Rejected! (Queries Round 3)
Another rejection! Lara Perkins from the Andrea Brown Literary Agency liked my book. But not enough. Sad face. But she had some really positive things to say (Is it weird that the thing I'm maybe most pumped about is that she loved the title?)! It's a roller coaster of emotions over here! Like Doctor Horrible's Sing-Along Blog (quip-quip-slapstick-sillysong-DEATH!).
Anyway, here is the letter. The GIFs are my addition, but, agents, take note--they kinda ease the pain a bit. Something to consider, eh?
Dear C. James,
Thank you so much for your query and for your patience while I considered your work. I'm very grateful for this opportunity, and I think there is a great deal to recommend MORE LIKE A SIREN, LESS LIKE A BELL (for starters, some terrific writing, a compelling character, and a killer title).
However, after careful consideration, I'm afraid I don't feel I'm the right agent for this project.
I think the premise here is quite promising, but I'm afraid I didn't connect with the voice as fully as I'd hoped. As you know, voice is incredibly subjective, and I'm sure another agent will feel differently. I'm truly sorry not to be able to offer you representation at this time, and I wish you the very best of luck in finding the perfect home for MORE LIKE A SIREN, LESS LIKE A BELL.
One of the most difficult parts of this job is having to pass on projects, sometimes even on promising projects with great potential. Yet, like all agents, I can only take on a small fraction of the work I see--an unfortunate business reality. I have enormous respect for authors, not least because it takes great bravery to share your work with others. I very much hope that you keep this one pass in perspective. As you know, all it takes is one "Yes." I wish you great success in finding that "Yes," whether with our agency or with another agent or publisher.
Thank you so much, again, for thinking of me and for giving me this opportunity to consider your work. I very much hope to read of a deal for your work soon.
All my best,
Lara
So, in the end, I'm heartbroken in the rain. But it's cool. Because at least I'm Martin Freeman.