EPISODE · Jun 5, 2026 · 43 MIN
Is this a mystery?
from Story Nerd · host Valerie Francis, Kathleen Foxx
What happens when a story is pitched in the query letter as a mystery, but doesn't read like one in the opening pages? Where did the confusion creep in and how can you avoid a genre mismatch? We discuss this and much more (including writing unnamed protagonists and passive characters) in today's Hook Your Reader episode. Enjoy! -V. The Hook Formula: the works-every-time method for describing your book in a way that captivates readers and makes them beg for more. Submit your query letter and first 10 pages writing sample at storynerd.ca. For your FREE First 10 Pages Checklist, visit valeriefrancis.ca/checklist To learn to read like a writer, visit Melanie's website. To subscribe to Kat's Keynotes (Substack), click here. Watch us on YouTube!
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What happens when a story is pitched in the query letter as a mystery, but doesn’t read like one in the opening pages? Where did the confusion creep in and how can you avoid a genre mismatch? We discuss this and much more (including writing unnamed protagonists and passive characters) in today’s Hook Your Reader episode. Enjoy! -V.
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Is this a mystery?
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