In the final installment of our four-part series on querying literary agents, we break down what to expect when a literary agent replies to your email. From form rejections and useful feedback to the coveted request for more materials, today’s episode is all about helping you navigate agent responses.

Plus, in publishing news:

• A $44 million scam targeting writers has resulted in federal charges
• Fan fiction hits the bestseller lists with Dramione-inspired debuts
• A bestselling memoir-turned-film faces accusations of fraud and fabrication

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Overthinking Couch Topics:

• The 3 types of literary agent responses
• How to recognize a personalized rejection
• What it means when agents request more materials
• The difference between execution and market viability
• What to do next—whether it’s a “yes,” “no,” or radio silence

📫 Also, I share a personal update on my surprise stint in Google Purgatory, and why you may not have heard back from me via email.

🎧 Catch up on the full Literary Agent series:

• Part 1: Should You Query a Literary Agent?

• Part 2: How to Research Literary Agents

• Part 3: How to Write a Query Letter

• The Salt Path Scandal
• Draco-Hermione Fan Fiction Novels Hit Bestseller Lists
• PageTurner's $44 million fraud charges cast spotlight on author services
• Free Style Sheet Templates
• Free Writing Tips

Music licensed from Storyblocks.