How to Write a Query Letter (Updated)
- The Story Smith
- Jun 2, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Queries differ between the US and UK, but here is the general structure I go with:
Beginning
Dear Agent,
I am a British Author living in France seeking representation for my first novel XXX. This is a crossover mystery of around xxxx words, set in the Australian outback. I believe the story would appeal to backpackers, students and readers who like an element of mystery. It was inspired by a real event I heard on the news whilst in Australia.
Short synopsis of 1–2 SHORT paragraphs introducing most, if not all, these elements:
The main character(s) and where/when they start the story;
The main dilemma/conflict incurred and the ensuing story goal;
The main obstacle to that goal;
How they PROPOSE to tackle it;
...
But let's say you're writing a magical adventure. It might look something like this:
Maggie is a witch who is never taken seriously. Everything tends to go wrong in her spells, or bump into her when she walks. Still, she has worked harder than anyone else in her season and is on the cusp of a hard-won graduation at Witch Wind Academy in the land of Sparkmoore (1). Disastrously, her magic abilities have suddenly taken flight. (2)
...
As you can see, both synopses are short and offer the setup of the story before all the major plot stuff occurs, implying the main chunk of the story that follows and maintaining intrigue. They are also in two distinctly different voices in accordance with their genres, tone and potential age groups.
Something About the Author
A brief paragraph about yourself, your writing and publishing history, or anything that is pertinent to your ability to market yourself or suggest you are serious about your writing and a career as a novelist, such as:
...
Simple and brief:
I look forward to hearing from you.
All the best,
Me.
Ensure your contact details are featured somewhere. I usually put mine in the header, in slightly paler font than the main body of text.
...
If they ask for your sample chapters and accompanying synopsis, that is the time to provide full disclosure on the plot and the story arc. Basically, get them on the hook first, as with any reader.
...
Don’t do anything too quirky or weird, even if you think it makes you sound unique — don’t run the risk of sounding like a fruitcake.
...
Good luck — let us know how you go!
Charlie
