Publishing
Hi, I’m August and what you just read isn’t a clickbait. My novel, ‘Wednesdays Were for Dying’ was rejected over 164 times by literary agents before I self-published it.
Here is why it didn’t get picked up by an agent👇
*The genre
*The ending
*It’s a series
*The content
Yes, or course some of the rejections were simply because my writing ‘wasn’t good enough’. But most agents rejected my novel because it’s historical fiction that goes against the grain. Set in a gothic Victorian-era with grungy historical facts and dark humor, this novel was ‘off putting’ almost right away.
WWFD ends on a cliff hanger which leads us to this being a series. No matter what agents say, many do not want a planned series from a debut author. I was told that even if the entire series were finished, they still wouldn’t be interested!
Lastly, the content of WWFD leans heavily into accurate mental health and Neurodivergent representation. Some agents felt it was too heavy or too emotional.
On Wednesday, August 7, 2024 I set-published my novel and have had incredible reviews ever since. It’s still not everyone’s cup of tea, but the emotional messages I’ve received have encouraged me.
My goal is to prove all 164 literary agents wrong. ❤️ Happy Reading!
The journey of self-publishing can be daunting, especially when faced with numerous rejections. My novel, ‘Wednesdays Were for Dying,’ initially met resistance due to its gothic Victorian-era setting, complex themes, and neurodivergent representation. Many authors often receive feedback that their work does not fit conventional market expectations, but rejection is not the end. Instead, it can be a stepping stone to finding a dedicated readership who appreciates unique storytelling. Self-publishing has become an empowering option for many writers, presenting them with the freedom to explore unconventional narratives without the constraints imposed by literary agents. This trend has led to a rich diversity in literature, as independent authors bring attention to important issues, including mental health and historical perspectives. Engaging with your audience, learning from feedback, and adapting your marketing strategies are crucial in this process. As my book resonates with readers who appreciate its depth and authenticity, I encourage aspiring authors to embrace their unique voices and understand that every rejection can lead to a different path to success. Self-publishing allows you to connect with readers who value genuine storytelling, and there’s a growing community eager for diverse narratives.