Andrea Hurst
&
Lydia Caudill
What Do Agents Want from Authors
In today’s competitive publishing landscape, capturing a literary agent’s attention requires more than just a great idea—it takes strategy, precision, and polish. This workshop will guide writers through the key elements of a successful submission, including how to research the right agents for your work, craft a compelling query letter, and develop a strong hook within the first few pages of your manuscript.
We will also explore what agents are really looking for and how to avoid common mistakes so you can get your foot in the door. This session is perfect for writers preparing to query or those looking to better understand the agent submission process from the inside out.
Andrea and Lydia will also be available for Q&A at the end of the session.
Andrea Hurst is the Founder and President of Andrea Hurst & Associates Literary Management. As a literary agent and developmental editor, Andrea brings over 25 years of experience in the publishing industry. She has worked with major publishers, both domestic and internationally. Overall, her focus is to help authors polish their book, obtain publication, and build their author brand. Some of her clients include bestsellers such as Dr. Bernie Siegel, Boo Walker, Marc Edelheit, Hannah Jayne, Penny Warner, Ashley Farley, Chef John Ash, and Suzanne Kelman. She is a current member of AALA.
Andrea began her career in the entertainment business working in product development and marketing with Columbia Records, but eventually found her passion in book publishing. She teaches classes at writing conferences and MFA programs, and has presented webinars for Writer’s Digest, where she offers valuable insight as an agent, editor, and author of ten books, both in fiction and nonfiction. Her most recent novel, House of Dreams, leased in April 2024.
Lydia Caudill is an associate agent with Andrea Hurst Literary Management. She began her journey with the agency as an editorial intern in 2022 and quickly advanced into a full-time position as a literary scout and editorial assistant. Now representing her own growing list of clients, Lydia is passionate about championing a diverse range of voices and partnering with authors to develop compelling, impactful stories that resonate deeply with readers.
Originally from a small town in Eastern Kentucky, Lydia developed a passion for literature early on, often seen toting around a book and seeking any opportunity to read. She is a graduate of NC State University, where she earned her B.A. in English with a concentration in Creative Writing. When she’s not editing or reviewing submissions, you can find her attending live music events, tutoring Spanish, working on her own writing, or spending quality time outdoors with her dog, Rocky.