224: What literary agents really look for (with Kate McKean)

The Season 2 finale is here!

In this conversation, literary agent Kate McKean offers an inside look at how publishing really works, from the first query letter to the call where an author hears their book has sold.

With more than 20 years of experience, Kate is refreshingly candid about the realities of writing, rejection, marketing, and building a sustainable career.

If you’ve ever wondered what an agent looks for (or what you should actually focus on as a writer), this one’s packed with clarity.

What we covered:

- How Kate became a literary agent and what her role actually involves day-to-day

- What makes a query stand out and the moment she knows she wants to represent a book

- Why chasing publishing trends is a losing game and what authors should focus on instead

- The difference between platform and brand, and why nonfiction writers can’t afford to ignore platform

- Why sincerity and vulnerability matter more than hot takes or cleverness in today’s market

- The biggest red flags authors should watch for when querying agents or publishers

- How to reframe rejection and see it as part of the process, not a verdict on you as a writer

👉 Make sure to subscribe to Kate McKean before you go!

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedavidmcilroy.substack.com/subscribe