Booker Albert Backstories!

I wanted to write a bit about backstories today—our backstories! We all have different paths that led us agents to Booker Albert, and I wanted us to talk a little bit about what got us into agenting—which seems to me like a fairly niche career. Becoming an agent isn’t exactly common. When writing this week’s newsletter, just for my own curiosity, I went to look at QueryTracker to see how many agents were listed there.

And WOW, now if you will try and imagine the ratio of agents to aspiring authors…
Anyway, becoming a literary agent is a unique path for each person.

☕ Rebecca ☕

It’s me! The short of the matter is I got my first glimpse into this fantastic, competitive industry after querying my first book at 18. As a small child, I loved to tell stories, but I never really discovered writing until my Grandma prompted us grandkids to write a short story with her. I was hooked! After that my grandma and I went to writing conferences together for several years, until finally at 18 I had something to pitch! It was a great experience, but even at that young age I began to realize the mountain I would need to climb to become a successful author. I went on to write four more books (and many other half-completed projects). It wasn’t until college that I decided that instead of pitching agents, I wanted to become one. Over the years, I have discovered that while I enjoy writing, editing and reading are just as enjoyable. But enough about me!

🐕 Jordy 🐕

I loved learning to read in first grade, so I’ve always loved books! My dad and I would read the comics and other articles from the newspaper, and my aunt would read with my cousin and I when I would stay over. I had so much fun participating in Book It! and always exceeded my goal. Since I’ve always loved to read, I’ve always been interested in how books make it to the shelf, which led me to interning with a literary agency. I love working with my authors, and it’s always exciting to walk into a bookstore and see their books on shelves.
 

📔 Andie 📔

For as long as I can remember, I have been obsessed with books. I started reading from a very young age and was always reading way above my grade level. I was the cliche girl who quite literally always had her nose in a book. Sometime in middle school, that turned into my own scribblings of short stories, songs, and poems. It was just for fun, just for me, but I loved it. A few years later that turned into wanting to write my own book and the process began.

I started as an intern at Booker Albert in 2022 and funny enough, it was completely on a whim. I was researching internships for my Master’s program and stumbled upon a posting for a literary agency internship. I did more research and knew it was something I wanted to apply for, but I never thought it would lead me to where I am today. It started as a fun way to earn class credit, and in the end I discovered an entirely new career for myself and a passion for this whole other world I had only known as a “hobby.” I’ve always invested in books I read, and connected with them on a level I didn’t find was shared with my peers. No matter what genre it was, if I was immersed, it became my entire life until I finished the story. Then I would be in a rut for days, weeks even, until I found a new book or series to obsess over.

Now, a little over a year into full-time agenting, I can confirm I have found what I want to do for the rest of my life. My experience at my agency and with my authors has driven me to be more confident in myself and my passion for books; it’s so much more than a hobby. It’s me. It’s my dream, and I am so grateful I get to live it each and every day. It’s led me to write more of my own stories and start my own business for helping authors achieve their publishing goals, whether that’s getting representation or a publishing deal. I’m here for the long run and I look forward to growing, learning, and absorbing this industry as much as I can along the way.

A Fond Farewell and Happy Hello!

💗 Goodbye Helen Lane! 💗

It is somewhat of a changing season here at Booker Albert. This month we are saying goodbye to one of our agents, Helen Lane. While we are sad to see her go, we wish her the best in her career and hope to see her around! At the same time, we are welcoming a new agent!

New Agent Alert!

🖋️ AJ Van Belle (they/them) 🖋️

I've always been surrounded by books and writing. My parents both had huge collections of books that only grew throughout my childhood, and one of my favorite activities was to read the spines of the books in our home library. Years before I was old enough to read some of those books, the array of titles captivated me. I think my desire to tell stories was inborn, and I almost like to think of it as a smart choice on my baby self’s part to be born to parents who were so involved in literature and storytelling themselves. I've been a writer my whole life and have been writing novels for almost 33 years now, but I didn't think of becoming a literary agent as an option that would ever be accessible to me until a little less than 2 years ago.

