To query or not to query

As a writer, it can be incredibly disheartening when you've spent months, or even years, pouring your heart and soul into a manuscript, only to receive

rejection after rejection from literary agents and publishers. It's easy to feel defeated, like all your hard work was for nothing. But sometimes, it's important to take a step back and ask yourself: is this really the best path for me and my writing?

For me, the answer was no. After querying my manuscript for several months and receiving nothing but rejections, I realized that I needed to take a different approach. I knew that my story was good, that it had potential, but I also knew that the traditional publishing industry is incredibly competitive, and that even the best manuscripts can get lost in the shuffle.

So I made the decision to stop querying my manuscript and pursue self-publishing instead. It wasn't an easy decision to make, but I knew that it was the right one for me. I wanted to take control of my writing career, to be able to publish on my own terms and reach readers directly.

And you know what? It's been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Sure, self-publishing comes with its own set of challenges, but it's also incredibly rewarding. I've been able to connect with readers all over the world, to receive feedback and encouragement directly from them. I've been able to experiment with pricing, marketing, and promotion strategies, to see what works best for me and my book.

But perhaps most importantly, I've been able to prove to myself that I am capable of bringing my writing to the world, regardless of what the gatekeepers of the traditional publishing industry may say. I've learned that rejection doesn't define me or my work, that there is always another way forward if I'm willing to look for it.

So if you're feeling disheartened by the querying process, know that you're not alone. It's okay to take a step back and reassess your options. Maybe self-publishing isn't for you, but there are other paths to explore: small presses, hybrid publishing, crowdfunding, and more. Whatever you choose, remember that your writing is valuable, and that there are readers out there who want to connect with it. Don't give up. Keep writing, keep exploring, and keep believing in yourself.