Hey Jack- I never would’ve put the image of the frog with magic. But something about it makes some sense. When did you start to become interested in fiction? 🤓
Hi, Thalia. Thanks for your comment and thanks for subscribing. I started writing fiction way back in college. I actually did my most recent post about that ... https://speclectic.substack.com/p/author-keep-at-it
In both cases I mentioned, the kinds of books editors were looking for had changed.
In the late 80s I submitted a fantasy novel set in Medieval Ireland to a leading argent in the field. In his rejection, he explained that the market had moved on, from "dreamy fantasy" to "hard-edged science fiction," and so he didn't think he could sell my novel.
So, I think the fiction market goes through trends as to what publishers are seeking. Although sometimes a book that becomes a big seller is one that goes against the trends and a publisher has taken a chance on.
And of course, these days with Indy Publishing and audio books and comics and movie tie-ins, things are even more chaotic,. I think the trends come and go faster and there are more waves wrinkles. What do you think?
I think you’re spot on in that it comes and goes—and agents and publishers really need to step aside and just let the writing speak for itself. Most good books DO go against the grain. And it’s actually their job to curate and pick the ones that stand out …
Hey Jack- I never would’ve put the image of the frog with magic. But something about it makes some sense. When did you start to become interested in fiction? 🤓
Hi, Thalia. Thanks for your comment and thanks for subscribing. I started writing fiction way back in college. I actually did my most recent post about that ... https://speclectic.substack.com/p/author-keep-at-it
Interesting journey, Jack. You mentioned a few times that “the market had moved on.” How do you mean by this, Jack?
In both cases I mentioned, the kinds of books editors were looking for had changed.
In the late 80s I submitted a fantasy novel set in Medieval Ireland to a leading argent in the field. In his rejection, he explained that the market had moved on, from "dreamy fantasy" to "hard-edged science fiction," and so he didn't think he could sell my novel.
So, I think the fiction market goes through trends as to what publishers are seeking. Although sometimes a book that becomes a big seller is one that goes against the trends and a publisher has taken a chance on.
And of course, these days with Indy Publishing and audio books and comics and movie tie-ins, things are even more chaotic,. I think the trends come and go faster and there are more waves wrinkles. What do you think?
I think you’re spot on in that it comes and goes—and agents and publishers really need to step aside and just let the writing speak for itself. Most good books DO go against the grain. And it’s actually their job to curate and pick the ones that stand out …