Ellen's wishlist
Here's what I'm looking for now in fiction. Please note that these are separate wishes and distinct genres. I do not expect or want to see all of these in a single submission:
- Well researched historical fiction, especially if it weaves real people and.or events into the fictional world.
- Women's fiction that transcends the predictable and formulaic and explores women's lives in an authentic and original way.
- Mysteries with intricate, suspenseful plots and fully developed characters.
- Literary fiction with a well-structured narrative arc, believable characters, and a satisfying ending as well as a unique voice. Beautiful writing will get you halfway there, but you must also have a strong story line and characters with genuine conflicts to drive the plot. And no matter how dark or bleak your story, an uplifting ending WILL help it sell!
- Multicultural fiction and stories set in other countries.
- Contemporary, edgy, dark stories including urban fantasy and experimental fiction.
- Romance in every category, but especially erotic romance. Erotic fiction, particularly if written by, and for, women.
What I am likely to pass on: Most kinds of fantasy, except urban and romantic; science fiction; overtly Christian themes; extremely violent horror; books that involve children being abused, tortured or murdered; stories about the Holocaust or 9-11.
In non-fiction, I'd like to find the following:
- Narrative non-fiction in any subject area, as long as there is a compelling story with complex individuals and a clear narrative arc. I am actively seeking the following subject areas (but will consider others): history, true crime, adventure, science, arts and entertainment, politics and current affairs, biography and memoir .
- Self-help books - relationship, parenting, personal growth -that break new ground or look at problems in a new way.
- Business or career advice.
- Science, particularly natural sciences, environment, or new technology.
- Health, diet, exercise, fitness and food/cooking.
- Pop culture and humor.
The non-fiction proposal:
Initially, I only need to see a query letter with a few sample pages (if available). However, even if you've already written the book, in most cases you will eventually need to put together a formal proposal to explain your background, platform, marketing capability, and expected readership, in addition to the premise of your book, how it differs from other books on the market, the expected structure and your writing style. There are many good books available which go into detail about each of the elements of a non-fiction proposal.