Episode 505: The Rule of Three: How to Research Your Way to a Book Deal

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.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

In 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.

The AI Factor in Publishing

Barb 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.

Understanding Discoverability in 2026

With 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.

The Rule of Three

Barb 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.

Key Takeaways

• Good books will always find readers, but you must help readers find your book
• Your story and experience are what set you apart—don't outsource your thinking to AI
• Do your Amazon research before pitching to understand what's already in your category
• Niche down: "Moms who are stressed" is too broad; "moms of small children with control issues" is discoverable
• Study the comments on successful authors' social media to understand what readers connect with

If you're serious about getting your book into the hands of readers who need it, this episode will help you refine your approach and pitch with confidence in 2026.