Fiction Writing Made Easy

#142. How To Write A Query Letter That Get Requests

May 14, 2024

Savannah Gilbo, a writer and expert in query letters, shares tips on writing a compelling query letter that grabs agents' attention. Topics include the importance of query letters, how to write one effectively, troubleshooting if it's not working, and final thoughts. Learn the key components needed to craft an engaging query letter for literary agents and editors.

21:31

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Episode guests

Savannah Gilbo

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Crafting an effective query letter involves personalization and key book details for differentiation and engagement with agents.

Balancing plot and character in the narrative description is crucial to intrigue agents and effectively convey the story's essence.

Deep dives

Crafting an Effective Query Letter with Key Ingredients for Book Information

Crafting an effective query letter involves including key book information in a personal and conversational manner. This section should contain details like the agent's name, reasons for querying them, comp titles, genre, word count, and a compelling log line. Personalization is crucial to differentiate from other writers and show agents that thorough research has been done.

Introduction

2min

Crafting a Compelling Query Letter

9min

Crafting an Engaging Narrative Summary and Author Bio for Query Letters

2min

Crafting an Effective Query Letter

5min

Effective Querying Strategies for Writers

3min

“I recommend working on your query letter as soon as you feel good enough about the overall shape of your story.” - Savannah Gilbo

Agents and editors must sort through hundreds of query letters to find an outstanding story. So, how do you write a query letter that catches their attention and makes them want to read more? Tune into this episode to learn how to write a query letter that works! Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[01:31] What are query letters, and why are they important?

[03:46] How to write a query letter.

[14:49] How to troubleshoot your query letter if it’s too long or not working.

[18:02] Final thoughts and episode recap

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