Querying literary agents is not fun. In fact, it sort of sucks

This might sound like I’m complaining, or maybe even whining. That might be true. However, it is a bit frustrating. I’m just being honest.

So I’ve been sending out another round of queries for Shame of Kings, my alternative history novel. I use Query Tracker to log my attempts and maintain list of agents I want to contact. Query Tracker is a great tool. It lets you search for agents using specific criteria. It also has a ton of data about agents like how often they ask to see pages and how long it takes them to reply. Here is a screenshot from my query list:

If I wasn’t using this, I would probably use a spreadsheet, but this works really well. For most agents, the website has a form to fill out with information about your book, and it even keeps track of replies.

Now my results: So far, I have added 253 agents on my list. I’ve sent queries to 182 agents and received 22 actual rejections. However, the ones who haven’t replied are likely rejections too, if they are agents I queried several months ago. It’s still too early to tell with the recent batch. Also, Query Tracker will close queries if there is no response. I’m not sure when that happens, but it is probably possible to customize this.

But no positive responses to my queries. No requests for me to send more pages. Discouraging? Sure. But I will keep adjusting my query letter and editing my story. I won’t give up, but I am not unrealistic.

Just in the past two days, I was talking to two different people, one an author and the other an editor, and they gave me some positive feedback about my plot and concept. So a little good news brings hope. I still know the possibility to self publish is still out there. I do have some ideas on that, but I’m just not ready to do that. Yet.

Here are a few responses I’ve received from, agents. I know they are busy and receive a lot of them, blah blah, blah, but it would be nice to receive something other than a form letter. That seems like a good business practice, and I don’t like excuses. Frankly, some are quite cold.

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Thank you for querying The Lark Group. We have read your query and regrettably, your project does not seem like a right fit for our agency.

Thank you again for thinking of us. Please be well.

Sincerely,
The Lark Group

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Dear Bill,

Thank you for submitting your work to me for consideration. Unfortunately, this isn't for me, so I must pass. I wish you all the best and hope you find a home for this project soon.

Thank you and take care,
Jessica

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Thanks, this is not for me and I wish you the best in your literary endeavors.

Angela Rinaldi

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Hello,

Thank you for considering WSA for representation. We have received your query and will reach out if we are interested in pursuing your project.

Best regards,

Wendy Sherman Associates