Matching query/synopsis

[Mouse]

Mouse, can I pass on a tip that was given to me. No matter which POV your synopsis is from try and produce a 1000 word one, a 500 word one, a 250 word one and finally sum up your novel in one sentence. Practice the one sentence one, because one day you will be at a Convention and be asked, "What is your book about?" by an agent or publisher. Having a sharp, concise answer is a godsend.

So far I've got one 408 word one and one 412 word one. I might struggle with a 1000 word one!

Actually Mouse, everything I've read on UK agents websites says categorically DON'T send a query letter on its own. They want to judge your writing and they can't do that from a query letter.

Which agents were they? I've only looked at UK ones so far (I think my story's too 'British' to risk trying anywhere else! The US agents are last on my very short list at the mo). The ones I've seen have said cover letter (not query), synopsis and sample chapters. I don't really see why they'd want a query and a synopsis, but who knows!

 

[Susan Boulton]

Actually Mouse, everything I've read on UK agents websites says categorically DON'T send a query letter on its own. They want to judge your writing and they can't do that from a query letter.

It depends on the agent. A number these days do ask for a query letter similar to US agents. Best to check with their website/info and send what they ask for, no more, no less. Tailor each submission to each agent and treat what they say in their submission guidelines as the bible.

Mouse;

I find the longer ones easier than the shorter ones.