My unexpected blessing of a rejection letter in 2007.
When Lothian Books turned down my manuscript, Operation Tango Two-Two, I was probably more excited and relieved than when they accepted the first three manuscripts offered to them in 2001, 2002 & 2003.
You see, a lot had changed between the time of posting the 4th m/s to them, and the rejection letter. I immediately started securing unconditional copyright for all my work. Once copyright had come back to me for the first three books, and with their rejection letter of book 4 in my hot little hand, I was free to seriously look at other options.
1. I was now free to negotiate with the film producer who had come calling and was patiently waiting till I had full unconditional copyright for all my work - Negotiations are still in progress with the film producer.
2. I could seriously look at creating my own publishing company and getting the first three books back in print with new covers and adding book 4, to the series - Books 1, 2, 3, have fabulous new covers. Books 4 & 5 have been added, with book 6 due out next year.
3. I became a public person. This was not something I particularly enjoyed, but as the years have passed, I am eager to talk about writing with anyone who will listen - I have conducted 79 writing workshops/school visits in the last two years and my picture has been in the paper about a dozen times.
Do I have any regrets about that 2007 rejection letter? No… not one :)
DJ
Film producer?? When your books are made into films, I shall be the first person in line to see them or buy the DVDs. I’ve read all five books and my only regret is that they aren’t already movies.
Sorry Lyn, we might have to negotiate the first in line position. :-)
Go D.J. and thank you. Ready to roll with my next two posts.
now, now, you two… play nicely :) There’ll be front row seats for you both. Thank you for the encouragement you’ve been over the years. xx
One day, Lyn… one day. I’m sure of it :)
Wow, you have been busy!
Yes I have – hope things are going well with your plans.
Didn’t know I had hitched my wagon to such a star:>) Way to go!
Thank you, we are all stars in our own way :)
Hi, this is a revealing glimpse at publishing and I love it! I myself have to become more public, and I will eventually! I’m thrilled you’re finding success as it gives all writers a clouds worth of hope! If the one step can be taken in the right direction, the myriad of wrong ones are no matter! Thank you for the follow! I hope you become a huge success! Nice to meet you!
Thank you. We all need to hear encouraging stories to give us hope. Even me. It’s such a thrill to hear good news from others. Good luck with your venture.
Hi, thanks for signing up for my post. All the best getting your soek published. cheers