What to Look for in Query Guidelines for Novels

Yesterday I talked a little about what you should look for when reading the submission guidelines when submitting a short story.

On a similar note, I’d like to take a look at query letters for your novel. While similar to that of submitting a short story to a publication, the process of querying an agent or publisher for you novel does have a few important differences.

Before I start, though, if you’re new to the whole querying process, I’d like to mention something. And this is important. Never query a novel that is not finished. And by “finished” I mean written, revised, edited. Present the best possible product you possible can.

Finally, for this post, I grouped agents and publisher together. Why? Well even though querying an agent to represent your novel and querying a publishing house to publish your novel are two distinct things, the process of querying your novel is pretty much the same, and they’ll be asking for the same thing. (Query letter, synopsis, sample pages, etc.)

So with that stuff out of the way, here are 4 Things to look for in Query Submission Guidelines.

1. Is this agent or publisher a good fit for your novel?

I know this one probably sounds obvious, but I want to stress that it’s the most important one. There is a lot to look for here. Namely, does this agent represent your genre? Does this publisher print books for your target age group? Before submitting, I would recommend looking at some of their other authors or books and really consider whether or not your book would be a good fit.

2. Can you query other places while you wait?

Unlike with short story publications, agents will almost 100% of the time expect you to be querying other agents. They may, however, want an exclusive submission if they ask for a full manuscript. As for publishers accepting unagented queries, it varies. I’ve seen some guidelines that read more like a short story submission. Either exclusive submissions, or a request to let them know if any other publications are reviewing your manuscript.

3. Do they allow a follow-up email?

Most agents do not send rejection letters. A few do. And of those few, many of them may say something like “If you haven’t heard a response in 60 days, feel free to send a follow-up email.” With publishers, again it varies. But when you do submit, keep track of this. No one is going to reject you for sending a follow-up email, especially if they encourage you to do so in their guidelines.

4. What else do they want to see with your query?

Generally, agents and publishers will ask for a query letter up front. Some may ask for a synopsis. Some may ask for sample pages. Very few will want to see your full manuscript on the initial query. Double check their guidelines. Also, pay attention to the type of file and how they want it formatted. If they don’t say, just like with short stories, keep it simple and use standard manuscript format.

I know the querying process is scary. I sent out 50 queries for Holy Fudgesicles and never got an agent. I also queried a couple of publishers (nowhere near 50, though) before getting an offer from Wings.

So hang in there, pay attention to details, and good luck with your queries.

Have any tips to add? Leave a comment and let us know!