Writing and Dog showing. Not much in common? Think again

[Viviane Brentanos]

A few months ago, i received an email from a UK agent who wanted to look at a proposal for ms no 3. She had previously passed on my ms no 2 which since then has been picked up for pub by Tiger Publications about which, naturally, I am thrilled. {they now have no 3 also.} I mentioned this to this agent of and she then proceeded to warn me against rushing in with US small presses. While I am sure she has my interests at heart, it does make me a little angry to think such presses are still regarded as not legit..
In my humble opinion, and based on what others have told me, the big pubs aren't so hot at the prom stuff. If you think about it logically, only so many authors make it on to the best seller list. It is only a handful of who are guarenteed prime shelf space in the high street book stores. And who do you usually find there? Glamour models and adolescent soccar players peddling their memoirs. Well, this is the case in the UK, certainly. I don't know about the States. I am afraid the major players, for me, have lost a lot of of their integrity. Basically the pub game reminds me so much of dog showing.
She has gone mad, I hear you all say; too much Greek sun and retsina. What do I mean about dog showing? Let me explain, my children.
Back in the 80's, my ex husband and I showed Afghan Hounds and rather successfully. We had 3 dogs in the ring but our high flyer was a silver blue brindle that did extremely well at championship level, making it to Crufts two years running. {well I have to brag} He was a beautiful specimen of Afghan, adhering to the breed standard. He became known on the circuit for having the perfect head.
In a championship level show, there can be as many as 50 dogs in each class - all equally of a very high standard. How does the judge pick a winner? At the end of the day, when faced with a sea of breed perfection, it all comes down to showmanship, presentation and the judges' personal preference for a certain line. I soon learned this.
William {dog - not husband} was always groomed to perfection. Daily road work ensured he possessed Spartan muscle tone. I made sure his lead's colour accentuated his coat colour. I made sure I wore dark trousers to show off his silver coat. I spent hours lead training him so that when he strode out the crowd gasped. I Studied the judges past record and didn't bother entering under a judge who I knew didn't like my dog's particular breed line.
Is submitting not the same? Its all about catching an agents or readers eye, I have read many extracts on the various promo loops and while some of the story lines are not to my taste, all have one thing in common. All these authors can write. It is a matter of finding that magical ingredient that will catch an editor's eye. This is something, I believe, can be learned. I know it took me a while.
When I think of the initial query letters and synopsis I sent out, I cringe. But I learnt from my mistakes. I learnt about showmanship and with WRP and now the up and coming print pub, Tiger, I have I found judges who appreciate my " pedigree".
See? I am not loopy after all - well not much.

Viviane Brentanos

[Chiron O'Keefe]

Great post, Viviane!

It's true what you say. Seeking representation is rather like hoping to be accepted by the high school clique. *rueful grin* You need to flatter and woo, be "Just Like" the bestselling books yet completely unique.

I wonder too about the denigration of the small press. An open door is better than a kick in the butt, I say!

--Chiron

[Viviane Brentanos]

Thanks Zaynah,

Nice to have you as a friend. Love to visit Mauritious one day. Keep on following your dream,

Viv

[Viviane Brentanos]

well I did have you as a critique partner guiding me in all of my endeavors.

[Christine London]

Your tenacity has paid off. That and your willingness to not settle, to demonstrate your true wonderful colours and have that something extra. You have and you do. Perhaps the big New York pubs are in your future, perhaps not. It is that spark that will ignite your readership. It will catch on via your voice and that certain something that will win readers.
Thanks for sharing this great metaphor for success.
Christine London