Rachel Brooks

Exclusive query (& genre I don't rep). Don't do exclusive queries! Publishing is slow enough without this voluntary delay! #querytip #pubtip

Lots of YA queries with teen guy described as mysterious, moody, etc. It's stronger to show he has characterization beyond this! #querytip

Replies from writers that they already got an agent or deal is a mix of congrats & why didn't you withdraw query from agents w/ it?#querytip

Copy/pasting your queries is cool. But you might want to double check you took out that personalized paragraph to another agent #querytip

Also, while I'm in the #querytip mindset, it's not the role of an agent who passes on your query to suggest other agencies. That's your hw.

If you sign w/ agent, it's courtesy to withdraw your query rather than telling the other agents only when they pass/request. #querytip

Lots of query duplicates lately from writers sending directly to me PLUS me via the general sub email. Don't need to send twice #querytip

If you get an offer of rep, it’s courtesy to inform agents considering you (preferably before accepting, but minimum upon accept) #querytip

If you know which LPA agent you want to query, you can email him/her directly. General sub email addy for if you do not know who. #querytip

As I read queries today, thought I'd mention my #querytip roundup ICYMI earlier this week: rachelmbrooks.com/2015/03/winter… (And happy Saturday!)

Please don't send your query 3 times within an hour. But you lovely people probably know that. This person, however, did not. #querytip

It takes the same amount of time to type a polite sentence as it does a rude one. Just sayin'. #querytip #pubtip #lifetip

Dissing books in your pitch isn't only rude, you may be talking to an agent/editor/fan of that book. Be positive w/ comps! #querytip #pubtip

Never make a decision out of desperation or rushing. Being patient is rough, but bad (legally binding) decisions are worse #pubtip #querytip

It is a small world people. A small, small world. #pubtip #querytip #LIFETIP

If subbing to pubs& agents at same time, you're often using a different strategy, list & ms version than agents would. Just sayin' #querytip

You do not need a degree, to "know" someone, or have publishing credits to get an agent or book deal. Those are pish posh myths! #querytip

The number of sample pages (if any), synopsis or not, etc. varies by agency. Researching submission guidelines is important. #querytip

What DOES belong in a query: title, genre, word count, pitch, pub credits (if any), contact info/online presence links, sample pgs #querytip

Sounds harsh, but it doesn't matter (pitch-wise) if you've been writing stories since 1st grade or your friends love your novel. #querytip