Success Story Interview - Erin Jori

An Interview with Erin Jori (ezgrafx on QT) upon receiving an offer of representation from agent Kimberly Fernando of Olswanger Literary.

01/03/2025

QT: Can you tell us a little bit about the book for which you've found representation? What inspired you to write it?

Erin Jori:
It’s a domestic suspense story about a woman who receives anonymous text messages implicating her husband in a murder. I love thrillers and suspense and read extensively in these genres. I had written a few books before this one in different genres, but after I attended a webinar from Allison Williams in which she gave the advice to “write in the genre you love to read,” I decided to give it a try. It was great advice because I’ve had so much fun writing suspense.

QT: How long have you been writing?

Erin Jori:
Since high school, thanks to a teacher who encouraged me.

QT: How long have you been working on this book?

Erin Jori:
A little more than two years.

QT: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up, and what helped you to stay on course?

Erin Jori:
Yes! Every time I stare at a blank screen, I consider fleeing. If I find myself in a rut or thinking about quitting, I go for a long walk to clear my head or set aside the project for a few days/weeks/months. I’m also fortunate to have found a great community of writers in my genre to provide encouragement and support.

QT: Is this your first book?

Erin Jori:
No. This is my fifth.

QT: Do you have any formal writing training?

Erin Jori:
I have a degree in journalism. I also take classes whenever and wherever I can. I’m a member of Sisters in Crime, which is a great resource for mystery/thriller writers.

QT: Do you follow a writing routine or schedule?

Erin Jori:
I used to, but when family life became hectic, the routine went out the window. I write whenever I have 15-20 minutes (or hopefully more) to spare.

QT: How many times did you re-write/edit your book?

Erin Jori:
I’m not sure I have an exact count, but I’d say I edited it several times at least.

QT: Did you have beta readers for your book?

Erin Jori:
Yes, several betas provided great feedback.

QT: Did you outline your book, or do you write from the hip?

Erin Jori:
I’m a plantser, so I outlined the overall plot and pantsed the rest.

QT: How long have you been querying for this book? Other books?

Erin Jori:
I started querying this book in September 2024.

QT: About how many query letters did you send out for this book?

Erin Jori:
23.

QT: On what criteria did you select the agents you queried?

Erin Jori:
I wanted to make sure they were not only seeking books in my genre but that they also wanted books with a similar theme and audience. I read their wish lists and researched them to make sure we would be a good fit.

QT: Did you tailor each query to the specific agent, and if so, how?

Erin Jori:
I tried to. If there was a personal connection, a shared favorite author or book or something they were looking for that I felt my book had, I’d reference it at the beginning of my letter.

QT: What advice would you give other writers seeking agents?

Erin Jori:
Do your research and take your time with every query. It’s a long process but important to find the right agent who will champion your work.