The Glass is Half-Full
Another acquaintance of mine, Jenna, sold her first book this week to Harlequin Modern Extra. This marks, I believe, the fourth new author sale of people I know. It’s exciting and inspiring. I remind myself that when I finish these revisions :mallet:, I could be next if I do them right. It’s a terrific motivator.
When I first started writing, I wasn’t aware of the odds. I didn’t realize that most publishers have a certain number of book slots available each month for romance (4-6). That accounts for 48 to 72 books a year. Not bad, right? But now think about how many of those slots are already filled by published authors. And we all know there are a LOT of published authors. It leaves, perhaps, 2-3 books a year for new authors if we’re lucky. There are probably 1000 people competing for those slots. Impossible odds.
Or are they?
Publishers tell us that 90% of those submissions come from people who don’t know a lot about writing, who are trying to get rich quick, or who are certifiably insane (books about cohabiting goats from ancient Babylon, anyone??). The remaining hundred folks are good writers, but the book may lack that special spark. Or the book is beautifully written but the editors don’t particularly care about the characters. I’m guilty of writing about four of those kinds of books. 
But I’m convinced this year will be different. I’ve gotten closer than I’ve ever come before. I have a book that I believe in, an editor who’s interested, and it’s up to me to make it happen. There are so many factors out of my control, but the writing is something I can control. If this book doesn’t get published, it won’t be for lack of trying. 
In other news, who here is watching LOST with me? I love that show. 
I am in awe of the writers and I want to be them when I grow up. I’m very curious about Jack’s tattoo (is that space invaders on it?) and the true identify of Desmond. Is he Jack’s secret brother? Hmmm…can’t wait to find out.
Michelle posted in Writing @ 6:43 am | Viewed 1274 times
Leslie Says:
Congrats to your friend. I’m sure your turn is right around the corner. I firmly believe in perserverance!! As for LOST, I’m sorry I don’t watch it. I knew I would love it when it premiered last year and that I’d just have to watch it each week - which would take away from my precious writing time. I’ve limited myself to two shows per week, unfortunately LOST isn’t one of them. Sounds like AWESOME writing though!
Melissa Says:
I like your attitude, Michelle! It’s a very realistic one - you know the odds, yet you are prepared to handle them. And you WILL make it!!!
Mary Says:
You’ll be published. YOu have the drive and you’re a wonderful writer.
Tori Says:
I love LOST!!!!!!!!!!
It’s an amazing show. Tonight’s my favorite new show, THRESHOLD. Woohoo!!!
Peggy Says:
You’ll get there Michelle, either with this one or the next. You now know you have a writing style they like.
I am LOST’s newest fan…thanks to Sawyer!
Danica Says:
Michelle, you can do it! I hope you’re next!
Melissa Mc Says:
LOST was awesome. Can’t wait until next week.
Don’t give up Michelle! It took me years and years to sell. You can do it. Perseverance is the key. Read Jenny Crusie’s article in the latest RWR. I think it will help. Good luck.
Gina Says:
I watch LOST! Actually, I watch it, review it and run a forum on it. I love the show, and I am so glad to see it back.
kacey Says:
This is your year Michelle! You go girl!! (but I never could get into Lost. I tried. But failed…)
Leanna Ellis Says:
I do believe in selling! I do! I do! My kids just watched Peter Pan the other night where Peter Pan gets everyone to yell, “I do believe in fairies! I do! I do!” The same applies to being a published author. You WILL sell. Never give up.