Writers With Wrinkles
Whether you're an aspiring author, indie publisher, or career writer, Writers with Wrinkles is your essential guide to writing craft, book marketing, and the publishing industry. Hosted by authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid, we iron out the wrinkles of the business — from mastering novel writing and story structure to navigating literary agents, query letters, and KDP self-publishing.
Each week, we bring you expert interviews with editors, publishers, and bestselling authors, plus practical advice on building your author platform and marketing your book. Whether you're drafting your first manuscript or preparing for a book launch, we have the guidance you need to thrive in today's competitive publishing landscape.
Visit www.WritersWithWrinkles.net for resources. Follow us on TikTok: @writerswithwrinkles
Writers With Wrinkles
Life After the Breakup: Navigating the Publishing World After Parting Ways with Your Agent, with Amy Trueblood
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Hosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid welcome award-winning author Amy Trueblood to discuss a transition many writers face but few discuss: life after parting ways with a literary agent. Amy shares her journey of being on her fourth agent, offering a refreshing look at why changing representation is a natural part of a long-term career.
About the Guest
Amy Trueblood is the author of the acclaimed YA historical novels Nothing But Sky and Across a Broken Shore. Writing as Amy True, she also authored the speculative romance series Clearly Charmed.
Key Discussion Points
- Normalizing Transitions: Agent changes due to retirement, agency closures, or genre shifts are standard industry "ebbs and flows."
- Re-Querying Strategy: Authors returning to the "trenches" should lead with their published credits to signal professional experience to new agents.
- Market Realities: The trio discusses the current high volume of submissions and why authors must exercise increased patience in today’s slower market.
- Overcoming "Baggage": Professionalism and a solid reputation are the best ways to counter fears that changing agents looks negative.
- Creative Evolution: Amy discusses her shift into romance and the experience of working with UK-based publishers.
Actionable Advice
- Be Transparent: Sharing industry struggles helps the wider writing community.
- Leverage Credentials: Use your history to establish immediate credibility.
- Stay Professional: Agents value reliable partners who understand the business.
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