Relvan returns from Black Gate
Filed under Writing Journal on November 25, 2009
Tagged: Black Gate, Relvan's Rescue, submissions
I heard back from Black Gate today on “Relvan’s Rescue”. Return time was about 6 months. John O’Neill, Publisher and Editor of Black Gate, was nice enough to send a personalized email, which included an apology for the delay (their stated return time is 3-5 months). Fellow author Marcy Rockwell often comments about the nice rejections she gets, and I finally understand what she means. I think this was the first rejection that made me feel good. Here’s what Mr. O’Neill said:
Almost. I was very impressed with “Relvan’s Rescue” — it’s well written and has a terrific setting, and some fine characters. But it takes just a little bit longer to get underway than a small handful
of other pieces I’m currently considering. I’m afraid I’ll have to return it, with regrets.I hope you’ll try us again when we next open to submissions.
I readily admit that the story doesn’t jump right into the action, and I’ll take another look, but I’m not sure I’ll make any changes before I submit it to another market. Now, I just need to remember who was next on my list.
November 25th, 2009 at 2:17 pm
That is a good rejection, if you have to have one
On to other markets. Good luck!
November 25th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
I agree. If only all rejections could be like that! They’re basically telling you what it takes to succeed with them, telling you exactly how to fix your story for their market. Nice. That’s something to really appreciate. And then they’re even hopeful you’ll try them again. I think that shows that a little polish and you could have a good relationship with them in the future. Congratulations.
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December 5th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
That’s pretty cool they told you why, at least. Seems like you got pretty darn close there. Hope you have better luck with the next one, man!
I was considering Black Gate, but seems they’re closed to submissions at present. Bummer.
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