What do literary agents look for in women's fiction manuscripts?

Literary agents look for authenticity in military fiction manuscripts. This means accurate military details, whether it's about weapons, tactics, or military hierarchies. They also seek engaging characters. In military fiction, characters need to be well - developed, with their own motives and backstories. For example, a soldier protagonist should have a believable reason for being in the military and facing the challenges presented in the story.

Literary agents look for unique and engaging storylines in climate fiction manuscripts. They want to see how the author has incorporated climate change elements into the plot in an interesting way. For example, a story that shows the human impact of rising sea levels in a small coastal town in a very personal and emotional way. They also look for well - developed characters. Characters that are relatable and whose actions and decisions are influenced by the climate - related events in the story.

They look for accuracy in historical details. A well - researched manuscript that doesn't distort historical facts is more appealing. Also, strong characters that are believable within the historical context.

Literary agents have specific things in mind when looking at medical fiction manuscripts. They look for authenticity. Since it's medical fiction, the medical procedures, diseases, and treatments should seem real. They also look for emotional depth. Medical situations are often full of emotions, and the manuscript should be able to convey that. For example, the fear of a patient facing a serious illness or the determination of a doctor to save a life. They also consider the marketability. They think about whether the manuscript can appeal to a wide range of readers, not just those interested in the medical field. And they check for a well - structured story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Literary agents look for a number of things in period fiction manuscripts. Firstly, a well - researched historical backdrop. This doesn't mean just listing historical facts but integrating them seamlessly into the story. Secondly, they want a manuscript that can appeal to a wide range of readers, not just those who are already fans of period fiction. This could involve having modern - day themes explored within the historical context. They also look for good writing quality, including proper grammar, vivid descriptions, and a good flow of the narrative that can transport the reader back in time.

They look for unique concepts. In speculative fiction, a fresh take on things like time travel, alien races, or magical systems can be very appealing. For example, a new way of imagining a post - apocalyptic world in a science fiction manuscript.

Agents look for a unique voice. In dark fiction, a distinct and engaging way of storytelling can set a manuscript apart. They also seek strong characters that are complex and believable, especially in the context of the often - gritty and disturbing worlds of dark fiction. A well - crafted plot with unexpected twists is another important factor.

One key quality is a unique and terrifying concept. For example, a new take on haunted houses or a fresh kind of monster. They also look for strong characters. In horror, the characters' reactions to the terrifying situations are important. Good writing style that can build tension effectively is also something they seek.

They look for a strong sense of historical accuracy. If it's a story set in the 1800s, for example, the details of the era like clothing, language, and social norms should be correct. Also, engaging characters are crucial. Agents want to see characters that readers can root for or be intrigued by. A unique plot is another factor. It shouldn't be a rehash of every other historical fiction story out there.

They usually look for original ideas. In science - fiction, a unique concept like a new form of space travel or a different take on artificial intelligence can catch their eye.