By the time I started interning at the Booker Albert Agency in 2023, I had been involved in mentorship programs for a couple of years and discovered I love helping a talented fellow writer take their manuscript from good to great—or maybe it's more accurate to say from great to even greater. I'd seen that my mentees were finding representation with awesome agents, and I was also seeing that the relationships we built were mutually rewarding, powerful amplifiers for the mentees’ writing processes. This gave me an inkling that my career path was likely to continue to include discovering new voices and helping to advance authors’ careers.

Having started writing books at a time before most people had access to the internet, and in fact before I had anything other than a dedicated word processor (that had recently replaced my electric typewriter), I know how it feels to walk that road largely alone. I know now what a huge difference it makes to have someone in your corner, how much strength there is in working with someone who believes in you, and by mentoring I learned I could be that person who’s in someone’s corner. Which is why, two summers ago, I sought out the opportunity for a literary agency internship and connected with Jordy. After spending a fantastic 18 months interning at the Booker Albert Agency, I’m now very excited to be moving into agenting myself. I've just signed my first client, an author of subtly beautiful, intricate high fantasy. I’ll be opening to queries for the first time soon, and I’m thrilled and honored to look forward to connecting with new writers and new voices.

Welcome AJ Van Belle! We are excited to add you to the team!

The Spellshop a Spectacular Debut

One of the books that I, Rebecca Lawrence, am currently reading is The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst. The opening pages were really captivating, but the real reason I pulled it off the shelf is because of the beautiful cover!

Blurb

Kiela, a librarian at the Great Library of Alyssium, has spent years hidden away with magical books. But when a revolution destroys the library, she and her sentient spider plant assistant, Caz, flee to Kiela’s childhood home on a remote island. The island is in disrepair, suffering from destructive storms and neglected magic. To make things right, Kiela opens a secret spellshop, though sharing magic with commoners is punishable by death. As she builds a new life in the quirky town, Kiela also starts making jam as a cover for her spellshop, blending magic with homemade treats to win over the island’s residents and rebuild the community she once abandoned.

Finding time to read outside of work is difficult, but I think this book will be worth the effort! In the future, I would love this section to also feature current reads from other agents and authors.

A laugh-out-loud spicy adventure romcom. Perfect for fans of The Lost City, Lyla Sage and Christina Lauren.

A surprise gift is exactly what Adriana Jones needs to improve her vacation, and a bracelet with gems will do the trick. Except once it’s on, she’s faced with two problems:

—The bracelet is actually meant for Andrew Jones—the renowned and utterly gorgeous archaeologist.

—It will not come off, no matter how hard she tries…

Andrew Jones needs this bracelet if he wants to find an ancient lost treasure deep in the jungles of Colombia. And there’s no way he’s letting Adriana’s mistake cost him his career. There’s only one solution: Adriana must accompany him on his quest. Trekking through jungles and crawling through crypts wasn’t on Adriana’s vacation agenda, but an adventure with the very sexy Dr Jones might just be the treasure she’s been seeking…

What to expect:

• Forced Proximity

• Opposites Attract

• Fish out of Water

• Destination romcom

• Slow burn

• Spicy

It sounds super fun! Paperbacks will be available for purchase on May 8th, 2025, and the eBook will be available on May 2nd, 2025.

Instagram: @oliviajacksonbooks  @onemorechapterhc

Stay tuned every other Thursday at 10 AM.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Biweekly! Lately it seems like we hear so many discouraging things about the publishing industry. So this week I wanted to focus on a hopeful topic! New imprints equals new opportunities!

New Year Equals New Imprints

Book sales were up overall last year so it’s no wonder that there is a slew of imprints being released. All big five publishing houses are planning on opening one or more imprint/s this year. It will be interesting to see what these imprints mean for next year’s sales.

