What if the secret to writing a compelling novel—and querying it successfully—starts with understanding what's deeply meaningful to you? In this episode, I sit down with author Karin Gillespie to explore how to identify the personal connection in your writing and translate it into a pitch that agents and editors can't ignore.

Karin, author of nine novels and creator of the popular Substack "Pitch Your Novel," shares her 20+ year publishing journey—from traditional publishing with the Big Five to indie publishing and back again. She's seen the industry from every angle, and she's here to help you navigate today's competitive landscape with wisdom, warmth, and practical guidance.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why your personal connection to your story matters more than you think
How to write a novel with a clear desire line that drives your narrative forward
The essential elements every query letter needs (including the one-sentence pitch most writers forget)
How to identify and pitch your book's genre in today's market
What "comps" are and why they're crucial to your query success
The reality of submission in 2025—and why it's so different from even five years ago
How to create your pitch before you write your novel (and why this can save you heartbreak)
Finding joy in the writing process, even when the business side feels overwhelming

Whether you're drafting your first manuscript or querying your fifth novel, this conversation offers both tactical advice on how to query a literary agent and gentle encouragement to stay connected to what makes your writing meaningful.

Connect with Karin Gillespie: Substack: Pitch Your Novel

Mentioned Resources:

Publisher's Marketplace
Query Tracker
Amazon for comp research

If you're ready to learn how to write a novel that matters to you and stands out in the marketplace, this episode is your roadmap.

The Whole Writer is a podcast for fiction writers who want to nurture both their craft and their creative well-being. Hosted by Nicole Meier, multi-published author and book coach.

Want more support on your writing journey? Visit nicolemeier.com to explore coaching programs for fiction writers.

If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating and review—it helps other writers discover the show!

🎙️Find Karin Gillespie here.

🎙️Find Nicole Meier here.

99. How to Find What's Meaningful in Your Novel (and Pitch It Like a Pro) with Karin Gillespie

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