Querying is hard. I know because I did it (multiple times! before signing with my agent. It can be really overwhelming, especially for writers just starting out. But it’s also exciting! And I thought I’d share with you my favorite resources to help you polish that query package until it shines and snags the attention of an agent who will love your book as much as you do.

The absolute biggest mistake you can make is querying too early. I know, I know – I’ve done it. I even did it with Blood Like Roses, and the difference in the request rate pre-and post-revisions speaks for itself. So make sure you have your pages polished and you’ve made your manuscript the best it can possibly be. Make sure you’ve used plenty of beta readers (I’ve met so many on twitter!) or critique partners.

Writing the Query:

Query letters are HARD. I know this, you know this. How the heck are you supposed to take this story you’ve crafted over tens of thousands of words and shove it into a 250-300 word summary that somehow gives enough detail to make you stand out but not TOO much detail (to make them request pages)?

First, read the back of your favorite book(s). Then, ask yourself: who is my main character? What do they want? What stands in their way?

You’re going to write MANY drafts of this query letter, so don’t sweat things too much at first. Here are some great blog posts that help you break down structure, stakes, and the rest of the details:

One last word about queries: keep it short, sweet, and specific. This is your chance to hook agents and leave them wanting MORE – so keep your writing snappy, cut the extra details, and make sure that you are showing what specifically sets your book apart in its genre.

ALSO. I know I don’t have to tell you this, but do your research. Make sure you’re 1) actually querying an agent you want to work with and 2) querying an agent who is a good fit. Remember that no agent is better than a bad agent. You can get the scoop on agents at places like QueryTracker, Absolute Write Forums , Writer Beware…or by asking your writer friends if they have any info on shady agents/agencies, or people known for bad or predatory behavior.

I hope this roundup helps! And as always, feel free to ask me if you need help. Good luck out there! You’ve got this.

Edit October 2023: I wanted to share another resource a young writer shared with me full of useful links: The Money-Saving Guide for Authors and Writers. Thank you for your suggestion, Anna!