QueryFest

Are you eager to have your work published? Would you like expert advice on your query letter, synopsis or the first pages of your manuscript? Do you want to know how to attract the attention of agents and editors? Or do you just have a question about some aspect of your career as a writer?

If so, QueryFest is for you.

Consider your query as your sales pitch—a representation of your product (your manuscript). You need to sell that product—and yourself—to an agent or acquiring editor; you must capture their interest. QueryFest offers the opportunity to sit down with an agent or editor who will give you the feedback you need to improve your query package. This information is invaluable, and will be extremely useful to you long after ThrillerFest ends, as you continue your querying journey.

QueryFest offers you the opportunity to sign up for 15-minute, one-on-one sessions with literary agents and editors, both independent and with ITW approved publishing houses. You’ll submit your “query package” ahead of time, which should include:

  • 1 page query letter
  • 1 page synopsis
  • First 5 pages of your manuscript

You’ll submit 7 pages total, all in a single Word document to a link we’ll provide once you have scheduled your sessions.  Only one 7-page submission is required for any number of consultations you reserve.

These industry experts will help you refine your work and suggest the best ways to sell it–and yourself. You’ll learn how to make your query letters more effective, tighten your synopsis, or “hook” an agent or acquiring editor with the first few pages of your manuscript. QueryFest will help you take the next step in your writing journey.

QF sessions are by appointment only Wednesday, April 28 through Friday, April 30, 2027. Our experts will provide helpful feedback and answer questions. But no pitching, please.

Please review the list of available experts to help selecting your appointments. The list is updated frequently with new experts joining the QueryFest team. You may initially purchase up to five sessions (no double sessions to allow more writers to participate, but the opportunity to schedule more than five may be available in the Spring). You will be able to select both your expert and the time of appointment. We will provide more information for the scheduling service closer to the event.

Please Note: If you wish to attend QueryFest, you will need to purchase Master Class, CraftFest, ThrillerFest or one of the packages.

  • James L'Etoile Seperator

    James L'Etoile

    QueryFest Director

For any questions, please email James L’Etoile, QueryFest Director

We highly recommend you read the QueryFest FAQ prior to signing up for this event.

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