Resources for Querying Authors
So you're ready to begin the hunt for an agent! That's an exciting and terrifying stage for most writers. Do yourself a favour and research until you can't stand to research any more. Read synopses for other books. Read successful query letters. Spend the time to figure out which agents are the best match for your story. And more than anything, make sure your manuscript is polished, structurally sound, and your hook is sharp. One agent can see a thousand submissions in a year and may only choose to represent a few of those. Your manuscript AND your query must stand above the horde.
First things first—make sure you sign up for an account (free or premium, the choice is yours) at QueryTracker.net. This is an unbelievable database with agency contact information, agent preferences, and submission tracking. Also, don't overlook their forum! You can (and should) swap feedback with other writers about your query letter, synopsis, and more.
Here are some additional handy resources to get you started:
Querying 101 – Ten Tips and a Template
Query Letter Quandaries: pro tips from the pros
Book Broker – A Literary Agent Interview Series
The Darling Axe has been interviewing literary agents about their personal preferences and suggestions when it comes to query letters and manuscript submissions. Their answers are very enlightening!
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