If you have any good news to share with us about your writing journey, please mail us at theshitaboutwriting@gmail.com using the subject line: Good News! and we'll share it here.
Every win should be celebrated!
Every win should be celebrated!
Dear Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
I'm writing to you as a long-time listener. Every Thursday after my coffee, I listen to the podcast and enjoy the candid writing advice and recommendations you generously provide. My cover for my debut novel, The Waves Take You Home, just got revealed, and I'm overjoyed with the response.
I've been writing for many years now, but you were part of me signing with an agent, going on submission, and surviving the many rejections that come with putting your book out in the world. As I went through the process, I kept hearing Bianca's voice: "It only takes one yes!"
Thank you so much for everything you do for writers and for all the ways you are constantly making your podcast even better! I can't wait to keep listening for years to come.
Warmly,
María
I'm writing to you as a long-time listener. Every Thursday after my coffee, I listen to the podcast and enjoy the candid writing advice and recommendations you generously provide. My cover for my debut novel, The Waves Take You Home, just got revealed, and I'm overjoyed with the response.
I've been writing for many years now, but you were part of me signing with an agent, going on submission, and surviving the many rejections that come with putting your book out in the world. As I went through the process, I kept hearing Bianca's voice: "It only takes one yes!"
Thank you so much for everything you do for writers and for all the ways you are constantly making your podcast even better! I can't wait to keep listening for years to come.
Warmly,
María
First, really loving the newsletter on Substack. Confirms (reaffirms) my own sanity on many issues related to publishing and the pursuit of… Thanks for all the hard work!
So pleased to announce that Bancroft Press is bringing out my new book in 2024, WRANGLING THE DOUBT MONSTER: FIGHTING FEARS, FINDING INSPIRATION.
For everyone who worries if they're good enough to practice and share their art, this gentle volume of short, poetic essays offers assurance that doubt need not inhibit art-making and that we can all learn to live with doubt and still do our best work.
Amy L. Bernstein (she/her)
Author | Book Coach | Workshop Leader
So pleased to announce that Bancroft Press is bringing out my new book in 2024, WRANGLING THE DOUBT MONSTER: FIGHTING FEARS, FINDING INSPIRATION.
For everyone who worries if they're good enough to practice and share their art, this gentle volume of short, poetic essays offers assurance that doubt need not inhibit art-making and that we can all learn to live with doubt and still do our best work.
Amy L. Bernstein (she/her)
Author | Book Coach | Workshop Leader
|
|
Good morning,
And thank you for sharing! I'm a huge fan of the podcast. My debut novel, ISLA MAGIC, has recently been sold to Lake Union with Melisaa Valentine as my editor. It also won the Gold in Women's Fiction - Unpublished in the annual Royal Palm Literary Awards hosted by the Florida Writers Association. I am currently represented by Katie Reed at the Andrea Hurst Literary Agency.
I appreciate your encouragement and support. Thank you!
Cherisa Jerez "C.I. Jerez"
www.cijerezbooks.com
And thank you for sharing! I'm a huge fan of the podcast. My debut novel, ISLA MAGIC, has recently been sold to Lake Union with Melisaa Valentine as my editor. It also won the Gold in Women's Fiction - Unpublished in the annual Royal Palm Literary Awards hosted by the Florida Writers Association. I am currently represented by Katie Reed at the Andrea Hurst Literary Agency.
I appreciate your encouragement and support. Thank you!
Cherisa Jerez "C.I. Jerez"
www.cijerezbooks.com
Hi Bianca:
I emailed you last month to let you know that I was a finalist for an award from the Florida Writers Association. I am happy to report that I received the top award (Gold) in my category of unpublished romance at last night's ceremony. The manuscript that I submitted is one that Carly and Cece critiqued in August 2022.
I credit you and the podcast for helping me develop my craft and move one step closer to my dream to be traditionally published. Thank you for all you do!
Sincerely,
Kassie
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Cece, and Carly,
I'm writing to you today, thrilled to share that after years of hard work and many hours of podcast listening, I will be a published author! My query was featured on Books with Hooks, the November 2, 2022 episode titled "Adding Tension, Conflict and Stakes to a Novel That's Not Working." Now, nearly a year later, I'm featured on Publisher's Weekly's Deals of the Week!
My first 'yes' came from my stellar agent, Madeleine Milburn (the legend behind THE PUSH, BLACK CAKE, THE MAID, ELEANOR OLIPHANT IS COMPLETELY FINE) who read my manuscript overnight. I'm proud to say she sold North America rights to William Morrow and UK rights to Corvus, at auction, in a major two-book deal for spring 2025 publication. It is nothing short of a dream come true.
I couldn't be more grateful to have found a wonderful writing community and soak up all the lessons and insight your podcast provides. It's only just the beginning of my author career and I'm so excited to see what the future holds.
Thank you for all you do!
Rachel Taff
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly, and CeCe,
I'm a longtime listener of the podcast and want to thank you so much for creating this amazing resource. TSNOTYAW was, hands down, the most helpful resource on my journey to landing an agent (and now, a book deal)!
I especially want to thank Carly, who did a free 50 page critique for my previous manuscript back in 2021 after I won one of your Twitter giveaways. Although that manuscript is in a drawer now, Carly's feedback that the premise was likely too quiet helped me to shift my thinking and come up with a stronger hook for my next project.
Flashforward two years, and that second project has now sold in Canada, the US, and the UK, as well as for translation into six additional languages. FAVOURITE DAUGHTER is slated for a Spring 2025 release from Doubleday Canada, Viking, and Viking UK. And none of it would've happened without Carly's honest feedback!
I really can't thank you enough!
Morgan Dick
morgandick.com
####################################################
Good afternoon/morning!!!
I am delighted to be able to share that I have agent representation!!!
I am now represented by Hannah Todd at Madeleine Milburn Agency:
https://www.madeleinemilburn.co.uk/mm-authors/jane-mansour/
Whoop whoop!
