The following is an excerpt from a rejection letter I got a couple years ago on the first couple chapters of a new opus, and what follows that is … well, you’ll have to read it to believe it:

“While I enjoyed your story, I’m afraid I just didn’t think it was quite different enough … It seems like a great set up for a real suspense, but never seemed to carry through for me. I’m sorry I didn’t like this better…”

NOTE FROM TANYA: The book wasn’t suspense.

Excerpt from comments written by a contest judge on the same:

“I love, love, LOVE it! My criticisms will be few and nit-picky because the story so far blew me away. You’ve got your character’s GMC down pat! I can really identify with both of them. Why this story isn’t published yet is beyond me!”

Excerpt from comments written by a contest judge on the same:

“Not sure of your [protagonist’s] goals. Try for something that compels the reader to go on!”

Excerpt from comments written by the contest final round judge (editor) on the same:

“I loved the humor in this one …. a mixture of steam and laughs. This author is advised to send the full to my attention.”

Lesson learned? Subjectivity isn’t just a word.

In this business, it’s an entity.

:lmao: