Friday, May 9, 2008

Hull-lo! Anybody home?

Every writer plays out THE CALL in her mind. The scenario might differ in each day dream, but chances are there's one thing you never imagine...not being able to share the news. Regina Scott certainly never expected that to happen.

Selling La Petite Four wasn't my first book sale, though it was the first sale for a major change in my writing career. My agent and writing friends were certain that my voice and themes fit better in YA than in the adult Regency-set romances I'd been writing. While I loved the YA books I'd been reading, I didn't know if a publisher would find my work half so enchanting. So, when my agent called to say that no less than Penguin Razorbill had made an offer, I was thrilled!

The first time I sold a novel, I was so giddy I tried calling everyone I knew. I called my husband at work; he was in a meeting and couldn't be disturbed. I called three of my closest friends; none answered. I called my parents; they were out. Finally I called my grandmother, who had always been a wonderful supporter, and blathered like an idiot for at least ten minutes. When I stopped to take a breath, she said, "Is this a good thing?" I said, "Yes, Grandma, this is a very good thing." "Then I'm happy for you," she replied with a smile in her voice.

When I sold La Petite Four, I also called everyone I loved to tell them the good news. But I couldn't call my grandmother this time. She passed away a few years ago. But I think she's still happy for me, and I know she's smiling.

We know Grandma Ruby is thrilled and proudly looking on. (Isn't she adorable?)

Hopefully you've found our week of first sales stories inspiring, no matter what your dream is. We think Astrid Alauda said it best, "Dreams are free, so free your dreams."

3 comments:

PJ Hoover said...

Great story! I love when you have to tell people "Yes, this is a good thing!"

TJ Brown said...

LOL I went through something similar with my grandma about the first article I had published. She kept wanting to know if it were a real magazine. LOL
Teri

Barrie said...

That's a great, heartwarming story, Regina.