As a new author I'm continually learning about the publishing process and how it works. A lot of thought is given to when books release within a publishing house even a year or two ahead of schedule, at least for my publisher which is a large, traditional house. I think the turnaround time is shorter for smaller houses. Anyway, it's fun to see just who you're releasing with as there is so much variety. Since my world is made up of historicals, I always gravitate toward those. In this case, you have three Kentucky books on tap any day now. And I'm thrilled Morrow is in such fine company:)I think Jan's cover is so lovely. I met her at the Kentucky Book Fair a few months ago. She's so easy to talk to and brings her Copper Brown series to life in wonderful ways. She won the Writing for the Soul contest a few years ago and is with Tyndale. Aside from writing, she's a nurse and lives in Lexington, Kentucky.
Then you have Ann, my dear friend and mentor. Early on in my publishing journey, I wrote Ann and introduced myself as we write for the same publisher. Everyone needs a sounding block and she is such a gem! She was my first writing friend. If I have questions about the process, I go to Ann. I try not to bother her too much but she is so easygoing and patient and knowledgeable. She's been writing a long time, since childhood. And she manages to pace herself and stay active with her many grandkids and a husband who's in a gospel quartet and travels all over. All this with her bestselling Shaker books! I was thrilled when she asked me to endorse The Seeker. I practically had to stand in line as there were several other authors who wanted to do it!
Just received word this morning that Morrow has arrived in the Baker warehouse. Hope that raspberry silk gown of hers didn't get dirty:) This really is a very exciting time. Yesterday was an amazing day as I heard from my agent, my editor, and my publisher. Another blessing was finding a copy of RT Book Reviews magazine in my mailbox and stumbling upon a beautiful full page ad for Morrow in the inspirational section. Unexpected things like that mean so much. I'm so thankful. Anyway, I plan to take Keli Gwyn's advice and post a pic of me with my author copies when they arrive. If you see Morrow anywhere, I'd love to know!
Verse of the Moment: Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; and confirm for us the work of our hands; Yes, confirm the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17
I can't wait to get my hands on your book! I'm holding on to those bookmarks - I want people to understand that it's not JUST a place holder! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for introducing me to some other great Kentucky authors! As soon as I finish here, I'm going to check and see if we have their books here at the library, and if not - they're going on my list! Can't have too many KY books!
Have a blessed day - talking about 90's and MUGGY today! I may have to come up and visit YOU!
Regina
HOORAY!! I can't wait. :D
ReplyDeleteMy publishing houses usually send me a copy of the catalogs my releases are in, and it's always fun to look to see who's doing what and when I can expect to get my hands on them!
ReplyDeleteSo excited that Morrow has arrived at the warehouse! Hopefully she'll be at your place soon. :-)
Oh, what a thrilling time for you! Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. You are so generous to give us inside glimpses into your writer's world. And you make yourself very human and appealing and approachable. You are a gem, dear Laura!
ReplyDeleteYour friend Ann is on my list to read this summer, and I am so excited to learn Jan Watson has a new book coming out. I just finished her "Sweetwater Run" and it was just perfect, even better than the books that focus on Copper Brown.
I can't wait to see a picture of you with your new books!
ReplyDeleteI am going to go ahead and subscribe to the comments because it seems to me I could be busy for years with all the wonderful books everyone recommends.
I think all three are beautiful covers. I haven't read Jan Watson or Ann Gabhart, but I would like to soon!
I'm so happy for you, Laura! Wish I had a copy of that review magazine. I didn't know of its existence (or else let mention of it fall through the memory cracks). Perhaps I shall subscribe.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see that picture, but even more to have my copy of CML.
A most appropriate verse for you, Laura. I am so happy that Morrow is on her way to our hearts and minds. Cannot wait...cannot wait...
ReplyDeleteI also love the covers for your good company, especially the first cover. It's a little different, very vintage and soft.
Again, I can't wait for novel #2. Morrow is on my fridge, looking at me and reminding me to keep an eye out for her.
I cannot wait to see a picture of you holding Morrow!
ReplyDeleteI will certainly tell you when I see the Morrow here, or when Lexington Public Library has her in the system.
I was just looking at amazon and discovered Ann Gabhart's earlier books are at bargain price. I think I know what I will be ordering my mom for her birthday. Perhaps all three, if they stay that price until July.
