Q: 03/09/26 88000 YA Contemporary Romance

No response as of 3/29/26

QM: 3/28/26
87K Fantasy

I submitted my query letter around the beginning of February and was wondering when I'd get a response. I have since then reworked my query letter and synopsis. To better match standards, though I hesitate to resubmit to people and make a nuisance of myself. I really want my book to grace people's bookshelves. As I am working on the second book of the series I am anxious to hear feedback for the first book.

108k atomic dark fantasy. Still waiting at 100 days (3/14/2026)

form rejection at 108 days. Gee, thanks.

97k YA Sapphic Fantasy Retelling

Queried: December 5, 2025

Form pass: March 23, 2026 (108 days)


Dear [name],

Thank you so much for your query. I appreciate the opportunity to consider your work, but unfortunately, after careful consideration, I have decided to bow out. I am truly sorry not to be able to offer you representation, and I wish you the very best of publishing luck as you move forward. I know how hard it is not only to complete a novel but to share it with an outsider, so I genuinely appreciate you trusting me with this submission.

Unfortunately, publishing is a business that necessarily involves a lot of rejection, at every stage. One of the most difficult things for us as agents is to have to say no. Agents pass on projects for many reasons—because they already have something similar on their list; market concerns; because they know of similar published or forthcoming titles; because it's not a fit for their list; because although something may be strong, well-written and even publishable, they didn't fall in love with it. A rejection doesn't mean your project won't sell!

Please do try to keep this one "no" in perspective. This is a highly subjective business, and another agent may adore your work. I wish you success in finding your "Yes."

[Name], thank you for thinking of me and giving me this opportunity to consider your work.

Best,
Paige

Founder + Agent
Starling Literary + Media