Kurestin Armada

Bringing back this #querytip bc I've been seeing this again in my inbox and I think it's perennial issue!

A synopsis attached at the bottom of the letter does NOT replace a query. You must pitch your book in the query, not just yourself #querytip

Also, no need to define publishing terms for me. You're wasting valuable space on things I already know/won't help you! #querytip

Please don't include the Latin honors you graduated with? No one cares about your GPA and it sounds like you're stuck on grades #querytip

Seeing a lot of queries that quote the length in number of pages. Don't do that! It's always in number of words. #querytip

I've seen several queries today that say the ms is in edits. Don't query until it's absolutely the best it can be! #querytip

Just a reminder that I will not open any unsolicited attachments! So please don't ruin your query's chances by attaching it #querytip

DO mention if you are a part of the culture your book references/pulls from, bc I'm very interested in authentic, diverse stories #querytip

Don't quote from other rejections (??) even if they sound somewhat complimentary or nice #querytip

Also, don't use your valuable opening lines on bio, past works, etc! Hook me with your book as soon as possible #querytip

#querytip: When I'm in the middle of an inbox plunge, an opening paragraph that's basically a wall of rhetorical questions kills your query.

Sometimes people mention in their query that they're waiting to hear from me before sending more queries out. DON'T DO THAT. #querytip

Please send files in the format requested! If I can't read your ms on my iPad, the odds of me reading at all drop significantly #querytip

I sort my query inbox "oldest to newest" so if you nudge on one I haven't read yet, you just bumped it back in the queue! #querytip

If I get through three or more paragraphs in your email and I still know nothing about your MS past the title, I stop reading. #querytip

Also, never pitch an unfinished work of fiction. Proposals are for non fiction only! #querytip

Don't have someone else send a query on your behalf. Queries may be painful, but only you can give your book the one it deserves. #querytip

I'm happy to hear that a manuscript may be part of a series! But if the projected series is 10+ books long, I'm just concerned. #querytip

I know people say a query should have a hook, but PLEASE do not say "Hook: ________" Make it organic to the pitch! #querytip