In the October issue of Writer's Digest, Debbie Macomber explains how to identify and use pop-culture cues to write—and sell—your novel:

A key lesson in the writing business (or any other, for that matter) is to be first. If you want your story to stand out and connect with editors—and ultimately, readers—don't look at what's on the bestseller lists today. Instead of following a current trend, identify a new one. You want to have written the Harry Potter books, not one of their many imitations. Learn to recognize incipient trends and incorporate them into your fiction or you'll be playing a constant game of catch-up.

For all seven trend tips, visit:
http://writersdigest.com/article/7-trend-tips/