Publisher Submissions 101: How to Write a Professional Query That Gets Read

Recently, our press was mentioned in a public listing of publishers open to submissions. That’s genuinely great news. More visibility means more writers finding us—and more chances to discover the next book we can’t stop talking about.

It also means a surge in queries. We saw a major jump in submissions compared to last month, and our editors are now working through a much larger stack. That’s a good problem to have—because somewhere in that pile may be a standout manuscript.

What we’re also seeing, though, is a pattern: many submissions come from new authors who haven’t been shown what a professional submission looks like. So today’s post is a practical, up-to-date guide to the publishing submission process—what a query is, what to include, and how to avoid the mistakes that get emails deleted fast.

Traditional publishing: Big 5 vs. indie presses (quick overview)

If you’re not self-publishing, you’re pursuing traditional publishing. That usually means one of two routes:

• Big 5 publishers: Typically require a literary agent before your work is considered.

• Independent (indie) presses: Many accept unagented submissions, depending on their guidelines.

Whichever path you choose, the rule is the same: follow each publisher’s submission guidelines exactly. Every press is different.

What is a query?

A query is your professional introduction to a publisher (or agent). It’s not a casual email. It’s a short, targeted pitch that helps an editor quickly understand:

• what your book is

• who it’s for

• why it stands out

• whether it fits their list

Most publishers also request additional materials (sample pages, synopsis, etc.). Again: their guidelines decide what you send.

The fastest way to get rejected: bulk emailing

It’s not in your best interest to send one generic query to dozens of publishers at once. Editors can tell immediately—and it signals you didn’t read directions. If you want to be taken seriously, tailor your submission and send it the way the publisher requests.

Our submission requirements (Literary Wanderlust)

To be specific, here’s what Literary Wanderlust requests:

• a query letter

• the first 3 chapters of your manuscript

• a full synopsis

Our submission site also asks questions about you and your book: https://www.literarywanderlust.com/http://QueryMe.Online/LiteraryWanderlust

Other publishers may want different materials (first 10 pages, first 50 pages, a full manuscript, a one-page synopsis, a marketing plan, etc.). That’s why reading guidelines matters.

What to include in a strong query letter (editor checklist)

A professional query letter should usually include:

• Personalization (address a specific editor when possible)

• Book title + genre

• Word count

• A compelling pitch (premise + stakes + what makes it unique)

• Comparable titles (optional, but helpful when done well)

• A short author bio (relevant credits or a simple, professional intro)

Keep it clear. Keep it readable. Make it easy for an editor to say, “Yes—send more.”

Sample query letter (simple example)

(Names/details simplified for example purposes.)

Dear Ms. Brooks,

BOOK TITLE will appeal to readers of thriller and paranormal fiction. MAIN CHARACTER is a psychic who can see and speak to spirits. After a fire devastates much of California, she’s hired by the mayor to investigate a series of murders the public believes were committed by the dead—until she realizes the living may be far more dangerous.

The manuscript is complete at XX,000 words and is a paranormal thriller.

I have published the following works: TITLE, TITLE, TITLE.

I live in California with my husband and two dogs. When I’m not writing, I enjoy gardening, working with my students, and serving as a board member and director for a local theater group.

Best regards, AUTHOR NAME

Don’t forget the pages and synopsis

Your query opens the door—but your pages do the convincing.

• Send polished, proofread sample chapters (no typos, missing words, or formatting chaos).

• Your synopsis should cover the major arcs and the ending. (Yes, the ending.)

If you need help with synopsis structure, this resource is a solid starting point: https://susanbrooks.wordpress.com/2013/12/15/writing-tips-how-to-write-a-synopsis/

Final reminders (that protect new authors)

• Legitimate traditional publishers do not charge authors to publish. If a “publisher” asks you for money to publish your book, walk away.

• Be professional in tone, formatting, and follow-through.

• Be kind, be thorough, and be patient—publishing timelines are rarely fast.

If you take the time to submit correctly, you immediately stand out in the best way. Good luck—and we look forward to reading the work that’s ready for the next step.