Thanks guys-- I just veer wildly between being relieved because yes, I was frustrated, mostly because more than anything, I hate limbo. Tell me you want it or don't, but tell me something, dammit.

But at the same time, I feel like such a fucking failure.

NOT a failure. I would bet lots and lots of good money that this has nothing to do with the manuscript at all.

Probably not, Amy, but I'll never really know that for sure. And that insecurity will live with me for a while. I mean, empirically, I know it's a good manuscript-- it's a good story and I gave it everything I've got.

But right now, the manuscript is the fall guy for everything else and I just... right now, I'm tired of kicking at the football. (To keep going with the Charlie Brown references.)

Oh, Barb. What a kick to the stomach.

NOT a failure, or anywhere close.

Wish you were still here so we could drown your temporary (and yes, it's temporary because wild success WILL be yours, dammit) sorrow and frustration in mojitos at Annabel's.

Oh Barb. {{{Barb}}} I am so sorry. I am thirding and/or fourthing that call for a stiff, hard cabana boy drink.

And a new dress.

Oh, shit, Barb, I'm sorry. How disheartening, after all that work and all those damn revisions--and, like Susan, I wanted to read it, damnit!

You mean, they don't tell you why they're not pleased? They just wave it off and mutter obscurely?

Can you now sell the thing to someone else?

Damn, Barb. That sucks hard.

Barb, I have no knowledge of the publishing biz, but that publisher sounds like a total fucktard. I hope you find a better house with honorable people.

Have y'all seen the current Psychology Today cover? [link] The cover story is about common things that are considered to be wrong or "forbidden," and (minor minor minor) kink is one of them.

Because there are so many corset fans here, I thought I'd share the reaction from the kink community, which is basically: the corset is on upside-down and backwards, and the laces are wrapped around her waist.

Yikes!!!