I'm curious, how many of you would pay someone to write a query/synopsis for you? What if they guaranteed results? What if it was an agent or editor that offered the services on the side and knew what other agents/editors wanted?
I would say that's a tough one. I would have one main concern with this. One: the query/synopsis wouldn't be in your voice. What if someone requested the work because they loved the query and the voice and then didn't like the actual voice in your ms?
Second: there are scams out there for this type of thing. Don't fall for it.
Third: I would feel like I didn't accomplish it myself.
Fourth: I'm the tightest person this side of the equator. I don't pay for anything I don't have too.
So, how about you?
~JD
13 comments:
I looked into an editing service about a year ago and decided against it. For one thing, the gal wanted a $400 fee. I realized that I could get the same results from my critique group.
I briefly considered having an editor look over my manuscript for me. I decided not to when I a)am anal and edit the crap out of it myself first and b)betas are free. What I send won't be 'print ready' but that's fine -nothing ever is. Agents and editors ALWAYS want changes. And there's enough forums and blogs to help with a query letter. I'd never pay someone to write mine.
Who needs to pay someone when you have the most awesome critique partner? :)
I wrote my query and then she wrote it and we combined them to make super query. And then we swapped and did the same thing for hers...
I wouldn't pay anyone to write my query especially since they haven't read my book...
I totally agree. Paying someone is just bogus. Totally absurd. Critique partners are awesome for this, as is the wonderful beta. And then, there's always Bransforums, right? Yup...I we all know the best route here.
~JD
Four months ago, I'd have said, 'No way!', but after nothing but rejection, I'd be sorely tempted if someone offered. I've been to all the usual sites, had it critiqued on forums, etc. However, I don't have the funds for it, which is probably a good thing in this case.:-)
I would do this in a second if I thought it would work and if there was anyone reputable out there providing this service for a reasonable rate. As far as I know that is not the case. I don't think the voice of the query/synopsis would matter TOO much; in the long run an agent's decision to offer representation is based on a read of the full MS anyway.
That's not to say you gals are wrong. I'm mostly just lazy.
Good Topic though I don't think I would. I don't know maybe I would consider a query or synopsis edit but to write my query for me? no..
I would so do it, if I wasn't so dang stubborn!
I'm not worried about the voice so much. Too be honest, I think agents just mention it to confuse us even more, lol. The most successful query letters I've seen have been short and succinct and all I really get is a sense of the story line.
What I'm more curious to know ... what sort of sadistic person would subject themselves to writing queries for a living.
Excellent point Tracy....excellent point! You couldn't pay me enough to do that. ;-)
I won't pay anyone to write my query/synopsis because I agree with the comment about voice. However, I WILL pay someone to write a stellar manuscript I can put my name on and collect royalties. Just putting that out there.
HEE HEE!
I agree that I also wouldn't pay someone to write a query/synopsis. I think it's a learning process, and writing your own really helps you grow as a writer. It's not fun, but it feels good once you're done. Just my thoughts.
I have to agree and say that no one can master the voice of the letter better than the author themselves. If it was a guaranteed result that the hired person would get me an agent.... that's a hard question to answer. I'm not sure how much money I'd want or could dish out. Very good question to ponder.
Unless I was desperate,I would not do it.
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