[Leisha]

Teresa, I can't remember if I've said this in the past, but I think I speak for everyone here when I say your constant insight into the world of publishing helps so many of us. You're always posting advice, and I know it must eat into your writing time. So... thank you. You're inspiring.

And that quote was one I made up, since I couldn't remember Nathan's exact phrasing. But it was something similar...

Back on topic. Another thing I've learnt is something that most fantasy/sf authors tend to do in their covering letter/synopsis, according to Nathan/other agents: list too many fancy terms and names and races that don't need to be mentioned at that point. Agents say a lot of writers try hard to summarise everything, especially most main characters and their missions; whereas agents want only the bare information that shows them you have a compelling plot, a background to your main character ("Throughout his childhood Nathan endured..."), and can handle the ending without resorting to deux-ex-machina.