Jane Mansour
Twitter - @manejansour
Insta - @_janemansour
####################################################
Hi Bianca, CeCe, and Carly,
Thanks so much for all that you do for the writing community. I started listening to TSNOTYAW a little over a year ago and quite frankly it has changed my life. Thanks to Bianca's Beta-Reader Match Up, I found my two critique partners. Doing the Deep Dive Series introduced me to a whole new group of literary friends and taught me so much about craft and the publishing industry. I've taken every single course offered by CeCe and Carly and recommend them to every author. I also had the privilege of having the query and first five pages of my first book critiqued by Carly on the podcast, which gave valuable feedback and was an excellent step in having the courage to have my work judged. I took everything I learned and put it into my second book, which I started querying and pitching in September 2023. Days after I pitched CRIMSON & CLOVER at the Women's Fiction Writers Association conference, I received an offer of representation from Joanna MacKenzie at Nelson Literary Agency and happily accepted. We are now working on edits and hope to go on submission soon.
Thanks again!
Best,
Gina
Gina Banks, author (she/her)
@GinaBanksBooks on Instagram and Threads
2023 Stiletto Contest Finalist
Represented by Joanna MacKenzie, Nelson Literary Agency
www.ginabanksbooks.com
####################################################
Hello Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
Huge thanks to all of you for the amazing work you do. The Shit podcast has been a game changer for me, not just in what I've learnt, but in making the publishing world feel so much more welcoming and approachable. Your passion and genuinity is infectious and only makes me even more determined to make this dream of mine come true.
This is not exactly measurable good news, but it means a lot to me:
After almost a year of querying, facing a huge amount of rejection and grappling with extreme lows, I now have eight fulls out and a new manuscript I am INCREDIBLY proud of that I can't wait to send out to agents. I'm not done querying, I still need that yes, but I've conquered my self-doubt and managed to separate the meaning of publishing success from writing success. I've written incredible books, and no rejection can take that away from me.
I don't mind if you don't share it since it's not exactly news, but it feels good to acknowledge it and embrace it!
Thanks again.
Best wishes,
Briana
####################################################
Hello Bianca!
Two years ago, five of us were assigned to a writing group and we would like to say we are still going strong after two years.
Of the five:
We would like to thank you for creating our group and giving us the opportunity to meet each other. We convene once a month and each of us look forward to our Zoom. Our projects are vastly different, but we’ve melded together well. We respect each other as writers and individuals, and we have truly become friends. I’ve even been lucky enough to meet two members out in the “real” world.
Attached is a screen shot of our second anniversary meeting on September 13th.
Thank you again!
Teresa A. Henderson, for Lilli Sutton, Judith Mackay, Jordan Castelloe, and David Michael Conner
I emailed you last month to let you know that I was a finalist for an award from the Florida Writers Association. I am happy to report that I received the top award (Gold) in my category of unpublished romance at last night's ceremony. The manuscript that I submitted is one that Carly and Cece critiqued in August 2022.
I credit you and the podcast for helping me develop my craft and move one step closer to my dream to be traditionally published. Thank you for all you do!
Sincerely,
Kassie
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Cece, and Carly,
I'm writing to you today, thrilled to share that after years of hard work and many hours of podcast listening, I will be a published author! My query was featured on Books with Hooks, the November 2, 2022 episode titled "Adding Tension, Conflict and Stakes to a Novel That's Not Working." Now, nearly a year later, I'm featured on Publisher's Weekly's Deals of the Week!
My first 'yes' came from my stellar agent, Madeleine Milburn (the legend behind THE PUSH, BLACK CAKE, THE MAID, ELEANOR OLIPHANT IS COMPLETELY FINE) who read my manuscript overnight. I'm proud to say she sold North America rights to William Morrow and UK rights to Corvus, at auction, in a major two-book deal for spring 2025 publication. It is nothing short of a dream come true.
I couldn't be more grateful to have found a wonderful writing community and soak up all the lessons and insight your podcast provides. It's only just the beginning of my author career and I'm so excited to see what the future holds.
Thank you for all you do!
Rachel Taff
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly, and CeCe,
I'm a longtime listener of the podcast and want to thank you so much for creating this amazing resource. TSNOTYAW was, hands down, the most helpful resource on my journey to landing an agent (and now, a book deal)!
I especially want to thank Carly, who did a free 50 page critique for my previous manuscript back in 2021 after I won one of your Twitter giveaways. Although that manuscript is in a drawer now, Carly's feedback that the premise was likely too quiet helped me to shift my thinking and come up with a stronger hook for my next project.
Flashforward two years, and that second project has now sold in Canada, the US, and the UK, as well as for translation into six additional languages. FAVOURITE DAUGHTER is slated for a Spring 2025 release from Doubleday Canada, Viking, and Viking UK. And none of it would've happened without Carly's honest feedback!
I really can't thank you enough!
Morgan Dick
morgandick.com
####################################################
Good afternoon/morning!!!
I am delighted to be able to share that I have agent representation!!!
I am now represented by Hannah Todd at Madeleine Milburn Agency:
https://www.madeleinemilburn.co.uk/mm-authors/jane-mansour/
Whoop whoop!
Jane Mansour
Twitter - @manejansour
Insta - @_janemansour
####################################################
Hi Bianca, CeCe, and Carly,
Thanks so much for all that you do for the writing community. I started listening to TSNOTYAW a little over a year ago and quite frankly it has changed my life. Thanks to Bianca's Beta-Reader Match Up, I found my two critique partners. Doing the Deep Dive Series introduced me to a whole new group of literary friends and taught me so much about craft and the publishing industry. I've taken every single course offered by CeCe and Carly and recommend them to every author. I also had the privilege of having the query and first five pages of my first book critiqued by Carly on the podcast, which gave valuable feedback and was an excellent step in having the courage to have my work judged. I took everything I learned and put it into my second book, which I started querying and pitching in September 2023. Days after I pitched CRIMSON & CLOVER at the Women's Fiction Writers Association conference, I received an offer of representation from Joanna MacKenzie at Nelson Literary Agency and happily accepted. We are now working on edits and hope to go on submission soon.
Thanks again!
