The Query Process: Lessons learned

Querying literary agents is often described as one of the most challenging aspects of the publishing journey. It’s a process filled with highs and lows, excitement and frustration, and for many writers, a deep sense of vulnerability. After all, putting your book in front of an industry professional and waiting for their judgment can feel incredibly personal.

But here’s what I’ve learned from working closely with literary agents: rejection isn’t always about the quality of your book. More often than not, it’s about fit.

Querying is Like Matchmaking

Writers often see querying as a personal trial by fire, but agents view it as part of a larger matchmaking process. They are looking for projects that not only excite them but also align with their market knowledge, professional network, and personal tastes. Just as a reader might walk past a perfectly good book because it’s not the genre they prefer, agents might pass on a manuscript because it doesn’t fit their list, their vision, or their strengths as an advocate.

Rejection Doesn’t Mean Your Book Isn’t Good

One of the biggest mistakes writers make is taking rejection as a sign that their book isn’t good enough. In reality, agents receive hundreds—sometimes thousands—of queries a year. A well-written, compelling book might still not be the right fit for an agent’s client list, their current workload, or the market trends at the moment.

For example, an agent who specializes in contemporary romance might pass on a beautifully written fantasy novel—not because it lacks merit, but because fantasy isn’t their expertise. Similarly, an agent may love your concept but already represent a book with a similar theme or plot, making it difficult to sell both without competing with their existing client.

Timing Plays a Huge Role

Another factor at play is timing. Sometimes, an agent passes on a manuscript not because it isn’t good, but because they already represent something similar, they aren’t actively looking for new clients, or the market isn’t favorable for that type of book. Some books that get rejected today might find success later simply because trends shift, an agent’s list changes, or a different agent sees potential where another didn’t.

This is why it’s crucial not to give up too soon. A rejection today doesn’t mean a rejection forever. Some of the most successful authors have queried for years before landing an agent who truly believed in their work.

Querying Requires Patience and Strategy

Successful querying requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to keep refining your approach. Some writers send out five queries and stop after the first round of rejections. Others treat querying as a long-term strategy, adjusting their query letter, researching new agents, and continuing to submit over time.

One of the best things you can do is research agents thoroughly. Read their submission guidelines carefully, look at their client lists, and follow their social media or interviews to get a sense of what excites them. A personalized, well-researched query will always have a better chance of standing out than a generic one sent in bulk.

First Impressions Matter More Than You Think

Agents often skim through hundreds of queries in a short time. If your query doesn’t hook them in the first paragraph, they’ll likely move on. I’ve seen strong manuscripts get overlooked simply because the opening lines of the query didn’t intrigue the agent.

Lesson: Make your query opening sharp, clear, and engaging. Start with a strong hook—something that makes the agent want to keep reading.

Short, Clear Queries Work Best

Writers sometimes overcomplicate their queries by stuffing in too much information. Queries should be concise and easy to read. Agents don’t need an exhaustive summary—just the key elements that make your book compelling.

Lesson: Aim for 250–300 words, covering who your character is, what they want, what’s standing in their way, and what’s at stake.

Even a ‘No’ Can Be a Stepping Stone

I’ve worked with writers who received form rejections but later got requests after tweaking their query based on agent feedback. Some agents will reply with a rejection that includes a nugget of advice—take it seriously.

Lesson: Keep track of feedback patterns. If multiple agents mention the same issue (e.g., “The stakes don’t feel high enough”), revise accordingly.

Multiple Rounds of Querying Yield Better Results

Some writers query 50 agents at once and then stop when they don’t get requests. A smarter approach is to query in small batches, assess responses, tweak the query if needed, and then send another round.

Lesson: Query in batches of 10-15 agents at a time. If you don’t get responses, revise and send another batch. This method helps you optimize your query instead of burning through all your potential agents too fast.

Agents Remember Professionalism (Both Good and Bad)

I’ve seen cases where a writer gets rejected but remains professional and later resubmits a stronger manuscript—and lands an offer. Conversely, agents also remember writers who respond rudely to rejection.

Lesson: Always thank an agent for their time, even if they pass. A kind, professional attitude can leave the door open for future opportunities.

Beta Readers Can Spot Query Weaknesses Before Agents Do

Writers often revise their manuscripts but neglect to test their query letters with fresh eyes. Having a beta reader or critique partner review your query can reveal confusing language or missing stakes.

Lesson: Before querying agents, test your query with fellow writers to ensure it’s engaging and easy to follow.

Lesson: Keep Querying, Keep Improving, and Keep Believing

Rejection is inevitable, but persistence and strategic querying are key. If an agent passes on your manuscript, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not worthy—it may just mean you haven’t found the right agent yet.

Keep refining your query letter, keep researching agents who might be a better fit, and above all, keep believing in your story. Publishing is a long game, and success often comes to those who are willing to stay in it for the long haul.

Need Help Perfecting Your Query Letter?

If you’re struggling with querying and want expert guidance, we offer a Query Review Package designed to help you refine your query letter and synopsis to increase your chances of catching an agent’s attention. This package includes:

• A detailed critique of your query letter and synopsis

• Suggestions for making your pitch stronger and more compelling

• Industry insights on what agents are looking for in a great query

  
  

If you’re ready to make your query shine, check out our Query Review Package and get one step closer to landing your dream agent!