Q: 4/1/26
93k Queer Spec Fic
Personalized rejection: 4/12/26

Q: 04/01/26
R: 04/12/26

Nicest rejections I've gotten.

"Thank you for sending your query about XXXXXX. You're a talented writer and this is a strong premise. Unfortunately, I don't think I'm a match for this project, as I'm not certain about my ability to sell this manuscript to take it on at this time – but this is, of course, just me..."

90K M/M Contemporary Romance with Upmarket appeal

4/5/2026 YA contemporary
R 4/12/2026 Very nice rejection. New comment, I was a strong writer. Thank you.

1/21/2026: 60K YA Romance
1/26/2026: Full manuscript requested, along with cover letter and synopsis (one file)
4/11/2026: Polite rejection @75 days

Dear _____,

Thank you for sending me the manuscript for [TITLE]. I truly enjoyed so much of this project, and found much to admire in the narrative. I loved reading about the historical setting, and could see the attention to detail and research that must have went into evoking the time and place of the story. I also found [FMC] an immediately sympathetic protagonist who I wanted to root for.

Unfortunately, I regret to say I am unable to offer representation at this time. You are a wonderful writer, but ultimately the voice did not resonate with me the way I'd hoped. The narration read a bit younger than what I typically represent in the YA market, and I am not sure I would be the best person to champion this work as a result.

But, of course, this is just me. Publishing is very subjective, and I would not be surprised at all to see other agents may well feel differently, and the aspects I feel less sure of could be what makes your project sign in another agent's eyes! The market is very difficult these days, and you deserve an unequivocally enthusiastic agent as your advocate.

I wish you all success with your writing and in placing this manuscript, and that you & yours are safe and well.

Best regards,

Lee Melillo