Best,
Gina
Gina Banks, author (she/her)
@GinaBanksBooks on Instagram and Threads
2023 Stiletto Contest Finalist
Represented by Joanna MacKenzie, Nelson Literary Agency
www.ginabanksbooks.com
####################################################
Hello Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
Huge thanks to all of you for the amazing work you do. The Shit podcast has been a game changer for me, not just in what I've learnt, but in making the publishing world feel so much more welcoming and approachable. Your passion and genuinity is infectious and only makes me even more determined to make this dream of mine come true.
This is not exactly measurable good news, but it means a lot to me:
After almost a year of querying, facing a huge amount of rejection and grappling with extreme lows, I now have eight fulls out and a new manuscript I am INCREDIBLY proud of that I can't wait to send out to agents. I'm not done querying, I still need that yes, but I've conquered my self-doubt and managed to separate the meaning of publishing success from writing success. I've written incredible books, and no rejection can take that away from me.
I don't mind if you don't share it since it's not exactly news, but it feels good to acknowledge it and embrace it!
Thanks again.
Best wishes,
Briana
####################################################
Hello Bianca!
Two years ago, five of us were assigned to a writing group and we would like to say we are still going strong after two years.
Of the five:
- Two members have 40-50k words of a manuscript
- Three members have completed manuscripts
- Two members have started a second manuscript
- One member has FINISHED a second manuscript (first draft)
- AND one member (Lilli Sutton) has secured an agent and her novel is on submission.
We would like to thank you for creating our group and giving us the opportunity to meet each other. We convene once a month and each of us look forward to our Zoom. Our projects are vastly different, but we’ve melded together well. We respect each other as writers and individuals, and we have truly become friends. I’ve even been lucky enough to meet two members out in the “real” world.
Attached is a screen shot of our second anniversary meeting on September 13th.
Thank you again!
Teresa A. Henderson, for Lilli Sutton, Judith Mackay, Jordan Castelloe, and David Michael Conner
Hi Bianca, Carly and CeCe!
Thank you for your incredible podcast, newsletter, social media accounts and more. Everything I learned about writing a powerful query letter I learned from the TSNOTYAW podcast. I’m writing a memoir titled: Hypervigilant: A Medical Memoir of Uncertainty, Intuition and Hope which I intend to sell on proposal (I have a first draft completed and dozens of bylines on related topics). After working hard on my proposal for six months, I turned my attention to the query letter. I enlisted feedback from a few trusted writers/editors I know (I paid them for their expertise) but mostly I drew from what I learned from the three of you plus the community of writers you feature on each Books with Hooks segment.
I dove into the querying trenches the last week in June. On July 15, an agent asked me if we could set up a Zoom. On July 20 I received an offer of representation, and on July 26 signed a contract with my now-agent, Trinity McFadden of The Bindery. As of August 1, my memoir is on submission.
I’ve learned more than just how to query from TSNOTYAW. I’ve learned about amping up the stakes, planting curiosity seeds, and interiority. Mostly I cling to your best piece of advice: Remember, it only takes one yes. Hoping for that yes to come soon!
Best,
Abby
www.abbyaltenschwartz.com
Substack: Name Three Things
IG and Twitter: @abbys480
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly and CeCe,
I'll try to keep this short, but it might be hard (occupational hazard!) I've been listening to the podcast since it first started and have loved it so much! I've also taken multiple courses with all three of you, and have gained invaluable insight and information.
Now, after many years of learning, practicing, writing, reading and writing some more, I can say that I will soon be a published author! My debut is coming out in August with Rising Action Publishing (hi, Alex!) and I have two more books coming out after that with Storm Publishing, based in the UK.
I am beyond overjoyed that my books will be getting into the hands of readers, and it wouldn't have happened if I hadn't had the help, advice and connection to the writer community that I found with you.
Thank you so much for all you do!
Sincerely,
Heather Dixon
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly and Cece,
I am so thankful for all the work you do and have learned (and continue to learn) so much from all three of you.
Submitting to Books with Hooks was such a helpful and positive experience for me. When Cece critiqued my query and first pages (on the 11/17/22 episode) it was my first real experience with professional feedback. Her notes, questions and suggestions were so energizing, opening up new story possibilities as well as ways to strengthen what was already there. It gave me so many ideas when I went in to revise.
I am excited to update that I am now agented and am represented by Jenniea Carter at New Leaf Literary! We are working through edits and moving towards submission.
Thank you again for all you do!
Amanda
Instagram and Tiktok: @amandaaaoki
####################################################
Hi Bianca,
This is just to let you know I have completed the query process since being on the show and landed an agent with my MG manuscript, Super Ballsy. I am now represented by Joyce Sweeney at The Seymour Agency. Thank you for giving me the space to process my query letter with an agent on your show aired Dec 9, 2021.
Tyler
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly, and CeCe,
I hope you're all doing well! As a student of each of yours, I wanted to say thank you for all that you do. Because of you all, I've honed my craft and got the idea to begin submitting my writing to publications as I edit my manuscript. And because of that, my essay about playing American football as the only girl on the field was just published by the Today Show's TODAY.com.
This is a huge win for me! And it is so incredibly encouraging as I continue on the journey toward publishing. I'd like to share it with you so you can see that everything you all do—through the podcast, through your courses/webinars, and through social media—truly helps us. Tremendously so. You can view my essay here for proof of that: https://www.today.com/news/essay/only-girl-high-school-football-team-rcna70087
Thanks so much to all three of you. I'm so excited to always be a student of yours.
Much love to you all,
Abby Letson
abbyletson10@gmail.com
Instagram: abigail.letson
Twitter: AbigailLetson
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
I stumbled upon TSNOTYAW back in 2021 and have been hooked ever since. At the time, I had just completed the first draft of my second manuscript and was deep in in the throes of editing. But once I began listening to the pod, I slowly learned that I had done all the things you're not supposed to do (opening with only one character in a scene, too much telling, starting in the wrong place, etc) From there, I set about rewriting more than a dozen drafts. After a few rounds of beta reads, I finally worked up the courage to begin the querying process and was lucky enough to land an amazing agent, Anne Leslie Tuttle at Dystel Goderich and Bourret Literary Agency. Cece even did a shout out for me on the pod which was so amazing! I'm happy to report that my debut novel, CALL THE CANARIES HOME sold to Lake Union Publishing and will be released this July!
