A query letter is an important tool for writers seeking to pitch their fantasy novel to agents, publishers, and literary magazines. A well-crafted query letter can be the difference between getting a response and having your manuscript ignored. In this blog post, we’ll explore five proven strategies that can help you create a compelling query letter for your fantasy novel.
Proven Strategies for Crafting a Query Letter
- Start with a hook
Your query letter should start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention and entices them to read more. This can be a fascinating sentence or two that provides a glimpse into your novel’s world, introduces an intriguing character, or sets up a tantalizing conflict. The hook should encapsulate what makes your novel unique and engaging, and provide a sense of the story’s tone and genre.
- Highlight your unique selling points
What sets your fantasy novel apart from others in the genre? What makes it stand out? Your query letter should highlight these unique selling points, whether it’s a unique setting, a compelling protagonist, a fresh take on a classic trope, or anything else that makes your novel special. Don’t be afraid to sell your novel’s strengths!
- Show, don’t tell
When it comes to crafting a compelling query letter, it’s important to show, not tell. This means that instead of simply listing your novel’s attributes, you should provide specific examples that demonstrate them. For example, instead of saying your protagonist is brave, show how they demonstrate their bravery in a scene from the novel. This approach makes your query letter more concrete and memorable, and helps the reader get a sense of what your novel is actually like.
- Provide a brief summary of the plot
Your query letter should provide a brief summary of the plot, focusing on the main conflict and how it’s resolved. This should give the reader a clear sense of what your novel is about, what kind of story it is, and what kind of journey the reader will take. Keep it concise and focused, and avoid getting bogged down in details or spoilers.
- End with a strong closing
Your query letter should end with a strong closing that leaves a lasting impression. This can be a memorable line from the novel, a call to action, or a simple expression of gratitude for the reader’s time. The closing should reinforce the key points of your query letter and provide a final, powerful hook that encourages the reader to take the next step, whether it’s requesting a full manuscript, inviting you for an interview, or simply responding to your query.
By following these five strategies, you can craft a compelling query letter that will get your fantasy novel noticed. Remember, a great query letter is only the first step in a long journey, but it’s an essential one that can help you get your foot in the door and bring your fantasy novel to the world.
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