I'd like you to meet . . . Rejection

Last week I travelled with my family to Florida to stay with my wonderful Aunt and Uncle. We spent the week lazily enjoying the Palm Beach farm by feeding animals, visiting the pond critters and lounging by the new pool. We did take a trip to a nearby beach, indulging in a sea-side lunch at Benny's by the Beach (no shark encounters, this year!).

During our stay I also completed my final, final edit of my manuscript.

Let me take a moment to pull in a deep breath, a sigh of relief and satisfaction.

Now, let me admit the flurry of butterflies swarming in my stomach. I have been researching and following a number of literary agents for a while, now. And I did it, I sent out my first query letters asking for representation. It really is kind of humiliating - in an industry code, I am begging for someone to like my pitch enough to ask for more, hopefully resulting in an eventual business deal. Out of hundreds of agents I have been told to expect rejection over and over and over again.

What kind of torture is this?! And I am asking for it?

I have received my first response - a form rejection. Although it was expected, and the rejection was very kind, it was still a little sad. This will likely be as much work as writing is. But, just like I've worked very hard to perfect my manuscript, I am willing to put in as much effort at finding an agent.

Wish me luck!