The Call
By Beverley Kendall on Oct 2, 2008 in Guest
I’m so excited to introduce today’s guest blogger.
In the years that we’ve known today’s guest, we’ve watched her grow as a writer. We’ve watched as she pushed through her first manuscript, which she began almost two years ago. We witnessed her enthusiasm as she began sending to contests; her joy as she became a finalist. We’ve seen her nervousness as she began sending queries out to editors and agents; her disappointment when the rejections came in.
She’s beautiful-inside and out. She’s wise. She’s full of encouragement. She’s bubbly. She’s determined. She’s committed. She’s tenacious. She’s Beverley Kendall and she’s just made her first sale.
Renee
The Call
As an unpublished writer, you always hope, wish, and pray you will one day get to tell the story of THE CALL. Well I was your typical unpublished writer with that exact dream. I even had a fair idea that when it happened (I was determined I would continue to write until it did no matter what the timeframe), it would occur like this. I would finally land an agent (I was desperately praying it would be with my second book), and I would be waiting on pins and needles for weeks, perhaps a month or so after she sent my manuscript out on submission.
That is NOT how my first sale occurred.
I was working at home when the phone rang at 2:15 pm on September 4, 2008. I noticed it was a New York exchange (couldn’t do without caller ID). I thought to myself, who is calling me from New York? Yes, I worked there for many years when I lived in New Jersey but no one I knew lived in Manhattan. I answered the phone (sometimes I don’t if I don’t recognize the number). This is my memory of THE CALL.
Me: Hello.
Pleasant female voice on the other end: Hello, may I speak to Beverley Kendall.
Me: Speaking.
Pleasant female voice on the other end: Hi Beverley, this is Hilary Sares from Kensington Publishing.
I don’t remember a thing she said for several long moments.
Me (thinking): Why is Hilary Sares calling me? I haven’t sent her The Gauntlet (my second book). No one had the full of TG because I was still in the midst of polishing it. And I don’t remember entering a contest that she judged. Why is Hilary Sares calling me? The only book I sent Hilary was the first book, An Honorable Rogue, which she rejected a week after I sent her the revised version, which was then re-titled A Midseason Night’s Folly. This makes no sense. I’m confused. What the heck!
The fog lifted from my brain (it settles there very easily). The good thing was this pleasant female voice on the other end of the phone finally had a name. Let’s get back to actually speaking.
Hilary: I received it back in February
Me (thinking): February? OMG, she has the revised manuscript! I thought when I got the rejection letter for the one I sent back in July ’07, she was rejecting both. OMG, OMG, OMG!!!!
Hilary: I love your hero. I love that dry British wit. Do you have an agent?
Me: (Gush, gush, gush, sputter, sputter, sputter. At this point I’m rambling on about how I’m trying to get one etc…)
Hilary: (Laughs)Whoa, before you go, let me give you the terms of the contract.
Me: (Laughing now because I’m feeling like an idiot). Yes of course, let me get a pen. (In the midst of this, I’m laughing that ridiculous nervous, breathless, excited kind of laugh).
Hilary: (Laughing gaily) I love these kind of calls. These are my favorite.
Me: (Things are finally sinking in. This is THE CALL. I’m giddy with pleasure. I take down all the information). Can I get back to you in a week? I would like to call some of the agents that have my second book. They will need to read the first book (of which most agents unanimously rejected the year before—but of course I don’t say that to her because it might make her reconsider the offer).
Hilary: Sure, no problem. (Pause) You have a second book completed?
Me: (excited even more because she sounds quite pleased) Yes, it’s the next in the series. It’s about the heroine’s brother.
Hilary: Wonderful!
Me: (This is WONDERFUL. She already seems pleased with me. This is very good. Right? I laugh another giddy laugh). Can I get your phone number?
Hilary: (recites it to me).
Me: (I take it down like my life depends on it. I say good-bye and exclaim many thank yous. I’m trembling and breathless and excited when I shakily hang up the phone).
I then make that first call—to my sister, who is my best friend. I’m screaming and incoherent on the phone. She says, “Bev, what’s wrong. Now you’re scaring me.” I calm down enough to stop screeching and tell her I’m fine…it’s just that I JUST SOLD MY FIRST BOOK!!!! We carry on for another minute screaming and screeching.
As I hung up the phone with my sister, all I could think was, ‘Oh my goodness, I actually did it.’
Almost four weeks later, and all the REAL work is just beginning. But what I learned about this experience was sometimes things don’t work out as you think or plan. Sometimes it actually works out even better.
Check out Beverley’s new website.
Hi, Bev! Welcome and congratulations again!!!! Well done! I’m so proud of you! Whenever I think about it, it’s still a Squeeeeeee! moment. :)
You know how I feel about James and Missy. :) They deserve their moment of glory. I’m so happy it worked out that way.