As someone who does not have an MFA or any writing credentials, I listen to a lot of podcasts about craft. But this one is hands down the best one I've found. The three of you provide such practical tips and advice, AND you're entertaining which is a huge plus in my book! Thanks to you, Bianca, I found my writing group, and we are still going strong after more than a year. I can't thank you enough for doing what you do for emerging authors. You guys are amazing!
Sincerely,
Laura Barrow
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Cece and Carly!
It was so exciting to see the page on your site with so many names I recognize from the podcast updating you with their publishing deals. This community that you’ve created from nothing through hard work and sheer tenacity has done such great things in such a short time. You must feel so proud to know how you’ve inspired authors to publishing success.
Though I don’t have book deal news yet, I did have a smaller win to share, even if it’s not really what you’re looking for on the good news page for the site. I wanted to let you know how much your podcast has helped me. A CNF story that I wrote was published in The Globe and Mail last week!
Thank you, from the very bottom of my heart for all the practical advice, the laughs and the encouragement on the podcast. But most of all, thanks for demonstrating in all you do that hard work and tenacity are the key. I am thrilled to be able to attend the newest upcoming retreat, The Deep Dive Workshop series. See you in January!
Here’s a link to my story in The Globe and Mail:
The annual Christmas tree hunt was a tradition I took too seriously for too long
theglobeandmail.com
A million thanks!
Theresa Therrien
####################################################
Hi Carly, CeCe, and Bianca,
My name is Danica and I am an Indigneous writer in the United States. Thank you so much for hosting this amazing podcast. It is a rich resource that I have utilized fully to write a great query letter and opening pages for my adult romantic comedy LITTLE WHITE LIES. I am please tell you that I just got a literary agent and we plan on approaching editors after the holidays.
It has been such a busy year juggling a full-time job in the office, a full-time MBA program at night, all while learning motherhood (my daughter turns 1 on December 24th!). I had to get my story finished and out there, because while I do all those things, at my core I am simply a writer who loves to tell happily ever afters.
I hope more listeners celebrate their wins this coming new year. Thank you again for all you do for the writing community.
Happy Holidays!
Warmest regards,
Danica Nava
P.S. if you are curious below is my query letter.
Dear *Agent*,
I am pleased to send you my Indigenous adult romantic comedy complete at 85,000 words, LITTLE WHITE LIES, that will appeal to fans of the Native humor in Hulu’s RESERVATION DOGS with the humor and romance in Tessa Bailey's IT HAPPENED ONE SUMMER and Rachel Lynn Solomon’s WEATHER GIRL.
Ember Lee Cardinal has not always been a liar, not for anything that counted. But when her resume is rejected thirty-seven times, she takes matters into her own hands. She gets creative listing her work experience and answers the ethnicity question on all job applications with a lie. No one wanted Native American Ember, but Caucasian Ember landed her dream accounting job on Park Avenue—Oklahoma City.
Accountant Ember thrives in corporate life, and she begins a forbidden romance with the IT guy and fellow Native, Danuwoa. When they are caught in a compromising position on a work trip, a scheming mid-level executive threatens to expose them unless she fraudulently manipulates the company’s accounting books. Unwilling to allow Danuwoa to get fired and lose the financial support he needs for his sister, she agrees. The blackmail continues to grow, as do Ember’s lies. She must make the hard decision to either stay silent for her own personal gain or finally tell the truth, which could cost Ember everything.
I am an enrolled citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and work as an Executive Assistant in the corporate jungle. I am also currently getting my MBA from USC Marshall School of Business. When I’m not chasing my ten-month-old baby girl around the house, I am doing math homework that I hate and dreaming up more silly, sexy stories. My complete manuscript is available upon request. Below are the first ten pages.
Chokma’shki’! Thank you for your consideration!
Thank you for your incredible podcast, newsletter, social media accounts and more. Everything I learned about writing a powerful query letter I learned from the TSNOTYAW podcast. I’m writing a memoir titled: Hypervigilant: A Medical Memoir of Uncertainty, Intuition and Hope which I intend to sell on proposal (I have a first draft completed and dozens of bylines on related topics). After working hard on my proposal for six months, I turned my attention to the query letter. I enlisted feedback from a few trusted writers/editors I know (I paid them for their expertise) but mostly I drew from what I learned from the three of you plus the community of writers you feature on each Books with Hooks segment.
I dove into the querying trenches the last week in June. On July 15, an agent asked me if we could set up a Zoom. On July 20 I received an offer of representation, and on July 26 signed a contract with my now-agent, Trinity McFadden of The Bindery. As of August 1, my memoir is on submission.
I’ve learned more than just how to query from TSNOTYAW. I’ve learned about amping up the stakes, planting curiosity seeds, and interiority. Mostly I cling to your best piece of advice: Remember, it only takes one yes. Hoping for that yes to come soon!
Best,
Abby
www.abbyaltenschwartz.com
Substack: Name Three Things
IG and Twitter: @abbys480
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly and CeCe,
I'll try to keep this short, but it might be hard (occupational hazard!) I've been listening to the podcast since it first started and have loved it so much! I've also taken multiple courses with all three of you, and have gained invaluable insight and information.
Now, after many years of learning, practicing, writing, reading and writing some more, I can say that I will soon be a published author! My debut is coming out in August with Rising Action Publishing (hi, Alex!) and I have two more books coming out after that with Storm Publishing, based in the UK.
I am beyond overjoyed that my books will be getting into the hands of readers, and it wouldn't have happened if I hadn't had the help, advice and connection to the writer community that I found with you.
Thank you so much for all you do!
Sincerely,
Heather Dixon
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly and Cece,
I am so thankful for all the work you do and have learned (and continue to learn) so much from all three of you.
