Annie Romano
Olswanger Literary LLC
My Manuscript Wish List®
Note: I will be open to queries for two weeks from January 17-31, 2025.
I read all queries, but for this next query cycle (January 17-31) I would especially love to see some witty rom-coms and humorous mysteries in my inbox! Psychological thrillers with a unique hook are also on my wishlist.
I accept submissions in the areas of adult fiction and select narrative nonfiction. In adult fiction, I am seeking lighter fare with smart humor and a unique hook. I also welcome upmarket and commercial fiction in the following areas: contemporary fiction, sharp romantic comedy (do not send me romance if there’s no comedic element or original hook), women’s fiction, psychological thrillers/suspense, mystery, and light/clever horror (no slasher/heavy gore; think more along the lines of Grady Hendrix for this). I welcome diverse narratives, including but not limited to LGBTQ+ and underrepresented ethnicities/cultures. I adore stories with well-done ensemble casts and plots that deliver the unexpected. Send me something unique that will make me laugh! I will consider literary fiction so long as there is a discernible structure/plot, but I am not the best fit for stories focused on an emotional or sensory journey—beautiful as the writing may be—if the storyline is vague or absent. I’d also love to see something spooky and atmospheric (again, not gory). I’m not a match for science fiction/fantasy but am open to stories with light elements of fantasy or magical realism grounded in a familiar world (think The House in the Cerulean Sea). If you’ve got a strong book club fiction manuscript, send it my way.
In narrative nonfiction, areas of interest include (but are not limited to) true crime (i.e., The Trial of Lizzie Borden, by Cara Robertson) and unique windows into history (i.e., Mudlark, by Lara Maiklem). Please, no military or political nonfiction.
Fun facts about me:
I’m an author of two published picture books (Before You Sleep; Night Train) who also writes middle grade novels and adult fiction. I’m a part-time bookseller at an indie bookstore–so much fun, plus I love being able to follow the current market. I graduated with a degree in English from Boston College (Go Eagles!) and worked for nearly two decades in special education as a speech-language therapist. I adore dogs, but ironically, I do not adore novels about dogs. Strange, I know!
Submission Guidelines
Submissions should be emailed to https://QueryManager.com/AnnieRomano
I will be open to queries for two weeks from January 17-31, 2025.
To submit, please send a brief query letter, synopsis, and the first 20 pages of your manuscript to: https://QueryManager.com/AnnieRomano.
I aim to respond to queries within 12 weeks. I regret that, when replying, I cannot provide specific feedback on manuscripts. This is an unfortunate reality of the time restraints of the business and the volume of queries received. I am keenly aware of the time and effort that goes into crafting a story and appreciate you trusting me with your work.
General Fiction
Upmarket
Commercial
Literary
Women’s Fiction
Contemporary
Multicultural
LGBTQ+
Narrative Nonfiction
Science Fiction/Fantasy
Military/Political Fiction
Erotica
Children’s/Picture Books
Middle Grade
Young Adult
New Adult
Graphic Novels
Memoir
Poetry
Screenplays
Short Story Collections
Vital Info