First of all, huge congratulations to my buddy KM Walton for landing herself a big-time literary agent. You faithfully walked the walk, did all the things you were supposed to and more, refusing to give up (almost) every step of the way, and now you're officially 'in the game'. Because that's really what being agented is all about. Until you sign with someone, being published seems like a perpetually unobtainable dream. Then it all changes. Once you're agented, it's almost like that contract could come at any time -- your ultimate fantasy could come true at any moment. Of course, most of us still wind up doing many revisions and writing several more books and waiting several more years (like me), but it's still a huge relief to know that you're a real, live 'player'. Sometimes people do get published right out of the gate, though, and Kate, I hope that's you.
While I'm congratulating people, I should also mention Mercedes Yardley. About a week ago, she signed with Jason Yarn from Paradigm. I haven't known her for quite as long as I've known Kate, but I'm still very excited, and feel very gratified for her. I read her book last year, and in all honesty, it was hands down the most haunting, resonant book I've read in the last couple years (published or no). You rock, Mercedes -- and soon the whole world shall see how hard.
As for me, I'm still waiting to hear how my agent likes Talonshale version seven. When he responds, I'm sure I'll be diving deep into revision-mode once more, but in the mean time, I'm taking a break from writing and just enjoying the summer with my family.
So where are the rest of you at? Been a while since I've compared notes with some of you. Anyone else land an agent while I wasn't looking?
