Question about a query

Southern_girl29 · Oct 17, 2006

So, I'm working on a 100 word hook for my WIP for the crapometer. I'll have the rough draft finished by mid-November and have done probably an edit/revision or two by the time the crapometer rolls around.

Anyway, do you include subplots in a query? My main plot is that my main character, an editor of a small town newspaper, is being harassed by a methamphetamine manufacturer/addict. I have a few secondary plots. Her husband is bipolar and has left her. The sheriff in town, who she gets close to because of him protecting her against the stalker, is in love with her, and she feels herself falling for him. The people in the town don't like her as the new editor because she isn't from the town.

So, do I include those subplots in a query? Should I try to include them in a 100-word hook? Usually when I try to do a query, it sounds more like a synopsis, and I know it really shouldn't.

oneoldwriter · Oct 17, 2006

http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=21248

Found this under Query letter critique/ query letter resources. This should provide answers to your questions.

Jack_Roberts · Oct 18, 2006

Personally I just gave the story idea, then a little more SLIGHTLY flushed out main story idea. I saved the subplots for the synopsis.

That’s just me though.

Jo · Oct 18, 2006

I would say leave the subplots out of it. JanDarby (post #5) has some great advice in this crapometer thread in the SYW Query forum: http://www.absolutewrite.com/forums/showthread.php?t=42969

JanDarby said:
The hook doesn't have to cover the resolution of the story, just "who are the protagonist and antagonist, and why do we care?" Or consider variations on "why do we care," like, "why are they different from every other protag/antag" or "what are their goals?" or "what threw them together?" or "what are they setting out to do?" or "what is their problem?" (in the non-sarcastic meaning). Depends on your story, which of those questions will provoke the best description for you.

If you can answer these questions, you're on your way. (You won't need to answer all of them, but if you do, you have a strong base from which to work from.)

Del · Oct 18, 2006

I would say some may be mentioned, like the fact she is a divorcée because it goes toward your main character, but that the sheriff is in love with her does nothing for her directly so leave it out of the query. As Jack said, there will be a synopsis to expand the subplots.

HorrorWriter · Oct 18, 2006

I'd say listen to Jack. Leave the subplots for the synopsis. I have polished my query and my synopsis. I'll begin to query my current novel at the end of this week or the beginning of the next. By the time Miss Snark's crapometer rolls around, I hope to have an agent. I am blessed with several professional writer friends who actually read over my stuff, so that helps a great deal. When I mail my work off and get some feedback, I'll be happy to take some time and give some feedback to others.

Question about a query

Southern_girl29

oneoldwriter

Jack_Roberts

Scribe of my muse, Annabelle

Jo

Travelling the re-write road

Del

Sky isn't falling, ground is rising

HorrorWriter

It's a new dawn. It's a new day.