Today, RITA and Golden Heart calls go out. I am almost as excited as I was last year when I was hoping to get that call for the GH. Except this year, there's no pressure for me! I'm in transition. Not eligible for the GH because I sold, and not RITA eligible because I didn't have a book in print in 2008.
But I'm so excited and hopeful for friends, both published and unpublished. I'll be following the news on the various loops and screaming for excitement when someone I know gets the call.
However, there are inevitably going to be disappointments. And, speaking solely about the Golden Heart, please remember there is always next year, another book, etc. Or, you may sell and be ineligible. You do NOT have to final in the GH to sell. And many finalists are still waiting for their first sale. So don't put all your hopes in this one contest, please.
I've said it before, but it bears repeating. I entered 4 times before I finaled. And the book I sold to Harlequin was not my finalist. So don't get depressed, and don't give up. You can indulge in a few tears, eat some chocolate, and kick the couch. But only for a day, okay? On Thursday, get back to work. 🙂
And if you DO final? Honey, get busy making sure that manuscript is revised and ready in case you get a request from a finals judge. And enjoy the pageantry of it all. You're gonna have a lot of fun, and you're going to bond with your fellow finalists in ways you won't believe. They'll be with you forever. 🙂
Good luck!
I don’t enter the GH with any expectations at all, but it sure would be nice.
*AHEM* It sure would be nice.
Well, that was my phone’s cue to ring, but apparently they didn’t get the hint.
There’s time yet, SP! I don’t think I’ve seen one person announce a Paranormal final yet. Fingers crossed!!!!
I entered Romantic Elements this time around. My stuff isn’t usually dark enough to compete with the paranormals.
Okay! There are 2 Pixie Chicks in that category thus far. Six in all categories so far. The day is young!
There’s 8 now, so I’m out. But yay for Danniele!
I am mega-excited for Danniele! But don’t you forget the main message of this post: move forward. Tomorrow is another day, as Scarlett would say. 🙂 Your time will come!!!
Its funny – everyone seems to think I’m a lot more upset than I am. I don’t enter thinking anything would happen.
After all, I’m the one that got a 1.8 the last time I entered, so my expectations are not high. Apparently, I’m a divisive writer. They don’t win contests.
Lynn,
Not to stray away from the subject, but I’ve tried to send an email about the contest and it won’t go through. Could you email me at priley65@gmail.com so I can email you back with my address. I’ll take a signed copy of your book when released.
Thanks,
Patricia
A little late, but things have been awfully busy the past 2 days. 🙂
Lynn, thanks so much for your congratulations. I know I’ll be asking you lots of questions in the months to come!!!
Danniele
Good for you for putting it all in perspective, SP! Being divisive isn’t bad because it usually indicates a strong voice. Doesn’t usually help in contests, though. 🙁
Patricia, thanks for letting me know!
Danniele, you don’t have to explain. 🙂 I know how busy you are, and how much fun you’re having getting to know your fellow finalists. And I’ll answer any questions I can!! 🙂