Common Reasons Query Letters Are Rejected by Agents

Literary agent and book development consultant Claire Gerus shares a few common reasons she may reject a query letter or manuscript submission.

1. If Gerus is not interested in the topic, she may recommend another agent. There are no hard feelings involved – she just knows she won’t be able to offer the best guidance and support.

2. If the letter is rude or makes the writer come across as insecure. Be respectful and confident throughout the letter.

3. If the book’s message isn’t unique. Gerus says that memoirists specifically end up indulging themselves sometimes. Before submitting a query letter, think about how your book can offer a new perspective.

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