Introduction
Do you want to get your manuscript published by a literary agent or publisher? The first thing that you need to work on in order to get your book into people’s hands is the query letter. When it comes to the length, brevity should be the soul of this particular kind of letter: Query Letter Examples for Fiction Writers is the elevator pitch of your book.
Here we will explain the fiction query letter structure, give tips on how to write a novel query letter and show you a query letter template for novels that goes with some examples of query letters to literary agents. And not only that, we will look at the details of the selected samples of the query letters for authors in order to make your submission successful.
What Is a Query Letter?
A query letter is a one page text that writers use to both publish in agents’ and publishers’ offices as a proposal for a book. This is the tool that will help you to sell your novel, giving a brief but engaging description of its plot while revealing your writing voice and establishing your credo as a writer.
Fiction Query Letter Format
The format of the query letter is businesslike so that important elements are easy to spot and comprehend. Here’s a breakdown of its key components:
The Greeting
As for the communication with the agent or the editor, always use their name. Do not use clichés as your salutations like ‘Dear Sir/Madam,’ ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ Make sure to find out the agent’s name in order to use it correctly.
The Hook
When writing the passage, always begin with an appealing hook that is entertaining and catches the eye of the audience. This could be a one-line compressed advertisement or a statement that fuels the reader’s thoughts regarding your book. Query Letter Examples for Fiction Writers can help you craft such hooks effectively.
The Summary
Give a short, sharp, and snappy description of your novel. This should not give out the whole plot but should Entwicklung the protagonist, conflict and what is at stake.
The Bio
Add a brief section that will serve to introduce potential clients or employers to a writer, display previous works, or proof of previous employment.
The Closing
Like any normal business letter, close your letter politely, thanking the agent for their time. Add that you’d be glad to share the full manuscript whenever they want it in case you are asked to contribute to show to readers.
How to Write a Query Letter for a Novel
Know Your Genre and Market
Agents want to know where your book fits in the market. Clearly mention the genre, target audience, and comparable titles.
Keep It Concise
A query letter should be no longer than 300-400 words. Every word counts, so eliminate unnecessary fluff and keep it focused.
Show, Don’t Tell
It is much more empowering to say to potential readers, “I wrote this book and it is really going to send you on a roller-coaster ride, then merely writing that the book is ‘thrilling’, or ‘heart breaking’.
Personalize Each Query
Avoid mass emails. Adapt each query letter to the recipient by saying why you selected them and the books they have sold.
Follow Submission Guidelines
Every single independent agent or publisher has its own submission requirements. It is important that one reads them carefully and follows them to the letter in order to successfully secure a chance for a purchase.
Query Letter Template for Writers
Here’s a simple yet effective template:
| Section | Details |
| Greeting | Address the agent/editor by name |
| Hook | Grab attention with an intriguing sentence |
| Summary | Introduce protagonist, conflict, and stakes |
| Bio | Share relevant writing experience and credentials |
| Closing | Thank the agent and offer to send your manuscript |
Sample Query Letters for Literary Agents
Here’s a real-world example:
Dear [Agent’s Name],
Here is my psychological thriller, “Shadows of the Mind” which I write on the strength of 90,000 words. Anyone who has read some of Gillian Flynn’s and Paula Hawkins’ novels will be interested in the twists and turns of the story.
[Plot summary: [Open with the main character, source dilemma and explain the consequences.
In my professional capacity as a freelance journalist I have had articles appearing in [credible newspapers]. My first book is a suspense novel, which also has psychological elements: “Shadows of the Mind.”
I’ve followed the instructions on the submission page and I’ve uploaded the first three chapters of the manuscript. I would appreciate your time, please, and I expect an answer back from you.
Conclusion
A good query letter is your way of getting past the gatekeepers of literary agencies and publishing houses. If you align your submission to the proper structure, make it interesting, and provide individual tid-bits on any piece submitted, your likelihood of getting an agent rockets. Spend more time on the crafting of your query letter and do not feel let down when there is rejection—each one is a step to obtaining your target! Query Letter Examples for Fiction Writers can guide you in this process.
FAQs
How long should a query letter be?
Ideally, a query letter should be 300-400 words, fitting on a single page.
Should I include my entire book synopsis in the query letter?
No, the query letter should only include a brief, compelling summary. A full synopsis is usually a separate document requested by agents.
How many agents should I query at once?
You can query multiple agents simultaneously, but it’s best to personalize each letter to fit the agent’s preferences.
What if I don’t have any previous writing credentials?
That’s okay! Focus on the strength of your book and mention any relevant life experiences that inspired your writing.
How long does it take to get a response from an agent?
Response times vary. Some agents reply within weeks, while others may take months. If you don’t hear back after the specified timeframe, you can follow up politely.
