To end the mystery, the agent passed. For now.
Late Sunday night they emailed a two page note about their decision. This feedback followed a five day consideration period–though I emailed the entire manuscript in late July, they vacationed until the 14th of this month, so they actually responded in less than five days; that turnaround time in itself is amazing. Here’s a small extract of the good stuff:
“Certainly, there is a lot to like about it…I thought it was evident that there was a solid craftsmanship about the story structure. You seemed to plot the overall story and arrange specific scenes in a way that maximized the excitement factor.”
“You have a great imagination – I love the premise – and you’re a good writer…”
Then they covered their concerns. These were fairly pointed, so it took a little time for processing. After twenty-four hours of reflection, I called up Oriana, found out she was on board, and worked out my next move: Operation Reconsider.
Now keep in mind, taking a chance, especially a big one, rests on a piece of industry knowledge. Agents rarely provide feedback to non clients. According to my sources, one with twenty-five years in the business, the other with six, if a top notch agent–and this one is–does that once a year, it’s a lot. Between managing existing clients, promotions, and finding new projects, there’s not enough hours in the day. Generally, they would like to, but if they went down that road, they would soon fall behind. So I understand their hesitation. In fact, the agent mentioned that they “never, ever do this”.
Yet they did.
Not only did they provide meaningful feedback, they framed their reservations in terms of how the issues compromised the story. There’s no arguing with direct cause and effect logic. And I did not even try. Instead I listened. I also asked for a second chance. I’m not even going to speculate about the odds on that possibility.
And I don’t need to.
They agreed! After addressing their concerns–anticipate this taking around three months–I can send the manuscript again.
This is the kind of development that makes the months of isolation worth it.
Oh wait, it was years.
Awesome!
Thanks!
I’m pretty psyched. It’s going to be a lot of work, but much less than what writing the book required in the first place.
That’s great! Good Luck!
dude, that’s totally awesome! *high five*
Jaysen, much thanks. There’s definitely suggestions from Jen and you in this story, advice that survived the revision cycle.
Spike, high five right back at you. And your suggestions persist in the manuscript as well.
The great part is knowing that 1) the idea is sound 2) someone is willing to give the story a chance. After three years, the doubts were many, though mercifully sporadic.
Sam, this is actually really good news.
The fact that the agent gave detailed feedback is definitely a really good sign.
Another reason why agents don’t give feedback is that often, when they do, the writer will dash off an angry email rebutting the criticism. In a way you can’t blame the writer, it’s tempting (and a lot easier) to argue than to listen.
So they were taking a risk even giving you that feedback. And I’m sure they’ll be really happy that you responded the way you did. It shows you’re someone they can work with.
Thanks, Debra. I take it as a good sign as well.
To be honest, if the same letter came my way three years ago–possibly event two–I would have received the message differently; it’s amazing how years temper one’s defensive reactions.
I’m working behind the scenes with a dream team to address the agent’s concerns.