Dear QueryShark,
I just wanted to pop you an email thanking you for two things:
1) Landing an agent! I recently signed on with an agency after using the exact copy that you approved on my revision query letter. I'm pretty sure my agent would have shunned me for all eternity if I'd sent the earlier format, so kudos to you.
2) Inuring me to humiliation. Of course, it took plenty more rejection to get to that agent, but I discovered that being mocked and ridiculed before all the world (okay, before your readers) helped to turn my thin, you-hate-my-work-therefore-you-must-hate-me exterior into something a little bit more resilient. I think that's something that's going to come in handy for the rest of my writing career.
So, thanks again - for taking the time to post the queries, for choosing mine, and for being brutally honest when so few people will.
--
6 comments:
I so hope the same happens to me! Insult me, beat me, tell me I'm no good, but get me to an agent - I will suffer (even more) for my art!
I feel the same way, Wimbledon. I thought completing my 84,000 word novel was the hardest part -- but two weeks preparing a Query Letter was the real hell! Maybe because I feel like I am so close that the nerves are starting to build up. Oh well, c'est la vie...
I love this site. Although you don't represent the kind of things I write (fantasy/science fiction) according to your site, I'm learning a great deal about queries and, as marketing is very much my weak spot, I'm grateful you've taken the time to put this up.
I can't speak for everyone, but I, for one, am grateful you've taken the time. I'm reading it all and wanted you to know my gratitude even though I won't be sending you a query letter.
I couldn't agree more. You don't represent what I write either but it doesn't matter. Your information is invaluable. The time you take to share your knowledge is kind and giving. Yes, you tear queries to shreds like a hungry shark on a fresh school of fish. At the end of the day though, I'd liken you more to that of a dolphin. Warm blooded, caring, and hey, even a little playful at times because it is with your help and guidance that so many shining queries are born.
From one aspiring writer, I am so proud of you! With a stiff drink in one hand and a mouse pointing on "send" in the other, I finally had the guts to send my query in.
I wish to much success!
Yeah, I'm getting to know all too well the hell that is Queryland. :D Well done to this writer! and YAY for the Shark!
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