Submissions

OPEN to queries!

Across age categories, I am drawn to high concept novels with captivating hooks, snarky characters with hearts of gold, creative magic systems, complicated relationships, and found families. I love well-plotted twists, being a little bit scared, and stories that explore the fluidity of gender and bring the queer experience to light. Regardless of genre, I am seeking inclusive, intersectional voices and gorgeous line-level writing with emotionally compelling narratives.

I do NOT accept AI-generated submissions for art or text.

Query Paige

Wish List

Thrillers & Psychological Suspense

Martial arts (especially women who kick ass)
Forensics
Real, burgeoning science & innovative technology taken to the next level (but not AI)
Vigilantes and characters who do the wrong things for the right reasons
Stories inspired by the show Unsolved Mysteries
A character/community-centered legal thriller (the next Erin Brockovich or Pelican Brief)

Horror & Fantasy

Stories that examine contemporary issues using horror as the vehicle (think Jordan Peele or Stephen Graham Jones)
Sentient plants or natural settings with a sinister undertone (a la Annihilation) - bonus if it speaks to our climate crisis without being too heavy handed
Exploring a matrilineal inheritance through a trans POV
Occult conspiracies
Magic in our world
Worldbuilding & magic systems that feel integral to the plot—not just for flash

Upmarket Fiction

Stories that have a dark and/or speculative edge
A book about the Navajo Rangers from a Navajo author
Speculative fiction about the Tsunami spirits in Ishinomaki, focusing on collective healing (the ghost taxisespecially)
Trans athletes
Niche communities and how isolation can breed toxic behaviors
Quirky settings that become part of the cast of characters
Something that makes me laugh and cry / perfectly blends humor and heart

Nonfiction

Platform-based NF in the pop culture, lifestyle arena
Accessible NF about neuroscience, sex, and relationships (esp by Queer or underrepresented voices)
Pop science about the natural world with a narrative approach (like Sy Montgomery's SOUL OF AN OCTOPUS or Juli Berwald's SPINELESS)
Queer takes on subjects other than queer history (along the lines of Sabrina Imbler's HOW FAR THE LIGHT REACHES)
NF that makes me feel something and teaches me new things (a la Bonnie Tsui's WHY WE SWIM)

Please note: I am temporarily closed to PB, MG, sci-fi and historical fiction except for referrals or conference attendees.

Across categories and genres:

I am especially seeking stories from Indigenous writers in all categories and genres.
Characters with disabilities where the disability is NOT a twist or a problem to be solved
Any genre exploring how legacy & lineage (or lack thereof) impacts a character's current challenges
Twists that serve the plot not just shock factor
Queerness that isn't solely about trauma or coming out
An unexpected setting that influences the plot (and almost become a character itself)
Stories from creators who have historically been underrepresented

Bottom line: I am looking for captivating stories, a strong voice, and authentic characters. An exciting premise hooks my interest, but characters and voice keep me reading. I am also open to being surprised. If you think we'd be a good fit, give it a try!

Projects I am NOT necessarily a fit for:

Unnecessary, excessive violence against women or children
Stories that include suicide as a primary element of the plot
COVID or terminal-illness as the primary plot
Books where the dog dies! (If you are sending me something where a dog dies, I'd appreciate a warning)
Rhyming picture books (I know there are amazing rhyming picture books, but I tend to be REALLY picky about them)
Adult memoir
Hugely complex sci-fi set in space or closed spaceship stories
Non-fiction picture book biographies

Submission Guidelines

Submit your query to Query Manager: www.querymanager.com/paigeterlip

Follow the directions on Query Manager to submit your query. If I'm interested in reading more, I will request the full manuscript. Per Starling policy only submit to one Starling agent at a time. Please be patient! I personally read each and every query, and will respond as soon as possible. I reply to every query. My typical turn around time is 10-12 weeks, but sometimes I can get behind. If you haven't heard from me, it means I'm still considering!

Do NOT email queries. All email queries will be automatically deleted. I want to read your work! Follow Starling's submission guidelines to ensure your query is reviewed.