I want to thank everyone for their continuing patience. It seems that we have hit a snag in the process.
Sadly I am forced to consider an alternative to the self-publishing route I had originally planned to use. I received an unexpected update from my publishing company. They have assigned me to a new representative, without my knowledge, and this individual seems to belong more on a used car sales floor than as an appropriate contact for me. Without getting into to much detail, this person actually told me I have to make "financial sacrifices for my investment". I thought that was a little over the line and frankly none of his business. As a self-publisher I have the right to choose how much money I am contributing to this project, and to be frank, it was not going to be "cheap" in the first place. So for him to minimalise my needs was rude and out of line. I cannot sink my family financially for my own desires.
On the positive front, I have queried two literary agents. After deeper investigation (aka hours of reading chat boards, asking questions, and learning this confusing market) I think this route may ultimately yield a more positive result. This will give me the opportunity to be hired by a publishing company, which will expose me further and end up being a better investment. I hope to hear from them soon, but this process can take some time. It has been likened to applying for college. Expect rejection and keep going until you get acceptance.
So in the mean time, I will be receive my grammar corrections, perfect the document, and prepare it for formal review by these agents, if they request a sample. I am also roughing out my second novel. If I get picked up by a publisher, I'd like to show ongoing work. Publishers like to invest in series and ongoing series.
I apologize for this delay, but I have to do what is right for my career and my family. I know all of you can understand. Please keep positive thoughts flowing my way. I do not know how long this process will take, but hopefully I won't be delayed much longer!
Happy reading!
UPDATE: I got confirmation from one literary agent today. She stated she received my e-mail and is looking forward to reading it. She also advised me it can take 4-6 weeks to get a response. I am glad she took the time to e-mail me a confirmation. I am optimistically grounded and looking forward to hearing her decision. I am also awaiting two other agent's responses.
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