No, not IT it. But I just found out I’ve been taking the wrong approach to query writing.
A friend and I recently exchanged query letters. Keep in mind that I’ve written my share of queries — and have read more than my fair share of advice on how to write a great one.
But the one she read was my first stab at a query for this particular manuscript — and apparently it’s no good.
What I have is more one-page synopsis than a query. Hmm … or should I say “harumph”?
My friend’s advice is to follow this formula for the summary graph:
First sentence about the heroine/hero. Second sentence about hero/heroine. Third sentence covers the conflict in their relationship. Fourth sentence either asks a question or teases the reader in some way.
I can buy into that advice — except for the very last part. All the things I’ve read say to answer any questions you ask. You shouldn’t leave the agent/editor hanging … or so I thought.
What say you, loyal commenters? Ask and answer or just ask?
P.S. On the bright side, I guess I have an even shorter synopsis I can send out. Why couldn’t I have realized that before submitting to the Golden Heart? I could have squeezed another page of excellent writing into my entry. 😉
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I thought this blog was going to be related to one of my dad’s bad jokes. 😉
Of all the advice I’ve read, including agent blogs, I’ve always heard you should give it all away to the agent. They want to know exactly what they’re getting into before they ask for more.
I was taught to leave it as a teaser blurb, and they can request more. The synopsis is where you give it all away. That’s what I was told, anyway…
But you DO want to make sure you’ve indicated genre, book length, and a sense of your voice… all in one page. 😉
That makes sense.
Your synopsis should give it all away. The query should be short and sweet and the gist of your story in no more than three paragraphs.
No more than three. Got it!