Hey, folks, it’s our final time to ask the editor!

I’ve compiled a list of questions and the lovely Abigail Fenton, Editorial Director at HarperCollins, HQ Digital, has answered them. Read on to find out more about the work of, and some top tips from, one of the best editors in the business!

I thought we’d finish with a bang so this month’s question is… What makes a bestseller?

Abi says:

Oh, if only there was a formula! I think there are lots of elements that come into play: a unique, hooky idea that fits the market; compelling writing; a great cover and title; intriguing copy; clever marketing; I could go on and on… There’s an element of magic too, when a book just hits the right moment and really chimes with readers.

Thanks, Abi! It’s to know there is an element of luck and timing in there!

Thank you so much to Abi for taking the time to answer my questions. Her workload (as you can imagine!) is CRAY-ZEE! So I’m so grateful to her for humouring me and my blog!

Abi is Editorial Director, HQ at HarperCollins and before that was Commissioning Editor at Bookouture.

Cover photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash