Navigating the Publishing World: Insights from Agent and Author Ann Rose

In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth and Lisa chat with Ann Rose, a literary agent at Tobias Literary Agency and an author writing under the pen name A.M. Rose. They dive into the current state of the publishing market, discuss Ann's upcoming novel, and explore how aspiring authors can stand out in an oversaturated market.

Guest Bio:

Ann Rose is a literary agent at Tobias Literary Agency and an author of young adult novels under the pen name A.M. Rose. Known for her love of dark chocolate, sarcasm, and cats, Ann brings a wealth of knowledge to the publishing industry. Her latest book, The Seemingly Impossible Love Life of Amanda Dean, is set to release on September 17th. Ann’s passion for storytelling, coupled with her industry expertise, makes her a formidable advocate for authors looking to navigate the complex world of publishing.

Key Discussion Points:

1. The Impact of Market Changes on Middle Grade and YA Books: Ann explains how shifts in the way major retailers like Barnes & Noble stock books have affected the middle-grade genre, contributing to its current challenges. She emphasizes that while YA experienced a downturn last year, the market's oversaturation is a constant challenge across genres.

2. Emerging Trends: The Rise of Horror: The conversation highlights horror as a genre on the rise, with Ann noting that horror allows authors to tackle significant societal issues without being didactic. This trend parallels the dystopian boom of the early 2000s, providing a fresh avenue for storytelling.

3. Standing Out in a Crowded Market: Ann advises aspiring authors to read debuts in their chosen genre to understand what it takes to stand out. She stresses that while it’s important to write from the heart, authors must also consider how their work can be unique in the current market to attract attention from publishers.

4. Balancing Passion with Market Needs: Ann discusses the importance of blending personal passion with market viability. Using her own novel as an example, she illustrates how authors can write the story of their heart while incorporating elements that make it commercially appealing.

5. What Literary Agents Look For: Ann shares her criteria for selecting manuscripts, emphasizing the importance of voice, concept, and an author’s potential for a long-term partnership. She’s drawn to fresh takes on familiar tropes and stories that champion female empowerment.

Conclusion and Takeaways:

This episode offers insights for aspiring authors navigating the competitive publishing landscape. Ann Rose underscores the importance of understanding market trends while staying true to one's creative vision. For authors aiming to break through the noise, her advice to study debut novels and maintain a balance between heart and marketability is especially pertinent. With genres like horror gaining traction, there’s an opportunity for writers to explore new avenues while addressing complex themes. Ann’s enthusiasm for finding unique voices and her commitment to long-term author relationships provide a blueprint for success in the ever-evolving world of publishing.

Mentioned Links:

• The Seemingly Impossible Love Life of Amanda Dean by A.M. Rose, releasing September 17th.
• Cover Artist: Susanna Gentilli 
• The Tobias Literary Agency