File Buz

Overzealous Is Your Middle Name Which Makes You Just Like Most Authors

Overzealous Is Your Middle Name Which Makes You Just Like Most Authors

I submitted three chapters and a synopsis to two editors I met at a very small regional SCBWI event. When I sent the 3 chaps, thinking I had a minimum of 4-6 months wait ahead of me, I was aware my MS still needed a last copyedit and a proofread. When Editor A requested the full MS, only three weeks later, complete with scribbled smiley face on her note to me, I was elated.... and horrified to find my story wasnt as ready as I thought. The second half (at least) had some serious issues which suddenly became glaringly obvious to me now that someone actually wanted to see the full. Im sure I made a complete gaffe of the situation: I sent Editor A the first half of the MS, and explained what had happened, with an assurance I was committed to fixing the issues. Editor A quickly rejected my half MS with a form letter. No real surprises there, I guess, a sharp rap on the knuckles, and a hard lesson learned.

Ah... well, I cant speak for all editors, but if I had the first half of a novel and was really excited about it, I would let the author know that Id love to see the rest when it was done.
Unless it was about vampires, zombies, or angels. Only manuscripts ready to be sent to the printer can have those in them right now. Damned angels.

At the same time, youre right, you shouldnt be submitting a novel that isnt finished, so Im glad youre taking this as a lesson.

Im wondering whats the best way to handle Editor B: just to send her a letter and withdraw my MS from consideration at this point? I dont want to waste her time. But Im not expecting that she will request the full. And I dont want to come across as Stupidity Exhibit A to someone whom I admire. How is an author, if shes silly enough to be there, expected to handle this kind of situation? Talk about arguing for ones limitations....

Let her know that you feel youve noticed a couple problem areas and want to send the manuscript to her once its really as good as you can make it. She should appreciate that. And give her an idea of how soon that might be: a month? A couple months? I dont mean to pressure you, but we like people who have a new book every year or two.

Available link for download