1-on-1 Query Letter Review with Literary Agent Sam Hiyate

Refine your query letter, strategize your querying approach, and learn to sell yourself, and your book, to literary agents with the power to get you published.

Querying can be just as frustrating as it is exciting. You've dreamed of the moment that your manuscript is polished and you're finally to finally pursue a literary agent in hopes of a book deal. There's a chance you've sent out dozens of queries in exchange for silence and thoughts of where you went wrong. 

An effective query letter balances your personality as a writer, a strategic approach tailored to the litagent you hope to engage, and the ability to sell yourself as an author with longstanding potential. 

1-on-1 Query Letter Reviews are designed to give you the querying insight, critique, and targeted approach you need to write a memorable query.

About Sam

Sam is President of The Rights Factory, an international literary agency based in Toronto.

In his 30+ year publishing career he has worked at literary magazines, small presses and with New York Times & Globe and Mail bestsellers. 

Sam has published bestselling authors including: 

• Jennifer Close (Girls in White Dresses, The Smart One, The Hopefuls)
• David Gilmour (CBC's Gilmour on the Arts, Lost Between Houses, The Film Club)
• Mariko Tamaki (Skim, Emiko Superstar, This One Summer)
• Andrew Kaufman (All My Friends Are Superheroes, The Tiny Wife)
• Margot Berwin (Hothouse Flower, Nine Plants of Desire)
• Lee Matthew Goldberg (The Mentor, Slow Down)
• Rupinder Gill (On the Outside Looking Indian)

Sam has edited and represented genres from debut fiction and memoir to narrative non-fiction and graphic novels.

He teaches creative writing at the University of Toronto, and publishing at Ryerson University. He is a regular lecturer and speaker at other colleges, universities, and writing conferences.

What Writers are Saying About Sam

"I can’t remember a more enjoyable and informative presentation. Sam's stories from the world of publishing vividly illustrated his points. His ability to focus on each person’s work and rearrange elements showed directorial genius… I am very glad I attended and look forward to querying Sam when I am further along in [my writing].”
— Tim Christian, Victoria

"I had a wonderful time with Sam yesterday. Could you please extend my appreciation to him for his time and all his invaluable advice? I cannot thank you and Sam enough for organizing this unique opportunity for new novelists such as myself. I hope to have another meeting with him in the future." 
— Yale Wang, Toronto

“What I love about working with Sam is that it gives me a greater understanding of the industry. You can try to study creative writing in a class, but it's hard to learn what will set you apart until you work with someone who sells books for a living! If your goal is to eventually publish, I think Sam's advice and support is invaluable. He has added tremendous value to my near-finished manuscript.”
— Amy Dixon, Toronto

How it Works:

Literary Agent Sam Hiyate will meet you 1-on-1 via Zoom to give detailed feedback about your query letter. This includes:

• 45 minutes 1-on-1 with an established literary agent
• Insight into what's working and not working in your letter
• Editing suggestions for how to write winning copy about your book
  
• Tips and techniques on how to personalize your query to earn an agent's attention
• Suggestions on how to write a more dynamic bio that will leave an impression
• A review and critique of your synopsis

Have a question? 

If you have any questions about working with Sam, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!