where does genre and word count go?

There's no way to know for sure what each agent prefers. The word count goes in your book info line (TITLE is a [genre] complete at XX,XXX words) but where you put it is up to you.

A lot of people think opening with your hook and putting the info at the end is the best way to go, while others think an agent will want to know the genre and word count before they read about the book. There's no sure answer, which I know isn't much help. Go with your gut.

ETA: I've always put it at the end, and I've had plenty of positive responses. But then I've only ever queried publishers, not agents.

Either, so do what feels right for you. Doesn't matter to the agent (though some have expressed a preference in one or the other, so if you see that when you do your research on them, do it they way they prefer). No agent is going to reject you solely for where you put the stats about the book.

Great site for query letter advice: http://queryshark.blogspot.com/

I can say that when Nathan B. did his "Agent For A Day" contest last year with the 50 queries, I found myself skipping past all that stuff whenever it was at the beginning and going straight to the pitch.

Not only is QLH (where I know you're enjoying a lovely vacation) designed to torture you while amusing us, we occasionally attempt to provide answers. You might want to look at this thread: I am seeking representation ... ( 1 2).

Best of luck,

Jim Clark-Dawe

i just put it wherever it sounds right. usually at the end.