How to Write a Fiction Query Letter

The hard-scrabble industry of book publishing requires you to condense an entire novel into a two- or three-paragraph grab that the intern of an agent or an editor will spend roughly 30 seconds reading. The query letter for a work of fiction is tough, but all important to finding a publisher. Limit your letter to one page and one project.

Instructions

1. Hook an agent or editor right off the bat. Your first paragraph will be your hook, your concept, your tagline for your book. Avoid "this meets that" constructions that are nonspecific. Don't give editors and agents a reproduction of "the latest big thing"; they want the next big thing or certainly something that grabs their attention. Give a concise, clear description that captures the essence of the novel and, you hope, future readers' interest.

2. Lay out the synopsis. This is probably only one paragraph that describes the broad strokes of your novel. This should expand on your hook paragraph. This mini-synopsis is compared to back-cover blurbs on published books; look to them for ideas and inspiration. Give the book's word count. Tell the editor or agent what genre your manuscript fits. The genre is not mandatory, because with so many crossover books being published, you may not be able to ascertain this.

3. Provide your autobiography in brief. Mention publishing credits, fiction and nonfiction, if you have them. Include all relevant qualifications, including degrees, writing courses and your profession, within reason. If you have written a medical thriller and you are a doctor, definitely mention this. In this paragraph it is also good to include what drew you to this agent or editor. Be specific and do your research to find the right agency or publisher.

4. Write and format a highly professional letter with your personal letterhead. Know the agent's or editor's correct name spelling and gender. Use your spell checker and include an SASE.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are aren't confident about your query letter, find an editing or writing service to help you. Look for sample letters on quality website or in books about the publishing business.

References

• Fiction Writer's Connection: Query Letters