The Word Cloud

I sent my first novel to a agent, then spent the next 5 weeks climbing the walls. Got a reply (e-mail) which started well: 'It's well-written and intelligent' but then he said he 'liked it but didn't love it' - OUCH!

He explained that it wasn't suitable as a first novel, and told me what publishers are looking for from a previously unpublished author. He was very helpful, and as encouraging as he could be, considering he was rejecting my work.

I've decided that I agree with him. The novel has a slow build to it, which I guess would be OK for a second novel, but I can see that the first novel would have to totally rock from the very first paragraph. So I'm gonna crack on with my second novel, which does have that 'wow' factor right from the start (I don't do modesty).

I've heard people complain that agents don't give reasons for rejection, so I spose it's encouraging that the agent in question thought it worth bothering to do so in my case.

Nil desperandum, innit?

Very encouraging. I only ever get pre-printed, "No Thanks" slips.

Well done!

AW: are you really congratulating me for getting a rejection??? How depressing is that!

hey, it's encouraging to get anything back at all. poor old ancient woodland seems to be getting the literary equivalent of the "thank you for trying" certificate on school daffodil day.

let's face it, they're not obliged to say anything are they? it must be like reading the morning edition of the newspaper for them when the postman arrives; flicking through as fast as they can, half-hoping that a headline will catch their eye, the other half probably praying nothing does, so they can get on with their busy day. so when they give the courtesy of a positive and informative rejection, it's a sign that you must be doing something right, as at least you caught somebody's eye. but i long since gave up holding my breath waiting for them