On Rejections

Well, the rejection letter (on my Great Agent Hunt) came yesterday and I totally don't know how to feel about it. I suppose I should feel like I did for all the others I've recieved, but this one is different for a number of reasons.

First, I love this agency. They have such a wonderful team, great personalities, and real, true-life enthusiasm. Just being around them on the 'net has helped me find the 'fun' in this way hard writing life again. So, working with them was right up there with 'dream job.'

Second, I sort of expected the rejection letter. At first I had thought it would be an awesome fit--though I knew I was stretching the parameters of what they normally represent--I do have a lot of works-in-progress and a few completed novels that they might have enjoyed. The problem with the 'wips' was they weren't finished--and the problem with the completes was they're earlier works and need some revisions. *sigh* So, I had sent them my latest and greatest. And last but not least, a short while ago I discovered that the particular agent with in the agencies that had my book really isn't all that gung-ho for the style and genre.

The rejection letter was the sort you hope and pray for, if you have to be rejected at all, that is. It was personal, said what she liked, said what she didn't care for, and wished me the best.

The idea, though, that there's another agency out there with such a vibrant group of people, is hard to fathom. I've been around this publishing biz for a while, researched dozens and dozens of agencies looking for a fit, and I've never come aross such a wonderful place as this one. They truly are exceptional.

Maybe . . . maybe . . . one day . . . when I've paid more dues . . . maybe I'll be able to work with them later.

The problem now, however, is that I NEED representation. The type of writing that I do, the sort of career that I want to have, isn't possible without one. Which means I go back to my long list of agents and try to choose one that at least seems professionally friendly. I don't want to be in someone's 'stable', I want to be part of a 'business family.'

Back to the drawing board. . . .

Jenny-the-still-hopeful

P.S.
I hope those who are in the Madison area will come on down and see me today! The coffee Burman's sent for the Reader's Basket smells heavenly--and there's some yummy looking chocolate in there too!!!