The Shit No One Tells You About Writing The Job of a Disruption
Dec 25, 2025
In this lively discussion, the hosts dive into two intriguing query critiques. They explore a whodunit that fuses romance with reality TV, emphasizing clearer stakes and a compelling love story. Then, attention shifts to a chilling literary horror set in Alaska, where the trio discusses how to create genuine tension. They touch on the importance of shocking openings and the need for depth in character relationships. Listeners walk away with valuable insights on crafting gripping narratives and enhancing query effectiveness.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Choose Precise Comps
- Keep comps focused and relevant; don't overload with unrelated comparisons like Agatha Christie when your book is reality-TV rooted.
- Use one strong comp that matches tone and plot to help agents quickly understand your book's market fit.
State Genre Stakes Early
- Make the murder and romance clear early in the query so agents know genre balance and stakes.
- If romance matters, show how it intertwines with the mystery rather than only naming it.
Love Stories Boost Commercial Appeal
- A strong love story can propel a book up editorial and foreign-market lists by increasing commercial appeal.
- Romance elements should be integral to plot, not optional flavor, to boost sales potential.