Query Letter Examples

Querying agents can be one of the most nerve-wracking steps for any writer, but a clear query letter can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll walk through what a query letter is, provide a template, share effective hooks, offer a complete example, and finish with actionable tips to make your query letter unforgettable.

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What Is a Query Letter?

A query letter is a one-page pitch meant to introduce your book to an agent, showcase its potential, and highlight your unique voice.

Think of it as the professional equivalent of a first impression.

A quick summary that hooks agents’ interest in your story. Whether you’re working on a debut novel, a series, or a non-fiction project, your query letter is the first step to securing representation.

In just a few paragraphs, a well-crafted query should include:

1. The main concept or hook of your book
2. A summary of the plot and major conflict
3. A sentence or two about you as an author

Query Letter Template

Writing an interesting query letter can make all the difference when reaching out to literary agents.

Here’s a streamlined template to help you structure yours effectively.

Greeting

Address the agent by name to show you’ve done your research. Avoid generic greetings like “Dear Agent” and ensure you spell their name correctly.

• Example: “Dear [Agent’s Name],”

Introduction

Start with your book’s title, genre, and word count. This establishes the essential details right away, helping the agent immediately place your book in context.

• Example: “I am seeking representation for my 75,000-word young adult fantasy, The Nightfall Pact.”

Hook

Use a strong, attention-grabbing sentence that captures the essence of your story. This line is your “teaser,” offering just enough intrigue to spark curiosity.

• Example: “In a world where shadows grant power, seventeen-year-old Elara discovers her abilities can rewrite the laws of magic—and the fate of her kingdom.”

Mini-Synopsis

Summarize your story in 3-5 sentences, focusing on the protagonist, their goals, and the stakes. Keep it concise yet impactful, highlighting the major conflict and what’s at risk.

• Example: “Elara has grown up hidden from the world’s magical elite, but when a forbidden power awakens within her, she’s thrust into a high-stakes battle between shadow-wielders. With allies scarce and enemies closing in, Elara must decide if she’s willing to risk everything to change the fate of her people.”

Author Bio

Include any relevant writing experience, such as publications or credentials. Focus on details that add credibility or relate to your book’s genre or theme.

• Example: “I’ve been a contributing writer for Publication Name and have a background in creative writing, which fuels my passion for young adult fantasy.”

Closing

End with a polite, enthusiastic closing. Thank the agent for their time and express your openness to further discussions.

• Example: “Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of working together.”

This streamlined template offers clarity and professionalism, making it easy for agents to assess your work and respond.

By following this structure, you’ll increase your chances of catching an agent’s attention.

Query Letter Hook Examples

A strong hook makes your query letter stand out. Here are a few hook examples to consider:

• “When a magical necklace gives her visions of the future, sixteen-year-old Lyra must alter her fate—before her own death comes calling.”
• “In a town where secrets are currency, a young journalist finds herself at the center of a dangerous conspiracy.”
• “An exiled knight must return to his homeland, where he’s hunted by those he once swore to protect.”
• “A teenage witch accidentally binds her soul to a centuries-old ghost—and discovers he may be the key to saving her coven.”
• “When the sun stops rising, seventeen-year-old Elara must journey into a world of eternal darkness to restore light—or risk plunging humanity into an endless night.”
• “A brilliant but reluctant thief gets forced to pull off one last heist for a priceless relic that holds the power to rewrite history.”
• “In a kingdom where emotions get outlawed, an empath learns to weaponize her feelings to spark a revolution.”
• “After discovering she’s the daughter of a notorious pirate, sixteen-year-old Clara sets sail to claim her place among the legends of the high seas.”
• “A reluctant seer races against time to prevent a vision of her own execution from becoming a reality.”
• “When her dreams merge with reality, a young artist must confront the creatures of her nightmares before they tear her world apart.”
• “A disgraced prince seeks redemption by protecting the very people who exiled him—but they’re not as innocent as they appear.”
• “A gifted linguist uncovers an ancient language that can alter reality, only to learn that speaking it comes at a deadly price.”
• “In a world where memories can get stolen, a thief struggles to piece together her own identity while evading those who want to erase her.”
• “When a magical storm sweeps through her village, a reluctant healer must harness her powers or risk losing everyone she loves.”
• “An orphaned alchemist finds herself in possession of a mysterious map that leads to a forbidden realm filled with dark secrets.”
• “A fierce warrior gets tasked with protecting a kingdom that despises her—but she’s the only one who knows its greatest secret.”
• “A scientist discovers a parallel universe—but each trip across dimensions comes with an unbearable cost.”
• “A bookish historian discovers her life mirrors the tragic tale of an ancient queen—and she’s determined to rewrite the ending.”
• “When a town’s lake mysteriously dries up overnight, a young boy must uncover the truth before his family’s secrets get revealed.”
• “A powerful witch falls in love with a monster hunter—who doesn’t know she’s his sworn enemy.”

