The Problem with the Blank Canvas Protagonist

In this episode of Books with Hooks, hosts Bianca, CeCe, and Carly first review a query letter for literary fiction, providing insights on emotional depth in character relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in plot points and the importance of avoiding the blank canvas protagonist so readers can be engaged and connect with them. The second query letter is for a historical novel. The hosts discuss its title, plot structure, and the effectiveness of its opening pages. The conversation emphasizes the need for strong character connections, clear narrative goals, and the balance between description and story progression.

Note: Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra are literary agents at P.S. Literary Agency, but their work on this podcast is not affiliated with the agency, and the views expressed by Carly and CeCe on this podcast are solely that of them as podcast co-hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, policies, or position of P.S. Literary Agency.

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