{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"The Writing at the Red House Podcast","title":"The Rule of Three: How to Research Your Way to a Book Deal","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":1500,"description":"If you're planning to pitch a book this year, you might be surprised to learn that the strategies that worked just a few years ago may not cut it anymore. The publishing landscape has shifted dramatically, and understanding these changes could make all the difference in whether your book finds its audience.\n\nWhat You'll Learn in This Episode\n\nIn this episode of the Writing at the Red House podcast, host Kathi Lipp sits down with literary agent Barb Roose from Books and Such Literary Agency to unpack the critical shifts in book pitching for 2026. Whether you're preparing for conference season or crafting your first query letter, this conversation will help you approach publishers and agents with confidence.\n\nThe AI Factor in Publishing\n\nBarb explains why literary agents can often tell when a query has been AI-generated—and why that matters. She shares practical wisdom about using AI as a tool without letting it undermine your unique voice and intellectual property. The key takeaway? Publishers want books that come from the DNA of humans, especially in faith-based publishing where trust is paramount.\n\nUnderstanding Discoverability in 2026\n\nWith 85% of books sold on Amazon and millions of titles competing for attention, how do readers find your book? Barb breaks down the concept of \"niche felt need\"—the specific problem readers are trying to solve or the exact type of story they're searching for. She offers a practical framework for researching your category and understanding what makes bestselling books in your space successful.\n\nThe Rule of Three\n\nBarb shares her \"rule of three\" strategy for social media research: find three authors slightly ahead of you in your lane, study their social media comments, and identify what their readers are connecting with. This isn't about copying—it's about understanding what resonates and bringing your unique experience to meet that need.\n\nKey Takeaways\n\n\nGood books will always find readers, but you must help readers find your...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/SXdcaR2JROaTxAIRwTq1kVkXifLxSROeRv9AcSKUy1w/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS80OTQ4/MTEzMTQ5Y2ExM2Qx/M2M2MDc5ZjY5ZTUw/MDdhYy5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}