At the beginning of 2010 I was at the end of my proverbial publishing rope. I had been searching for an agent to help me get my Amoveo Series picked up by a new publisher. I needed to find a home for my shifters. Bottom line... I needed help. Big time. I needed an agent to help me navigate the intricate world of publishing. I had discovered (the hard way) that I couldn't do it on my own.
I had come so- close-so-many-times to getting signed, but ultimately nada. I'd climb that rope and just before I'd reach the top--BAM--they'd say, "No thanks." Time after time, I'd climb up only to slide back down the rope--but I never let go. That knot at the bottom was big enough to keep me hanging on. I'm certain it's a story that's familiar to many authors. I had heard from so many other writers that it was incredibly important to find the right agent-- not just any agent.
Then in February of 2010 I got THE CALL from Jeanne Dube of Forte Associates here in NYC. Jeanne and I hit it off and I signed with her in March of 2010. It has been an excellent partnership. Jeanne sold my series to Sourcebooks Casablanca in a five book deal and I couldn't be more thrilled.
2010 marked the END of hanging onto the END of my rope. However, as with all endings there are new beginnings as well. I am looking forward to 2011 and all it will bring. The editing process, book covers, more editing, blog tours, RWA 2011 (can't wait by the way) and finally the release of Book 1 in my shifter series. Most of all, I'm looking forward to the growing partnership with Sourcebooks.
So to any aspiring authors out there--or to anyone chasing a dream--just remember to tie a knot at the end of your rope and keep hanging on.
Sara,
ReplyDeleteCongrats on signing with your agent and finding a home at Sourcebooks!
Can't wait to see your first book on the shelves.
Tracey
Sara, Here's to people who don't know how to quit and agents and editors who can spot a great talent waiting to hit the shelves, but I want to know: On your worst, most despondent days, what did you tell yourself? WHY didn't you let go, switch to cozy mysteries, and otherwise let your dream die?
ReplyDeleteThanks Tracey :)
ReplyDeleteHi Grace-I've been a pretty tenacious person my entire life. Sometimes it's a good quality and someitmes (as my husband can attest) it's an annoying quality. However, when pursuing a dream it's the good kind. I just knew, deep in my gut, that this series could and would have a life. I think when anyone is truly passionate about something, it makes it easier to keep hanging on. Passion drives us and can sustain us, especially in the darkest moments.
ReplyDeleteSara,
ReplyDeleteYou held onto the KNOT and didn't give in to the NOT (today ... for us ... our genre ... etc.)!
Love the post! Inspiring for all of us.
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ReplyDeleteWhat's that quote about the difference between a published and a non-published author? The published author didn't give up. Something like that. Great advice!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you didn't give up, Sara! I can't wait to read your series.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to read your books, Sara! My internet's been out, argh, and so had to come into work early, double argh, to answer emails and blog, and a long night of work, but wanted to drop by and say congrats and that I recognize that rope! I had to do that in Army ROTC. LOL :) Have a super New Years!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Carolyn. I love that you felt inspired :)
ReplyDeleteGreat point Shana! If we quit then we never reach the top.
ReplyDeleteThanks Olivia. I am so excited to read the next book in your Sinners Series. LOVED the first one!
ReplyDeleteHey Terry. Thanks for stopping in when you're so very busy. I do indeed appreciate it. ROTC? Whoa. I can hang onto the proverbial rope...but the real one? Probably not so much.
ReplyDeleteSara, congrats on all the good news that came around for you in 2010 - looking forward to celebrating even more in 2011! Cheers!
ReplyDeleteThanks very much Catherine. I hope we can all share a drink and toast to a great year at RWA this summer. I'm thrilled that it's here in NYC this year.
ReplyDeleteI've read somewhere that the only sure way to fail at a writing career is to give up.Good for you for hanging on!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the fruits of your tenacity, and welcome to Casablanca.
Hi Mary Margret :) Thanks so much for the warm welcome! I am so excited to be a part of this group of writers. I still can't quite believe it's actually happened. Although, as I work on some track changes to "Beyond Control"...it's feeling a bit more real.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great call story! Congratulations, and I can't wait to read your book.
ReplyDeleteThanks Tamara :) When I got THE CALL from Jeanne about the sale to SB...I sceamed like a little girl. LOL. Good times.
ReplyDeleteGood for you for not giving up! Sounds like you have a very exciting few years ahead of you! Thanks for the inspiring post.
ReplyDeleteHi Amanda :) Thanks for coming by! Yes, the next few years are sure to be busy and full of excitement. Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteI know just what you mean, Sara. I have a few rope burns myself. :} Best wishes with your new series!
ReplyDelete