Representation...

It’s been a long road on this writing journey, and I can finally say—I have an agent!

It all started last October when I began to query my project. I had a feeling about this book. I had taken the novel out, dusted it off, and polished it up. Right away, I got a request for a partial. Within a few weeks, I got a note from the agent suggesting a few revisions to the beginning. She said that once the revisions were completed, she would like to see the full manuscript. I made the requested changes and sent the full manuscript off the week before Thanksgiving.

I didn’t hear a peep until Friday, January 6th, when I received an email from the agent advising me that the book was up for a final read. Final read?

This was it. It was in her hands.

Late Saturday (the next day) afternoon, just as I was getting ready to leave for work—I got the call.

Now, I’ve heard about these calls, and I’ve read plenty of blog posts on getting the call. I believe every aspiring author has dreamed of and rehearsed that call over and over. I had. I’ve got to say, it’s everything and nothing like I thought it would be!

I was downing a cup of coffee when the phone rang. Eric and I looked at each other. I walked over to the phone. When I saw SEYMOUR on the caller ID, I smiled. I may have squealed.

Mary Sue Seymour was calling me!

I have to admit, I didn’t hear much after—“I’m printing up a contract now.”

Somehow, I managed to ask her—“What did you think of the book?”

Now I knew to listen here, and she didn’t disappoint. She liked it a lot! She sounded very excited about it. She told me personally that “I like your story telling/characterizations a whole lot! You are a very gifted author.” Mary Sue was fun, a real joyful spirit, and genuinely thrilled for me as she shared in my happiness…I heard it in her voice.

After the call, Eric had to drive me to work. He knew I wouldn’t be able to drive safely. I called my kids.

A whole new path is in front of me—I proudly signed a contract with the Seymour Agency last Wednesday. I’ve crossed a huge milestone on my writing journey. I know the road ahead will not always be easy, but I’m ready, and I have an awesome agent by my side.

With the contract, Mary Sue sent me a card with my favorite Proverb on it:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths. ~ Proverbs 3:5-6

Between you, me and the gatepost,

Loree

I also won another blog award - THE GREAT COMMENTS AWARD. This one is from the lovely and talented, Carol Riggs. Visit her blog - Artzicarol Ramblings - she always has something great going on over there.