Should I mention this in a query?

I think I know the answer to this, but I though I'd ask, just in case.

I am thinking of querying an agent, and while looking through her profile I noted that she spent some time working at Scovil, Chichak, and Galen. Russ Galen declined my novel, but he said some very nice things about it in a detailed email explaining the rejection ("...quite well written," "...nicely done," and "...other people will probably love it, but it's not what I love."). He did NOT refer me to any other agents.

Should I mention his comments when querying this new agent? I am thinking no, because I have no idea what the split was like. It could have been amicable, or it could have been bitter. In either case, since Russ did not give me a referral, I am thinking mentioning him would be an unprofessional no-no.

But on the other hand if she remembers and respects him and his work, then it might help to get the query through to the sample chapters stage.

I am still leaning towards a "no." What do y'all think?

Would it, perhaps, be better to email Mr. Galen and ask if he would mind giving me a referral to this new agent? Or is that also considered a no-no?

Yeah, that's what I thought. Thanks Ray.

Thanks, Jim. My thoughts, as well.

Maprilynne said:

(BTWm that's not me, it's you conscience speaking.)

Click to expand...

I didn't even know I had one of those...it must be playing a 33-year game of hide and seek with my sense of decency.

Thanks everyone. I kinda figured it was a no-no, but I also thought "hey, it can't hurt to ask, right?"

I sent the query with no references to Galen or any other agent.