Smut Writing 101 - Stuff that helps
10 Basic Steps of Writing a Query Letter by Ruth D. Kerce
Very often a query is a writer's first contact with an agent or editor. It is important for the writer to compose a well thought our, effective, professional-looking letter in order to make a good first impression.
A query letter should be written single spaced, double spaced between paragraphs, and preferably only one page long. Use one- inch margins and a 12-point Courier-type font.
What should be included in a query?
1) Header: centered at the top of the page
Author's Name Street Address City, State ZIP Phone Number
2) Date: 4 lines down from header
3) Inside Address: 4 lines down from date
Agent/Editor's Name, Title Agency or Company Street Address City, State ZIP
4) Salutation: 4 lines down from address
Dear Mr./Ms. (last name) or Dear (full name)
Using the full name is useful if you're unsure of whether the person is male or female (as in the case of foreign names).
5) Opening Hook: this is optional, but can very effective in grabbing the editor/agent's attention.
For example:
Have you ever been attracted to a men you didn't think you could trust, a man you knew was no good for you, but a man who proved too much of a wild temptation to ignore?
Wild Temptation is a western historical romance of ...
6) General Information about Manuscript
Include the manuscript title, type of romance (contemporary, historical, paranormal, etc.), the word count, targeted line--if appropriate (e.g. Silhouette's lines include Desire, Yours Truly, Intimate Moments, etc.). Describe the setting and time period (if not contemporary). And in one sentence--a log line, briefly introduce the heroine or hero, along with the theme of the story.
7) Summary of Storyline
This should be done in one paragraph if possible. Describe in more detail the backgrounds of the heroine and hero, and their internal as well as external conflicts. Focus on their romantic attraction to each other (for romance novels). Discuss the problems that keep the two apart, and explain the resolution of those problems. Never leave an editor or agent hanging by thinking he/she will ask to see the manuscript just to find out "what happened next." All questions should be answered.
8) Background for Writing this Type of Story
Be sure to include any background you may have that would qualify you to write the type of story you're submitting (e.g. if you've written an historical and you have a degree in history, or if you've lieved in the city where your story takes place, or if your occupation matches that of your hero or heroine, etc.). This information is not required, but will make the agent/editor feel more comfortable to know that you're qualified to write the story you've written.
9) Qualifications as a Writer in General
Mention any writers organization(s) of which you're a member, positions held, contests where you've placed, publication credits, writing contests you've judged, etc.
10) Request to Submit & Closing
Finally, ask the agent/editor if you can submit a partial, and then thank them for their time.
Space down four lines; end with Sincerely or Your Truly; space down another four lines and type your name. Be sure to sign your name above your typed name before mailing.
And ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with all submission.
Copyright (c) 2000, Ruth D. Kerce Writer of historical and contemporary romances, and webmaster of Addicted-to-Romance.com Sign up for the *Whispers of Love* newsletter at http://www.addicted-to-romance.com - or - mailto:Addicted-to-Romance-subscribe@yahoogroups.com