This was so interesting! Thanks for writing! I think it can all depend how you decide to frame your novel as well and what comp books you use. For example, I wouldn't necessarily call my own novel "High-Concept" though it does have elements of fantasy and magic. But if I framed it the right way it could seem like a high concept novel.
I also completely agree that the story comes first always. If the story isn't good it doesn't matter how good your letter or pitch is, you still won't get the agent or the book deal.
In a pitch I also add “technical and social aspect of survival”, as in the beginning piping is being repaired and in the end, piping is used as a melee weapon.
The real question is, which is a better high concept - technical and social components of survival or the lived experience of a main protagonist
I'm about to start querying my dystopian horror debut, and your perspective and advice is always so valuable!
Thanks, Noel!
Thanks for this piece, Karin--I added a couple of your "high concept" books to my reading list!
Funny I did too, Rachel. Some are on Kindle Unlimited.
Happy summer reading to us both!
This was so interesting! Thanks for writing! I think it can all depend how you decide to frame your novel as well and what comp books you use. For example, I wouldn't necessarily call my own novel "High-Concept" though it does have elements of fantasy and magic. But if I framed it the right way it could seem like a high concept novel.
I also completely agree that the story comes first always. If the story isn't good it doesn't matter how good your letter or pitch is, you still won't get the agent or the book deal.
I agree, Evelyn. Sometimes you can tease out the best elements of a story to make it read more compelling.
Thank you - I'm currently querying my domestic thriller and this is helpful.
You’re welcome, Kerry. Best of luck with querying!
I always struggle to understand high concept ideas, but these examples are soooo helpful!
I’m so glad, Paige!
Thanks for bringing this up. I realized that one of my manuscripts may very well fit as a high concept story, and it had never occurred to me before.
That’s exciting, Tim.
I think most stories can be packed into a high concept.
Let me try for mine: A former civilian professional becomes the highest ranking officer on a crippled satellite in hostile deep space
I think this is pretty darn amazing but I would spell out the problems in deep space. Oxyen running out? Food? Possibility of being trapped forever?
In a pitch I also add “technical and social aspect of survival”, as in the beginning piping is being repaired and in the end, piping is used as a melee weapon.
The real question is, which is a better high concept - technical and social components of survival or the lived experience of a main protagonist