Struggling to land a literary agent in 2026? Guest Gabrielle Harbowy joins The Writing Biz to demystify the query process and explain why your "professional vibes" matter just as much as your manuscript.

In this episode, we dive deep into the mechanics of the traditional publishing industry. Gabrielle explains that while the ability to sell a book is an agent's first priority, they are also looking for long-term partners who treat writing like a career. We break down the essential components of a query letter—including the "credibility factor"—and why sending a prologue might actually be making your job harder. (Check out her special offer below!)

"I’m your collaborator in this process... I'm just making sure that you don't have to take your whole career on by yourself either."

Gabrielle also shares her unique approach as an editorial agent, explaining how her background in editing helps her polish a manuscript before it ever hits an editor's desk. You’ll learn practical self-editing strategies, such as using the Chicago Manual of Style and the benefit of having your work read aloud by someone else to catch awkward dialogue. Finally, we tackle the "AI vs. Human" debate in writing, proving why messy, human character voices will always beat an algorithm.

Whether you are a debut author or a seasoned writer, this episode provides the "insider" knowledge needed to navigate the 2026 publishing landscape with professionalism and heart.

BLOG POST WITH TRANSCRIPT: https://thewritingbiz.com/agent-author-relationship

Website: gabrielleharbowy.com

Clarion West online class on Comparison Titles, May 19th: https://secure.clarionwest.org/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F33870

Manuscript Wish List: https://www.corvisieroagency.com/gabrielle-harbowy.html (Go here before querying!!)

***If you are interested in sending a query to Gabrielle, send the request to thewritingbizshow@gmail.com, and I will forward her query inbox link to you! In the subject line put “Query Link” Let’s see if we can make any magic happen! ***

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Former CNN Senior Copy Editor John DeDakis turned a legacy of journalism into a thriving multi-stream writing business and mystery series. This interview uncovers the "subconscious straw" method for storytelling and the brutal reality of the 2026 publishing landscape.

In this episode of The Writing Biz, Laura Williams sits down with John DeDakis to discuss the transition from high-stakes journalism to mystery suspense. John details his journey querying 39 agents over 10 years and why "personal authenticity" is the most critical tool in a writer's arsenal. We dive deep into the mechanics of the editor-writer relationship, the value of moving "toward the pain" in your prose, and how to build a sustainable business through coaching, teaching, and keynote speaking.

Whether you are a novelist struggling with your first draft or an established author looking for new revenue streams, John’s "slow learner" success strategy provides a roadmap for long-term career growth.

Learn more at https://johndedakis.com

Full blog post with transcript: https://thewritingbiz.com/john-dedakis-from-cnn-to-the-writing-business/

This episode is all about the "Book Shepherd & Soul Shepherd". In this deeply moving conversation on The Writing Biz, host Laura Williams sits down with Wendy Carrick and Derek Hadinger to explore how the act of publishing a book can be a profound journey of emotional and spiritual healing.

Wendy Carrick, acting as a Book Shepherd, explains her role in coaching authors through the technical "bookmaking process" and navigating the hurdles of Indie publishing. Derek Hadinger, a nurse and author, shares his perspective as a Soul Shepherd, discussing how he uses his experiences with suffering and faith to help others use writing and music as a form of therapy.

Learn why writer's block is often just fear in disguise and how to let your stories "burst out" of you when the time is right. If you've ever felt that a story was "clogging" your system, this episode will give you the inspiration to pick up a pen and start your own healing journey.

Check out cawpublishing.com

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Wendy & Derek's podcast Create a Way Today

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