Thousand Voices x RHPG—PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE

With the first book set to be published in October 2025, Thousand Voices x RHPG has acquired six books so far. Jenna Bush Hager's Thousand Voices Media has partnered with the Random House Publishing Group to introduce Thousand Voices x RHPG. This venture aims to publish works from debut and emerging authors across various genres, including romance, suspense, and memoirs. Bush Hager will collaborate with editors throughout the publishing process to ensure each book's success. Among the titles acquired by the imprint are Conform by Ariel Sullivan, a psychological thriller exploring the dark side of societal conformity, Beyond the Stars by Cassie Blake, a heartwarming romance set in a small town with a twist of destiny, and The Long Road Home by Rachel Adams, a memoir detailing the emotional journey of reconnecting with one's roots. These acquisitions reflect the imprint's commitment to offering diverse and compelling stories that resonate with a broad readership.

Publishers Marketplace

Primero Sueño Press—Simon & SCHUSTER

Atria Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, announced a new imprint Primero Sueño Press in February 2024. Named after the famous poem Primero Sueño by renowned Mexican poet Sor Juana Inez de la Cruz, this imprint will serve both English and Spanish speakers seeking books about identity, culture, inspiration, entertainment, wellness, and personal development. Among the books Primero Sueño Press has already acquired are Rooted in Heritage by Maria Elena Garcia, a memoir reflecting on the intersection of cultural identity and personal growth, The Healing Winds of Oaxaca by Pilar Reyes, a wellness guide blending traditional Mexican healing practices with modern self-care strategies, and Weaving Dreams by Carlos Alvarez, a collection of stories exploring the complexities of family and legacy in the contemporary Latinx experience.

Publishers Marketplace

Saturday Books—St. Martins (Macmillan)

Macmillan’s St. Martin's Publishing Group announces the launch of Saturday Books in Fall 2025. This new imprint focuses on New Adult fiction, targeting readers aged 18-30 with stories that explore themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of young adulthood. Among its early acquisitions are The Last Thorn by Talia Hibbert, a spicy magical retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in an alternative modern-day Britain, and several debut works.

Publishers Marketplace

HarperPop—Harper Collins

In Winter 2025 HarperCollins launches HarperPop, a dynamic imprint focused on licensed publications, pop culture tie-ins, and trend-driven titles. Targeting both adult and young audiences, HarperPop bridges the gap between literature and entertainment, bringing to life books inspired by popular media, fan-favorite franchises, and cultural phenomena. Among the imprint's newly acquired titles are Star Wars: The Lost Jedi Chronicles, an exclusive expanded universe novel, The Witcher: Tales of the White Wolf, a spin-off from the hit franchise, and Heroes Reborn, a novel that builds on the popular superhero television series.

Publishers Marketplace

Run For It—Orbit (Hachette)

Orbit announces the launch of Run For It, a bold new imprint dedicated to horror fiction, set to debut in Summer 2025. Run For It will publish its first three titles in Summer 2025, offering readers a terrifying and immersive experience. The imprint has already acquired My Ex, The Antichrist by Craig DiLouie, Moonflow by Bitter Karella, and I’ll Make a Spectacle of You by Beatrice Winifred Iker.

Publishers Marketplace


Want to see more? There are several more new imprints coming from the Big Five and other publishing houses—List of New Imprints from Publishers Marketplace
 

What a TikTok Ban Could Have Meant for Sales

If the TikTok ban ever goes through, it would significantly impact book sales, especially for titles popular on BookTok, where viral recommendations have driven many books onto bestseller lists. A 2023 study revealed TikTok’s role in boosting book sales, and a ban would disrupt this marketing magic, making it harder for authors and publishers to reach audiences, which could lower visibility and sales. If the US ever loses TikTok, the book industry would need to find alternative marketing methods to replace TikTok’s impact.

A laugh-out-loud spicy adventure romcom. Perfect for fans of The Lost City, Lyla Sage and Christina Lauren.

