So I’ve joined a group called the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. Mainly because they publish anthologies but also because I just got another agent rejection. This one said he couldn’t connect with my POV character. I’m a bit down because I worked so hard to change that whole novel into first person POV just so I could get more of Lontano’s emotions instead of just looking at him from the outside the way it was going in third person.
So yeah, I’m feeling insecure this week. I guess I need to grieve over my rejection a bit before I send out another batch of queries. Maybe I’ll run my query letter past Harry Bingham over at Jericho Writers to see if that’s one of my problems. I’m also considering a manuscript consultation – or at least the first few chapters – to see what the experts think about my writing.
The thing is, you can’t stay insecure. Sooner or later, you must finish grieving and get back into your story. If you agreed with what the rejection pointed out, change that bit or ask for help. If you didn’t agree, just send out another batch of query letters or start the next story.
It can be tough, believing in yourself, but someone has to!
The September Question is: : If you could choose one author, living or dead, to be your beta partner, who would it be and why?
I would love to be able to mentor with one of the old greats like Heinlein or Asimov, so they could show me how to create vivid science fiction stories – or someone like Terry Pratchett so he could show me how to include humor.
Had to drop in to say Hi to a fellow Murray.
You’re right–don’t let agents get you down.
Hiya Jacqui!
Querying can be so hard. It would be hard not to feel insecure. If you are getting the same response from other agents, you might want to consider revising to try to fix the problem. Otherwise, you might want to query another small batch of agents to see what response you get.
Yeah I was thinking I might be due for a 4th rewrite if another agent says basically the same thing – hopefully they won’t!
Hi, E.J.! Welcome to the IWSG! You sound like someone who is able to climb on top of rejection after allowing a little time to grieve. Way to go! I love sci-fi too, and I would certainly welcome the opportunity to work with someone like Heinlein or Asimov! Some of my current favorites are Kim Stanley Robinson, Dan Simmons, and Liu Cixin. Alex J. Cavanaugh, the founder the IWSG has written a wonderful series beginning with CassaStar. And another IWSG writer, Pat Hatt, has written some wild sci-fi adventures. And Dancing Lemur Press has published books by a number of IWSG authors. Poke around the membership and make connections! It’s the connections that really help! All the best to you.
Thanks Louise! I’ll start poking around immediately!
Welcome to the IWSG!!
Heinlein was a master of the space opera. My books have been compared to his which is a great honor. I’d mentor under him as well.
Thanks Alex! I’m entering the anthology contest as well …