Saturday, March 04, 2006
Completely deflated
Well, I'm completely deflated. I got my first rejection letter yesterday. I feel as if someone close to me has died. Maybe I'm not cut out for this writing thing after all, if I take rejection this badly. Seriously, I cried for three hours last night. The worst part is, I only sent in a query letter and synopsis, and I got what is surely a form letter back from the editor telling me that I've outlined a fascinating project but that the writing is not quite strong enough for their publication company. But they didn't read any of the writing, because I didn't include it! Maybe my synopsis wasn't strong enough, but that's not the actual story. I guess I need to brush up on my synopsis-writing skills. And the thing that kills me is that if I had included the first 3 chapters, they would have seen that my writing is actually pretty strong. I've never felt so awful in my life. This was my first novel, my first attempt at getting something published, and while I was expecting the worst and hoping for the best, I was still completely crushed when I got the letter. I'm not really sure what to do next, but I can't give up on this story. So it's back to the drawing board, I suppose. Back to research and submitting to other publishers. Maybe I'll have better luck with someone else. Anyway, just had to vent a little.
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Don't give up, Anita! The world always needs more writers.
ReplyDeleteI've just started getting serious about my writing (although not as serious as I should be). One thing that really keeps me inspired is Romance Divas. The writers there (check out the forums) are so supportive of everyone's projects. It's a great place to laugh, cry, scream, rant and get lots of support and advice on your projects.
Good luck!
Sorry.
ReplyDeleteKeep submitting, keep writing. Don't give up.
I can send you some thin mints. Frozen and dipped in milk, there isn't much better for a rotten day.
Thanks, guys! I appreciate the words of encouragement and advice. I knew it was a long shot, that my book would be accepted the first time, but I still couldn't help being upset about it. But I'm over it now and am determined to see this through. It's a good story and I know someone wants to publish it. For now, I'm going to get an updated Writer's Market Guide and am going to send it out to more people.
ReplyDeleteOh, and Eduardo, thanks for the offer of the thin mints. I actually have a box of them here, so I froze them and dipped them in milk, just like you suggested and they were great! Thanks for the tip!