Query Letter Example

Let’s look at a full query letter example for a young adult fantasy novel:

Dear [Agent’s Name],

I am seeking representation for The Serpent’s Daughter, a 90,000-word YA fantasy that combines high-stakes adventure with character-driven intrigue. With elements reminiscent of Throne of Glass and The Cruel Prince, this novel explores the themes of family legacy, identity, and the power of choice, set against a richly imagined world where curses and prophecies intertwine.

Seventeen-year-old Mara was born into the royal family of Eldrial, a lineage marked by a sinister curse that has plagued them for generations. Yet Mara is different: she’s the only one in her bloodline who is immune to the curse’s effects. While her relatives live in constant fear, bound by dark magic and secrecy, Mara has always felt like an outsider—a royal without the burdens that define her family. But her immunity to the curse comes at a cost: isolation from those she longs to protect and understand.

When Mara uncovers an ancient prophecy, foretelling a chosen one who can break her family’s curse, she realizes this might be her chance to free her family and claim her place among them. Setting off on a treacherous quest to retrieve the lost relic tied to the prophecy, she faces formidable magical creatures, shifting alliances, and encounters with a shadowy figure who seems to know more about her than she does herself.

As Mara journeys closer to the relic, she discovers secrets about her family that make her question everything she’s ever known. Each step brings her closer to the choice that will define her destiny: continue the cursed legacy she was born into, or forge an alternative path entirely of her own—one that might come at the cost of everything and everyone she loves.

I’ve had my work published in [Publication Name], and I hold a degree in English Literature from [University]. Thank you for your time and consideration. I would be thrilled to send the full manuscript of The Serpent’s Daughter for your review and discuss the possibility of representation. 

Regards,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Query Letter

The following tips will help you create a polished and professional query letter that captures the attention of literary agents.

By following these suggestions, you’ll have a query letter that represents your book effectively and boosts your chances of receiving a positive response.

Tip 1: Keep It Clear and Concise

Agents read hundreds of query letters each week, so clarity and brevity are essential.

A well-structured, one-page letter lets the agent focus on your story and its unique appeal.

Prioritize these essential elements:

• Your book’s genre
• Word count
• Target audience, and
• A concise summary of the plot

This approach not only respects the agent’s time, but also highlights your ability to communicate effectively.

Cut any extra details that don’t serve the story or your purpose in the letter. If a line feels redundant or doesn’t add value, it’s best to remove it. A focused, clear letter will always have a stronger impact than a lengthy, unfocused one.

Tip 2: Personalize Each Letter

Agents appreciate knowing why you chose them specifically. Mentioning a book they represented or an interview where they discussed their interests can show that you’ve done your research.

This small but meaningful detail shows respect for their work and creates a more personal connection.

For example, you might say, “I’m reaching out because you represented Title of Book by Author, which inspired my novel’s development,” or “I heard you mention your love for high-stakes thrillers in X Podcast, which aligns with the tone of my story.” Personalizing your letter can make it stand out from others that may feel more generic.

Tip 3: Lead with Your Hook

Starting with a powerful line or concept is one of the most effective ways to catch an agent’s attention.

