In this tough economy, no one seems to be ready to bail out the publishing industry. I was devastated when I heard, amid all the other shake-ups at Dorchester, that my editor there had lost her job. I was frankly more upset over that than the news that my future Leisure books would be released as ebooks only followed by trade paperback six months later. Leah Hultenschmidt is a very sharp editor, savvy marketer and a genuinely delightful person. I hated to hear she'd been let go.Earlier this week, I was contacted by Anne Marble, an All About Romance blogger, wanting some quotes about what's happening at Dorchester. If you go over there, you'll see me as Emily Bryan, my other pen name.
Giving quotes about tough times is a sticky wicket. Because I believe anytime you say something bad, it's like a prayer to the devil, I tried to be positive. When I sent her back my thoughts, she thanked me. "Woe is me" is easy to find. An upbeat take on the moment requires a bit more creativity.
Fortunately, I was right to be upbeat about Leah. The industry recognizes quality. She's been hired by Sourcebooks and will be acquiring romance and YA (aspiring writers take note!) You can read more about her new job on her blog--a site I'd recommend to authors and readers. She always has something interesting to share.
So now, I'm trying to be positive about another possibility. My DH's company is being acquired by a large corporation. Later this week, he'll find out if he'll be invited to remain with the newly merged entity, or if he'll join the swelling ranks of the unemployed. For now, we're remaining positive.
I'll let you know how it goes.
Have you ever had a situation that required creativity to be positive? What helped you through it?
I'm thrilled to hear about Leah. She's deserves to land on her feet as do others at Dorchester.
ReplyDeleteStaying positive can be hard, but it helps if you surround yourself with positive people and stay clear of the people who bring you down.
CC
Absolutely, Christie. It's not hard to find someone who wants to drag you down. Seeking out the positive is sometimes tougher, but well worth it.
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy for Leah! Even though I don't know her personally, her reputation in the industry makes her feel like a friend. And, I agree that positive thinking is a much better lifestyle choice than negativity. Here's hoping "Mr. Marlowe" gets his own happy ending this week!
ReplyDeleteI met Leah once long ago, and she's a lovely person. I'm happy for her. She'll be an asset for Sourcebooks.
ReplyDeleteFingers crossed for Mr. Marlowe. How does he like his new name? lol
I've had the pleasure of meeting Leah at a small, local conference, and she is a standout. Sourcebooks has found themselves a wonderful addition to their family.
ReplyDeleteThat is wonderful news about Leah! She is the whole reason I was subbing to Dorchester. You and Gemma Halliday have had nothing but wonderful things to say about her. So, do I need an agent to sub to her now??? ;)
ReplyDeleteI'll keep you and the Mr. in my prayers.
Toni Sue
Hi,
ReplyDeleteYou've a really wonderful weblog. To turn into a profitable person the basic factor would be to have positive thinking. Enjoy Sky Rocketing Accomplishment with Turbo charged Positive Affirmations... Produce Positive Thinking So You are able to Remove Strain Out of your Life, Raise Your Self-Confidence and Plan Your self For Lifetime Achievements!
This is absolutely wonderful news about Leah!And positive thoughts being sent up for your dh's job situation as well.
ReplyDeleteI've always admired the folks at Sourcebooks frankly, and now they added another reason to that admiration.
Amanda McIntyre
Shannon--Thanks for the positive thoughts for the DH. He's feeling confident, but you never know what a corporation will decide. If they go strictly by past reviews, he should have no problem. His boss has all but named him a rock star.
ReplyDeleteSandy--The DH is cool with a new name, though when we married, he thought I was taking his! At least he only has to be Mr. Marlowe if he goes to RT.
ReplyDeleteDalton--Leah is terrific to work with. I've been blessed to know her.
ReplyDeleteToni Sue--I advise you to check Leah's blog to make sure, but I don't think Sourcebooks requires its authors to have agents. However, if you want a career, you should have an agent. The right agent is worth far more than their 15%.
ReplyDeleteAmanda--Sourcebooks is really doing a good job supporting their authors with strong bookstore relationships and advertising. I don't think they've broken into Walmart yet, but I'll bet it's coming.
ReplyDeleteLeah did a lot of judging back when I was doing the contest rounds w/Duality & Hedda's Sword, and she always liked my writing. If I ever decide to move beyond my Guardians of Light series, she's my first pick!
ReplyDeleteThis is terrific!
ReplyDeleteWelcome to Sourcebooks, Leah!
Ash
I don't know her but I am glad she rebounded with another job....I really like your positive message..
ReplyDeleteYay for Leah! I'm glad to hear she's found a new position. I've heard good things about Sourcebooks & wish her all the best in her new venture. Will be trotting over to visit her blog...
ReplyDeleteBest wishes as well on your husband's job, Mia/Emily. I know how stressful the waiting can be!
So glad Leah found another, similar job! You're always so positive about her, it sounded like it would be a real waste for her to have to do something else...
ReplyDeleteAnd sending positive vibes across the ocean to your DH!
Unfortunately, lots of good people get laid off. It has nothing to do with them, but, again unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to being laid off. The unspoken comment is "that person wasn't good enough to keep". Well, we know better. I'm glad Leah got a job, I hope your husband keeps his, and I hope I keep my job, although the work isn't coming in.
ReplyDeleteLinda, who's been laid off 3 times, and is facing time #4
Renee--Leah is wonderful to work with, insightful and witty. I'd write for her again anytime.
ReplyDeleteHey Ash! (She's my critique partner!) For a look at a great Sourcebooks cover, readers should check out Ashlyn's website.
ReplyDeleteAbigail--Romance is a small world. Once you start entering contests or attending conferences, you start seeing the same people. Editors frequently change publishing houses, sometimes "orphaning" their authors at the old house, sometimes inviting them to submit to them at the new. It's always good to maintain good relationships because you know you're going to be seeing each other again.
ReplyDeleteLena--Thanks for your well wishes. We're hoping for the best, but we have some plans if things go the other way. As long as we have each other, we'll be ok.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the good vibes, Nynke.
ReplyDeleteLinda, Lots of times people are let go and it's through no fault of their own. Usually, the problem is much higher up where business decisions are made and then don't pan out. But unfortunately, the ones who are let go are further down the line. Crossing my fingers for you.
ReplyDeleteWe have been there, Mia. These are "interesting" times, indeed. I'm so glad and not at all surprised to hear Leah found a new home so quickly.
ReplyDeleteGillian--You can't deny talent and Leah has it in buckets.
ReplyDelete