I posted some query no-nos last week. One of the commenters commented in the comments:
Perhaps you could do a feature sometime on the things that stood out to you in a positive light, like good examples from actual queries. Thanks!
Unfortunately, I can’t post good examples because part of what makes them good is their idea—and since I’m only the first reader of the queries, it would be a sticky situation if I said here that a particular query was really good, and then it got rejected at the next rung up the ladder.
But what I would be willing to do (and have always been willing to do) is query critiques. If a reader sends me their query, I’ll post it with commentary on what makes it good and what doesn’t quite work.
Also, read this: 10 Steps to a Good Query.
PLEASE NOTE #1: I will assume that ALL QUERIES sent to the LDS Publisher email addresses are intended for critique. I do not accept queries for publication through this site.
PLEASE NOTE #2: DO NOT send your query as an attachment. Post it straight into the body of your email.
I hear a lot about query letters but not much about submitting a synopsis. Is that not a standard part of submissions any more?
Also, with some publishers they ask for the first few chapters of your manuscript along with the query letter. Some even go so far as to say you can send your entire manuscript. Does it hurt your chances going beyond the requested two to three chapters and submitting the whole thing?
What are some of the most annoying things prospective authors do (not just write)?