I have not read any of Jan Watson's books, but it does look like the library has all of them. I'll definitely be checking them out. So many books, so little time; even for a speed reader. ;)
Regina, I can't wait for you to get your hand on my book either:) Chuckling about the bookmarks - I have them everywhere I look. My son even passed them out to girls at school - I'm mailing them to Australia and Florida and all parts. You can never have too many, huh?
ReplyDeleteI hope your library gets a copy of both books - maybe when it comes out in large print this fall, though I know libraries are facing budget crises. I bet Ann's and Jan's are there already. Ann's are in large print, too.
Oh to have some of your weather, muggy and all. It is still pouring rain here - no sun for days - and much cooler than normal. But our summer doesn't officially begin till the middle of July! Doggone it:)
Thanks Casey - I appreciate every hooray you send my way! Hoping this is a great day for you with some reading and writing and blogging snuck in:)
ReplyDeleteHi Kaye, You understand the excitement of releases so well - you're getting to be a master at them:) I'm impatiently waiting for Ransome's Crossing in my mailbox. Glad I waited to read Ransome's Honor till now as the story line will be nice and fresh. But honestly, if I'd put it down for awhile I could pick up again in a heart beat. It's so memorable. And I don't say that lightly (or often).
ReplyDeleteThanks for the good wishes here. It is so nice to share the excitement.
Mary, You are a gem yourself, saying such gem-like things:) Thanks so much for such gracious words. I feel spoiled today, sharing this moment with you.
ReplyDeleteYou're one step ahead of me as I've not read Sweetwater Run yet though I love the title. It's neat that she's done a whole new series interwoven with the same characters. They become like family then. Oh my, must add to my list...
Julia, Isn't that the truth - we don't have enough years to read all these good books! And I am just touching on historical fiction. There's a world of contemporaries out there including Kaye's series and also Janice Thompson's, to name but a few.
ReplyDeleteHope that picture of me and my author copies turns out so I can post. My 10 year old son will be the photographer and my camera likes to eat photos. Will see what happens:)
Bless you today!
Hi Lori,
ReplyDeleteIt's great to see you here this morning and share the excitement. That's such a blessing! I need to get that chapter back to you. Am almost finished.
You are probably familiar with RT Book Reviews as they used to be Romantic Times before they morphed. (I think). I subscribed only recently as their reviews aren't available to anyone but subscribers for a couple of months. It is a well done magazine that carries all the secular and CBA titles with romantic themes. If nothing else, it makes for a great brainstorming session when you read all the titles and back cover copy!
Let me know the minute you get Morrow! I have one on order from CBD and Amazon myself. Silly, perhaps, but I am always the first one to order on both sites as I do it when they first appear:)
Hi Britt,
ReplyDeleteSo glad to see you here. What great comments about Jan's cover - vintage is just right! Maybe that's why I like it so very much. If Lael were to have a new cover, I'd love one like it, just time-warped back about 100 years. Only Lael hated her bonnet:)
As soon as I get my box of books I will start the author giveaway. One book a week for a month. You're entered so please check back in!
I love the verse, too. My footnote says, "By God's mercy and grace, one's life can have value, significance, and meaning." That is a promise for each of us, of course.
Michelle, It's so neat you are checking at the Lexington libraries! I used to go to the Lansdowne branch and then the big one that looked like an old mansion right at the heart of town. I bet it isn't even there now, has been torn down, or used for something else. Lexington is so much bigger than when I grew up there. And there were no Paneras!
ReplyDeleteI think your mom would love Ann's books. She really brings the Shaker lifestyle alive and lives so near them on her farm. Jan is in Lexington like you. Small world!
Hope you have a great day and have air-conditioning!
I'm so happy for you, Laura! It's so much fun to hear your heart as you share your blessings in your author journey. You also have such a beautiful heart and appreciate others so much. As you mentioned Ann being a gem, you, too are a gem and precious!
ReplyDeleteI'm chomping at the bit here to get my copy of Courting Morrow Little!!
Carla, Love that GEM word as that's what I think of when I think of you! I look forward to the day when we can meet. Till then I have to be content to share with you here. But even that means a whole lot. Hope your day is full of blessings. Thanks so much for sharing my joy here!!
