Marian Stevens Finals in the Dixie First Chapter Contest
Marian Stevens does it again! Her manuscript Texas Rebel finaled in the Contemporary category of the Dixie First Chapter contest. [5/27]
Writer Beware: Simon & Schuster Contract Changes
This update was sent out by RWA President, Jill Limber:
Simon & Schuster is reportedly using a new clause in its publishing contract that effectively allows Simon & Schuster to control a book for the entire length of its copyright instead of reverting rights to authors when the book goes out of print. This change is not to the benefit of authors.
With the new contract language, “The Work shall not be deemed out of print as long as it is available in any U.S. trade edition, including electronic editions,” Simon & Schuster will be able to prevent authors from publishing out-of-print books with another house, even though Simon & Schuster is no longer marketing the books.
This decision by Simon & Schuster constitutes a significant change in rights and is seen by Romance Writers of America as an onerous attempt to take advantage of authors. We urge you to consider your options carefully.
My Five Most Important Writing Influences
by Christine Keach, writing as Lexi Connor
1. Steven J. Cannell - I truly believe without this man’s talents of bringing colorful characters to the television screen as I was growing up, I never would have pursued a writing career. In sixth grade, I became addicted to The A-Team. Yes, you read that right. The A-Team. The first completed 100+-page story I ever wrote was based on the characters of that show. The antics of the characters inspired my love of storytelling, suspense and the good guys always winning. As I grew up, other shows of Cannell’s came and went. I got hooked on them all.
2. Diana Gabaldon - I remember devouring Outlander and loving everything about Jamie and Claire Fraser. My heart ached to be a part of that world Gabaldon had created. After all, I’d already invested so much emotion in every step of Claire and Jamie’s journey. After finishing that book I knew I wanted to pursue publishing no matter how much heartache I had to endure. I challenged myself to make my readers care as much for my characters as I cared for Jamie and Claire.
3. Suzanne Brockmann - Suzanne Brockmann is one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. She has tons of fans, but whenever I’ve been fortunate enough to meet her, I’ve always felt like what I had to say and my support of her career were important to her. I’ve heard and seen people who forget their manners once they meet with success. Brockmann is a wonderful example of a successful author who appreciates the people around her and never seems to take her success for granted. I hope to be like her when I grow up.
4. Jill Shalvis - I love the way Shalvis allows the reader into the heads of her main characters. When reading one of her books, I always feel transported into that world, like I’m the best friend sitting at the table, experiencing the story alongside the main character. Writing in deep point of view has been a strength of mine and at times, a weakness. When I need some coaching on how to do it right, I pick up a Shalvis book.
5. Nancy Wales - This is not a famous author. This is my best friend. When I started writing, Nancy was the one who always told me I could one day be a published author. For years, she has cheered for me, encouraged me and prodded me onward when I’ve lost my way. She sent me flowers for my first ever contest win. Through the years, she’s sent me tons of books on craft and countless other inspirational presents tied to the story I was working on at the time. Before I had my own computer, she typed all my manuscripts. She’s made business cards for me and talked up my writing with anyone who’d listen. When bad news threatens to get me down, she refuses to let me even think about giving up. With good news, she’s the first person I want to call.
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When she’s not preparing lessons for her middle school Language Arts or ESL students, Christine Keach (writing as Lexi Connor) argues with … er, listens attentively to the characters of her short contemporary manuscripts. Follow her roller coaster ride toward publication at http://lexiconnor.blogspot.com.
Christine Keach Takes First in the “Merritt”
Christine Keach’s manuscript, FRACTURED PARADISE, took first place in the San Antonio Merritt contest in the Series Contemporary category. Wow - we’re impressed! [5/20]
Deb Yates takes FIRST in “Heart of the Rockies”
Deb Yates took FIRST place in the historical category of the “Heart of the Rockies” contest with her manuscript Heaven Sent. BRAVO! [5/15]
Jane Myers Perrine Makes a Double Sale
Double congratulations to Jane Myers Perrine! Steeple Hill bought both of her proposals — one is a contemporary and the other is a historical. GO JANE! [5/14]
Jan Hudson’s Newest is an RT Top Pick
Jan Hudson’s newest release, The Texas Ranger, from Harlequin American, is a Romantic Times Top Pick with 4 1/2 stars! [5/20]
Julia London’s newest featured in “My Borders” eNewsletter
Julia London’s newest release, The Perils of Pursuing a Prince, was featured in the May issue of the “My Borders” eNewsletter! It featured a special link…“Greer Fairchild [of Perils] Chats with Audrey LaRue from the upcoming American Diva“ [5/11]
ARWA’s Newest Pro: Chris Riggan
Congratulations to Chris Riggan - our newest PRO member!! [5/10]
Two “Four Seasons” Finalists
ARWA has two finalists in the “Four Seasons” contest:
Heather Foeh finaled in the Short/Long Contemporary category with her manuscript Three and a Half Weeks. It now goes to Margo Lipschultz (HQN) and Michelle Grajkowski (3 Seas
Literary Agency) for judging.
Deb Yates finaled in the Historical Category with her manuscript Heaven Sent. It will now be judged by Tessa Woodward (Avon) and agent Elaine English of Graybill& English LLC. [5/9]