If you want to secure a literary agent in the traditional publishing world, crafting a compelling query letter is essential. Literary agents are some of the busiest people you’ll ever meet, so make sure your query is tight and free of fluff. Here is a sample query letter to use as a template for your own:
Dear Jane,
I am seeking representation for my 90,000-word techno-thriller, Biohack. With a futuristic plot reminiscent of Blake Crouch’s Recursion and the pacing of James Rollins’ Kingdom of Bones, the novel propels readers into a near future where the cutthroat mentality of Silicon Valley infiltrates the realm of genetic engineering.
Kaden Baker, an elite hacker and covert ops specialist, is shocked to learn that the parents who raised her were imposters. She crosses paths with Valerie, a special education teacher still haunted by the tragic death of her child. Together, they’re drawn to a shadowy biotech company, making startling discoveries at every turn. But each step brings greater danger. Can they uncover the truth behind Valerie’s surrogacy, survive the journey, and prevent a plot that threatens humanity itself?
Packed with twists and high-stakes action, Biohack appeals to fans of futuristic and technological thrillers. Bestselling author Saul Tanpepper described it as “Dan Brown meets Michael Crichton,” while Shel Israel, author of The Fourth Transformation, called it “a brilliant, riveting thrill ride destined for the big screen.”
I am a full-time author and former startup founder. I’ve spoken at the United Nations, Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Cannes, SXSW, and across four continents. This is my debut novel.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
All the best,
J.D. Lasica
https://jdlasica.com/about
Components of a good query letter
A query letter introduces your novel to literary agents, who will represent you in negotiations with publishing houses. Its purpose is to intrigue agents enough to request your manuscript and sign you as a client. The letter should be concise and professional, with a greeting, closing, and these main elements:
1. Key basics — including comps
Share essential details: your genre, book title, word count, and comparative titles (comp titles). Comps are especially important as they show your understanding of the market. Use two to three comps that highlight different aspects of your book. For example, rather than saying, “My book has a structure similar to Where the Crawdads Sing with a voice like To Kill a Mockingbird,” simplify it to: “Scout from To Kill a Mockingbird faces the drama of Atonement, with a twist akin to Where the Crawdads Sing.” This approach concisely conveys the protagonist, mood, and plot.
2. The hook
The hook summarizes your story and introduces the main characters, conflict, and stakes. It should be engaging and clear, sparking the agent’s interest with enough tension to make them want more. Keep it short — around 300 words — focused, and avoid unnecessary details or subplots.
3. Your bio
Include a brief bio (one to three sentences) highlighting relevant credentials, such as writing courses, publication history, awards or expertise related to your book’s subject matter.
Optional: Personalization
Personalize your query if possible. Mention the agent’s past clients or books that align with your work. For instance: “As you represent A.G. Riddle, whose genre-blending style is similar to mine, I thought my book might be a good fit.” Only add personalization when it’s relevant and enhances your pitch.
Keep your query concise, engaging, and tailored for each agent you contact. It’s OK to send out query letters in batches — say, up to 10 at a time. Just put care and thought into each one, and if you do receive representation, make sure you follow up to let the other agents you queried know.
