Musings on submissions: a thread! I think sometimes, from the outside (and I’ve been there), it seems to writers that editors know exactly what they want and are just looking for an author and project to match. But when people ask me for a wishlist I’m always like... 1/5

I don’t know what I’m looking for until I read it and fall in love. I know I want ‘something different, something special’... but that’s unhelpfully broad! There are so many possible stories out there, so many voices. I honestly have no idea what I’ll be falling for next! 2/5

That’s part of the joy of the job - being surprised by a totally brilliant voice and a story that holds you hostage. And that’s why I always tell authors NOT to try to predict trends. NOT to second-guess what an agent or editor might want. Write what YOU love instead. 3/5

Passion shines through in a submission. Plus, we’re all looking for something unique - and there’s nothing more unique than a story very close to your heart. No-one can write your voice, your story better than you. 4/5

P.S. These musings come to you from someone reading their 100th #TimesChickenHouse submission. 5/5