I have heard people talk about the thrill of "the call". A writer can only imagine that moment, until it happens.
This past week I received "the email" that was offering me a contract on my first manuscript. I was at my day job and could hardly stay seated when all I wanted to do was jump up and tell everyone that would listen -- and even those that wouldn't. A feeling of satisfaction of something well done -- must be well done if a publisher wants it, right? A feeling of pride that I had produced this, a feeling of overwhelming amazement that this was happening to me.
As I punched out the number to my husband's cell phone, the first to tell, I couldn't want for him to pick up. The words "they offered me a contract" came out and he immediately knew what I was talking about. My husband has been my biggest supporter and fan through the waiting process and writing process. Who else would be the perfect one to share the news with first?
Two days later, I'm still flying from the realization that I'm going to be a published author. Sharing the news with other authors is rewarding as they know the hardness and reality of rejections and unsureness as we send out our babies to agents or publishers. Tell me about your "call/email".
18 comments:
Hey Emma,
well let me be the first of your VFTH readers to congratulate you! I'm just thrilled for you! May you revel in all the excitement, that first sale feeling is special!
As for my own 'call', I'm anticipating it rather than remembering it ;-) Hasn't happened yet, but I will keep on keeping on.
Whether it's the 'Call' or the 'Email', well done to you and all writers who seal the deal on their first manuscript.
By the way, I too call my manuscripts my babies, so cute! Hope you go all the way Emma!
Woot!!! Awesome news, Emma. It's a wonderful feeling whether it's a phone call, or it's an email. Congratulations. Shout it to the world and don't for even one second worry that others may think you're boasting. You have a lot to boast about.
I was one of the lucky few to sell my book on the first try, and when I received that call, my entire body went numb--I couldn't get a complete sentence out, and scared the crap out of my husband because I was slapping my hand against my chest. The poor guy thought I was having a heart attack. LOL
I'd love to hear more about your book.
In the meantime, keep that glow for as long as you can.
Congratulations Emma! Enjoy and savor every moment!
Woohoo, that's terrific, Emma! Congratulations!!! And it's only the beginning!
Well, for me, it was a call from Deb Werksman at Sourcebooks, and I thought she was a telemarketer. I'd had so many, the first thing I said was, "Are you selling something?"
LOL...we promptly started over and she bought Heart of the Wolf, and now I'm working on book 9 of the so far 10 contracted books in the series! :)
Emma, How marvelous! Congrats! I can certainly relate to your shock, elation and validation as a writer. In the past 2 weeks I've gotten two contract offers on my first novel. My agent usually texts me. "You there?" I respond that I am. She texts, "May I call you?" This is usually late at night. Then once we've talked, I am up the rest of the night chanting, "OMG!"
Having a dream come true is an indescribable moment. Enjoy every nuance of it...and write more!
Tghat is absolutely fantastic! Enjoy the moment and celebrate. There is nothing like that feeling!
Emma, mega congratulations!!! Nothing like 'The Email' to put a bounce in your step. Every hour spent typing, plotting, writing. Every head to desk moment has been worth it to get to 'this moment'. Enjoy!!!
Emma,
I'm so thrilled for you! Please tell us more about your book. Sincere congratulations.
Fantastic news!! How nice you have such a supporter in your hubby to share the excitement. I haven't had that experience yet, but look forward to it someday. Enjoy!!!
Congratulations Emma. I am so happy for you.
Hi Emma,
FIrst, CONGRATULATIONS! That is fabulous.
Yes, I got "the email" too, and I was delighted. I let out a scream and my husband ran to see what was wrong!
It never gets old when they want your material. I hope you have many future sales as well.
Cheers,
Janet Miller/Cricket Starr
Thanks for all the congratulations. I am still reeling with excitement. I'm so thrilled to be part of next stage of being published.
For those still waiting, continue to persevere!!!
Congratulations, Emma. I hope you will keep us updated as the release date nears. :)
Emma,
That's great! Do you know the name of your book and when we should look for it?
Morgan
Congrats, Emma! May it be the first of many! Can't wait to hear more about it. :)
HUGE Congratulations on your email! May it be the first of many!
I am still waiting for mine....
Congratulations, Emma. A cyber toast to wish you the best. :)
WOOT! Congratulations, Emma! Details, we need details - which publisher, what kind of Manuscript, etc., etc., etc.,
Arwen & I got "the email," too, and I saw it before she did. I called her cell phone to tell her - she didn't answer, but emailed me that she was at work. I told her to go to the bathroom and call me because we'd just received an offer to contract Changing Times - LOL. Needless to say, she took a quick break and we "squealed" to each other! LOL :)
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