A surprise gift is exactly what Adriana Jones needs to improve her vacation, and a bracelet with gems will do the trick. Except once it’s on, she’s faced with two problems:

—The bracelet is actually meant for Andrew Jones—the renowned and utterly gorgeous archaeologist.

—It will not come off, no matter how hard she tries…

Andrew Jones needs this bracelet if he wants to find an ancient lost treasure deep in the jungles of Colombia. And there’s no way he’s letting Adriana’s mistake cost him his career. There’s only one solution: Adriana must accompany him on his quest. Trekking through jungles and crawling through crypts wasn’t on Adriana’s vacation agenda, but an adventure with the very sexy Dr Jones might just be the treasure she’s been seeking…

What to expect:

• Forced Proximity

• Opposites Attract

• Fish out of Water

• Destination romcom

• Slow burn

• Spicy

It sounds super fun! Paperbacks will be available for purchase on May 8th, 2025, and the eBook will be available on May 2nd, 2025.

Instagram: @oliviajacksonbooks  @onemorechapterhc

Stay tuned every other Thursday 10 AM.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Biweekly! Happy New Year! I hope you were all able to relax and enjoy the holidays!

What's New for Books This Year?

I wanted to take this opportunity to talk about some of the great book things coming out this year!

Upcoming Releases Related to Bestsellers

The Ballad of Falling Dragons

The beloved bestseller When the Moon Hatched is getting a sequel to be released October 7, 2025. We know little about it except it will probably feature love and dragons!

When the Moon Hatched Blurb:
The Creators did not expect their beloved dragons to sail skyward upon their end. To curl into balls just beyond gravity’s grip, littering the sky with tombstones. With moons. They certainly did not expect them to FALL.

As an assassin for the rebellion group Fíur du Ath, Raeve’s job is to complete orders and never get caught. When a rival bounty hunter turns her world upside down, blood spills, hearts break, and Raeve finds herself imprisoned by the Guild of Nobles—a group of powerful fae who turn her into a political statement.

Crushed by the loss of his great love, Kaan Vaegor took the head of a king and donned his melted crown. Now on a tireless quest to quell the never-ebbing ache in his chest, he is lured by a clue into the capitol’s high-security prison where he stumbles upon the imprisoned Raeve …

Echoes of the past race between them. There’s more to their story than meets the eye, but some truths are too poisonous to swallow.

Sunrise on the Reaping

Suzanne Collins returns with a prequel to The Hunger Games, focusing on Haymitch Abernathy's journey through the Second Quarter Quell. Coming out March 18, 2025!

Blurb:
As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes. Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.

When Haymitch's name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He's torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 a young friend who's nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town.

As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he's been set up to fail. But there's something in him that wants to fight . . . and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena.

Onyx Storm

The third installment in Rebecca Yarros' Empyrean series, Onyx Storm continues the epic tale of love, war, and resilience in a richly imagined world. Scheduled for release on January 21, 2025!

Blurb:
After nearly eighteen months at Basgiath War College, Violet Sorrengail knows there’s no more time for lessons. No more time for uncertainty. Because the battle has truly begun, and with enemies closing in from outside their walls and within their ranks, it’s impossible to know who to trust. Now Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands to stand with Navarre. The trip will test every bit of her wit, luck, and strength, but she will do anything to save what she loves―her dragons, her family, her home, and him. Even if it means keeping a secret so big, it could destroy everything. They need an army. They need power. They need magic. And they need the one thing only Violet can find―the truth.

But a storm is coming...and not everyone can survive its wrath.

Accomplice to the Villain

Hannah Nicole Maehrer has pulled through with the third book in the Assistant and the Villain series. Once Upon a Time meets The Office in Hannah Maehrer’s laugh-out-loud viral TikTok series turned novel, about the sunshine assistant to an Evil Villain…and their unexpected romance. If you haven’t picked this series up yet, check out the first book!

Assistant to the Villain Blurb:
ASSISTANT WANTED: Notorious, high-ranking villain seeks loyal, levelheaded assistant for unspecified office duties, supporting staff for random mayhem and terror, and other Dark Things In General. Discretion a must. Excellent benefits.

