To everyone who has wished me well on my writing journey, I have this to say:
I did it.
I sold it.
CrossRiver Media offered me a contract, which I gladly, gratefully accepted.
Lottie’s Gift, by Jane M. Tucker, coming soon to a bookshelf near you.
I’m giddy.
The email came on Tuesday at lunch time. After months of obsessively checking my phone for this very message, it took me by surprise. Dear Jane, Thank you for submitting the full manuscript….
The first line had me worried. I am happy to inform you didn’t appear until Line Two. I read that far and had to set the phone down.
Let’s review:
A forty-something mom decides to take the road not traveled, quits her job and writes a very bad novel. With help she throws it out, hones her skills, and writes another. Within three years she goes from mediocre preschool teacher to writer under contract.
That’s me.
Whoa.
Cue the fireworks.
This is not a happy ending, guys. It’s a happy beginning. Here’s what I mean:
The book will now undergo editing, formatting, and packaging. That’s what a publisher does. I won’t hold Lottie’s Gift in my hands until all of that is done. When I know the release date, I’ll post it here.
In the coming months I’ll go from writer to promoter. These days the author is the primary marketer of her work. Watch this space for more about Lottie Braun as the release date nears. If I ask you to like, comment or share, please consider doing so. It will help a lot.
I’m working on my second book. This journey is not over. I have a lot more to say about Lottie, and I’m utterly hooked on the novel-writing process. The sale of Lottie’s Gift gives me encouragement to continue.
I’ll keep sending Postcards from the Heartland. I admit I started my blog because that’s what writers do. But I’ve come to enjoy sharing my small adventures with you. This summer I hope to tour the Midwest and report on what I find.
Readers, I thank you for taking the time to read my postcards. You are such an encouragement to me. I can’t wait to share the next leg of the journey.
That is amazing!!!! So excited for you!!! Many many congrats!!!
I want to take the plunge into real blogging one day. If you ever hear about a conference let me know.
My next dream is a country property with a cool barn and maybe a lil cabin for events and cabins. All while blogging about it… Lo
Sent from my iPhone so I apologize for any typos!
Brenda The Chocolate Haus Amana, Iowa http://www.ChocolateHaus.com Find us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook! “Too blessed to be stressed!”
>
Brenda, you sound like Joanna Gaines, starting one business after another. Have you ever heard of glamping? It’s something you could do with a cool country property like that. As for blogging, when you’re ready, I may be able to help.
Congratulations! If your blog is any indication of your writing, how could you not be published? I want to be one
of the first to purchase a copy of your book.
I’ll make sure that happens, Diane. Thank you for your kind comments along the way. They’re always appreciated.
Hobbes may not be impressed, but I am. Congratulations
Thanks, Amy!
I’m sooo excited for you Jane! I always knew you were meant to be a writer and am so glad you are getting the affirmation you deserve. Can’t wait to see the finished product!
Thank you, my friend.
Congratulations! Looking forward to many more adventures.
Hurray! Hurray! Welcome to the CrossRiver family. I’m having a wonderful experience with this team and know you will, too. Count me in to help.
So Cool!!! I’m excited for you.
Congratulations Jane ! You are a regular celebrity now! I can say I knew you since high school 🙂 All those times reading Anne of Green Gables over and over !
Janelle
Yep, now you know my secret, Janelle. Anne of Green Gables taught me how to write!
Woohoo! I had no idea you were contracted when we were visiting! Truth be told you might have told me and I forgot because my short term memory stinks! But CONGRATULATIONS!!!
Thanks, Nichole! I have no idea if our conversation went that direction or not. Happy writing!