Querying & Synopsis Help from Jane Friedman (aka my go-to for publishing sanity)
If you’re staring down the query trenches and thinking what fresh hell is this, allow me to introduce you to Jane Friedman. She’s one of the clearest, smartest voices out there when it comes to navigating the wild world of agents and publishing. Her resources are honest, thorough, and especially golden if you’re a debut author trying not to lose your mind.
How to Write a Query Letter
Jane breaks down what actually matters in a query letter—with real examples, helpful breakdowns, and zero fluff. It’s probably the most recommended guide on the internet for good reason.
👉 Read the guide
How to Write a Novel Synopsis
Writing a synopsis can feel like boiling your soul down to one page—but Jane makes it suck less. Her advice helps you keep the heart of your story without turning it into a robot recap.
👉 Read the guide
The Hot Sheet (Publishing Industry Newsletter)
If you want to keep tabs on the publishing industry without scrolling Twitter for five hours, The Hot Sheet is a solid resource. Jane co-runs it, and it’s full of actual intel that helps authors make smart choices.
👉 Learn more
Writing Resources
Whether you’re plotting your first book or polishing a manuscript until it shines, here are some tools and resources that have seriously helped me—and might help you too.
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody
A total game-changer for story structure. It adapts the classic screenwriting beat sheet to novels in a way that actually makes sense. If you struggle with plot or pacing, this one’s for you.
Writing Excuses Podcast
15-minute episodes from pro authors like Brandon Sanderson and Mary Robinette Kowal. Craft, industry, worldbuilding—it’s like a mini MFA in bite-sized chunks.
writingexcuses.com
QueryTracker
Querying? Use this. Track your submissions, see what other writers are saying about agents, and stay (semi) sane in the process.
querytracker.net
Publishers Marketplace
If you want to creep on what agents are selling and who’s getting book deals, this is where the pros go. Agent profiles often show recent deals and client lists. It’s a paid subscription, but even a one-month dive is super useful when you’re researching agents.
👉 Visit Publishers Marketplace
Disclaimer: None of these are affiliate links or paid promos—just stuff I’ve personally found helpful and wish I’d known about sooner.
Author | Kate Orlando 