Your query letter is your first, and often only, chance to impress a literary agent. It’s a vital tool that can open doors to publishing success, but a poorly written letter can quickly land your manuscript in the rejection pile. A successful query letter must be concise, compelling, and perfectly tailored to the agent you’re targeting. It’s a delicate balance of showcasing your story’s hook, establishing your credibility, and conveying your unique voice. Think of it as a captivating movie trailer for your book – it should leave the agent wanting more.
The key components of a winning query letter include a strong hook that grabs the agent’s attention from the very first sentence. Follow this with a concise and captivating synopsis of your story, highlighting the main conflict, characters, and stakes. Include relevant information about yourself, such as writing experience, awards, or affiliations. Most importantly, personalize the letter by mentioning why you chose to query this specific agent – demonstrating that you’ve done your research and understand their interests. Remember to keep it professional and error-free; typos and grammatical errors are an immediate turn-off.
Below, we’ve compiled 13 sample query letters, each showcasing different approaches and strengths. Study them carefully, paying attention to the structure, tone, and content. Notice how they highlight different elements of the story and tailor the pitch to the specific agent. Use these samples as inspiration, but remember to adapt them to your own unique story and voice. Never plagiarize or copy these letters verbatim, as agents can spot that a mile away. Instead, focus on understanding the underlying principles that make these letters effective and apply them to your own query.
Before sending, make sure to revise your query letter multiple times, and ask trusted friends or writing partners for feedback. A fresh pair of eyes can often spot errors or suggest improvements that you might have missed. Don’t be discouraged by rejections – they are a common part of the querying process. Use each rejection as an opportunity to learn and refine your approach. With perseverance and a well-crafted query letter, you can increase your chances of landing the perfect literary agent for your book.
13 Sample Query Letters to Literary Agents:
Sample Query Letter 1: Genre-Specific Romance
Dear [Agent Name],
I am writing to seek representation for my 80,000-word contemporary romance, “Accidental Attraction,” which I believe aligns well with your interest in [mention agent’s specific interest, e.g., strong female leads, small-town settings].
[Character A], a fiercely independent baker, finds her carefully constructed life turned upside down when [Character B], a charming and successful architect, moves next door. Despite their initial animosity, a series of hilarious mishaps and shared secrets spark an undeniable attraction. But can they overcome their contrasting lifestyles and past heartaches to build a lasting relationship?
I am a member of [Writing Organization] and have previously published short stories in [Magazine/Website]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 2: Fantasy Adventure
Dear [Agent Name],
I am seeking representation for “The Obsidian Crown,” a 95,000-word epic fantasy novel. Your interest in [mention agent’s specific interest, e.g., complex world-building, morally grey characters] resonated with me as I believe this novel speaks to those elements.
In the war-torn kingdom of Eldoria, [Character A], a disgraced knight haunted by his past, must team up with [Character B], a cunning thief with a hidden agenda, to retrieve the legendary Obsidian Crown before it falls into the wrong hands and plunges the realm into eternal darkness.
This novel combines classic fantasy tropes with a fresh perspective on power and redemption. I have included the first five chapters below for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 3: Mystery Thriller
Dear [Agent Name],
I am writing to you today to introduce my manuscript, “Whispers in the Dark,” a mystery thriller complete at 75,000 words. I was particularly drawn to your representation of [Author Name] and their similarly suspenseful narratives.
When a renowned psychiatrist is found dead in his locked office, [Character A], a troubled detective battling his own demons, must unravel a web of secrets and lies to catch a killer lurking in the shadows. But the deeper he digs, the closer he gets to uncovering a shocking truth that could shatter his own reality.
I have a degree in Psychology and have worked as a crisis counselor for the past ten years, giving me unique insights into the human psyche.
Thank you for considering my work.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 4: Young Adult Dystopian
Dear [Agent Name],
I’m seeking representation for my young adult dystopian novel, “Echoes of Rebellion,” complete at 82,000 words. I admire your work with [Author Name] and believe my novel would be a good fit for your list.
In a society where emotions are suppressed and individuality is outlawed, [Character A], a seemingly ordinary teenager, discovers a hidden rebellion and must choose between conformity and fighting for freedom. Her choice will determine the fate of her world.
“Echoes of Rebellion” explores themes of identity, control, and the power of human connection.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 5: Historical Fiction
Dear [Agent Name],
I am seeking representation for my historical fiction novel, “The Silk Merchant’s Daughter,” set in 18th-century France, complete at 90,000 words. I was particularly impressed by your work with historical novelists and feel my book may be of interest to you.
