Ten questions with Vanessa Cuti
Vanessa Cuti has the type of reviews a writer dreams about. The Associated Press described her debut novel The Tip Line as “a superbly well-written literary novel” and Publishers Weekly (in a starred review) called it “exceptional” and praised her “sharply honed prose.” However, as she shares in this interview, the path to publication wasn’t always easy.
1. Please tell us about your debut novel.
My debut novel, The Tip Line, follows a woman who has taken a job at a police department answering anonymous calls with the hopes of finding a husband. But when she receives a tip about four bodies found on a local beach and learns that a law enforcement officer could be responsible, her plans seem as though they’re falling apart. It’s very loosely inspired by the Gilgo Beach homicides, a still-unsolved case out here on Long Island.
2. I’ve read that only 4% of the people who start a novel, finish writing it. Why do you think you beat the odds?
I think it takes such persistence. And the luxury of time. And also being haunted by an idea or a character that just will not let go of you.
3. Was your debut novel the first book you wrote? (Any prior efforts hiding on your hard drive?)
It was not my first. I have a few other novels that have not and will not see the light of day.
4. What helped you become a better writer? Any books or resources you found helpful?
I love Courtney Maum’s Before and After the Book Deal and Matt Bell’s Refuse to be Done. There are also so many good writing-related substacks. I love: Story Club with George Saunders, Lincoln Michel’s Counter Craft, Courtney Maum’s Before and After the Book Deal, Jamie Attenberg’s Craft Talk, and Anna Sproul-Latimer’s How to Glow in the Dark.
5. What was your process like getting an agent?
I was so very lucky to meet my current agent through a friend.
6. How did you celebrate when you learned your book would be published?
Cocktails. Lots of.
7. What was the most exciting moment involving the publication of your debut novel? (The moment you first saw the cover? The call when you learned when it was being published? When you cashed your advance check?)
I cried when I saw the Publisher’s Marketplace announcement. Also when I saw the Publisher’s Weekly review. It’s been an emotional ride, to say the least.
8. What’s your best advice for someone who wants to be published?
You will have to get used to rejection because it just never ends. Nothing about this business is easy. But, also, have fun with your writing because you have to love it before anyone else can.
9. What are you currently reading? Or, what's one of the best novels you've read lately?
I absolutely loved See What I Have Done by Sarah Schmidt.
10. What are you working on now? Any projects coming out soon?
I just went out on submission with a new novel. Wish me luck!