With ailing family to support, Evie Sage's employment status isn't just important, it's vital. So when a mishap with Rennedawn’s most infamous Villain results in a job offer―naturally, she says yes. No job is perfect, of course, but even less so when you develop a teeny crush on your terrifying, temperamental, and undeniably hot boss. Don’t find evil so attractive, Evie.

But just when she’s getting used to severed heads suspended from the ceiling and the odd squish of an errant eyeball beneath her heel, Evie suspects this dungeon has a huge rat…and not just the literal kind. Because something rotten is growing in the kingdom of Rennedawn, and someone wants to take the Villain―and his entire nefarious empire―out. Now Evie must not only resist drooling over her boss but also figure out exactly who is sabotaging his work…and ensure he makes them pay.

After all, a good job is hard to find.

Strength of the Few

James Islington’s sequel to The Will of the Many promises more magic, mystery, and political intrigue and releases on September 1, 2025. At the elite Catenan Academy, a young fugitive uncovers layered mysteries and world-changing secrets in this new fantasy series by internationally bestselling author of The Licanius Trilogy, James Islington.

The Will of the Many Blurb:
The Catenan Republic—the Hierarchy—may rule the world now, but they do not know everything.

I tell them my name is Vis Telimus. I tell them I was orphaned after a tragic accident three years ago, and that good fortune alone has led to my acceptance into their most prestigious school. I tell them that once I graduate, I will gladly join the rest of civilised society in allowing my strength, my drive and my focus—what they call Will—to be leeched away and added to the power of those above me, as millions already do. As all must eventually do. I tell them that I belong, and they believe me. But the truth is that I have been sent to the Academy to find answers. To solve a murder. To search for an ancient weapon. To uncover secrets that may tear the Republic apart.

And that I will never, ever cede my Will to the empire that executed my family.

To survive, though, I will still have to rise through the Academy’s ranks. I will have to smile, and make friends, and pretend to be one of them and win. Because if I cannot, then those who want to control me, who know my real name, will no longer have any use for me.

Book-to-TV/Movie Adaptations

Washington Black

Esi Edugyan's novel is set to be adapted to screen in 2025. The story follows Washington Black, a young boy on a sugar plantation in Barbados, who escapes with the help of an explorer. Their journey explores themes of freedom and identity.

Blurb:
Eleven-year-old George Washington Black—or Wash—a field slave on a Barbados sugar plantation, is initially terrified when he is chosen as the manservant of his master’s brother. To his surprise, however, the eccentric Christopher Wilde turns out to be a naturalist, explorer, inventor, and abolitionist. Soon Wash is initiated into a world where a flying machine can carry a man across the sky, where even a boy born in chains may embrace a life of dignity and meaning, and where two people, separated by an impossible divide, can begin to see each other as human.

But when a man is killed and a bounty is placed on Wash’s head, they must abandon everything and flee together. Over the course of their travels, what brings Wash and Christopher together will tear them apart, propelling Wash ever farther across the globe in search of his true self. Spanning the Caribbean to the frozen Far North, London to Morocco, Washington Black is a story of self-invention and betrayal, of love and redemption, and of a world destroyed and made whole again.

Long Bright River

Liz Moore’s mystery/thriller book is set to become a limited series on Peacock in 2025. The story follows Mickey, a police officer in a Philadelphia neighborhood affected by the opioid crisis, as she investigates her sister’s disappearance amidst a series of unsolved murders.

Blurb:
Two sisters travel the same streets, though their lives couldn't be more different. Then one of them goes missing.

In a Philadelphia neighborhood rocked by the opioid crisis, two once-inseparable sisters find themselves at odds. One, Kacey, lives on the streets in the vise of addiction. The other, Mickey, walks those same blocks on her police beat. They don't speak anymore, but Mickey never stops worrying about her sibling.

