Full ‘Agent Pet Peeves’ Article Online at WD.com

Over the past month, I've thrown out some agent pet peeves that I collected for an article for Writer's Digest. The entire article is now online, so check-check-check it out!

A quick sample:

"In romance, I can't stand this scenario: A woman is awakened to find a strange man in her bedroom - and then automatically finds him attractive. I'm sorry, but if I awoke to a strange man in my bedroom, I'd be reaching for a weapon, not admiring the view."
- Kristin Nelson, Nelson Literary Agency

"I don't like descriptions of the characters where writers make them too perfect. Heroines (and heroes) who are described physically as being virtually unflawed come across as unrelatable and boring. No 'flowing, wind-swept golden locks'; no 'eyes as blue as the sky'; no 'willowy, perfect figures.' "
- Laura Bradford, Bradford Literary Agency

"I dislike endless 'laundry list' character descriptions. For example: 'She had eyes the color of a summer sky and long blonde hair that fell in ringlets past her shoulders. Her petite nose was the perfect size for her heart-shaped face. Her azure dress—with the empire waist and long, tight sleeves—sported tiny pearl buttons down the bodice. Ivory lace peeked out of the hem in front, blah, blah.' Who cares! Work it into the story."
- Laurie McLean, Larsen-Pomada Literary Agents