Submitting to Books with Hooks was such a helpful and positive experience for me. When Cece critiqued my query and first pages (on the 11/17/22 episode) it was my first real experience with professional feedback. Her notes, questions and suggestions were so energizing, opening up new story possibilities as well as ways to strengthen what was already there. It gave me so many ideas when I went in to revise.
I am excited to update that I am now agented and am represented by Jenniea Carter at New Leaf Literary! We are working through edits and moving towards submission.
Thank you again for all you do!
Amanda
Instagram and Tiktok: @amandaaaoki
####################################################
Hi Bianca,
This is just to let you know I have completed the query process since being on the show and landed an agent with my MG manuscript, Super Ballsy. I am now represented by Joyce Sweeney at The Seymour Agency. Thank you for giving me the space to process my query letter with an agent on your show aired Dec 9, 2021.
Tyler
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly, and CeCe,
I hope you're all doing well! As a student of each of yours, I wanted to say thank you for all that you do. Because of you all, I've honed my craft and got the idea to begin submitting my writing to publications as I edit my manuscript. And because of that, my essay about playing American football as the only girl on the field was just published by the Today Show's TODAY.com.
This is a huge win for me! And it is so incredibly encouraging as I continue on the journey toward publishing. I'd like to share it with you so you can see that everything you all do—through the podcast, through your courses/webinars, and through social media—truly helps us. Tremendously so. You can view my essay here for proof of that: https://www.today.com/news/essay/only-girl-high-school-football-team-rcna70087
Thanks so much to all three of you. I'm so excited to always be a student of yours.
Much love to you all,
Abby Letson
abbyletson10@gmail.com
Instagram: abigail.letson
Twitter: AbigailLetson
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
I stumbled upon TSNOTYAW back in 2021 and have been hooked ever since. At the time, I had just completed the first draft of my second manuscript and was deep in in the throes of editing. But once I began listening to the pod, I slowly learned that I had done all the things you're not supposed to do (opening with only one character in a scene, too much telling, starting in the wrong place, etc) From there, I set about rewriting more than a dozen drafts. After a few rounds of beta reads, I finally worked up the courage to begin the querying process and was lucky enough to land an amazing agent, Anne Leslie Tuttle at Dystel Goderich and Bourret Literary Agency. Cece even did a shout out for me on the pod which was so amazing! I'm happy to report that my debut novel, CALL THE CANARIES HOME sold to Lake Union Publishing and will be released this July!
As someone who does not have an MFA or any writing credentials, I listen to a lot of podcasts about craft. But this one is hands down the best one I've found. The three of you provide such practical tips and advice, AND you're entertaining which is a huge plus in my book! Thanks to you, Bianca, I found my writing group, and we are still going strong after more than a year. I can't thank you enough for doing what you do for emerging authors. You guys are amazing!
Sincerely,
Laura Barrow
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Cece and Carly!
It was so exciting to see the page on your site with so many names I recognize from the podcast updating you with their publishing deals. This community that you’ve created from nothing through hard work and sheer tenacity has done such great things in such a short time. You must feel so proud to know how you’ve inspired authors to publishing success.
Though I don’t have book deal news yet, I did have a smaller win to share, even if it’s not really what you’re looking for on the good news page for the site. I wanted to let you know how much your podcast has helped me. A CNF story that I wrote was published in The Globe and Mail last week!
Thank you, from the very bottom of my heart for all the practical advice, the laughs and the encouragement on the podcast. But most of all, thanks for demonstrating in all you do that hard work and tenacity are the key. I am thrilled to be able to attend the newest upcoming retreat, The Deep Dive Workshop series. See you in January!
Here’s a link to my story in The Globe and Mail:
The annual Christmas tree hunt was a tradition I took too seriously for too long
theglobeandmail.com
A million thanks!
Theresa Therrien
####################################################
Hi Carly, CeCe, and Bianca,
My name is Danica and I am an Indigneous writer in the United States. Thank you so much for hosting this amazing podcast. It is a rich resource that I have utilized fully to write a great query letter and opening pages for my adult romantic comedy LITTLE WHITE LIES. I am please tell you that I just got a literary agent and we plan on approaching editors after the holidays.
It has been such a busy year juggling a full-time job in the office, a full-time MBA program at night, all while learning motherhood (my daughter turns 1 on December 24th!). I had to get my story finished and out there, because while I do all those things, at my core I am simply a writer who loves to tell happily ever afters.
I hope more listeners celebrate their wins this coming new year. Thank you again for all you do for the writing community.
Happy Holidays!
Warmest regards,
Danica Nava
P.S. if you are curious below is my query letter.
Dear *Agent*,
I am pleased to send you my Indigenous adult romantic comedy complete at 85,000 words, LITTLE WHITE LIES, that will appeal to fans of the Native humor in Hulu’s RESERVATION DOGS with the humor and romance in Tessa Bailey's IT HAPPENED ONE SUMMER and Rachel Lynn Solomon’s WEATHER GIRL.
Ember Lee Cardinal has not always been a liar, not for anything that counted. But when her resume is rejected thirty-seven times, she takes matters into her own hands. She gets creative listing her work experience and answers the ethnicity question on all job applications with a lie. No one wanted Native American Ember, but Caucasian Ember landed her dream accounting job on Park Avenue—Oklahoma City.
Accountant Ember thrives in corporate life, and she begins a forbidden romance with the IT guy and fellow Native, Danuwoa. When they are caught in a compromising position on a work trip, a scheming mid-level executive threatens to expose them unless she fraudulently manipulates the company’s accounting books. Unwilling to allow Danuwoa to get fired and lose the financial support he needs for his sister, she agrees. The blackmail continues to grow, as do Ember’s lies. She must make the hard decision to either stay silent for her own personal gain or finally tell the truth, which could cost Ember everything.
I am an enrolled citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and work as an Executive Assistant in the corporate jungle. I am also currently getting my MBA from USC Marshall School of Business. When I’m not chasing my ten-month-old baby girl around the house, I am doing math homework that I hate and dreaming up more silly, sexy stories. My complete manuscript is available upon request. Below are the first ten pages.
Chokma’shki’! Thank you for your consideration!