Then Kacey disappears, suddenly, at the same time that a mysterious string of murders begins in Mickey's district, and Mickey becomes dangerously obsessed with finding the culprit--and her sister--before it's too late.

Alternating its present-day mystery with the story of the sisters' childhood and adolescence, Long Bright River is at once heart-pounding and heart-wrenching: a gripping suspense novel that is also a moving story of sisters, addiction, and the formidable ties that persist between place, family, and fate.

The Sea of Monsters

Season 2 of Disney's Percy Jackson adaptation is based on the second book in Rick Riordan’s series, The Sea of Monsters. Percy embarks on a treacherous journey to protect Camp Half-Blood from mythical threats.

Blurb:
After a summer spent trying to prevent a catastrophic war among the Greek gods, Percy Jackson finds his seventh-grade school year unnervingly quiet. His biggest problem is dealing with his new friend, Tyson, a six-foot-three, mentally challenged homeless kid who follows Percy everywhere, making it hard for Percy to have any “normal” friends.

But things don’t stay quiet for long. Percy soon discovers there is trouble at Camp Half-Blood: the magical borders which protect Half-Blood Hill have been poisoned by a mysterious enemy, and the only safe haven for demigods is on the verge of being overrun by mythological monsters. To save the camp, Percy needs the help of his best friend, Grover, who has been taken prisoner by the Cyclops Polyphemus on an island somewhere in the Sea of Monsters, the dangerous waters Greek heroes have sailed for millennia, only today, the Sea of Monsters goes by a new name…the Bermuda Triangle.

Now Percy and his friends, Grover, Annabeth, and Tyson, must retrieve the Golden Fleece from the Island of the Cyclopes by the end of the summer or Camp Half-Blood will be destroyed. But first, Percy will learn a stunning new secret about his family, one that makes him question whether being claimed as Poseidon’s son is an honor or simply a cruel joke.

Graveyard Segment

Let’s have a moment of silence for those highly anticipated books and/or adaptions that for various reasons might take another decade to be released…

I’m looking at you The Doors Of Stone. And the obvious The Winds of Winter.

I loved Adrian McKinty's The Island, and Hulu acquired the rights to develop a limited series in February 2022, but who knows when it will come out.

And is this the right place to complain about the Hulu adaption of The Devil in the White City staring Leonardo DiCaprio and Keanu Reeves getting cancelled? No? Ok then.

I’m sure I have missed plenty of wonderful things that are coming out this year, but here are just a few of the books and movies that I’m looking forward to reading/watching!

In 2024 Book Sales Saw a 7 Percent Increase

In 2024, the book publishing industry saw an overall revenue increase, with U.S. publishers reporting a 7% year-to-date rise by September and global market growth projected at 3.2%. Fiction outperformed non-fiction, driven by trends like BookTok, while eBooks experienced modest growth, comprising nearly 10% of consumer trade sales. Print books continued to dominate, selling four times more than eBooks. Despite positive trends, the U.S. market faced challenges, including a projected 0.2% contraction and shrinking profit margins due to rising production costs, particularly for paper. Notably, Bloomsbury Publishing exceeded expectations with record sales fueled by the romantasy genre and enduring Harry Potter demand.

Of course DIGGING DR JONES comes out this year in May!!!

A laugh-out-loud spicy adventure romcom. Perfect for fans of The Lost City, Lyla Sage and Christina Lauren.

A surprise gift is exactly what Adriana Jones needs to improve her vacation, and a bracelet with gems will do the trick. Except once it’s on, she’s faced with two problems:

—The bracelet is actually meant for Andrew Jones—the renowned and utterly gorgeous archaeologist.

