As an agent, I receive hundreds of queries each week. I enjoy my work and want to take the time to carefully read each one and respond accordingly. A query is akin to a resume cover letter: it should be all business, with a touch of personality and enthusiasm.
Subject line format:
Query – [Title of Book] by [Author Name]
Always address your query directly to the agent (e.g., Dear Ms. Hagan). A strong opening might include something like:
“Thank you for reading my query. Based on your list of published books, particularly [Title or Category], I hope you’ll find my work of interest.”
This shows you’ve done your research and are querying someone who is genuinely a fit for your book. Most agents will delete queries that fall outside their area of interest. If you want a response, only query agents who represent your genre—and only one agent at a time.
Please don’t CC or BCC a group of agents. I’ve seen agents hit “reply all” in frustration, and it’s not pretty. If your book is humorous, it’s fine to show that—just don’t overdo it. A light laugh goes a long way; too much humor can backfire.
The Essential Parts of a Query Letter
1. A Brief Synopsis
Give a short, compelling summary of your book, and explain why you are the best person to write it. What makes you an expert on this topic?
Avoid generic lines like, “I’m the best person to write this because I lived it.” That’s not always enough. Have you taken writing classes? Studied the subject? Show us that you have the skills to become a published author.
I’ve read brilliant proposals that led to sold books—only to receive manuscripts that were completely different in tone or quality. If you get help writing your proposal, be sure the same person helps with your manuscript, or you risk cancellation. Publishers expect a fully edited manuscript. Editors don’t write the book for you—they step in only after the full draft is submitted.
2. Your Bio and Platform
Your bio should highlight your expertise and visibility. Include:
- Where you speak and how many people attend
- Names of organizations, corporations, or retreats you’ve worked with
- Social media follower counts
- Podcast appearances (optional, but helpful)
- Website and social media links
Don’t make us hunt this information down. Publishers want to know what kind of marketing reach you already have—they see your book as an investment, and they want a return.
3. How You’ll Market the Book
Be clear about your plans to promote your book. Your advance will be based on how many books the publisher believes you can sell. Once you’ve earned back your advance and start receiving royalties, it becomes a truly gratifying experience.
4. Your Contact Information
When signing off, include your best contact information. Make it easy for us to reach you.
What We’re Really Looking For
Yes, all of the above is important. But what agents are really looking for is whether you’ve done your homework. Do you understand how publishing works? Agents are gatekeepers. Editors rely on us to send them polished proposals (for nonfiction) or fully edited manuscripts (for fiction).
Please do not send out queries until you’re ready to immediately follow up with your proposal or manuscript. This is one of my biggest pet peeves, and I’m sure I’m not alone. If I get excited about a pitch, I want to read it now—not in two weeks.
Industry Resources
If you’re new to publishing, I recommend reading Writer’s Digest and Poets & Writers magazines. While I’m happy to support and guide my authors, I do expect them to have a working knowledge of how publishing functions.
When an Agent Says Yes… Kinda
If we like your query and request your proposal—what an exciting moment! But now comes the waiting.
We have to feel confident that we can sell your proposal or manuscript to an editor. We research recent comparable titles to see if the market is still strong. We check your social media engagement to get a feel for your voice, personality, and platform. If we believe the book will be well received, we’ll usually schedule a phone call to get to know you.
Often, before we formally offer representation, we’ll respond with a list of questions and suggestions to strengthen your proposal. That’s the beginning of the editorial process. Buckle up.
A Few Realities to Keep in Mind
- 1 in 10,000 aspiring authors land an agent
- 1 in 6,000 get a book deal
This is why your query needs to be exceptional, and why you need to be prepared to send your materials immediately.
Getting an agent is like entering into a relationship. You both need to know you can work together. Another agent, Jeff Herman, once said:
“If you dread that client’s phone call, let that client go.”
I’ve followed that advice throughout my career. Life’s too short to work with people who don’t listen or are difficult. That said, I’ve only canceled an Author Agreement a handful of times over 25 years. I truly believe in nurturing my clients—some of whom are business-only, and others who have become lifelong friends.
The Final Step
Once you and your agent agree that the proposal is in top form, it’s sent out to a curated list of editors.
And just like that, you’re on your way to becoming a published author.
