If my inbox is any indication, sci-fi and fantasy are alive and well in the query trenches—which definitely makes me happy. And, even better, I see more and more of these deals listed on Publishers Marketplace! I’d say the immense popularity of shows like Game of Thrones, Arrow, The Flash, and Daredevil is going to continue to boost both dark and light fantasy of all varieties and subgenres. I’m very much hoping that the trend continues for more of the lighthearted space operas, superheroes, gritty urban fantasies, etc.—and not just when it comes to YA, either. I’d love to see these same ideas flourish on the adult side as well and watch sci-fi and fantasy become even more mainstream. (The geeks shall inherit the Earth!)
What book/genre/topic would you like to see cross your transom?
I’d love to find something with an alternative narration style either for YA or adult (something along the lines of Illuminae). It doesn’t necessarily have to be a sci-fi/fantasy book, as I could see this working well for a contemporary romance, but I’d love to see more books that look outside the box when it comes to narration.
I’m LGBTQIA-friendly, and I’d really love to find some books dealing with the QIA [queer/questioning, intersex, asexual] end of the spectrum. (I’d love to find something like None of the Above.) The big thing for me, though, is that I’m not looking for the coming-out story. Instead, I want to see books that feature diverse characters kicking ass and taking names. Books that show that anyone can be the Chosen One.
What topic don’t you ever want to see again?
Vampires. I’m a fan of most supernatural creatures, save vampires (and to some extent shape-shifters), and it is very hard to convince me otherwise. That being said, instead of listing out topics I don’t want to see again, I’d rather remain more open-ended. Often, I don’t know what I’m going to request until I see it. Different days lead to different wants and likes. And, to be honest, brilliant writing and unique twists on old subjects can sell me on just about anything. Perhaps even shape-shifters or those pesky vampires.
What’s unique about your corner of the publishing industry?
One of the things I love about BookEnds is that we’re a collaborative agency. From things like throwing titles around to asking for second reads on clients’ and prospective clients’ manuscripts to peer feedback on submission letters, we are always talking and asking for other points of view. As a result, our clients get the experience of everyone on the BookEnds team, even when they’re signed with one particular agent. With the landscape of publishing continuing to change and evolve, we’re the team who goes above and beyond for our clients. We will keep submitting until we get that sale and care about growing our authors’ careers!
Anything else you’d like to add?
When you’re submitting to agents, remember to polish your queries. It’s your first introduction to an agent, and you want to make sure it shines. Sure, one or two typos won’t kill you, but you want your best foot forward. And always remember: rejections aren’t personal. We know you put your blood, sweat, and tears into your books. Before you fire off that nasty response, just remember that agents have feelings, too!
Moe Ferrara, agent and subsidiary rights director, joined BookEnds Literary Agency in 2015 after earning a J.D. from Pace Law School and later working various jobs throughout the publishing industry. A Pennsylvania native, she is the proud owner of one rambunctious guinea pig, who is a master at stealing extra treats. When not reading, she is an avid gamer and always awaiting the next Assassin’s Creed release. Moe is interested in science fiction and fantasy for all age groups (no picture books). She loves a bit (or a lot!) of romance in her fiction, so the right contemporary or historical romance will spark her interest. She’s LGBTQ-friendly, so send her that male/male erotic romance in your back pocket! You can find her on Twitter at @inthesestones.
