In my “The Mail I Get” posts, I’ve shared dozens of examples of the lame pitches I’ve received from inept publicists and clueless authors about their books. Well, now I thought it was time to show you an example of how it’s done right. Here’s an excerpt of a very effective pitch that I got from a publicist today:
My name is Anna Ryan, and I’m representing a uniquely clever, and altogether fun, forensic medical mystery entitled, Lousiana Fever, written by forensic medical expert, DJ Donaldson. Louisiana Fever is the latest in the Andrew Broussard mysteries. […]Donaldson is known for his medical expertise, and his meticulous attention to scientific detail within his stories. But he’s also known for his colorful characters too. What I particularly love is how the protagonist–medical examiner Andrew Broussard–is not only an amazing forensic detective, but is decidedly obese and unabashedly loves food (almost as much as I do!) The interplay between him and his gorgeous counterpart, Kit Franklyn, make for a really fast-paced and uniquely clever mystery plot. Add in the sumptuous New Orleans, LA backdrop and you have a really enjoyable read…
The pitch not only conveys what is unique and interesting about the book and its author, but its shrewdly written in a chatty, personal way that makes it seem less like a press release and more like a recommendation from a friend. The accompanying press release included a blurb from Tess Gerritsen and an punchy lead:
Andy Broussard, the “Plump and Proud” New Orleans medical examiner, obviously loves food. Less apparent to the casual observer is his hatred of murderers. Together with his gorgeous sidekick, psychologist Kit Franklyn, Broussard forms a powerful, although improbable, mystery solving duo.
All in all, very well done.
I kinda think we’re all inept and clueless in many ways, in many worlds, with many people.
My response to a person who is inept and clueless in some way is a smile, and the knowledge
that I can help this person—there’s work to be done, there’s a place for me in this world.
Having work to do, and a place in a world is a great blessing. So this person is a blessing.
As well, I recall that in some way this person is helping me by letting me help him or her.
And often a person like this knows something I don’t, which I can’t learn in any other way
than by rendering them assistance. Anyway, it was nice to see a pitch you did like, Lee,
it struck me as interesting, too.
(I’m waiting for the right moment to read, “The Heist,” and am looking forward to it.)
(When you started this project with Janet, Lee, I said I was looking forward
to seeing the book, “The Heist,” on the bestseller list of “The Globe and Mail.”
“The Globe and Mail” is Canada’s most prestigious newspaper, akin to “The
New York Times” in the States. And on their bestseller list for Hardcover Fiction,
In position 10 for 06/29/13 is, yes, “The Heist.” It’s a splendid achievement,
very well deserved, and will lead to continuing success with future stories,
published and on TV, I’m sure. Well done! You both deserve to take a bow!)