I have read that a writer shouldn't expect any fireworks when her book is published. They say, Know yourself well before you become a writer, because you'll be the same person inside, with or without your name on a book cover.
They say, in the publishing industry, yours is another book. Just like in the wedding industry, you are just another bride.
I have read this advice. I have braced myself for the nonchalance of holding my book in my hands, for the calendar to scroll on by without the declaration of a national holiday.
But, I may have to respectfully disagree. My experience has been different. In fact, there has been no moment in my life quite like when I held this book in my hands for the first time.
I met with my publisher and my agent yesterday morning. We planned to discuss endorsements for this book as well as outlines and ideas for the next manuscript. But before we started, he said, "Close your eyes."
I love surprises.
I opened my eyes and saw my very first copy of And Life Comes Back. I couldn't speak. I nearly couldn't breathe. The moment stood still and I was actually hesitant to touch it, this dream realized before me.
My name on the cover. My words on the pages. It is wholly other to read my thoughts in a book - not on a computer screen, not printed on 20 lb. 8 x 11 white paper. In a book, like other books I've read, by other authors. The text, the font, the headings, the chapters - all there.
I gave my parents the first copy, and placing it in their hands was actually sweeter than holding it in mine.
Last night, I sat down and read the entire book, in one sitting - and I never read a book in one sitting - as if the story were new to me. As if I didn't already know the plot, the characters, and how the last chapter ends, as if I haven't already read the entire book a dozen times at least.
Out of the blue, an ordinary day turned into one I will never, ever forget.
This is the first time this has felt real: I'm an author.
I cannot WAIT to read it! I don't comment often, but congrats! This is such an accomplishment.
Congratulations--you have a right to be proud. You are using your God-given gifts to the benefit of others. What a joy that is! And with the gratitude of your heart, you bring God's blessing to us all. Love to you. And may the next book be as rewarding to your heart.
My endorsement carries no weight, but I offer it wholeheartedly. Will be in line to purchase on the day it is released.
We can't wait to get our copies! We'll read it in one night too. Love you!
Congrats, Tricia! I can't wait to hold my very own copy. 🙂
Through teary eyes, I have never seen a more beautiful book cover and know it is eclipsed by what is waiting for me to read inside. Congratulations on the birth of this book.
So very happy for you.
This is awesome....I can't wait to read your book, Tricia!!!!
Congratulations, Tricia!!!! I'm glad you are relishing this moment. 🙂
When will we be honored to hold it in our own hands? I have been setting $.50 aside every Sunday so that I will be able to pay cash for this much anticipated book.
Congratulations, Tricia! I'm so excited to read it!
Hurrah! Bring on the fireworks! Let us celebrate the long-labored birth of the first book! Congratulations, it's beautiful 🙂 can't wait to meet it in person.
Congratulations! You are amazing.
We all wait to hold it in our hands, too. Here's to unexpected best days, ever!
Congratulations, Tricia! Beauty from ashes.
Congratulations Tricia! The book came at a high price for you, but God doesn't waste our pain. I'm proud to know you!
how exciting for you! i can only imagine all the emotions exploding (much like fireworks! 🙂 in your head when you first held that very special book. and to give it to your parents...i love that. am so looking forward to getting a copy - and i also LOVE the cover 🙂
How awesome is that!!!! Congrats!! Xoxo
Sent from my iPhone
Many congratulations, Tricia!!
Congratulations! I can hardly wait to get my copy soon. 🙂
Thanks for making me cry again 🙂 Wonderful, I love the cover.
Deborah
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE this! I am so happy for you. What a fulfillment of so many dreams!
!!!!!!!!CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!
This took my breath away!!! (I can feel the fireworks all the way in Tennessee 🙂
Tricia dear, this is like giving birth, it is your child, a piece of you. That is why this is why this experience was so different from what you have read about.
I am so excited and happy for you!!! (And for me since this means I'm one step closer to getting to read it). Well done and I hope there are many more surprise filled days for you as the book prepares to be released!
I can't wait to read it! So proud for you!
Holding a real live book in your hands that has your name printed where a real live author's name goes is a feeling like no other. Seeing that book on the shelf of a real live bookstore (while they still exist) with other real live books is another rush. Congratulations and enjoy the ride!
So cool!
Congratulations on a journey of faith well lived...