Review writer’s guidelines for literary agencies or publishing houses before you write a query letter. Determine the best place to send your query and whether you need to send an email or a traditional letter. Address your query letter to a particular agent or editor. Verify that your novel type is something they represent or publish. Spell the editor or agent’s name correctly and include his title.
Begin the letter by focusing on your storyline. Snag the agent's attention by concisely summarizing your story in a tag line. Use this paragraph to show what is special and compelling about your novel. Do not relate the entire plot. Create a few sentences that highlight what is unusual and marketable about your book.
Create a concise overview of the plot of your book in the second paragraph. Boil your synopsis down to the most important turning points in the story. Include the major characters and discuss only what happens in your book. Do not include background information about yourself in this paragraph.
Include a third paragraph with an overview of your relevant credentials. Keep family details and personal information out of a query letter. Include only information that will help editors and agents see your background and qualifications. Mention previous publications, contest wins and details about life experiences that directly relate to the novel's content.
Thank the editor or agent for his time in the final paragraph. Explain that your novel is complete and that you will be happy to send a copy for review.