Query Letter

A query letter is your first step towards getting your book published. It’s a concise, one-page introduction to literary agents, showcasing your work and your potential as an author. Understanding the critical role of literary agents and crafting a compelling query letter can significantly impact your manuscript’s journey to publication.

• Role of Agents: Agents act as intermediaries between writers and publishers, handling negotiations, contracts, and career advisement.
• Global Representation: While most agents are based in major cities like Toronto, New York, and Los Angeles, they represent authors worldwide.
• Agents’ Goals: Remember, agents are looking for marketable, sellable manuscripts—they only earn when you do.

1. First Paragraph (Introduction): Establish a connection with the agent. This is your chance to make a memorable first impression.
2. Second Paragraph (The Hook): Present the essence of your story in a captivating way. This is the heart of your query, designed to pique interest.
3. Third Paragraph (Housekeeping): Include essential details like genre, word count, and title.
4. Fourth Paragraph (Bio Note): Briefly highlight your credentials and any relevant background.
5. Fifth Paragraph (Closing): Express gratitude and mention any additional pertinent details like manuscript editing status or proposal completion (for non-fiction).

Here’s a fictional example of a query letter, designed to provide a clear picture of the structure and content typically included in a successful query:

[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Agent’s Full Name]
[Agency Name]
[Agency Address]
[City, State, Zip]

Dear [Agent’s Last Name],

I recently attended your panel discussion at the [Name of Conference or Event] and was inspired by your insights into the [specific genre or market]. Your enthusiasm for stories that [specific element or theme discussed by the agent] resonated with my own work. Therefore, I am seeking representation for my [genre] novel, “[Book Title],” which is complete at [word count] words.

“[Book Title]” is a [sub-genre or a brief description of the book’s tone or style]. Set in [brief setting description], the story unfolds around [main character’s name], a [brief description of the main character], who [central conflict or hook]. The narrative weaves themes of [major themes] with a narrative style reminiscent of [comparable titles or authors, if appropriate].

As for my background, I am [brief bio, focusing on writing credentials, experience relevant to the book’s content, or any personal connection to the book’s subject matter]. My previous work has been featured in [publications, if applicable], and I maintain an active presence in the writing community through [platforms, blogs, social media, etc.].

Thank you for considering “[Book Title].” I have included the first ten pages below as per your submission guidelines and would be happy to send the complete manuscript upon request. I appreciate your time and look forward to the possibility of working together.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

• Common Pitfalls: Avoid using bold fonts, including images, or discussing multiple books in one query.
• Professionalism is Key: Ensure your manuscript is complete (for fiction), free of typos, and devoid of exaggeration or rudeness.
• Targeting the Right Agent: Ensure the agent represents your genre and follow their specific submission guidelines.

• Real Examples: Analyze examples of both successful and unsuccessful query letters to understand what works.
• A Query Letter I Sent Out (no, I did not land a deal)
• A Query that Landed a Six Figure Book Deal
• Successful Query
• Top 5 Secrets to Landing a Book Deal
• The Query that Landed Me a NY Agent and Big Five Publisher
• Non-Fiction Query Letters that Worked
• Book Deals Breakdown: Understand the financial aspects, with examples of deals ranging from ‘Nice’ ($50,000) to ‘Major’ ($500,000+).

• Agency Example: Follow the provided example of a typical agency’s submission guidelines for reference. Each agency will have a submission page with its rules. FOLLOW THEM to the letter!

Crafting an effective query letter is a skill that can set the stage for your manuscript’s success. By understanding what agents look for and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of catching an agent’s eye and ultimately securing a book deal.