Bianca,
I hope this letter finds you well and that you're enjoying the holiday season! We met a couple of months ago at your book signing at the amazing East City Bookshop in Washington D.C. I'd long planned to come to that event, but couldn't have anticipated that I'd end up signing with my agent (after nearly a year of querying!) the evening prior.
TSNOTYAW had been a singular resource + my constant companion throughout the (long! often despair-inducing!) querying process, so it was especially wonderful to be able to celebrate *finally* acquiring representation with you!
I promised an update, and I'm thrilled to write to you with some more great news: my debut novel WELCOME HOME, CAROLINE KLINE sold to Putnam/Penguin Random House in a two-book deal at auction!
I wanted to thank you, again, for all the work that goes into not only making this podcast, but curating this community and uplifting your listeners. So many anecdotes and axioms from the podcast have become deeply ingrained in the way I talk to myself and others about writing and resilience.
I'm so grateful to you, Carly, and Cece—for everything TSNOTYAW has taught me about the industry *and* for keeping me company on so many walks, drives, and everything in between!
With much gratitude + rooting for everyone else on the team,
Courtney Preiss
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
I found your podcast when I virtually met Bianca during an event where she hosted a book launch for my friend and fellow autism parent, Aaron Wright for his book "13 Doors." I've been a fan ever since!
I wanted to let you ladies know that I signed a contract today for my YA, WORTH IT, which you featured with a much earlier and uglier query and opening pages, on your Books With Hooks. Your feedback helped me revise my submission packet and land the deal. My debut is set for May of 2024.
Fellow writers, take the feedback. Do the work. And remember, like Bianca says, "It only takes one yes!"
Bianca, soon I'll have my people get with yours to schedule my author interview!
Yours Truly,
Amy Nielsen
bigabilities.com/
Query for WORTH IT
Content Note: Although not graphic, contains sex, rape, drug use, and childbirth
Roe v. Wade’s overturning will increase the number of teens forced to carry unplanned pregnancies to term, making stories about shattered lives and unimaginable fears more crucial than ever. Set in Central Florida in the late 1980s, WORTH IT, inspired by my own experiences, is an 85,000-word historical YA novel. It combines the seedy vibe of Ozark’s trailer park setting, the complex character of Maid’s single-mom protagonist, and the provocative teen narrative of Amber Smith’s The Way I Used to Be.
Seventeen-year-old Angela Carter intended to pick out prom dresses with her best friend and fill out college applications during her senior year. But after her father abandons the family and her addict mother kicks her out, the now-pregnant teen’s new normal is keeping her pressure cooker older boyfriend, Dale, from erupting.
When an intoxicated Dale loses control of her car one night, Angela fears she’ll never hold her unborn child. But something worse happens; they all survive. Desperate for what little stability he provides, and for fear of his retaliation, Angela lies to the police when questioned about the accident. Her lie not only protects him from a DUI but also conceals a darker secret—what happens behind the closed doors of their single-wide trailer.
After the baby is born, Angela wants out. But Dale threatens to fight for custody. Angela must choose whether to continue enduring his abuse to stay with her child or risk it all for the chance to build a future she can be proud of.
I have a degree in education and a K-12 media certification. A former school librarian, I have two books traditionally published through AAPC Publishing. I am also a freelance writer for Playground Magazine, The Autism Helper, and Exceptional Needs Today. I also have an upcoming piece published in Writer’s Workout, OUR PANDEMIC. My Big Abilities blog has had over 30K views. Additionally, my blogs have been featured on The Mighty, YAHOO, Love What Matters, Scary Mommy, and more. WORTH IT is my YA debut.
Thank you for your time,
Amy Nielsen
Note to podcast listeners: I am also attaching a trailer I made. I think creating a book trailer, website, IG, etc. is SO important for querying authors. My trailer is what caught the attention of another agent and landed me my first offer. (I did not go with her but it was great to have options.) If one thing you could pound into your listener's head is to start living and acting like you are already a published author. That confidence and manifestation matters:) I have a tutorial on how to make trailers if listeners might be interested.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAJCFAX1GFY
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly and Cece!
Last year, I was listening to an episode of the podcast where you were talking about when a small publisher might be a better fit for a book than a big house. At the time, I was pitching my novel, REINCEPTION, and this got me thinking about whether a big house was the right place for my book. REINCEPTION falls into several categories that make it tricky to market. I had a choice; significantly alter the book so it would cater to a mass market audience, or find a publisher who shared my vision and would help me make this story the best it could be without completely changing it.
I’m so excited to share that REINCEPTION will launch on October 25 from Winding Road Stories. This is my second book and first work of fiction. I could not possibly be happier with the process, experience and publisher.
Thank you for the always practical and actionable advice. If it weren’t for you, REINCEPTION might not have been born! Your readers can find out more about my book at www.sarenastraus.com. I look forward to hearing from you every Thursday! Thank you for helping us authors get that one yes.
With Gratitude,
Sarena Straus
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly and CeCe,
Thank you for your wonderful podcast. I have been a long time listener and also have taken one of Carly’s online webinars about querying. It is so kind of you to share so much knowledge with the world!
I have recently had my book acquired by Penguin Random House Australia (I am an Australian author) and wanted to say a huge thank you to you three for helping me get my first novel to where it is now.
LENNY MARKS GETS AWAY WITH MURDER will be released on 14th of March 2023 in Aus/ NZ (and hopefully will go further afield) and I am beyond excited.
I have done other courses/ listened to other podcasts and always come back to you three. I LOVE books with hooks (Specificity!! Prologues!!) and also love the range of authors you have on.
Thanks again,
Kerryn Mayne (author!)
####################################################
Hi Bianca!
I signed with Rising Action for my book BETWEEN LIES AND REVENGE for publication in Summer 2024.
This happened after I had a live call with you all, and additionally had feedback from CeCe (through Manuscript Academy and with the golden ticket she gave me). Without all your help and encouragement, and without the connection to my writing group and writing friends I’ve met through TSNOTYAW, this would not have happened! I wouldn’t have even met Alex at Rising Action without your help.