I can’t wait to get my eager little paws on my very own copy of ALC and TG by Beverley Kendall !!!!! Squeeeeee!!!!!
Amazon UK better be on the ball! ;)
Anastasia St. James | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Bev,
You give me hope and a smile to last the rest of my day. Bless you.
Terri | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
This couldn’t have happened to a nicer, more deserving person. Having taken the journey with Missy and James through several revisions, I am thrilled their story will be told in a very public manner! Kensington acquired a gem in you, and I know you’ll sell through your advance in short order. Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(((Hugs)))
Devon
Devon Gray | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
What a great story, Beverley! Way to go! I can’t wait to read it! You so rock!
Sindee
Sindee | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
SQUEEEE!!! Thanks Anastasia. I know how you feel about their story so I’m doubly happy you will won’t have to just read it on a word .doc. :) Your input was invaluable and still is.
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Terri,
Thanks for stopping by to comment. And yes, if I can get that call, literally anyone can. It’s just about never giving up and having that vision of where you want to be. I never stopped writing since Avon Fanlit, that has been the key. Also, surrounding myself with great friends and great writers helps a heck of lot too! :) I’ll see you in print one day, I’m sure.
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Ooooh Devon, sell-through. LOL. I so love your optimism. From your lips to God’s ears. Thanks for taking the journey with me and allowing me to coattail on yours. This is going to be an exciting ride!! In the meanwhile, let’s have fun at M&M this weekend. :) Here’s to dinner at your house.
Cheers
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Thanks Sindee, it sure was a call I’ll never forget. And I know your turn is coming soon. :)
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
What a inspiring story. You give me hope (especially after I got two rejections yesterday) It feels like I’m not getting anywhere with trying to attract an agent. What else can I do but continue to write my current novel? And hope and pray. And hope I don’t die before I’m published lol :-)
Sandi | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
What a fabulous afternoon that was! I’m so glad to finally hear the story, and I have to tell you, Bev, I can picture you every step of the way. I’m so pleased and excited for you! And I can’t wait to read your book. It sounds wonderful. CONGRATULATIONS!
Hugs,
Em
Emily Sewell | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Bev! You are truly an inspiration to all aspiring writers out there! I have a friend who is a talented writer. . .I sent her your website. In reading The Call it fills my heart with joy and excitement for you!!
Nicole | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Wow Beverley! I can’t even imagine how good that must have felt. I am so happy for you. I truly enjoy hearing stories like this. It’s inspiring.
Very cool.
Tamara Hughes
Contest loop lurker
Tamara Hughes | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Nice way to start the day! I read your “Call” story and have been smiling since. I have a picture in my head of a woman staring at the phone like it grew a tail while a Charle Brown “Whah, whah, whah, whah, whah) whispers from the receiver. LOL
Congratulations. Enjoy the ride.
Pat | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Loved your ‘call’ story. I was laughing and nodding as I read it. It reminded me of the first time I won a contest and they called to tell me. I was so excited that by the time we finished the call I couldn’t recall if I’d actually won or finalled. I had to wait until the package arrived to lean I’d taken first. So I can imagine when I finally get ‘the call’ I’ll miss half of the conversation. *G* So very happy for you. Looking forward to your book.
Jennifer
Jennifer Faye | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Bev,
Gosh-I think they said it all. You are such and inspiration to many of us. I can not tell you how much your ‘call’ story has meant to me.
Here’s to your continued success.
Love ya,
Renee
Renee | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Beverly, I loved this story, it was amazing, and I was giggling as I read it. I can just picture it, and when I get THE CALL, I imagine mine will be very similar to this, except I might just snort while laughing, which I’m totally known for :)
Congratulations!!!!!
Eliza Knight | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Sandi,
Thanks for stopping by. And don’t ever despair. I have so many rejections just in the past 1 1/2 since I started querying the first book. What happened with my first book was I found my voice after I finished writing it (when I was writing the second). I then when back and tried to infuse some of it into the first book and then of course made some major changes (my heroine’s age was a big one). That’s really how the revision ending up selling.
Keep on writing, that’s the key and don’t ever stop submitting. You just need the one agent or editor to fall in love with your story.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Em,
Thanks for dropping by, you’re such a dear. We’re going to have a grand time this weekend at M&M, aren’t we. See you soon.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Nicole,
Thanks for dropping by and sending on my link to your friend. I’ve had so many people inspire me, it’s nice to share this experience with my friends, family and the entire family of writers out there, especially those who are still waiting to get that call. I hope your friend gets it soon. Take care.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Tamara,
Thanks for dropping by. And yes, it did feel waaaaay cool. You’ll experience it soon. ;)
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Beverley,
CONGRATULATIONS!!! I know I’ve said it privately, but it bears repeating and repeating yet again. I’m SO happy for you I’m squeeing inside. Expect a huge hug from me when I see you this weekend, and I’m very much looking forward to reading your books.
