From Query to Publication: Agent Adria Goetz on Perfecting Your Pitch and Navigating the Industry

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In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, we welcome Adria Goetz, a Senior Literary Agent at KT Literary, to discuss the dos and don’ts of querying, how to stand out in a crowded submission pile, and navigating industry challenges like editor transitions. Aspiring authors will gain valuable insights into crafting compelling pitches, building resilience, and staying attuned to market trends.

Guest Bio

Adria Goetz is a Senior Literary Agent and Illustration Coordinator at KT Literary, specializing in picture books, middle grade, graphic novels, and adult fiction. She has represented numerous bestsellers, including Millie Fleur's Poison Garden and The Crescent Moon Tea Room. A fan of whimsy and heartfelt storytelling, Adria enjoys re-watching Gilmore Girls and dreaming of life in a mossy stone cottage.

Key Discussion Points

• The Querying Process: Adria shares tips on crafting warm, professional, and specific query letters, emphasizing how to make an immediate impression on literary agents.
• Navigating Rejections: Advice on interpreting agent feedback and why “near misses” are a good sign of progress for aspiring writers.
• Industry Insights: Adria discusses the realities of agent submissions, the competitiveness of the market, and strategies for writers facing challenges like editor transitions or poor past book sales.
• Market Trends for 2025: The rise of genre mashups, cozy fantasy, romanticcy, and magical speculative stories, as well as opportunities in neglected spaces like stories featuring 14–15-year-old protagonists.
• Building Resilience: Why persistence, adaptability, and proactive marketing are essential for long-term success in publishing.

Conclusion

Adria offers encouraging and practical advice for writers striving to break into publishing. From perfecting the query letter to navigating industry challenges, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help writers stay motivated and informed on their journey to publication.

Mentioned Links

• Learn more about Adria Goetz: KT Literary
• The Mixed-Up Files of Middle-Grade Authors (Cover reveal for The Library of Curiosities)
• Podcast blog and notes: Writers With Wrinkles

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