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JOAN EDEN GRAY
How did it feel to become published? J.E.G. -- I had rehearsed what I was going to say when The Call finally came though, but nothing prepared me for the moment. Instead of keeping my cool, I felt very much like when, way back in high school, The Class Hunk called and asked me, The Gawkiest-Teen-of-All, out. I first thought I must be hearing wrong, then there was this buzzing in my head. I remember saying something articulate like, "Argh" and having to put my head between my knees. I've always been sooooo together! Then and now, I did the same thing.If you could teach aspiring writers one thing, what would it be? J.E.G. -- To persevere. When you get turned down, and we all do, just remember that turndown was one editor's decision on a given day. A month later, because of the ever-changing demands of this business, another editor may be looking for exactly the kind of story you submitted earlier. So keep trying! Best advice given or taken? J.E.G. -- I was told to find what I love to do, then figure out a way to get paid for doing it. Nothing new, but it applied to me. I took the advice. Have you ever worked with a mentor, critique group, or writing/plotting partner? Yes. When I began I had two mentors. Kathryn Falk of Romantic Times, who fired my imagination and encouraged me to go for my dream. And a multi-published author who forced me to start thinking of writing as a business, not a hobby. I tried a critique group and am still working with one surviving member. Since she and I are brutal, no one else has been able to tough-it-out with us, but we're great for each other. Each writer has to find what works for her. Is your life anything like the romances you write? J.E.G. -- Yes ... and definitely not. I've been blessed with an incredible life. But not every moment is rosebuds and champagne. To me, life is all about the journey. I've learned to take things as they come, to be grateful, to savor joy, and to leave plenty of time for dreams. Check out Joan's new website: Joan Eden Gray: Romance Author |
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