How to Find, Vet, and Pitch Literary Agents
This event is for members of The Rosedale Society only
An insider’s guide to landing the right agent and avoiding the wrong ones.
If you’re a fiction writer preparing to query for the first time, this session will give you the practical tools and strategies you need to navigate the path toward representation.
Taught by Natalia Loya, an Austin-based novelist with a forthcoming upmarket gothic debut, The Laboratory Assistant (Apprentice House Press, June 2026).
Natalia has written six novels, signed and later parted ways with a major agent at Trident Media Group, and secured a traditional publishing contract on her own.
She’s seen the querying process from every angle.
Now she’s distilled that experience into a clear, actionable roadmap to help you on your journey to publication.
What you’ll learn:
How to build a strong query package (query letter, synopsis, and opening pages)
How to research and vet agents and agencies—what matters, what doesn’t, and what’s a red flag
How to batch and time your submissions strategically
What to do if querying fails, and how to pivot without losing momentum
🎟️ What’s included with your ticket
✅ A 45-minute presentation breaking down every step of the querying process
✅ An open Q&A to address your unique situation and next steps
✅ A casual cocktail mixer with 12 other serious, local writers in Austin
✅ Complimentary wine, beer, and light snacks