Your hook should offer a tantalizing glimpse into the heart of your story.

Something that’s intriguing, fresh, or emotionally resonant. Aim for a line that captures the essence of your protagonist’s dilemma or the central conflict.

A strong hook might introduce a character’s goal or flaw, a unique world element, or an urgent question that the book answers. For instance, “When sixteen-year-old Sam inherits a cursed mirror, he must break the spell before it claims his soul.” Hooks like this instantly draw agents in, interesting them to read further.

Tip 4: Be Professional, Not Gimmicky

While creativity gets encouraged in storytelling, it’s best to keep your query letter professional and straightforward. Avoid using colored fonts, unconventional formatting, or anything gimmicky.

An agent’s primary concern is your story’s content and your writing’s quality. Flashy presentations can be distracting.

Instead of gimmicks, focus on a professional tone and language that reflect the quality of your work. Let your writing speak for itself, allowing the uniqueness of your story to shine without unnecessary frills.

Simplicity and professionalism are often more impactful than any form of theatrical flair.

Tip 5: Highlight What Makes Your Story Unique

What makes your book stand out from others in its genre?

If your story includes an unusual setting, a unique character twist, or an unexpected theme, emphasize it. This is your chance to convey how your book adds something fresh to the market.

For instance, instead of simply calling your protagonist “quirky,” explain what makes them different: “Unlike most teenage witches, Mara uses technology to amplify her spells, which leads to unexpected consequences.”

Such details give the agent a clearer sense of what sets your book apart.

Tip 6: Show, Don’t Tell

It’s easy to say, “This book is thrilling,” but it’s far more effective to convey that thrill through your language.

When you describe your plot, use vivid language that allows the agent to feel the suspense, romance, or humor directly.

This approach shows your ability to engage readers through your writing.

For example, instead of “This story is emotional,” say, “As Nora returns to her childhood home, she uncovers secrets that make her question everything she knew about her family.” This creates an emotional hook that shows the depth of the story rather than just stating it.

Tip 7: End with a Polite and Enthusiastic Tone

Closing your query letter with gratitude and enthusiasm leaves a positive impression.

After all, agents are people, too, and a friendly, appreciative tone can go a long way. Thank the agent for their time and express your excitement about the opportunity to collaborate.

A simple closing might read, “Thank you for considering my manuscript, and I look forward to the possibility of working together.” This polite sign-off reinforces your professionalism and signals your readiness to take the next step.

Tip 8: Edit and Proofread

A single typo or awkward phrase can make your query letter seem rushed or unpolished.

Carefully review your letter multiple times, focusing on spelling, grammar, and clarity. You might even read it aloud to catch awkward phrases or missing words.

Consider asking a friend, writing partner, or critique group member to review your letter. A fresh set of eyes can spot issues you might have overlooked and provide feedback on how effectively your letter communicates your story.

Tip 9: Follow Submission Guidelines

Each agent may have specific guidelines for submissions, which you can usually find on their website.

These guidelines may dictate the file format, inclusion of sample chapters, or specific information about your book. Ignoring submission guidelines is one of the fastest ways for a query to be rejected, so be sure to follow each agent’s instructions.

For instance, if an agent requests only the query letter and the first five pages of your manuscript, don’t send the entire first chapter. Following directions signals respect for the agent’s process and professionalism.

Tip 10: Don’t Get Discouraged by Rejection

Rejections are part of the querying process, and even the most successful authors have faced many.

Instead of viewing each rejection as a setback, see it as part of the journey to finding the right fit for your work. Each query letter you send out offers a chance to refine and improve your pitch.

Stay positive, keep refining your query, and remember that a “no” today doesn’t mean your book lacks value.

Sometimes, finding the right agent simply takes persistence and patience.

And finally, always remember that the story comes first. Focus on:

• Creating engaging characters
• Penning interesting plots
• Structuring solid settings

A tool like Fictionary helps you turn your draft into an interesting story readers love. So, with a strong narrative foundation, your writing can truly shine.