Whilst writing query letters, I became aware of the fine line between sounding positive and shouting “read me” without holding a metaphorical gun – to sounding conceited and suffering from an over-inflated ego.

i naturally have a quirky, but quiet personality, and I often use humour in conversation -sometimes unintentionally -hence I want to use it when I write. However, all the articles I have read about queries say that one is to sound professional, so I nudge humour out of the way.

I have read so many ways to write a query letter – ranging from keeping it short and succinct, to adding a paragraph about the novel, even if that is repeated in the synopsis – don’t forget, some agents don’t ask for a synopsis straight off so you need to give them a taste of what the story is about.
So, the latest query  i sent off I wrote straight from my mind, rather than planning it first.
MADNESS – I hear you cry –  but hey, I thought it was worth a shot – it will either succeed or I’ll be shot down in flames.

I am also aware of the vital need for positivity  in the aspiring author – to believe that one day the nurtured novel will be displayed on the shelves in book shops.
I would be lying if I said that I felt like this all of the time – that or I would be on a shed load of anti-depressants to give me the artificial high.
No – of course I have moments of doubt and despair – but it’s precisely at those times that I like to write dark scenes ad to manipulate twists in the story to hopefully blow the readers’ mind.

I hope that I have found my own voice for my queries, rather than a tutored patter that screams “restricted emotions” –  always remember your authentic emotions – they go someway to define who you are.

Happy Word Flow One & All