[QCrit] Adult Historical Fiction, OF HER BLOOD, 89K, First attempt

Hello All!

I've been lurking on here for awhile, but have never posted. However, I thought I'd put my big girl trousers on and ask for some advice. I sent out 7 queries in January and I've only heard back from two so far, a form rejection and a nice personalised rejection. I had an editor friend look at my query letter but I'd love any thoughts or advice, I feel like I've messed with it so much I don't even know how it reads anymore! Thank you guys.

Dear [AGENT],

I am writing to submit my debut 89,000 word commercial historical novel, OF HER BLOOD.

While some inherit titles, property, or coin, Tilda inherited only a lie and the contempt that came with it. She was sentenced before she ever sinned.

In 17th-century England, Tilda serves the cruel Lord and Lady Montclair. Tormented by memories of the hanging of her mother after false accusations, Tilda exists in solitude, shunned by the other servants. She finds unexpected comfort in a forbidden affection for Lady Imogen, the intelligent daughter of her master.

But when Imogen is forced into an arranged marriage, and Tilda uncovers the horrifying truth behind her mother’s death and the Montclairs’ part in it, her world shatters. With nothing left to lose, she craves justice—but will it save Tilda, or lead her to the same fate as her mother?

OF HER BLOOD combines the feminist themes of The Familiars by Stacey Halls and Weyward by Emilia Hart with the intimate forbidden love of The Naked Light by Bridget Collins. This will appeal to fans of dark historical fiction, especially those who enjoy gothic tales infused with feminine rage.

Centred on a heroine without wealth or status, the novel explores how accusations of witchcraft were used as a tool to control women who defied social norms and encourages the reader to reflect on how fear of feminine power and the circumstances of birth still determine whose voices are heard today.

[Bio]