After I wrote and sold my first book, I became a publishing “orphan”. My publishing house closed, leaving me with a half completed sequel. The industry began downsizing and my critique group, which between them had 30 books on the shelves, suddenly had only 6. As the new beginner, my future didn’t look promising. I decided to take on a full time job to help pay the mortgage.
After almost 10 years of putting my writing on the back burner, I decided it was time to quit my job and write full time once again. I completed a manuscript that I considered my best work and sent it out. I had lots of nibbles but no strong bites so I sent the manuscript to a book doctor. When she finished critiquing the work, I felt as if I was finished writing. I was so dispirited and frustrated, I considered going back to work and permanently shelving my writing career.
In fact, I even said out loud “I’m done, Lord. Point me in another direction because I’m finished. Tell me what you have in line for me next.” On the table beside me sat my Bible. I flipped it open and a scripture from Hebrews jumped out at me. “Perseverance is thy training.”
I ranted. I raved. I argued for days. No way could I endure more punishment from the publishing industry. At last, I realized I needed to be obedient. “All right, Lord. You win.” But if writing was what He wanted me to do than I would write for Him. I pulled out my very first manuscript, revised it as an Inspirational romance and sent it out. The story sold within 6 months.
Thank you for being here today, Tanya and for reminding us that we should always persevere.
Thank you, Maria. It's great to be here and to discover we're almost neighbors! My home is in So Cal!
ReplyDeleteGlad you didn't give up, Tanya! Was your first Inspirational sale to the Pelican group?
ReplyDeleteYes, my first Inspirational sale was to Pelican. My very first sale was a time travel to Starlog, now defunct.
DeleteTanya, did the book doctor help at all or just hinder?
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure, Anne. That manuscript has never seen the light of day again and judging from the critique, that's a good thing for my career. Lol. She did challenge me to right the book of my heart and that was a good thing!
DeleteI'm so glad the GREAT book doctor didn't allow you to quit! Other so-called "book doctors" too often do more harm than good. I've been there too, with a 3-page critique so harsh I cried for days on end. I was ready to trash my computer and forget I ever wanted to write. But God didn't allow that to happen either...He is amazing!!! :)
ReplyDeleteDelia, you are so right, He is amazing!
DeleteGod is good, Tanya, and I'm so glad He pointed you in the direction of inspirationals. I love your stories!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Donna, you are SUCH a blessing to me!
DeleteThanks for sharing your publication story. I love reading author's journeys. Thankfully you listened to the Lord and didn't give up.
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