Dear [Agent],
I am seeking representation of OUR HOUSE OF LIES, a 98,000 word YA dystopian novel with series potential where the political intrigue of Scythe meets manipulative media twist of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. It has the romantic arc and snappy dialogue that will hit home with fans of Gossip Girl, and if this book had a song, it would be “Father Figure” by Taylor Swift. It's a story full of humor, unwavering female friendships, and clever literary puns, and I sincerely hope it earns your interest and curiosity.
After misinformation nearly tore the nation apart, Congress revoked the Freedom of Press and placed it into the hands of DC’s most trusted family: The McHales. The narrative of the nation now presides in their hands and America loves them for it. They’re practically royalty. But there is one problem:
The McHales are liars. And no one knows.
Famously intelligent but infamously timid Myla McHale remained on the sidelines of her father’s corrupt empire, until her eighteenth birthday when he begins to use her as a pawn. In order to improve her awkward rapport with the Press, he commands Myla to stage a relationship with charming and attractive journalist, Parker Meadows. This ploy would sweep the nation off its feet and keep the legacy strong under Parker's charisma and Myla's last name. Knowing that objections on her part will only lead to violence at home, Myla agrees. For now.
Too smart to take things sitting down, she covertly seeks help from an illegal news distributor with a growing voice. Initially offering inside information in exchange for escape, she meets a boy with a secret so shocking it convinces Myla to expose her father once and for all. If she succeeds, she will tear down her nation's sole (but false) source of truth. If she fails, she’ll doom her country to a future of lies.
Either way, her odds of survival are low.
Why this story and why now? Like Myla, I'm the child of two public figures in my rural community. I also grew up in the spotlight with a full view of what happens behind the curtain. This novel combines my upbringing with my news-induced anxiety to create a story that chases truth over politics.
Thank you for your consideration,
Jocie Leigh