[Character A], the daughter of a wealthy silk merchant, finds her life turned upside down when she uncovers a secret that threatens to expose a powerful conspiracy within the French court. Forced to choose between loyalty and justice, she embarks on a dangerous journey that will test her courage and resilience.
I have a Master’s degree in History and have spent years researching this period.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 6: Science Fiction
Dear [Agent Name],
I am writing to introduce my science fiction novel, “The Kepler Protocol,” a standalone novel complete at 85,000 words. I am a great admirer of your work with [Author Name] in the hard science fiction genre.
When Earth receives a cryptic signal from a distant exoplanet, [Character A], a brilliant but disillusioned astrophysicist, is tasked with deciphering its meaning. What she uncovers could hold the key to humanity’s survival – or its ultimate destruction.
I have a background in astrophysics and a passion for exploring the mysteries of the universe.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 7: Women’s Fiction
Dear [Agent Name],
I am seeking representation for my women’s fiction novel, “The Color of Hope,” complete at 88,000 words. I believe your keen eye for powerful stories centered around women’s experiences would appreciate this work.
[Character A], a single mother struggling to make ends meet, finds her life transformed when she inherits her grandmother’s antique shop. As she uncovers the secrets hidden within the shop’s dusty shelves, she also rediscovers her own strength and resilience.
This novel explores themes of family, loss, and the healing power of connection.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 8: Middle Grade Fantasy
Dear [Agent Name],
I am writing to seek representation for my middle grade fantasy novel, “The Lost Amulet of Avalon,” complete at 50,000 words. I was drawn to your work in children’s literature.
When [Character A], a shy and imaginative twelve-year-old, discovers a hidden amulet, she is transported to the magical world of Avalon. She must team up with a quirky group of mythical creatures to stop an evil sorcerer from plunging Avalon into darkness.
I have a passion for writing stories that inspire and entertain young readers.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 9: Legal Thriller
Dear [Agent Name],
I am seeking representation for my legal thriller, “The Verdict of Silence,” complete at 80,000 words. Your work with other suspense novelists is impressive.
[Character A], a young and idealistic lawyer, takes on a seemingly impossible case: defending a man accused of a crime he swears he didn’t commit. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of power.
I have a law degree and have worked as a trial attorney for several years.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 10: Paranormal Romance
Dear [Agent Name],
I’m seeking representation for my paranormal romance novel, “Moonlit Shadows,” complete at 75,000 words. I am drawn to your representation of other stories in this genre.
[Character A], a young woman haunted by visions of the future, finds herself drawn to [Character B], a mysterious stranger with a dark secret. Together, they must confront a supernatural threat that could destroy their love and their world.
This novel combines romance, suspense, and elements of the supernatural.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 11: Crime Fiction
Dear [Agent Name],
I am seeking representation for my crime fiction novel, “City of Shadows,” complete at 82,000 words. I am drawn to your other suspenseful stories.
[Character A], a hardened detective with a troubled past, is tasked with solving a series of brutal murders that are plaguing the city. But as he closes in on the killer, he realizes that he is caught in a web of corruption that reaches the highest levels of power.
I have experience as a police officer and am able to bring a realistic feel to crime stories.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 12: Upmarket Fiction
Dear [Agent Name],
I am seeking representation for my upmarket fiction novel, “The Inheritance of Silence,” complete at 88,000 words. Your work with other complex stories is impressive to me.
[Character A], a woman searching for her identity, uncovers a family secret in a remote cabin in the Scottish Highlands. While she never expected to find such a history, she is forever changed.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Query Letter 13: General
Dear [Agent Name],
I am writing to seek representation for my 70,000-word novel, “The Last Resort,” which I believe aligns well with your interest in [mention agent’s specific interest, e.g., character-driven stories].
[Character A] has always been a troubled person. In an effort to recover, he must discover himself again after facing a tragedy.
I am a member of [Writing Organization] and have previously published short stories in [Magazine/Website]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
In Conclusion: The Art of the Query
Crafting a successful query letter is an art form. It requires careful attention to detail, a clear understanding of your story, and a personalized approach to each agent you query. By studying these samples and adapting their principles to your own work, you can significantly increase your chances of landing representation and achieving your publishing goals. Remember to always be professional, concise, and passionate about your story. Good luck!