#Querytip

Based on the *massive* volume of queries that arrived yesterday, it's clear that this week is the chosen moment for many new authors making their initial approach to agents... great! So I thought a quick #querytip thread might be helpful for some.

This is a first. A 55 page query letter. #SlushInsight #Agentlife #querytip

I've been getting lots of queries via LinkedIn lately. Don't do that. Follow an agent's sub rules. Also no one likes LinkedIn. #querytip

Since I'm seeing a ridiculous amount of queries that aren't following directions or not utilizing their skills in a way that catches attention, I wanted to do a quick #querytip thread. Keep in mind, I AM NOT reading queries at this second, so this is not a subtweet to anyone.

When you receive a rejection, don't insult the person who sent it. Just because *this* piece of work isn't right for them doesn't mean they won't want to work w/ you on the next. By insulting them, all you're doing is guaranteeing that you never get that chance. #querytip #subtip

Do not query before you have a) finished writing your book, b) revised your book, c) shown your query to someone unfamiliar with your work who can point out confusing bits. #querytip

#querytip querying authors, in your bio if you don't have writing accolades, I still love knowing your day job and some tidbit about you. I read samples first and if I go back to your query, that's often missing (probably to keep things short). I mean, give me a sentence or two!

#QueryTip: I heard a rumor that there's some advice floating around to close out a query as no response after 2-4 weeks & well... You should NOT. Unless the agent specifically says, they likely haven't seen your query yet or are still considering it. (Quick 🧵)

I don't know why query letter writers apologize for not being published previously. Fully 1/3 of my clients had ZERO pub credits when I signed them, and then sold their books. #querytip

#QueryTip — If you tell an agent one of their client’s referred you to them, you can pretty much guarantee we are going to ask that client. 😉❤️

A thread on some overused opening page scenes that are usually considered a NO when going through our query boxes... #querytip #amquerying #amagenting

I’m always amused (and fairly horrified) by queries that try to insult me. Like, has this approach ever worked for anyone? In the history of ever? It’s not clever or funny. Don’t do it. #querytip

If your manuscript is not complete, or if it's the first draft, DON'T SEND IT TO AN AGENT. Finish the manuscript. Revise the manuscript. POLISH the manuscript. You get one shot to make a first impression. Don't blow it. #querytip #pubtip

I offer R&Rs on occasion & am always happy to see revised queries (even if I haven’t offered an R&R, I’m okay w re-queries). But if you do this, you need to tell me what you changed in your query letter! Tell me about all that revision work you did, I want to hear it! #QueryTip

Just remember your query is the place to give us a short plot summary, but you must ALSO include the STAKES of your story. If I'm curious about your "hook," but you don't tell me what's at stake for your characters, I don't have time to read 90,000 words+/- to find out. #querytip

What is an inciting incident? It’s the moment your MC can no longer have their “normal.” It’s the thing that forces them to make a decision (whether that is action or in action). It’s the driving force of the story and should happen toward the beginning of the book #QueryTip

Hey, quick #QueryTip: don't comment on how an agent looks in your query.

#QueryTip: Authors, do not self reject! What do I mean by this? In my inbox lately I can feel how frustrated authors are right now. And I get it. Querying is tough! But let's talk about some not so great trends I've seen recently in my inbox. #amwriting #WritingCommunity

If an agent says they only accept finished manuscripts, then we mean it. You are not the exception. #toughlove #querytip

For funzies: I’m going to give a query critque away for someone who has voted in this election cycle. Post #IVoted below and I will pick a winner at random. #WritingCommunity #QueryTip #AmQuerying