Thank you for being an integral part in my writing career! You will continue to be as well, as I move forward in writing and possibly querying again.
Thank you,
Hannah Sharpe
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly, and CeCe,
Thank you to all the wonderful women at The Shit No One Tells You Podcast. After many months in the query trenches with full and partial requests, I felt stuck and wasn’t sure how to move forward. I was a longtime listener and decided to shoot my shot at getting on the show. Of course, the idea of being critiqued by legends of the industry felt more than a little intimidating, but hey, I am 9 years sober, with 3 young daughters, and seen some shit in my day... what was the scariest thing that could happen? Little did I know that ultimately the greatest thing would happen and that The Shit No One Tells You Podcast would be pivotal in my meet-cute story with my literary agent!
My experience on the podcast was not only helpful, and not so (super) scary, but it turned out to be fortuitous. I made the recommended edits and thoughtful suggestions Carly prescribed for my pages.
After settling in one morning shortly after the episode aired, beginning with some light-to-moderate Twitter stalking of all my dream agents: following, scrolling, and making note of anything I could use to personalize my query (another great podcast tip!), I got the only kind of DM a happily married mom and an aspiring author ever wants to get these days. Lori Galvin, from Aevitas Creative Management, reached out to say the timing must be serendipitous because she was just listening to me on The Shit No One Tells Me About Podcast and immediately asked me to query her!
I was thrilled! This was the first time I’d been given a golden ticket into an agent’s inbox and not only that, but I was able to present my most fabulous, finely tuned pages and letter, making my chances that much better. We met for a call less than a week later, and it turned into a mutual love fest and so I happily signed with the ACM Agency. I couldn’t be more excited for what lies ahead for my novel, and grateful for the women of the show who helped lead me to Lori. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Jessica Guerrieri
Twitter/IG: @witandspitup
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
I’m writing to thank you. The deal just got announced for my debut novel, MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT. While this novel would have existed without you, I doubt it would have sold without you.
I'm new to writing fiction, and I started listening to your podcast one year ago when I was ready to query. You gave me the confidence, clarity, and information I needed to find and sign with a terrific agent. Over the past year, you’ve been in my ear each week, helping me strengthen my writing. You and your guests have taught me SO MUCH: to be specific (Carly), to deepen interiority (Cece), to keep layering (Bianca). I am proud and excited about my book, and so very grateful to you.
MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT started as a very personal project—a love letter to my mother. I wrote it to entertain my mom and bring us closer together when she got slammed by cancer. We schemed about characters and plot in chemo clinics and doctor's offices. Little by little, her prognosis started to improve, and I kept writing. With your guidance, it became a bigger story about mothers and daughters (and murderers)—one I can’t wait to share with the world.
I’ve read many books on craft, worked with beta readers, and now with agents, editors, co-agents… but amongst all these resources, you three feel like the coaches in my corner who are always there to help me rise and shine. Thank you for all you've done for me and continue to do for so many writers.
If I can ever be of help to you, please don't hesitate to ask.
Nina
I hope this letter finds you well and that you're enjoying the holiday season! We met a couple of months ago at your book signing at the amazing East City Bookshop in Washington D.C. I'd long planned to come to that event, but couldn't have anticipated that I'd end up signing with my agent (after nearly a year of querying!) the evening prior.
TSNOTYAW had been a singular resource + my constant companion throughout the (long! often despair-inducing!) querying process, so it was especially wonderful to be able to celebrate *finally* acquiring representation with you!
I promised an update, and I'm thrilled to write to you with some more great news: my debut novel WELCOME HOME, CAROLINE KLINE sold to Putnam/Penguin Random House in a two-book deal at auction!
I wanted to thank you, again, for all the work that goes into not only making this podcast, but curating this community and uplifting your listeners. So many anecdotes and axioms from the podcast have become deeply ingrained in the way I talk to myself and others about writing and resilience.
I'm so grateful to you, Carly, and Cece—for everything TSNOTYAW has taught me about the industry *and* for keeping me company on so many walks, drives, and everything in between!
With much gratitude + rooting for everyone else on the team,
Courtney Preiss
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
I found your podcast when I virtually met Bianca during an event where she hosted a book launch for my friend and fellow autism parent, Aaron Wright for his book "13 Doors." I've been a fan ever since!
I wanted to let you ladies know that I signed a contract today for my YA, WORTH IT, which you featured with a much earlier and uglier query and opening pages, on your Books With Hooks. Your feedback helped me revise my submission packet and land the deal. My debut is set for May of 2024.
Fellow writers, take the feedback. Do the work. And remember, like Bianca says, "It only takes one yes!"
Bianca, soon I'll have my people get with yours to schedule my author interview!
Yours Truly,
Amy Nielsen
bigabilities.com/
Query for WORTH IT
Content Note: Although not graphic, contains sex, rape, drug use, and childbirth
Roe v. Wade’s overturning will increase the number of teens forced to carry unplanned pregnancies to term, making stories about shattered lives and unimaginable fears more crucial than ever. Set in Central Florida in the late 1980s, WORTH IT, inspired by my own experiences, is an 85,000-word historical YA novel. It combines the seedy vibe of Ozark’s trailer park setting, the complex character of Maid’s single-mom protagonist, and the provocative teen narrative of Amber Smith’s The Way I Used to Be.
Seventeen-year-old Angela Carter intended to pick out prom dresses with her best friend and fill out college applications during her senior year. But after her father abandons the family and her addict mother kicks her out, the now-pregnant teen’s new normal is keeping her pressure cooker older boyfriend, Dale, from erupting.
When an intoxicated Dale loses control of her car one night, Angela fears she’ll never hold her unborn child. But something worse happens; they all survive. Desperate for what little stability he provides, and for fear of his retaliation, Angela lies to the police when questioned about the accident. Her lie not only protects him from a DUI but also conceals a darker secret—what happens behind the closed doors of their single-wide trailer.
After the baby is born, Angela wants out. But Dale threatens to fight for custody. Angela must choose whether to continue enduring his abuse to stay with her child or risk it all for the chance to build a future she can be proud of.
