When your manuscript is polished and ready, you’ll need to get your query submission ready for agents/publishers. If you need help getting your query letter, synopsis, and opening pages in tip-top shape, look no further. (Check out this blog post and this blog post for some tips and advice on how to craft your query and synopsis.)
Kathleen also has a pre-recorded query and synopsis course available for purchase. Learn common errors, tips and tricks to get them right, examples, and even a query critique demonstration. A video course lets you watch it on your time and still gives you all the same information presented in a live webinar. Plus, it can include a query and/or synopsis critique after you’ve implemented what you’ve learned, if you choose.
In your first few pages, you need to nail key areas so you can entice the reader (aka agent or acquisitions editor) and make them want more. There are also areas to avoid that will lead to passes. Nailing these pages is crucial in getting people interested.
Kathleen follows the most common style for query letters, which is what many agents prefer. Your metadata goes at the top (including personalization and comps), your query blurb goes in the middle, and your bio paragraph goes at the bottom. 350-375 words is generally a good range—you’ve only got about thirty seconds to wow an agent/editor, so keep it short and make every word count. Anything lower than 275 words will probably be too short and not offer enough plot details to get an agent hooked. The synopsis should be 500-800 words, and definitely no longer than 1000 words.
As an editor, I’ve helped hundreds and hundreds of authors with their query submissions, and since I’m also a literary agent, I see thousands more, so hopefully the industry insights and knowledge I can provide is helpful to you. Let’s get make those pages, queries, and synopses shine!
Check out this post on Reedsy for a guide to average industry standard fees.
Query Package Options
Please note: fees for query letters are based on 500 words maximum and fees for synopses are based on 1000 words maximum. Additional words (increments of 500 words) are at a rate of $25/500 words. Query and synopsis pages must be single-spaced in block style with 1″ margins and 12pt Times New Roman (or similar) font. Manuscript pages must be double-spaced with same font size and margins.
As with all my editing services, you’ll receive an extensive, in-depth review with thorough, actionable feedback and suggestions. The following query package options will include big-picture elements as well as light line and copy edits.
Pitch Critiques
So many people have been asking me to provide pitch critiques, so I’ve decided to offer this service. If you’re going to be participating in a pitch event attended by agents and acquisitions editors/publishers, put your best foot forward! There are three options:
- 3 pitches crafted by you, critiqued by me for $50 USD
- 3 pitches crafted by me, based on your query letter for $100 USD
- You can also combine 2 of your own pitches and have me craft one for $75 USD
Book Your Critique
To book your critiques with me, please fill out the form at the link here and click Submit. When your form is received, I’ll send an invoice to the email address provided with the quoted amount and any details discussed as well as a timeline for your project based on your individual needs. Please ensure you read the terms and conditions before submitting the form.
Repeat clients earn 15% off future bookings! (Cannot be combined with other discounts.)