If you want to be traditionally published in today’s book market, you are going to need a literary agent. But you don’t just “hire” a literary agent like you would a plumber. Agents have a vetting process in which they decide if you and your book are a good fit for their agency. They want to make sure you have a unique idea, excellent writing, and a way to market your book to your readers (a platform). Sometimes the process can be daunting. What do you do first? Should I send a copy of my book in the mail with a box of chocolates? How do I attract the attention of a literary agent? The first step to attracting and signing with a literary agent is to write a query letter.
We have a special guest today who is going to help us understand what a query letter is and what you need to do to make it shine.
She is the author of over 40 books, both fiction and nonfiction. She has spoken all over the world, helping writers hone their messages, write powerfully, and get noticed. Her podcast, Pray Every Day, has surpassed a million downloads and has been listened to in more than 150 countries. And she is the newest literary agent at Books & Such Literary Agency.
Mary DeMuth, welcome back to the Christian Publishing Show!
LINKS:
https://www.booksandsuch.com/
https://www.marydemuth.com/
https://www.booksandsuch.com/our-agents/meet-mary-demuth/
https://www.booksandsuch.com/submissions/
Sponsor: Christian Writers Market Guide
The Christian Writers Market Guide 2021 is the most comprehensive and highly recommended resource on the market for finding an agent, an editor, a publisher, a publicist, a writing coach, or a place to sell whatever you are writing. Wherever you are on the writing spectrum–from beginner to seasoned professional–the Guide will help you find what you are looking for. Over 1,000 curated listings, including more than 200 book publishers, 150 periodical publishers, 40 agents, 200 freelance editors and designers, podcasts, and much more. Includes a denominational index.
You can get it in print or online.
The post How to Write a Query Letter with Mary DeMuth appeared first on Christian Publishing Show.
Where Do Your Readers Come From?
The chocolates are on the way,
and I hope that they’re a hook,
but I think that I will also pray
that you’ll take on my book,
for I have searched wide and far
(and will now turn to flattery),
and have decided that you are
the only agent meant for me.
What shall I do if you say no?
Will I wail and rend my clothes?
Will my face lose its hopeful glow
as I cover mouth and nose,
not knowing just what else to do
but hold my breath ’till I turn blue?