The Rejection Collection

My real-life query rejections: form, personal, and more!

Examples of form rejections:

Ever gotten one of these? Trust me, I’ve gotten many!

Thanks so much for thinking of me, but this one’s just not quite right for my list. Due to a very full workload, I have to be extremely selective about pursuing new projects. 

Please know that this is a very subjective business and that tastes range widely among agents. Someone else may feel very differently—you deserve someone who is passionate about your work and is confident about their ability to position it.

Best of luck with this, and thank you so much for thinking of me.

***

Thank you so much for sending me your query. While the premise was intriguing, unfortunately, I don't feel the project is the right fit for my list at this time.

The publishing industry is subjective, and what doesn't work for me might be just what another agent is looking for. I wish you the best of luck in your writing as you work toward publication.

***

Thank you for sharing your project with me and for your patience as I reviewed it. I appreciate the opportunity and am always grateful for the chance to consider what someone has poured time, energy, and heart into creating.

Unfortunately, after careful review, I'm passing on this project. Keep in mind, this industry is very subjective and, as such, I would encourage you to continue submitting in the hopes of finding the right agent for you.

Example of a “sort of personal” rejection: