SEMINAR | Exactly What Publishers Want From Authors: The Key Steps to Landing a Book Deal

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SEMINAR | Exactly What Publishers Want From Authors: The Key Steps to Landing a Book Deal

May 3 @ 2:00 pm 5:00 pm EDT

All Genres

What do publishers want? How do they decide which book to make an offer on? What are the many steps between you and a book deal? For aspiring authors eager to see your book on the shelves, but puzzled by the mysterious process of getting published, this seminar will uncover the intricate decision-making process that book publishers use to select manuscripts.

By the end of this seminar, you will have a thorough understanding of the inner workings of the publishing industry and be equipped with the knowledge and tools to dramatically increase your chances of a deal. Whether you’re a first-time author or looking to enhance your publishing strategy, this class will be your gateway to unlocking the doors of the literary world.

All registrations will receive a publication/query readiness checklist.


In this insightful three-hour live seminar, you’ll learn to:
  • UNDERSTAND the key factors publishers consider when evaluating submissions, including market trends, target audiences, and profitability.
  • EVALUATE manuscripts using industry criteria such as story originality, writing quality, and thematic relevance.
  • NAVIGATE the decision-making process by understanding who reviews your manuscript and their role in securing a book deal.
  • DECODE the financial side of publishing, from advances and royalties to the approval criteria for publication.
  • STAY AHEAD of industry trends and insights that shape publishing decisions.
  • ANALYZE real-life case studies of successful books and what made them stand out.
This seminar is ideal for writers:
  • Seeking literary representation
  • Who are self-published and looking to transition to traditional publishing
  • With finished nonfiction manuscripts who want to pitch directly to publishers without an agent
  • Wanting to gain a deeper understanding of the publishing industry

Closed captioning is available. ✔
All registrants receive the recording. ✔

ABOUT YOUR PRESENTER

With over 30 years of publishing expertiseAmy Collins has sat on all sides of the desk in the publishing world. As an agent with Talcott Notch Literary Services, Amy champions a diverse range of authors—her clients have secured deals with top publishers across genres like fantasy, romance, horror, and thrillers. Her non-fiction clients focus on cookbooks, pop-culture, lifestyle and humor. 

A former book buyer, publisher, and sales director, Amy blends her sharp market insights with an unwavering commitment to her clients’ success. Beyond representing authors, Amy is a USA TODAY bestselling writer herself, with several non-fiction titles to her name, including It’s the Little Things (Simon & Schuster/Adams Media). She’s a trusted voice in the industry, regularly featured in Writer’s Digest Magazine and a speaker at major conferences worldwide.

Testimonials from past students:

“I found Amy to be savvy about publishing, down-to-earth, and funny as hell.” – Nancy McMillan

“I just want to say how much I have enjoyed this class. Your professional generosity is so refreshing and valuable. I think every single person in our class felt seen and personally guided. I know I certainly have.” – Pam O’Hara

“This class was a gift not only to my career but to my spirit. As a writer who finds pitching and promoting myself anxiety-provoking, I appreciated Amy’s breaking down the intimidating into a plan of small, easily actionable steps. She is a generous teacher who inspires as well as she informs.” – Karen Novak

“This session made me realize I didn’t hate pitching. I just didn’t truly understand its power and how to personalize it to my needs toward those I want to reach. Now I can’t wait to get started.” – Louis H. Mitchell

THE FINE PRINT

We understand that life can get in the way of your plans. We want you to be able to get the most out of your course, and our refund policy is designed to balance your need for flexibility with our deadlines and obligations to our teachers.

Before the class, you may request a full refund.

Please keep in mind that no refunds or credits will be issued after class begins.

Questions? Please email Info@craft-talks.com


Registration Info
$50 Early Bird Cost of the Event

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