I have a degree in education and a K-12 media certification. A former school librarian, I have two books traditionally published through AAPC Publishing. I am also a freelance writer for Playground Magazine, The Autism Helper, and Exceptional Needs Today. I also have an upcoming piece published in Writer’s Workout, OUR PANDEMIC. My Big Abilities blog has had over 30K views. Additionally, my blogs have been featured on The Mighty, YAHOO, Love What Matters, Scary Mommy, and more. WORTH IT is my YA debut.
Thank you for your time,
Amy Nielsen
Note to podcast listeners: I am also attaching a trailer I made. I think creating a book trailer, website, IG, etc. is SO important for querying authors. My trailer is what caught the attention of another agent and landed me my first offer. (I did not go with her but it was great to have options.) If one thing you could pound into your listener's head is to start living and acting like you are already a published author. That confidence and manifestation matters:) I have a tutorial on how to make trailers if listeners might be interested.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAJCFAX1GFY
####################################################
Hi Bianca, Carly and Cece!
Last year, I was listening to an episode of the podcast where you were talking about when a small publisher might be a better fit for a book than a big house. At the time, I was pitching my novel, REINCEPTION, and this got me thinking about whether a big house was the right place for my book. REINCEPTION falls into several categories that make it tricky to market. I had a choice; significantly alter the book so it would cater to a mass market audience, or find a publisher who shared my vision and would help me make this story the best it could be without completely changing it.
I’m so excited to share that REINCEPTION will launch on October 25 from Winding Road Stories. This is my second book and first work of fiction. I could not possibly be happier with the process, experience and publisher.
Thank you for the always practical and actionable advice. If it weren’t for you, REINCEPTION might not have been born! Your readers can find out more about my book at www.sarenastraus.com. I look forward to hearing from you every Thursday! Thank you for helping us authors get that one yes.
With Gratitude,
Sarena Straus
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly and CeCe,
Thank you for your wonderful podcast. I have been a long time listener and also have taken one of Carly’s online webinars about querying. It is so kind of you to share so much knowledge with the world!
I have recently had my book acquired by Penguin Random House Australia (I am an Australian author) and wanted to say a huge thank you to you three for helping me get my first novel to where it is now.
LENNY MARKS GETS AWAY WITH MURDER will be released on 14th of March 2023 in Aus/ NZ (and hopefully will go further afield) and I am beyond excited.
I have done other courses/ listened to other podcasts and always come back to you three. I LOVE books with hooks (Specificity!! Prologues!!) and also love the range of authors you have on.
Thanks again,
Kerryn Mayne (author!)
####################################################
Hi Bianca!
I signed with Rising Action for my book BETWEEN LIES AND REVENGE for publication in Summer 2024.
This happened after I had a live call with you all, and additionally had feedback from CeCe (through Manuscript Academy and with the golden ticket she gave me). Without all your help and encouragement, and without the connection to my writing group and writing friends I’ve met through TSNOTYAW, this would not have happened! I wouldn’t have even met Alex at Rising Action without your help.
Thank you for being an integral part in my writing career! You will continue to be as well, as I move forward in writing and possibly querying again.
Thank you,
Hannah Sharpe
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly, and CeCe,
Thank you to all the wonderful women at The Shit No One Tells You Podcast. After many months in the query trenches with full and partial requests, I felt stuck and wasn’t sure how to move forward. I was a longtime listener and decided to shoot my shot at getting on the show. Of course, the idea of being critiqued by legends of the industry felt more than a little intimidating, but hey, I am 9 years sober, with 3 young daughters, and seen some shit in my day... what was the scariest thing that could happen? Little did I know that ultimately the greatest thing would happen and that The Shit No One Tells You Podcast would be pivotal in my meet-cute story with my literary agent!
My experience on the podcast was not only helpful, and not so (super) scary, but it turned out to be fortuitous. I made the recommended edits and thoughtful suggestions Carly prescribed for my pages.
After settling in one morning shortly after the episode aired, beginning with some light-to-moderate Twitter stalking of all my dream agents: following, scrolling, and making note of anything I could use to personalize my query (another great podcast tip!), I got the only kind of DM a happily married mom and an aspiring author ever wants to get these days. Lori Galvin, from Aevitas Creative Management, reached out to say the timing must be serendipitous because she was just listening to me on The Shit No One Tells Me About Podcast and immediately asked me to query her!
I was thrilled! This was the first time I’d been given a golden ticket into an agent’s inbox and not only that, but I was able to present my most fabulous, finely tuned pages and letter, making my chances that much better. We met for a call less than a week later, and it turned into a mutual love fest and so I happily signed with the ACM Agency. I couldn’t be more excited for what lies ahead for my novel, and grateful for the women of the show who helped lead me to Lori. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Jessica Guerrieri
Twitter/IG: @witandspitup
####################################################
Dear Bianca, Carly, and Cece,
I’m writing to thank you. The deal just got announced for my debut novel, MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT. While this novel would have existed without you, I doubt it would have sold without you.
I'm new to writing fiction, and I started listening to your podcast one year ago when I was ready to query. You gave me the confidence, clarity, and information I needed to find and sign with a terrific agent. Over the past year, you’ve been in my ear each week, helping me strengthen my writing. You and your guests have taught me SO MUCH: to be specific (Carly), to deepen interiority (Cece), to keep layering (Bianca). I am proud and excited about my book, and so very grateful to you.
MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT started as a very personal project—a love letter to my mother. I wrote it to entertain my mom and bring us closer together when she got slammed by cancer. We schemed about characters and plot in chemo clinics and doctor's offices. Little by little, her prognosis started to improve, and I kept writing. With your guidance, it became a bigger story about mothers and daughters (and murderers)—one I can’t wait to share with the world.
I’ve read many books on craft, worked with beta readers, and now with agents, editors, co-agents… but amongst all these resources, you three feel like the coaches in my corner who are always there to help me rise and shine. Thank you for all you've done for me and continue to do for so many writers.
If I can ever be of help to you, please don't hesitate to ask.
Nina