Rooting for Rejection
by Jessica Lemmon
No matter what stage of your writing career you’re in, no one likes to hear the word “no.” From newbies to seasoned, every author gets rejected on projects. As much as it stings, especially in the early stages, I encourage you to celebrate each and every “no” you hear. Let them fuel your passion for your craft, test your mettle and teach you what to do next.
Years ago, when I was an aspiring author, I was crystal clear about my goals. 1) I wanted to be published by a New York house, and 2) I wanted to be great at my craft. No new author starts out great. Like a baby deer taking its first wobbly steps, we’re all knees when we start out. Even when your work is up to snuff there are legitimate reasons you might receive a rejection letter for your book.
Here are some of the reasons I’ve received rejections in the past:
Problem: Your skill level isn’t there yet.
Solution: Practice, practice, practice! Maybe you sent in your very first finished manuscript. I did. Problem was, I lacked the skill to tell a story. The solution is simple: Start a new book! The more you write, the more you learn. Read books and blogs by authors who have been there/done that. (I have a section on my website dedicated to writers.)
Problem: You’re not a good match for the editor.
Solution: Submit to another publisher. You want an editor that loves your book and your voice. Seek the perfect match.
Problem: The timing is off.
Solution: The editor loves your voice and concept but she just bought a zombie baseball players series. This is when it helps to have more than one project in the works. If she asks what else you have, you’ll have something else to send her. Maybe she’ll like vampire divorce lawyers better anyway…
I hope these examples help and encourage you on your journey.
Happy writing!
Jessica Lemmon
You can check out Jessica’s website at www.jessicalemmon.com. She loves to hear from writers and readers alike, so be sure to send her an email while you’re there!
6 replies on “Make a Date with Desire: Jessica Lemmon Talks about Rejection”
Thank you for your insight. I received a wonderful rejection email stating that the agent liked the premise, that I had a lovely voice, but that she didn’t connect enough with the book to offer representation. So I keep plugging away. Loved the “we’re all knees” comment too. Thank you for sharing a bit of your journey. Greta
Greta! That’s fantastic news. It’s good to know you’re “close.” Keep going!
There’s also the rejection where you’re “close” but still too far for the editor to take a chance.
Thanks for the tips Jessica!
Exactly!
I always have at least two projects going. When a rejection comes in I’m already in love with something else so it doesn’t sting.
It’s very true that you want an editor who gets your story and loves it. Totally not worth it to work with one who does not.
Gold star for you, Kimber! I always wrote the next book as soon as I submitted one. Best of luck to you.
Comments ( 7 )
I spent the entire shutdown working. Had no time to wind down. I didn’t see my son much when school shutdown. My one co worker was told to stay home for 3 weeks so I picked up her hours. This year has been really crappy.
Ugh, Janell. Here’s hoping the rest of your summer is better.
Thanks for the info, Carol! Everyone is different in how they deal with the shutdown! I stay at home all the time since I don’t work so I haven’t been too effected but my shopping and errands sure have been effected!
Valri, I’ve been doing most of my shopping online. My local Target is still low on some items – mostly cleaning supplies. Grocery store is pretty much back to normal. Most of the dining in our town is outdoor. I can’t imagine have school-age kids!
Wow–getting your creative process on track must have been daunting–especially with “extra-large dog” glad to have you home. You don’t like coffee–I love coffee and have enjoyed my fortifying 2 cups in the morning even more than usual! How as COVID affected your story lines and characterizations? Best Wishes for all releases!
Interesting question, Virginia. You’ll have to tell me if the tone of my “COVID” books changed any! LOL
Life has changed so much! My dad passed Feb 2. The assisted living facility my folks were at went into hardcore lockdown the beginning of March. Mom couldn’t leave her apartment for 4 months! She was on the third floor, Will be 89 in two months & doesn’t use the phone. My husband and I remodeled the lower level completely and moved her in with us July 1. What a life change and difficult transition for the 3 of us! But we’re working thru it!