Success Story Interview - Taylor Epperson

An Interview with Taylor Epperson (Taaylorepperson on QT) upon receiving an offer of representation from agent Emily Forney of BookEnds, LLC.

05/16/2024

QT: Can you tell us a little bit about the book for which you've found representation? What inspired you to write it?

Taylor Epperson:
My book is a cozy fantasy romcom that comps Book Lovers by Emily Henry and The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling. My main character left her hometown three years ago after a breakup, only to be returning now to takeover the family sanctuary for magical creatures. But when it proves to be more difficult than anticipated, she finds herself knee-deep in mud, feathers, and debt. Fortunately, there is someone in town that can help. Unfortunately, it's her ex.

QT: How long have you been writing?

Taylor Epperson:
I started writing in 2021, so about three years.

QT: How long have you been working on this book?

Taylor Epperson:
I drafted/ edited this book from March 2023 - September 2023, so about six months for that, then I queried for approximately six months.

QT: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up, and what helped you to stay on course?

Taylor Epperson:
When my offers came in, I was actually nearing the end of my query list. However, there were pitch events on X (Twitter) I was still participating in, debating stopping for a while.

The best thing that kept me on course were my friends and writing community on X!

QT: Is this your first book?

Taylor Epperson:
Technically, no! It is my third. But it's my first book I felt truly confident in.

QT: Do you have any formal writing training?

Taylor Epperson:
No! I started from scratch and worked my way here. I've learned a lot over writing different books and reading different genres, but a lot came from beta readers, writing friends, and critiques!

QT: Do you follow a writing routine or schedule?

Taylor Epperson:
As a stay-at-home mom, it's impossible for me to keep a schedule! I write during nap times and after kids are asleep, doing whatever works best for me.

QT: How many times did you re-write/edit your book?

Taylor Epperson:
I did two drafts before sending it to my beta reader, and one more after that to implement edits.

QT: Did you have beta readers for your book?

Taylor Epperson:
Yes! I had one beta reader and will forever be grateful for their help! I highly recommend beta readers because after reading your own book so many times, it becomes difficult to see it from a readers pov, making it impossible to catch typos and plot holes.

QT: Did you outline your book, or do you write from the hip?

Taylor Epperson:
A bit of both! I make a vague outline with plot points such as events or scenes, but as far as details like world building and dialogue, that just comes as I go.

QT: How long have you been querying for this book? Other books?

Taylor Epperson:
I queried this book just over for six months.

QT: About how many query letters did you send out for this book?

Taylor Epperson:
I sent 67, and withdrew 12!

QT: On what criteria did you select the agents you queried?

Taylor Epperson:
I looked for agents looking for fantasy AND romance, since my book heavily leans on both. More specifically, if their MSWL included my comps, speculative elements, or cozy settings.

QT: Did you tailor each query to the specific agent, and if so, how?

Taylor Epperson:
I did some, if my book had things specifically listed in their MSWL. For example, "I am sending this to you because I saw you were interested in cozy fantasy."

QT: What advice would you give other writers seeking agents?

Taylor Epperson:
Find your community, writing friends, and support! Not only will they help you through this (very trying) time, but also to improve your craft.