The Ongoing Quest for a Literary Agent

I realize that I've been a bit quiet over the last few months regarding my ongoing pursuit of a literary agent. In part, this is due to the fact that school responsibilities have been interfering with my creative writing endeavors. But by and large it's because I've been procrastinating in the face of rejection. I sent out queries to 8 agents. One asked for a partial and then decided it wasn't for her. The 5 others sent me the rote "we're not interested but thanks for contacting us" responses. The other 2 I still haven't heard back from, so I'm assuming my query got lost in the slush pile.

In looking around online and frequenting a number of authors' blogs I've discovered that acquiring a literary agent is a long and arduous process. Many authors indicate on their websites that they had to send out dozens and dozens of queries before getting representation, and that process itself often takes up to a year or more for most. So I know I need to get off my butt and query some more people. But as a delaying tactic I decided to take some time and revamp my query letter as well as take a second pass at revisions to the novel. Right now I'm finishing up with those and investigating which agents I might like to contact next. But, and this is where you come in dear readers, I need some input on the query letter (especially from Monks and Violet as both of you have read a draft of the novel).

So here is what I'm asking: 1) who would be interested in providing feedback on my query letter? and/ or 2) who would be interested in reading the novel with revisions? I don't have a critique group so I'm totally relying on the generosity of friends who are willing to tell me what sucks and what's good.

Before you commit to anything, let me lay out the particulars. 1) The novel is essentially a pseudo-romance/chick-lit with paranormal/fantasy elements. 2) It's set in Montreal and it's (I think) pretty funny and quirky (in a good way). 3)It does NOT make any aspirations toward literary greatness or narrative brilliance. I consider it "entertainment" reading. 4) For those who don't like romance/chick-lit, this probably isn't a read you'd enjoy (although feel free to naysay me if you think otherwise). 5) Also, for the more faint of heart...there is...um...sex in this book. Yes, I have a dirty, skanky mind. I admit it. :) 6) It is the first in what I envision being a short series (I'm already halfway through the sequel).

So, if you're still interested in being a critique partner/assistant (out of the generous kindness of your heart) then let me know and I can email you the query and/or novel. My only stipulation is PLEASE do not circulate copies of this stuff online. I want to try and get it published some day, so I'm a tad protective of the sucker.

Much love y'all!