23 Query Letter Samples: Get Your Manuscript Read!

Crafting the perfect query letter is crucial for authors seeking representation or publication. It’s your first, and often only, chance to grab an agent or editor’s attention. A well-written query letter succinctly summarizes your book, highlights its appeal, and showcases your writing skills. This introduction aims to provide you with 23 diverse query letter samples that you can adapt and learn from, increasing your chances of success in the competitive publishing world. Remember to tailor each sample to your specific genre and target audience.

These examples cover various genres, from fiction and non-fiction to young adult and science fiction. We’ll focus on how each query letter effectively presents the book’s premise, identifies its target audience, and provides a compelling hook that makes the agent or editor want to read more. Pay attention to the tone, voice, and overall structure of each sample, and consider what elements resonate most with you and your own writing style. These samples are meant to inspire and provide a framework for your own successful query letter.

23 Query Letter Samples

1. [Sample 1: General Fiction]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   I am writing to you today because of your interest in [mention agent’s interest]. My novel, *The Whispering Pines*, is a contemporary fiction novel of 80,000 words that explores [brief synopsis]. It will appeal to readers of [Author A] and [Author B] due to [similar themes/styles]. [Compelling hook]. I have attached the first [number] chapters for your consideration. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. [Sample 2: Sci-Fi]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   I’m excited to submit *Echoes of the Void*, a science fiction novel (95,000 words) that blends hard science with character-driven storytelling. The story follows [protagonist] as they [brief synopsis involving science fiction elements]. It is similar in tone and scope to [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook about a futuristic concept]. The full manuscript is available upon request. Best regards, [Your Name]

3. [Sample 3: Fantasy]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   *The Obsidian Crown*, my fantasy novel of 110,000 words, is seeking representation. It features [protagonist] who must [central conflict with fantasy elements]. Fans of [Author A] and [Author B] will enjoy [reason]. [Compelling hook about a magical system or world]. Thank you for considering my work. Yours sincerely, [Your Name]

4. [Sample 4: Thriller]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   I am submitting *The Silent Witness*, a thriller novel (75,000 words) that I believe aligns with your interest in suspenseful narratives. It follows [protagonist], a [profession], as they [brief synopsis with thriller elements]. This will be appealing to fans of [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook about mystery]. I have included the first three chapters. Sincerely, [Your Name]

5. [Sample 5: Romance]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   I am seeking representation for *Starlight Serenade*, a contemporary romance novel (80,000 words). The story follows [protagonist] and [love interest] as they [brief synopsis, including tropes]. Readers who enjoy [Author A] and [Author B] will enjoy my focus on [specific romance trope]. [Compelling hook focusing on the relationship]. Thank you for your consideration. Best, [Your Name]

6. [Sample 6: Young Adult (YA)]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   I am querying you with my YA dystopian novel, *The Divided City*, at 70,000 words. [Protagonist] must [brief synopsis with dystopian elements]. Fans of *The Hunger Games* and *Divergent* will enjoy [reason]. [Compelling hook appealing to YA readers]. I’ve attached the first ten pages for your review. Thank you, [Your Name]

7. [Sample 7: Middle Grade]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   I am excited to share my middle grade fantasy novel, *The Secret of Whispering Woods*, (45,000 words). [Protagonist], a [age] year old, discovers [brief synopsis with age-appropriate fantasy elements]. This book will appeal to fans of [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook about adventure]. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best, [Your Name]

8. [Sample 8: Historical Fiction]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   My historical fiction novel, *The Baker’s Daughter of Berlin*, is a 90,000-word manuscript set in [Specific Historical Period]. The story follows [protagonist] as she [brief synopsis focused on historical context]. Readers of [Author A] and [Author B] will appreciate [Reason]. [Compelling hook rooted in historical fact]. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]

9. [Sample 9: Contemporary Fiction]
   Dear [Agent Name],
   I am seeking representation for my contemporary fiction novel, *The Spaces Between Us*, which comes in at 85,000 words. The novel tells the story of [protagonist] who must [brief synopsis focused on relationships/modern life]. This novel is reminiscent of the work of [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook related to the human condition]. I look forward to hearing from you. Respectfully, [Your Name]

10. [Sample 10: Mystery]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am submitting *The Vanishing Violinist*, a mystery novel totaling 70,000 words. [Protagonist], a [profession], becomes embroiled in [brief synopsis involving mystery elements]. It would likely appeal to readers of [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook, focusing on the enigmatic element of the mystery]. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, [Your Name]

11. [Sample 11: Literary Fiction]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am writing to you with my literary fiction novel, *A Chorus of Silences*, which comes in at 88,000 words. The story delves into [protagonist]’s journey of [brief synopsis focused on character development/themes]. This book explores themes similar to those in books by [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook, highlighting the novel’s unique voice or perspective]. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]

