Query Feedback

Tired of hearing, “not right for me”? If you are brave enough to submit your query letter or first 250 words for all the world to see, you can finally get some feedback! Here are the best websites, if you dare:

1. http://misssnarksfirstvictim.blogspot.com/

“Authoress” hosts Secret Agent contests where real-live agents read and comment on first pages. (The current contest is for a query + 250 words.)

2. http://ktliterary.com/daphne/

Kate Schafer, as alter-ego Daphne Unfeasible, has an Ask Daphne! About My Query segment in her blog. She also does a really interesting live blog of her query responses as she is working through them. A peek into her brain, if you will.

3. http://jmeadows.livejournal.com/698444.html

Jodi Meadows, slush reader for Jenny Rappaport, gives gut reactions to queries sent to her blog. She also posts her slush stats which I find unusually fascinating. Wish every agent did this.

4. http://queryshark.blogspot.com/

Agent Janet Reid accepts queries to critique on her blog. She has very specific guidelines written on the right hand side of the blog. Heed the instructions.

5. http://blog.nathanbransford.com/

Agent Nathan Bransford sometimes holds contests. They are kind of random so pay attention and be ready.

6 http://queryworkshop.blogspot.com/

C.J. Redwine offers “A two week course designed to help you hook an agent.” There is a cost on this one: $35. (Note: Her agent is Holly Root of Waxman Literary Agency.) C.J. Redwine’s query (on her blog in the comments section…scroll down) will want to make you sign up for the class. (And by the way, she posted a really good blog yesterday: 10 Things New Writers Need to Know.)

Any others out there I can add to the list? One day I’ll be desperate brave enough to throw my query into the public ring.