—It will not come off, no matter how hard she tries…

Andrew Jones needs this bracelet if he wants to find an ancient lost treasure deep in the jungles of Colombia. And there’s no way he’s letting Adriana’s mistake cost him his career. There’s only one solution: Adriana must accompany him on his quest. Trekking through jungles and crawling through crypts wasn’t on Adriana’s vacation agenda, but an adventure with the very sexy Dr Jones might just be the treasure she’s been seeking…

What to expect:

• Forced Proximity

• Opposites Attract

• Fish out of Water

• Destination romcom

• Slow burn

• Spicy

It sounds super fun! Paperbacks will be available for purchase on May 8th, 2025, and the eBook will be available on May 2nd, 2025.

Instagram: @oliviajacksonbooks  @onemorechapterhc

Stay tuned every Thursday 10 AM.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Biweekly! I'm thrilled to be presenting our first guest article!

All it Takes is One Yes

Author K. C. Harper

As someone who waited until their mid-thirties to start writing, my ride has been a rollercoaster of emotions. For the first six years, I wrote in isolation, terrified to share my work with anyone. Eventually, I decided to try and do something with it, so I pulled up my bootstraps, and put myself out there. After my fourth queried manuscript and two years in the trenches, I signed with Helen Lane in August of 2022 for SHADOWED MOONLIGHT, my adult urban romantasy about an aura reader desperate for a cure to the vampire venom drug that’s killing her brother, but in order to get it, she’ll be forced to work alongside her Alpha werewolf ex to find the killer plaguing their supernatural city.

Helen’s an editorial style agent, so after her feedback, I got to work. We went on submission by October, and boyyyyyyy was that a wakeup call. I’d heard countless authors say how difficult submission was, but, in truth, it was so, so much harder than I’d ever fathomed. For me, I think it’s because you’re so close to realizing the dream. All you need is one yes, and it’s happening. One yes, and everything you’ve worked for goes from abstract to reality. So when the nos come, they can hit hard.

The best thing I did for myself during sub was find something to distract me. Writing, reading, eating my feelings until I was a sated, numb husk…anything to get my mind off it.

In truth, I’ve gotten pretty good at taking the rejections. Especially when editors say their lists are full or the rejection itself is subjective, because, in those circumstances, it’s out of my control. I recognize I can’t be everything to everyone, and sometimes, my style just isn’t their cup of tea. And that’s perfectly okay.

Luckily, by January of 2023, we learned we had editor interest in SHADOWED MOONLIGHT, and that we’d be going to acquisitions—a wholly exciting and wildly torturous period. Acquisitions is a waiting game. One that’s tough since, again, it’s out of your control. You know your story is there, you just have to hope they see it as marketable. Thankfully for us, in early March, we passed acquisitions and officially received a three-book offer from Hodderscape (Hachette).

I cried and ran on adrenaline for seven days straight (I’m being dramatic, it was only six).

Receiving my edit letter from my editor was exciting and intimidating. I was terrified their vision might not align with mine (a foolish notion since they’d adored the book). But these editors were hired for a reason. They’re invested in the success of my book just the same as I am. Besides, they’re the best in the world at what they do, so I’d have been a fool not to, at the very least, listen. Thankfully, my editor and I clicked, and her suggestions only made it that much stronger.

Writing book two, however, that was a trip. I’m not someone who suffers imposter syndrome often since I’m pretty good at cutting out the noise. But, in truth, it was the worst bout I’ve ever had. The fear of book two not living up to book one was debilitating for a while, something I later came to learn is absolutely normal. Once I found my footing again, I got back to work.

By the time October of 2023 came around, I began feverishly writing REAR VIEW, my segue into the contemporary romance world. This story about a rally car racer with a dark past who falls for a girl with a dark secret, gripped my soul. By winter of this year, we took it to submission. I’m not someone who writes to trend, but we were lucky enough to happen into one, as racing sports romances were hot at the time. We had multiple requests, and by July of this past summer, we went to acquisitions and received our offer from Harlequin (Harper Collins).

In October just past, I flew to London for SHADOWED MOONLIGHT’s release. Physically holding my book, hearing an audio narrator read it and bring it to life…I was brought to tears of joy. While there, I met my wonderful Hodderscape team and headed to a local bookshop to sign, both of which were spectacularly surreal moments no one can prepare you for. I had no clue where I should put my autograph, or what I should write. It was scary and exciting in the best kind of way.

