As a writer of mainly short stories, I am here to reveal all about publishers and how they treat us freelance writers. Intrigued? Then read on...

I submitted a short story entitled 'The Letter.' to; 'That's Life!' in October 2002. I had spent ages researching the publication and I had re-written my story to fit in to the magazine's criteria. Before hand, I had contacted 'That's Life!' to obtain details of who the fiction editor was, and I had spoken to a really pleasant lady, who left me feeling positive about my story.

I waited the usual six weeks - no reply. I left it another six weeks - still nothing. By this time, I had moved on to new projects and had forgotten all about my wonderful story that I was so proud of! Then, about two weeks ago, I received my rejection letter - a whole seven months after I sent it.

So, I made a mental note of the time span and I don't think I'll be going back there in a hurry! My next rejection came from 'Woman' magazine. Again, I had researched the magazine and I had contacted them to find out whom to address my manuscript to. They were a little abrupt on the phone, but maybe the receptionist was having a bad day! Who knows?

The story was entitled 'An Executive Birthday.' and I thought it was exactly what they were looking for:

'A story that would appeal to women with the main character being a woman. Not necessarily a love story.'

I must say that they were quick in a reply - it took about four weeks - but they did it in a very disheartening way. Where as 'That's Life!' had sent a letter wishing me the best in the future and saying that just because they did not like that piece, it doesn't mean other pieces are ruled out. Women sent a compliment slip that said the following:

'The Editor thanks you for sending the enclosed contribution but regrets that it is unsuitable for publication.'

It’s one thing if they don’t want to publish your work, but it’s another thing saying it is ‘unsuitable for publication.’ I know they probably meant that it would not suit their magazine, but how does it read to you? The first thing I thought was, ‘Oh no. None of my work will ever be suitable.’

So in conclusion to that magazine, I think that ‘Woman’ need to try a little personal touch, so that the rejection doesn’t seem as cruel.

I have also recently submitted a story to ‘Take a Break’s Fiction Feast!’ And for friendliness, this is my most favourite magazine, out of any I have ever contacted. When I called them, they lady was very helpful and she took all my details and sent me out a pack for writers – which I received the very next day.



This included:

· Guidelines on what they are looking for.
· Who to address your manuscript to.
· The time it takes to get a reply (usually 6-8 weeks).
· Contact details DIRECT to the Fiction Editor.
· Information about payment.
· Guidelines of how many words to write.
· Plot’s to avoid.
· How to present your manuscript.

They also sent me their recent copy of ‘Fiction Feast’ to aid my research. I sent my manuscript off to them about four weeks ago, so I am still waiting.

So, there you have it. A few publications that I have sent manuscripts to and how they each ‘dealt’ with my rejection. It’s not a pleasant experience being rejected and more often than not, it can be disheartening too. However, if you believe in what you are doing and writing is your passion, you must persevere. You will get knock backs, but when you do finally get your work in print, it cancels them all out and you’ll feel like you’re ‘on top of the world!’

All I can say is; practice your writing in whatever you are doing. A good way to get your point across is by writing letters to magazines and newspapers. It helps develop your individual technique and you never know, you might get something for your efforts!