Part of a rare two-book deal, author Kalisha Buckhanon's first novel, Upstate, unleashed a torrent of publicity: She discusses how she handled the hype with Carmen Scheidel:

Sometimes agents take on the role of editor. Was that your experience?
That was the case on this book. My editor sent me suggestions and feedback, but it wasn't anything that I thought was extensive. I guess it just depends on the book and, if the editor likes the story enough then they'll be willing to work with it.

You sold the novel as part of a two-book deal. Was that based solely on the strength of the manuscript or did your agent pitch another idea?
I'm not really sure, to be honest. I don't remember having any concrete ideas at the time. I mean I had ideas that I was working on, but nothing I'd present as the next book. I mean, it actually was just for an untitled novel -- it wasn't that specific. So, I've heard that it's great for a new author to have a deal like this because, even if your first book isn't particularly successful, you can still put out another book. So, for me, the two-book deal was included in the general deal that I got for the book.

More here.