Exactly HOW Does an Author Get a Book Deal? – June 6th at 11am Eastern

Description

“Is my book the kind of project publishers are actually buying right now?”
Many writers wonder if their genre, theme, word count, or structure aligns with current market demand—and whether they’re wasting time pursuing traditional publication with a project that may not fit current trends.

Genre, page count, POV, voice…. trends come and go. But it is important to know The business side of the publishing industry and why some books get picked and other do not.

Drawing on decades of experience and insider conversations with editors from major publishing houses, Amy Collins will answer your questions about what publishers are really looking for today. This class goes beyond vague advice and delivers a data-driven, boots-on-the-ground overview of what kinds of books are being acquired today—and why.

We’ll explore the qualities that make an author irresistible to publishers, from platform and professionalism to voice, originality, and marketing readiness. Then we’ll get specific: you’ll see exactly which genres, categories, and story elements editors are actively requesting from agents right now. Participants will walk away knowing where their projects fit (or don’t fit) into the current market—and how to position themselves and their work for maximum appeal.

You’ll leave the session with an insider’s understanding of how acquisitions decisions are made, the questions agents and editors ask before saying “yes,” and what you can do—starting today—to get your book closer to that yes.

What You’ll Learn

• How the acquisitions process actually works (and what happens in editorial meetings).

• The top traits that make authors stand out to editors and publishers.

• Current trends in fiction, memoir, and nonfiction that are driving acquisitions.

• What publishers mean when they ask for “fresh voices,” “high-concept,” or “platform.”

• How to make your proposal, manuscript, or pitch align with what’s selling now.

• Real examples of what agents are being asked to find for editors in 2026.

Benefits of Taking This Class

• Gain insider intelligence on current publishing trends that most writers never hear.

• Avoid wasting time pitching projects that aren’t market-ready.

• Learn how to speak the same language as agents and editors.

• Discover which categories and story elements are in highest demand today.

• Walk away with an actionable list of next steps to make your work more appealing to publishers.

• Get clarity on whether to pursue traditional publishing or alternative routes based on current realities.

Who This Class Is For

• Fiction, nonfiction, and memoir authors preparing to query agents or submit proposals.

• Published authors seeking to understand shifting market priorities.

• Writers struggling to categorize or position their book idea.

• Authors wondering whether their concept fits what publishers are signing right now.

• Anyone who wants a candid, practical update on the business side of publishing.