Inbox Insights #1

Inbox Insights is a look into the query inbox at a literary agency. Twice a month, I will go through the queries received on a single day and share my reasons for passing on a project or requesting more material. Hopefully querying writers will pick up new tips for crafting query letters and get a sense of the subjectivity involved in the query process.

#1. Pass. Query mentions multiple projects. Tip: Query with one manuscript/proposal only.

#2. Pass. Not interested in the concept.

#3. Pass. Very little (and confusing) information about the story. Tip: Have someone who has never read your manuscript give feedback on your query letter.

#4. Pass. Not interested in the genre.

#5. Request. Great hook and unique concept. Tip: Think of the beginning of your query letter as back cover copy. Read the back covers of books you own (especially in the genre of your manuscript) and study how these descriptions are used to entice readers.

#6. Pass. Not interested in the concept.

#7. Pass. Doesn’t follow the query guidelines. Tip: There’s a difference between a query letter and a synopsis. The query letter is your pitch - it should make the reader excited to read your manuscript. The synopsis is an overview of your manuscript’s plot - it is typically mundane and won’t win over an agent. Don’t send a synopsis in place of a query.

#8. Pass. Not interested in the concept.

#9. Request. Interesting concept. A mix of commercial and literary appeal.

#10. Pass. Not interested in the genre.

#11. Pass. Not interested in the genre.

#12. Pass. Not interested in the concept.

#13. Pass. Not interested in the concept.

#14. Pass. Query discusses themes only. Tip: Make sure your query letter gives details on what happens in your book, not just the themes explored.

#15. Request. Query is personal and provides a glimpse at not only the plot, but also the main character. Tip: It never hurts to mention why you’re querying a specific agent or agency.

#16. Pass. No query. Only sample material included in the email. Tip: Always follow Agency guidelines and never send sample material unless it has been requested.

#17. Pass. Not interested in the genre.

#18. Pass. Not interested in the concept.