KAREN JANOWSKY

I literally just wrote a long-ish blog explaining what I've been up to for the last four months, and then *poof* it disappeared. So, here's the digest version:

1. I apologize for falling behind on my blog.
2. I've been querying like crazy, and I'll start with that:

My 3rd rom-com is in the querying trenches. I've said this before, rejections can feel like someone's pummelling you. I've had 7 agents request full or partial manuscripts (yay!), and so far, 4 have decided not to take on the book. Those rejections especially sting. Now, I understand that there are many reasons for an agent to say no or change their mind, and they often don't have to do with the quality of the work. It's more like, on further inspection, the book isn't precisely what ther publisher contacts want. Close, but no cigar (or contract). I try hard to have a thick skin but ultimately, I'm not as tough as I'd like to be when it comes to these things. Those books all have parts of who I am in them. It feels like personal rejection or judgment when the "almost yes'" agent turns down the book, even though I know better.

So, here's what's just happened this week: I have 3 more agents with manuscripts and I'm scheduled to pitch to four more agents in-person next week. BUT, a smaller publisher, one that I especially admire, might want the book. I'm scheduled to talk with the editor live this week. So, I wrote to the three agents and basically said, "This is happening; is my book still under consideration?" Depending on where my manuscript is in their enormous work pile, they'll probably turn me down and tell me "congratulations." Finding an agent has sort of been my white whale for a very long time. So, this is potentially good news, but for me, there's some bittersweetness to the news. Having said that, this publisher is really impressive, and I'll get a better feel of things once we speak. Fingers crossed!

As far as those other four agents, I do have another almost-ready rom-com to pitch. The "almost" is because my editor can't get to their final round until the end of June, so it'll be July before the manuscript is polished. I've gotta say though, it'll be worth it if they're willing to wait.

I'll keep you posted! Meanwhile, here's a picture of the patronus Pottermore gave me a long time ago. My friends all think it's accurate for some reason.