You can master the query letter!
Give yourself a BIG hug!
Acknowledge what you've already accomplished. You've expended effort and time (months/years) as you developed story-teller muscles when you:
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Not-ready-for-prime-time~
Back in the 80s, when I was a Time-Life editor, publisher, and acquisitions editor, I read and rejected hundreds of poorly written queries. Most contained one or all three of the major mistakes listed below. So, WHAT'S in your query? Major Mistake #2: Have you wasted your first paragraph by filling it with blather about what motivated you to write this particular story and how much your family, friends, and critique group members love it? Do this instead!
Major Mistake #3:
Did you neglect to respond to the agent’s need to know W.I.I.F.M? Do this instead! Respond to the silent question all agents ask: "What’s In It For Me?"
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