ReplyDeleteWOOHOO! If the books are in the warehouse that means it won't be long till I get to read it! I'm so excited and those books that are also releasing with yours look terrific...great for history lovers like me ;-)
ReplyDeleteXOXO~ Renee
Wow, Still House Pond has a GORGEOUS cover. I want to read it solely from looking it ! And Ann's book looks so beautiful and peaceful, I need to check both these out, after Miss Morrow in her pretty dress finally gets to my mailbox of course ;)
ReplyDeleteIt is always so nice to find those who are wise in the field that you're just getting into, and that they are willing to be kind and share with you. I'm not sure if writing is like art, but many times you never know if you reach out if you'll get brushed off or not even responded to. Artists sometimes feel like they have to guard their craft and their knowledge. It can be daunting for the new kid.
Congrats on the ad and all the good things coming your way! Hope this is a lovely memorable time :)
Morrow's in the warehouse? That is awesome news!
ReplyDeletehanks, Laura, for putting me in find company with you and Jan. Jan's cover is nice and somewhat of a departure from her earlier books. I like it. And of course, your cover is a winner with that beautiful dress. I'll have to send you the advance cover of my book, Angel Sister due out next February to give you a sneak peek.
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks to all your blogging friends for maybe putting my book, The Seeker in their TBR pile. Mine gets taller and taller. By the way I got a copy of The Seeker today by Fed Ex. Always an exciting moment. Last summer the books were in the stores before I got my first copy. Hope all your calls from editor, agent, and publisher were good news.
Praise the Lord, your baby is almost home!! I am so super excited for you Laura! I ordered her from Christianbook and just can’t wait to hold her ;)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the recommendation of those books! I confess I’ve never heard of either author but I will definitely check them out. I love hearing about new books- my list just keeps growing :)
And what a perfect verse of the moment for you Laura! It’s like a confirmation from the Lord :) My KJV used the word “beauty” instead of “favor”, which I thought was a little more fitting for Morrow. Just from the cover alone I know she has the beauty of the Lord all over her- because her author has the beauty of the Lord shining so radiantly in and through her- just like our beauty comes from our Author :) Here’s what Matthew Henry’s Commentary said about the verse: “When we have done all, we must wait upon God for the success.” Get ready for some MASSIVE success my friend!! I can’t wait to see the great plan’s the Lord has in store for you because this is only the beginning!!!!
Blessings,
Amanda Stanley
Hi Renee, It's kind of funny to think of Morrow in the warehouse as that is so not Morrow:) But those are sweet words, for sure. It's great to share other good books here - we readers have a lot to look forward to!
ReplyDeleteHeather, I knew you would like Jan's cover. It has that vintage look you love. As an artist I bet the colors really appeal to you, etc. It sure is a winning cover to me. Her last one is so amazingly different - Sweetwater Run, I think was her previous title. This one is just perfect.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing the excitement here. Sadly, the writing community is like the art community - some folks, anyway. There's a real competitive edge and diva attitude that does exist. I'm thankful I found Ann as she's so down to earth and has her priorities straight. It's an admirable trait:)
Hi Ann, I was hoping you would stop by:) It's a privilege to have you and your cover here. I think my first copy will be here soon - you're my green light as you usually get it a couple of days ahead of me so I know it's on the way. Looks like The Seeker and CML will be in stores early this time.
ReplyDeleteOh, I'd love to see your new cover when you have a minute! The title is wonderful so I know the cover will be, too. That's my favorite part of this whole process - the cover art. And I promise to not divulge a thing:)
Amanda, I was hoping to hear from you and now my day is made:) I think "beauty" is far more fitting, too. And I love your commentary. That fits my situation more than you know, not only with Morrow but future writing projects, as well. You just gave me a gift with that and you didn't even know it! The Lord works in wonderful ways!
ReplyDeleteI can't thank you enough for ordering CML. I wish it was otherwise but readers who buy my books enable me to keep writing. If I had my way, I'd give them all away! Won't eternity be wonderful - all the books in the world and endless time to read them:)
Ruth, Now that Morrow is in the warehouse we'll have to have some Morrow sightings:) I should have some sort of a prize for the person who sees her first! For some reason these warehouse comments give me a good chuckle. Maybe it's because, as I said to Renee, it's so NOT Morrow:)
ReplyDeleteCan't wait!!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad those bookmarks are swimming across the Pacific now ;-)
I was notified this morning by CBD that Morrow has begun her journey to southern Oregon!!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Rel! So good to hear from you! I apologize for the delay. I snuck some Siri and Kaye bookmarks in for you, too (I think! With all this crazy mailing I get confused). BTW, it's so inexpensive to mail you things which amazed me as you are so very far away. Anyway, hope today holds many blessings for you in all that you do!
