I “finished” my query letter.
If you’ve written a book, I know you’re happy for me. (THANK YOU! I KNOW! I’M SO THRILLED!) For the uninitiated, let me explain.
A query letter is sent to prospective agents. The goal is to distil my book and my life story down to 350-500 words. The description should be accurate, compelling (sellable) and in my voice. I also need to offer comparable titles (books/media) and a 2-3 sentence bio that explains why I’m the only person who could write this book.
No biggie. Just your all your hopes and dreams in 500 words or less.
Actually, I loved working on the query letter. It forced me to think hard about what this book is really about. If I had written the query letter a year ago, it would’ve been about a different book entirely. But having written a shitty first draft, I now have a better idea of what this book is really about. The query letter serves as my inspiration and guide rails.
That being said - I’m not ready to send the letter out to agents yet! First I need to revisit my first draft and wrestle it into something I can honestly call a manuscript. Which will take me approximately forever.
But this feels good. It’s a milestone and I’m proud of myself. Even if I’m not (yet) brave enough to share the letter with you! (I’m not even sure if that’s kosher. Maybe it’s a professional faux pas? Anway, the letter will likely be edited and tailored over time...)
How about I do this instead: over the next few weeks, I’ll write a series of posts on my querying process:
Researching agents, being myself and getting rejected
Can I call this a manuscript?
I can die now.
Please note: There are many experienced writers/editors on Substack who actually know what they are talking about. Two of my favourites are
and . If you are writing a book - you should definitely follow them! I’m just a newbie, sharing my process, in real-time…And today, I’m celebrating. :)
xo, L
P.S. Can I ask a favour? If you like what you read, could you send this to a friend?
Woohoo 🙌🏼 Yay! 😘🥰
Actually cheering as I read this...