A step-by-step guide from a New York literary agent that will show you how to create a winning concept, craft an irresistible pitch, and land your dream book deal.

In this practical, immediately actionable guide, Lucinda Halpern, who has represented New York Times bestsellers and brokered numerous deals with major publishers for over a decade, divulges what agents look for in authors and the shortcuts they use to get book deals but have never revealed--until now.

Lucinda has personally helped hundreds of writers and entrepreneurs launch timeless, best-selling books. But the path to literary success begins with knowing the answers to questions like:

• How do I make my book idea marketable to agents and publishers?
• What essential ingredients should my book pitch possess?
• What common pitfalls and errors should I avoid?
• How do I find a reputable agent who shares my vision?
• What can I do if I'm getting rejected by agents and publishers?

• Write a query letter that gets an agent's attention
• Build an effective marketing platform
• Create a timeless bestseller