I sent my first 50 pages to an agent at Writers House about a month-and-a-half ago. She didn't offer me representation, but I have to admit that this kind of rejection does take the sting out of it:
Dear Ms. [my name]:
Thank you for sending me the first 50 pages of [your story]. I'm sorry to say that our office will not be offering representation at this time.
I enjoyed reading these pages and I think that [your character] is an intriguing and well-developed protagonist. However, because I read so many fine manuscripts, I eventually take on only authors whose work shows not only a superior quality, but to which I can also relate on a strong and personal basis.
While I admire your talent, I'm afraid I didn't respond with the rare enthusiasm I believe is necessary to give you the kind of service your work deserves.
Thank you again for letting me review your work, and best of luck in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
[signature]
*g* Am I crazy to actually be smiling over this? And for the curious, yes, I sent the sender a nice thank-you note.
~JM.
Dear Ms. [my name]:
Thank you for sending me the first 50 pages of [your story]. I'm sorry to say that our office will not be offering representation at this time.
I enjoyed reading these pages and I think that [your character] is an intriguing and well-developed protagonist. However, because I read so many fine manuscripts, I eventually take on only authors whose work shows not only a superior quality, but to which I can also relate on a strong and personal basis.
While I admire your talent, I'm afraid I didn't respond with the rare enthusiasm I believe is necessary to give you the kind of service your work deserves.
Thank you again for letting me review your work, and best of luck in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
[signature]
*g* Am I crazy to actually be smiling over this? And for the curious, yes, I sent the sender a nice thank-you note.
~JM.