What do publishers really look for in a manuscript? Is it still possible to break into traditional publishing in 2026? And how has BookTok changed the game for authors?

In this special episode of The Write Podcast, I sit down with Sophie Hamley—publisher at Hachette Australia and bestselling author under the name Sophie Green—for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry.

We talk about:

• How to pitch your novel to agents and publisher

• Whether you really need an agent in today’s market

• Mistakes writers make when submitting

• The rise of self-publishing and where it fits now

• The truth about BookTok, platforms, and building an audience

• What publishers are acquiring in 2026 (romance, kids, fantasy and more)
  

Whether you're a self-published author hoping to go traditional, or you're just starting to submit, this is one of the most insightful and practical interviews I’ve ever recorded. Sophie’s seen it all, and she doesn’t hold back.

🎓 Want to learn directly from Sophie? She’s teaching a masterclass at my Queenstown Writing Retreat this March! Book your spot now atserenadepublishing.com