Stop Querying Wrong: Agent Nikki Carrero Breaks It Down

Beth and Lisa talk with literary agent Nikki Carrero, from The Rights Factory, to break down the querying process from the agent’s side — what gets you noticed, what gets a pass, and how to make the most of The Call. Highlights•       Nikki runs monthly pitch parties on Threads — currently her only open submission path since she’s closed to general queries.•       Biggest query red flags: word count outside genre norms, miscategorized genre, and sending to agents who don’t rep your category.•       Personalization? Just use her name. “Dear Agent” won’t auto-reject you, but do double-check pronouns.•       Multiple passes don’t always mean bad writing — it may be wrong agents, weak hook, or pacing issues in the opening pages.•       Nikki is an editorial agent: developmental notes, line edits, and reader reactions all in the margins.•       Watch your social media. Agents notice public venting in the query trenches — keep it in private group chats. Questions to Ask on The Call (with prospective agent!)•       How editorial are you, and what does your revision process look like?•       Will I see the pitch letter and submission list?•       What happens if the book doesn’t sell — do you stay with me?•       Always ask for a boilerplate contract before signing. Nikki’s Parting AdvicePatience and persistence. Self-publishing is not a fallback. Keep writing new books — voice and craft develop over time, and the writers who stick with it are the ones who break through. Nikki Carerro SubstackNikki Carerro ThreadsSend us Fan Mail Support the showVisit the WebsiteFind Full Episodes on YouTube!Writers with Wrinkles Link Tree for socials and more!