Fiction Trends for 2013: Editors Share What’s Hot and What’s Not

What will top fiction editors be looking for in 2013? An interesting article on the Andrew Lownie Agency’s blog talks to several of the top editors of fiction in the United Kingdom… and comes up with not much that is new.

Unsurprisingly, editors are mostly looking for good books and strong stories. Transworld’s Sarah Adams says, “Forgive the clichés, but I’m looking for compelling storytelling, quality writing and a killer concept that taps into our everyday fears.”

Marcus Gipps, editor at Gollancz/Orion Books imparts what may be a top secret: “As always, as with any editor, what I’m looking for are books that make me fall in love with them.”

Alison Hennessey at Harvill Secker agrees. “Like all editors,” says Secker, “I’m looking for brilliant writing and clever plotting, and I’m also looking for originality and ambition.

John Murray publisher Kate Parkin, points out books aren’t the only thing changing. “Although the ways in which publishers ensure authors connect with their audience are being transformed at unprecedented speed, readers want what they always did: stories that compel and intrigue and transport.”

Read the full piece here.