Writers, Rejections, and Reform

After five months of watching the inbox, I was beyond anxious. Surely if they were taking this long to consider my manuscript, then the news would be good. Then again, maybe they’ve already passed on it and neglected to notify me. Angst, doubt, and, of course, hope, had me in a constant state of flux.

I emailed the publisher. Despite being unsure how much time was reasonable to wait, and worried that they would consider me a pest for bothering them, I composed a professional query as to whether my manuscript was still in the running.

Their response was encouraging. My work was still under consideration. These things take time, I told myself. I remained optimistic.

Two months later, the rejection arrived. Due to cutbacks in their program, they were unable to publish my collection of stories. They went on to say that my book was an interesting concept, and I could certainly write (the soothing balm that eased the sting) but targeting my audience might be a problem. Also, that, ‘Book sales are on the decline and publishers are making cut backs in the number of books they do. It’s a very difficult financial climate for publishers and very discouraging for authors.’ Yes, that’s the sad reality.

They went on to suggest that if I didn’t find a publisher for this manuscript that I should think about self-publishing and market my book on Amazon.

I’m not faulting the publisher, it was due to my own inexperience that I quit querying this book to others when they requested the manuscript. Though it was a boost to  my ego to have my collection considered, I had wasted a significant amount of time. 

One part of me says I should read the manuscript again and see if there are more edits. The other part of me says Are you nuts?? There are always edits. Editing never ends! Just send out more queries! Publishers usually request their own edits, anyway.

 

And so, I will do some research and follow up with a few queries to promising prospects for this project while continuing to move forward with writing my current novel and, also, finish some fine tuning on my last novel which is being queried to select agents and publishers.

Did I mention the short story contest deadlines looming on the horizon? I need a clear and creative mind to write something diabolically bizarre and darkly twisted. Or maybe I will use my diabolically bizarre and darkly twisted mind to write something clear and creative.

Regardless, edits will be done, queries will be sent, stories will be written, and novels will be completed. All is well that ends well.