With one book out and three more coming in the next year (plus the North American releases of SM), it will be a wild one. But thankfully, I have so many amazing people in my corner, family, friends, my amazing CPs, and a kickass agent. Each whose support has led me to this point.

I’m a practical person who seeks practical solutions. And to my core, I believe in the quote by the Roman Philosopher, Seneca:

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”

Publishing is all about timing. They key is just making sure your ready when your time comes.

K.C. Harper’s SHADOWED MOONLIGHT is out in the UK and on audiobook now and set for publication in North America January 21st, 2025. SHATTERED MOONLIGHT, book two in the Moonlight Series, is available for pre-order now.

REAR VIEW is set for publication on August 12th of 2025.

Have you heard about Rick Riordan’s Imprint?

Rick Riordan’s imprint, Rick Riordan Presents, is focused on highlighting diverse voices in middle-grade fiction. Designed to provide opportunities for writers from underrepresented communities, the imprint has published bestsellers like Aru Shah by Roshani Chokshi and Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez. With the backing of Disney-Hyperion, they aim to publish four books a year. Rick Riordan himself states, “I also want to help kids have a wider variety of great books to choose from, especially those that deal with world mythology, and for all kinds of young readers to see themselves reflected in the books that they read.”

We’re excited to share some recent success stories with you!

Stay tuned every other Thursday 10 AM.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence

By Rebecca Lawrence

Welcome to the Booker Albert Biweekly! I'm thrilled to be writing the first of what will be our weekly newsletter. Starting in December on Thursday at 10AM, I’ll discuss industry insights, tips on querying, topical issues, and marketing, as well as updates on new deals. I have so much to say!

For our first newsletter, I want to introduce myself.

Hi! I’m Rebecca. I’ve been in the publishing industry for the last several years. I started out at Arthouse Literary where I interned for a year, before moving to Booker Albert Literary Agency. If you are interested in querying me (or anyone else at Booker Albert), subscribe to get insights about what we look for!

This spot will usually be occupied by an article. I’m so excited to write about the industry, and here are just a few things that I’m planning to write about in upcoming newsletters.

• Querying: Why it so hard to get an agent? How can I stand out from the crowd? What are some common pitfalls? If I can’t get an agent, should I ever self-publish?

• Writing quality breakdowns: What makes a good hook? What makes a good first page? What makes a good query/synopsis? How can I convey chemistry through dialogue? How do I maintain tension? How do I conquer writer’s block? As an editorial agent, I will definitely be posting about common formatting mistakes, comma rules, and unnecessary fragments.

• Marketing: Now you have a publishing deal (or you have decided to self-publish), how do you sell your book? How do you run a social media campaign? Should you do in-person promotion? Should you pay for a program or hire a book promotion company? Do ads work?

This section will also feature guest blogs from our authors and qualified industry professionals.

NaNoWriMo’s AI Attitude

NaNoWriMo is under fire for allowing AI writing tools in 2024. Critics argue that promoting AI as a "tool" for writers is problematic, as it pulls from unpaid author content and undermines the writing craft. Some authors, including notable names like Daniel José Older and Maureen Johnson, resigned from NaNoWriMo’s advisory board in protest, feeling the organization’s stance ignored the creative needs of human authors while potentially exploiting their work for AI training​. NaNoWriMo’s response—opposition to AI could be "classist and ableist"—only fueled the controversy.

We’re excited to share some recent success stories with you! Here is one of our latest deals!

Stay tuned every otherThursday 10 AM.

If you have a topic that you think I should write about or you want to write an article for us, email me at bookeralbertinfo@gmail.com with your bio and topic. We’re always looking for fresh perspectives.

Of course, authors or industry professionals if you want to write about something email me!

Authors, do you want to submit a book to us?

Check us out at the Booker Albert website.

Happy reading,
Rebecca Lawrence