ReplyDeleteLori, I am SO glad you told me:) Wow - that is so soon! I still don't feel ready for some reason! Am hoping I get my first FedEx copy today. If so, will let you know and try to post a pic!
ReplyDeleteStorybook Woods ~ what a beautiful blog you have! It speaks to my 18th-century heart:) I immediately thought of Heather here and am wondering if you all are acquainted. Thanks so much for your gracious words. This is truly a thrilling time. I think today is the day I will get my copy of my book - the next best thing to holding a newborn baby:)
ReplyDeleteSo exciting!! I can't wait:)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kristen! I should be receiving my author copies soon so will start that month long giveaway:) Hope you are doing well. See you at your blog!
ReplyDeleteHey Laura!! Just got an email from Christianbook saying Morrow's headin' on up to the Ocean State!!!!! I'll let you know as soon as I get her :)
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Amanda Stanley
Soooo glad you told me, Amanda! That makes this all the more fun! I'm so glad I have some east coast readers. Am still amazed that she's out a month early. Since CBD is in MA, you might be the first to get it!
ReplyDeleteLaura, how exciting that Morrow is getting ready to ship. I'm sure you're beyond eager to hold your book in your hands. I look forward to seeing you holding CML while wearing a great big smile.
ReplyDeleteKeli, I was hoping to see you here:) Yes, this is such a memorable time. Haven't seen any author copies yet. I'm just hoping the FedEx man delivers the one today. If so, I'll take that picture. Thanks for the great idea! Sharing all this book joy is wonderful with friends like you.
ReplyDeleteClarice, Thanks so much for telling me about our Heather connection:) I knew you would be kindred spirits as soon as I saw your beautiful blog! I'm so glad you stopped here. I'll put your name in the hat for a book - as soon as I get my author copies I'll be giving several away. Have a blessed day!
ReplyDeleteLAURA!! I got Morrow!!! I got Morrow!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteShe just got here and she’s even MORE BEAUTIFUL in person!!! As soon as I heard that diesel engine roar of the UPS truck I flew to the front door- God forgive me, poor guy nearly lost his hand in the exchange. I’m SO EXCITED and SO BLESSED she got here SO FAST!! My family and I have a friend’s b-day party to go to out in Cape Cod tomorrow and guess who will be keeping me company on that long drive?!?! She has me wishing Cape Cod was a little further away ;)
Oh, and I just LOVE who you dedicated her too! I don’t think there is anything more beautiful then when siblings serve the Lord together :) And, how funny, Ann’s books are advertized on the back pages- “The Seeker” being one of them, LOL!
Gosh, the Lord knew just what I needed today!! She’s definitely my silver lining!!! Did you get your yet??
Blessings,
Amanda Stanley
OH Amanda!!! I am so THRILLED that you got her first!! What a JOY that is to me! I have a special little something for you that I'm going to mail to you as soon as I get it. I wanted to do something for the first person who told me:)
ReplyDeleteI'm laughing because NO, I haven't gotten her yet! You are way ahead of me! I keep listening for the FedEx man on this slightly sunny day but all I hear are birds and dogs and my washing machine:(
What a sweetheart you are to tell me - love your excitement! As soon as I get my copy I will get on here and share the JOY as well.
I'll be thinking of you when you go to Cape Cod. When I was about 12 my family vacationed there one summer in a little beach cottage and it's been one of my best memories ever since. Glad Morrow gets to go with you!
Thanks so much for making my day!
Well, you can all think of me having to wait even longer for Morrow to travel across the Pacific!!!
ReplyDeleteI learn patience every time a new book is released ;-)
Oh Rel, Love the thought of Morrow going to Australia! I don't think I'll ever complain again. I still don't have my copy(ies) but bet I do get mine before you:) So good to hear from you here. Hope you get those bookmarks soon, dear friend!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the heads up on two new books for my TBR pile! I just checked my bookstore's online catalogue and they don't have either one in stock yet...nor yours either. :-( But I will persevere!
ReplyDelete