Monday, July 30, 2012

Dreams

If someone told me I'd be releasing a book this year, I wouldn't have believed them. When I left my agent in February, all I felt was rejection and sadness. I really didn't know what to do. What to think. I honestly thought my book was dead. I moped around the house for a few days, tried to work on other things, but my book kept calling to me.

And I knew it wasn't over. Somehow, that little spark of hope made me submit to smaller publishers. I didn't think anything would happen, but I thought "at least I tried". Three days later I had interest and a week after that, a book contract for 2 books.

I'm still in shock. I've seen my book on Amazon, I have the e-book version on my Kindle. My paperbacks are on their way to my house. You'd think I'd be shouting my happiness to the rooftops by now. But, no. It's so surreal. When I think about how much I went through to get to this point, I'm so humbled. Who knows if I'll ever be able to sell another book. Who knows if I'll get another agent someday. For now, I need to stop worrying about that and focus on what I have accomplished so far. And once my book has been out into the world and people love/hate it, I can think more about my career and set another goal. I can think about what I really want to do next.

I hope at least one of you reads this and realizes you don't have to give up on your dream. Even if you go through a few books and no agent wants it. There is a story inside of you that will eventually get you there. Keep moving forward, keep writing more books, and someday, you can tell your own story. Yes, I'm a sap and no I don't care. :)

Stay tuned for Wednesday. My book will be available on Kindle! And I may have a giveaway or two that day. ;)

17 comments:

Jessie Humphries said...

You might have a little sap Chantele, but you are one sturdy, tall, strong tree! Like an Aspen or old Oak. Not that your old...I am older than you for sure, but you know what I mean!!!

prerna pickett said...

that's so amazing. Glad you didn't give up on your dream.

Renee Collins said...

So so happy and excited for you, Chantele. :)

I can't wait to put your book on my shelf! I didn't realize it was available on Amazon! (I've been MIA from the internet lately.) I'll have to buy it today! :)

Nicole said...

You have such a great personal story, Chantele! Thanks for hanging onto your dream. That takes buckets of courage, and you seem to have it in spades.

Patti said...

It's amazing how things can turn around for you. Congrats.

Angela Cothran said...

I'm so excited for you! It just goes to show how fast things can change.

Jenny S. Morris said...

Thanks Chantele!! You are such an inspiration!

Michelle D. Argyle said...

Still so excited for you! working hard always pays off. :)

Anonymous said...

You deserve it! If you want to get published, giving up isn't the way to do it. ;)

erica and christy said...

Congratulations on your book and wishing you many more!
erica

Angie Sandro said...

I'm so happy for you. Thank you for reminding us to not give up on our dreams.

Kelley Lynn said...

I'm am SO happy for you my dear! I CAN'T WAIT to read this!!! Way to stick with it girl :)

J E Fritz said...

How exciting and inspiring! You deserve all this.

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Funny how you get so used to rejection, then a ray of light in the inbox! Good for you for never giving up!

Peggy Eddleman said...

You're inspiring, Chantele! I'm so excited for you!

Ruth Josse said...

I am SO happy for you! Love ya. :)

Tomorrow!!!!

Krista McLaughlin said...

Congrats! That's so exciting! I can't wait to read it!