Can't Help But Improve

In a recent query letter, I blathered on about how confident I was I'd be published "some day--or year (maybe decade)..." Well, ladies and gentlemen, we've moved into decade territory. After digging up my first rejection letter ever, I was a little stunned to learn it was dated exactly March 30, 1998. But I can't say there hasn't been any progress. My responses have developed from,

"This is not a very good manuscript. The characters are boring and the plot
unrealistic." (Silhouette)

to

"The writing in the first three chapters is pretty solid with a nice balance
between narrative and dialogue. However..."(Harlequin).

I'm going to keep chugging out stories, though, no matter who reads or buys them. It's kind of an obsession of mine. But I have to admit, I'd really love to sell a few. Until then, I'm developing and perfecting my technique… and learning not to send status inquires to publishers.

Golden Heart Results

The results are in! Let's congratulate the finalists of RWA's 2008 Golden Heart Contest. And another round of applause for the winners of Harlequin's Big Finish 2 Contest. These authors deserve a mighty praise for all their hard work and effort.

Golden Heart Finalist Day!!

Is it silly to take a day off work and sit at home, waiting for a call that probably won't come? That's what I thought. So, I'll just go do my day job and try to pretend there aren't butterflies whirling around in my stomach because today is the day Golden Heart finalist calls go out. I wish good luck to everyone that entered.

As for me, I've got my story Delinquent Daddy in the chop shop, cutting and adding and fixing the manuscript. I've also entered the 2008 TARA Contest. I heard back from Harlequin about the manuscript I submitted to them. Since that one wasn't quite right for their line, I think I'll see what they think of another one.

Impatient

Spring approaches, rain falls, and the days pass on. And I'm still sitting here--okay, pacing here--waiting for some kind of response. It's good that publishers take their time on manuscripts though. I'd hate for them to look at my work and say, "Linda who? Never heard of her. Next!" So, waiting is good. It makes you heartier... I hope.

Golden Heart Countdown

Only twelve days until finalists and winners are announced for the Golden Heart and Big Finish 2 contests. I'm still waiting to hear from both Harlequin and the Wild Rose Press for their take on the sample chapters I sent them. I wish I could give more of a report. I was so hopeful when I went to the mailbox yesterday, just knowing I'd get a response from some publisher. Instead, I got jury duty. But I wanted to wish you a happy St. Patrick's Day anyway. Don't forget to wear green.