All the best,
Carol
Carol Burnside | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Pat,
Thanks for dropping by. I can’t help but laugh when I read your analogy of that call. LOL. I wish I could remember all of it but honestly, I did draw a complete blank while Hilary was talking. I wish someone had videotaped the darn thing. Take care.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for dropping by. And yes, isn’t the first final, win, sale, just so exciting. Take Care.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Eliza,
Thanks for dropping by. Hey, I say snorting is good! LOL.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Renee,
Thanks dear. You are a sweetie. :)
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Carol,
LOL. I can’t wait to see you this weekend. It will be so much fun!!! We have much to catch up on.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Bev, I felt emotional reading your account of the “the call”! It’s been wonderful watching your efforts and successes these past two years. You are an inspiration to many of us unpubbed, and this call shows the value of focus, perseverance, and hard work!
I can’t wait to see your books on the bookstore shelves! You’ll autograph my copies, right? :)
Congratulations and big hugs!
Laurie
Lara Lee | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Bev, the sister/best friend writing..lol. I couldn’t be more proud of you, if I had written it myself. Actually in a way I feel I’ve written the book, in fact you’re my ghost writter…lol. Catch you on the next call, that would be 9 or times 10 times today?
All my love,
Dawn
Dawn | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Bev,
CONGRATS CONGRATS CONGRATS!!!
I’m so excited for you, you prove that sometimes we really do get what we want….patience is definitely a virtue.
I can’t wait to get a signed copy….make sure you give me all the details…I will definitely fly out for the book signing.
Much Luv -
Tonya
Tonya | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Bev!! What a super story!! Major congratulations!!
Sandy
Sandy James | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Great story, Beverly!
Congratulations!!
Susan Macatee | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Bev,
What an entertaining story about The Call! I’m glad you posted that you were blogging about it on the HHRW loop, or I’d never have read it. I’m a Kensy author too–John is my editor.
Big major congrats, and hurray on such an exciting moment!
You should be very proud, both of selling, and on handling yourself with the calm, dignified aplomb we all aspire to in those dream-coming-true moments.
;-)
Kris
Kris Kennedy | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
I never get tired of the story of The Call, Bev. And having gone through several revisions of James and Missy’s story, I’m so glad someone was finally wise enough to give AHR/AMNF/ALC a home! You’ve worked so hard for this, and I’m bursting with pride and joy for your achievement.
So now we have until next year to plan a killer book release party … :)
Kelly | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
I’m late coming to the party (the day job and all that) but I hope you know I share in your excitement! I’m just THRILLED for you! :)
Maura | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Laurie,
Of course I will autograph whatever you want. ;) Thanks so much, you are a doll. Hugs!
Dawn,
You are the best sister ever. Love you lots!
Tonya,
Thanks for dropping by and I’m so glad you’re going to fly out for the booksigning (should I even have one ;) )
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Sandy,
Thanks for coming by. Looking forward to getting your book when it’s out.
Hi Susan,
Thanks a bunch!!!
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Kris,
Thanks! I absolutely love your website. Can’t wait to get your book when it comes out. Hope you’ll be at DC in 2009!
Hey Kel,
Yes, we’ll have a GREAT party next year. You better book early!!! I expect to see you there.
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Maura,
Thanks so much! You are fashionably late!
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi, Bev! Sorry to get here so late but I traveled to the Utah conference today:-0 I am thrilled for you and loved reading your story about THE CALL!! It’s an inspiration to us all. I can’t wait to get my hands on my copy!
Stephie | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Stephie,
Thanks:) How’s the conference? I’m headed to mine in the morning. I can’t wait to hear about your call story. ;)
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Bev, I kept trying to read about your CALL at work today and kept having to stop. I couldn’t read it without getting teary eyed and that’s hard to explain to all the people coming in and out of my room. I can’t begin to tell you how excited and happy I am for you! If I had you here, I’d give you a huge hug! You’re a great inspiration to those of us still dreaming of what has now become your reality and I can think of no one who deserves success more than you do. Congratulations!!!
Sasha Allgood | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Oh Sasha, you made me a little teary eyed. Thanks so much for the good wishes and encouragement. I’m giving you a virtual hug.
((((Hugs))))
Bev
bev | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
Squeeeee!
That’s all. Just, Squeeeeee!
Alice Audrey | Oct 3, 2008 | Reply
Thanks Alice,
Squeeeee is just perfect!!!
bev | Oct 5, 2008 | Reply
Hi Bev,
This was always something you’ve dreamed about, I’m sooo glad you’ve realized your dreams. I’m not much of a reader (as you know), but I’m sure your novels will thrill and enchant all who have read them. CONGRATS!!!! I know Ryan has been a true inspiration, he will always be that way. :)
Cheers.
GT Man | Dec 19, 2008 | Reply
Thanks! As for Ryan, he’s the love of my life!
Bev
Bev | Dec 19, 2008 | Reply