Jess Taylor, Literary Manager
Young adult, new adult, select romance

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Jess discovered her passion for publishing when she crafted her first book pitch for a high school research project. After falling in love with persuading others to read the stories she adored, she earned her BFA in creative writing from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she also completed the publishing certificate program. She spent six years acquiring children's books, YA, nonfiction, and fiction for a Virginia-based publisher before opening an online bookstore dedicated to her first love: young adult literature. 

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Jess finds great joy in getting books into readers' hands and loves working with authors from all publishing backgrounds. She champions books with diverse characters and settings and is currently building her list in the following genres:
 
Young Adult
My knowledge of YA is extensive, as I've been reading the genre for over twenty years and freelance editing YA novels for two. From icons like Meg Cabot and Sarah Dessen to rising stars like K.L. Walther, Rebecca Danzenbaker, and Laura Taylor Namey, I love them all. 

 

I'm open to any subgenre except tech-heavy science fiction. I adore fresh and unique concepts as well as tried-and-true tales. Retellings of myths, fairy tales, or classic stories are always appreciated, and I love a good paranormal romance (especially if there are mermaids).

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New Adult
I am specifically open to new adult romance titles featuring characters under twenty-five and focused on coming-of-age stories.

 

Romance
Witchy and cozy fantasy romances will always be on my TBR pile. If you have a book like The Kiss Curse, Love's a Witch or The Nightmare Before Kissmas, I want to read it. 
 
I know I love a book when I can't stop thinking about it. LGBTQ+ books are always welcome, and previously self-published titles are considered on a case-by-case basis. I am currently NOT accepting the following:

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• Adult fiction in any genre aside from the romance subgenres listed above

• Nonfiction

• Middle Grade 

• Faith-Based 

• Books over 150k words

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To see Jess’s listing on #MSWL, click here: https://www.manuscriptwishlist.com/mswl-post/jess-taylor/
Please submit queries to Jess via QueryManager here: https://QueryTracker.net/query/4106