12. [Sample 12: Women’s Fiction]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am submitting my women’s fiction novel, *The Quiltmaker’s Legacy*, which is 82,000 words. The story follows [protagonist] as she [brief synopsis focusing on female relationships/challenges]. This novel will appeal to readers who enjoy the work of [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook, highlighting the emotional core of the story]. I have included the first three chapters. Thank you, [Your Name]

13. [Sample 13: Non-Fiction – Memoir]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am writing to seek representation for my memoir, *Breaking Ground*, which clocks in at 75,000 words. It recounts my journey [brief synopsis outlining the memoir’s subject matter]. My target audience is [Target Audience], similar to the readership for [Author A]’s and [Author B]’s memoirs. [Compelling hook, emphasizing the memoir’s unique perspective or message]. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]

14. [Sample 14: Non-Fiction – Self Help]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am excited to pitch my self-help book, *Unlocking Your Inner Power*, at approximately 60,000 words. This book will guide readers on how to [brief synopsis outlining the book’s key principles]. It is ideal for readers who enjoy [Author A] and [Author B]’s style. [Compelling hook, highlighting the book’s practical benefits]. I have attached the introduction and first chapter. Best regards, [Your Name]

15. [Sample 15: Non-Fiction – Biography]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am seeking representation for my biography, *The Untold Story of [Subject’s Name]*, estimated at 90,000 words. This book delves into [brief synopsis highlighting the subject’s life and accomplishments]. Readers who appreciate [Author A]’s and [Author B]’s biographical work will find this compelling. [Compelling hook, highlighting a previously unknown aspect of the subject’s life]. Thank you for your time. Best, [Your Name]

16. [Sample 16: Sci-Fi/Fantasy Crossover]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am writing to introduce my manuscript, *The Aetherium Engine,* a 85,000-word novel that blends science fiction and fantasy elements. Set in a world where magic and technology intertwine, the story follows [Protagonist], who must [brief synopsis including Sci-Fi/Fantasy elements]. The story is reminiscent of [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling Hook involving both genres]. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, [Your Name]

17. [Sample 17: Legal Thriller]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    My manuscript, *The Verdict of Silence*, is a 78,000-word legal thriller. The novel follows [Protagonist], a [profession], as they [brief synopsis with legal elements]. It is similar to works by [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling hook related to the legal proceedings]. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you. Respectfully, [Your Name]

18. [Sample 18: Paranormal Romance]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am querying with my paranormal romance, *Moonlit Desires*, clocking in at 72,000 words. The novel follows [Protagonist], a [character description], who [brief synopsis involving paranormal elements]. Readers that enjoyed [Author A] and [Author B]’s work will like my novel. [Compelling hook related to the supernatural romance]. Thank you for your consideration. Best, [Your Name]

19. [Sample 19: Steampunk]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am writing to introduce *Clockwork Heart*, a steampunk novel comprising 90,000 words. This book chronicles [Protagonist], who must [brief synopsis blending Victorian Era and Steampunk technology]. Readers fond of [Author A] and [Author B]’s steampunk works will enjoy my novel. [Compelling Hook with Steampunk Technology]. I have attached the first few chapters for your review. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best, [Your Name]

20. [Sample 20: Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am querying you with my dystopian/post-apocalyptic novel, *Echoes of Collapse*, at 80,000 words. Set in a world where [brief description of world post-apocalypse], [protagonist] has to [brief synopsis including plot points]. It’s bound to connect with readers that follow [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling Hook related to post-apocalyptic survival]. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best, [Your Name]

21. [Sample 21: LGBT Romance]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am writing to you about my LGBT romance, *Rainbow Hearts*, which comes in at 77,000 words. The story follows [Protagonist] and [Love Interest], who must [brief synopsis involving the relationship]. The story feels much like reading books by [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling Hook that highlights the LGBT aspect]. I have attached the first few chapters for your consideration. Thank you. Best, [Your Name]

22. [Sample 22: Dark Fantasy]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I am seeking an agent for my dark fantasy novel, *Shadows of the Unseen*, comprised of 88,000 words. It recounts the story of [Protagonist], who [brief synopsis involving dark fantasy and conflict]. The story carries similarities of [Author A] and [Author B]. [Compelling Hook that involves the dark elements of the world]. Thank you for your consideration. Best regards, [Your Name]

23. [Sample 23: Cozy Mystery]
    Dear [Agent Name],
    I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you today to introduce my manuscript, *The Case of the Missing Muffins*, a 65,000-word cozy mystery novel set in [Location of the Story]. The novel follows [Protagonist], a [character description], as they [brief synopsis involving the cozy mystery]. Readers who like books by [Author A] and [Author B] will love this story. [Compelling Hook that has a warm tone of Cozy Mystery]. Thank you for your time. Respectfully, [Your Name]