Monday, January 5, 2015

Surprised in 2015 by Annette M. Irby



Surprise!*


Good surprises. 

How often do they happen for writers? My guess, based on my own experience, not often enough. *wink*

Oftentimes, we’re waiting on responses or feedback or critiques or reviews, or we’re working toward a deadline, pounding out words we hope will resonate with our readers. So much of our writing careers are out of our hands, wouldn't you agree?

So, it’s such a gift when we’re surprised by something positive. Like, when after a long wait, I heard back from an editor. Oh, what a kind letter. No, the publisher couldn’t use the story, but so much positivity and friendship in the exchange.

A few days before Christmas, I received a surprise. The e-book I contracted for earlier in 2014 would be published on January 1, 2015. Now, that’s a good surprise.

Or the time my agent sent me a Christmas gift with the word “believe” stamped into it. How did she know? I hadn’t shared with her that God had given me that word for the year. Sounds like the Holy Spirit at work.

I appreciate God giving me a word for the year. He’s given me a few for this year. (It’s not unusual for Him to give me three or four around October - December for the following twelve months). Then, as seasons pass, He’ll remind me of them.) But, perhaps, the word “surprise” might be fitting this year too. I’m praying for good surprises. I could use some, how about you?

Like, word from that agent you met at a conference that s/he likes your work and wants to be in touch. Or a “yes” from a publisher. Or a heartfelt letter from a reader about how your words touched his/her life. Or perhaps, God’s “yes” on you taking that leap of faith and self-publishing your book. “Yes, you can use the funds on yourself, on your career. I’ll bless you in the endeavor, and I’ll minister to readers through your obedience.”

Whether we’re in for good surprises this year or not, your hostesses here at Seriously Write pray you’ll be blessed as you write, blessed as you follow His call. And that your readers will be blessed as well. 

Write on, friends. 

~~~~~
Her Nerdy Cowboy



A Dollar Download from White Rose Publishing

Whoever heard of a bookish cowboy? When Logan McDaniel’s brother-in-law dies, he steps in to help his beloved sister run her ranch. But what does a city boy know of herding cattle? Claire Langley loved her cousin. After he dies, she agrees to serve as a temporary nanny for two heartbroken children. 

Claire and Logan find they share a love of books, and Claire can’t resist the nerdy uncle who is great with children, and who reads to her of pirate romance. Claire’s ailing mother needs her in Seattle. Can she break away? And if she does, can there ever be a future for Logan and her?


~~~~~ 

Annette M. Irby


Annette M. Irby has three published books and runs her own freelance editing business, AMI Editing. She is also an acquisitions editor for Pelican Book Group. See her page here on Seriously Write for more information.







Photo credit: freedigitalphotos.net "Celebrate surprise means gift box and present" by Stuart Miles