"What's happening with your novel?"
That's the question I've been asked a lot recently, by family, friends and also by some of the lovely people who have been following my writing journey on this blog.
The honest answer is I'm not really sure. In many ways, I've been extremely fortunate, my novel has won a competition, and several agents have asked to see the full manuscript, but it's just the first step in a very long process. I'm trying to be patient and optimistic but it's surprising how quickly the initial euphoria at sending that manuscript off can change to nail-biting self-doubt as soon as the waiting begins again.
With no news you start to second guess, deciding the reason you've heard nothing from an agent is because:
a) They haven't had time to read it.
b) They have had time to read it but have been too busy to email you.
c) They've read it and loved it but want a second opinion.
d) They've read it and didn't like it but didn't know how to tell you.
e) They've read it and didn't like it but forgot to tell you.
f) The email with the attached manuscript went astray and they never received it.
g) The email offering a contract went astray.
h) The email rejecting your novel went astray.
... and so on.
In the meantime, I've been trying to put it out of my mind by busying myself with writing more stories for the magazines. This week has seen three of them published (one in the People's Friend magazine and two in Woman's Weekly Fiction special). I'll leave you with some pictures of them and promise that if I hear any good news regarding my novel, you will be the first to know... after my husband, children, mother, brother, sister and writing chum Tracy Fells :)
I hate this limbo state and share your pain, Wendy. The waiting part of writing is something I truly hate. Bit worried to see how far down the list I come for hearing news, but then I know LitPig will hear even before your hubby :)
ReplyDeleteVery true 😁
DeleteI sympathise too, Wendy. One agent requested my full ms with a very warm message saying he loved the opening chapters. When I sent it, he replied immediately, as if he'd been waiting excitedly for it to arrive, to say he couldn't wait to read on. Nine months later, I've heard no more! I did tentatively ask after three months if he could confirm my assumption that it had failed to live up to expectations, but he didn't even answer that! It's the lack of response that I find hard. If he'd said he didn't like it, I'd have been disappointed, but would have recovered. And, having raised my hopes so much, if he could have told me briefly why it hadn't succeeded, that would have been so helpful. I really feel for you and can't wait to hear good news about your novel soon - and I'm sure that will be the case XXX
ReplyDeleteThat is a truly soul-destroying story. Having told you he loved the beginning and then giving the impression he was excited read the rest, must have made the silence after nine months doubly disappointing. I really sympathise, Joanna x
DeleteJust keep going Wendy - I feel your pain! I remember last year, I had a similar experience to Joanna. I sent my first three chapters and synopsis to an agent, who came back within hours to say she loved it and wanted to read the Full. I sent it off and never heard a thing again, despite following up twice after a couple of months. She said to me twice that she had almost finished it wand would get back to me within "a few days." Never heard from back from her. Now I'm glad as FINALLY I got a fab agent who I also look upon as a friend and mentor. If they are unable to get back with even a one line holding email, are they the sort of agent you could envisage working with? You WILL do it!! XX
ReplyDeleteI am so glad that your story had a happy ending. It will give others (including me) hope. So glad you found yourself a great agent in the end,
DeleteHope the wait isn't too long.x
ReplyDeleteWell done on the PF and WWFS stories meanwhile.
Thanks, Carol. Me too.
DeleteHello
ReplyDeleteI came across your blog via a link from Helen Yentall's site. You sound a very interesting person, and so admire your determination and success. I would love to have articles published in more magazines, I’ve flooded the Sailing magazine market but not brave enough to branch out into general women's magazines. I’m looking forward to reading more of your posts to gain some advice and inspiration ......
Hi Georgina. Ive just visited your blog and commented. My husband and I Holiday in Greece every year so it’s perfect!
DeleteWishing you luck, Wendy! You are clearly doing all the right things.
ReplyDeleteI try, Penny :)
DeleteMy publisher has always said do not hesitate to get in touch after a few months. What harm could it do it you're not a pest?
ReplyDeleteYou're probably right, Phyllis. We writers worry so much about doing the right thing.
DeleteI've just been listening to 'Sophie Hannah: Re-creating Poirot', which was on the World Service as part of its 'In The Studio' series. It was fascinating, showing how she goes about planning, writing and rewriting her books. Even she gets nervous waiting for a response from her editor, so you're in good company. I'm looking forward to hearing good news from you in due course.
ReplyDeleteI think waiting is the worst part of writing. Sometimes even a rejection feels better than just not knowing.
ReplyDeleteI hope you get a positive response soon.
Waiting is horrible, and you have my sympathy, .Wendy. All that checking of emails, and then the weekend comes, and there are two whole days before there's any chance of hearing any news. I think we've all been there. But the stories are going well, and that's a blessing. Here's hoping for good news soon.
ReplyDelete