For the month of February, I’ve asked some authors to share their experience the first time they submitted a manuscript–regardless of the outcome. Today we have the very talented, Gina Gordon. She’s got a giveaway too, so be sure to read through and leave a comment to be entered!

First Submission Series:

February 1: Emily Cale

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How I Popped My Submission Cherry

My call came unexpectedly. My call came quickly.

And it is NOT supposed to be like that.

After a year of diligently writing for publication I decided to take the plunge. I would submit a manuscript….and then just sit back and wait for my rejection. I needed to build up my tolerance after all.

I polished my story. I researched publishers and then hit send. I remember being nervous, excited and wanting to throw up all at the same time.

About six hours later I got an e-mail from the acquisitions editor at Breathless Press telling me they wanted to publish my story. I squeed. I cried. And after my husband and I had way too many drinks, the news had finally sunk in.

This first story was the first step in my journey. It paved the way to where I am today. Looking back, boy did it stink. LOL It’s amazing how much you grow as a writer with every manuscript you finish.

Although my first attempt was lucky, many rejections followed. Rejection comes with the territory.  So for those of you who aren’t yet published, you better grow a thick skin. You’re going to need it. But with rejection, comes knowledge and the more you learn, the better your writing gets.

The best piece of advice you’ll ever get, from anyone, not just from me, is don’t give up. Whether your first attempt at submission is lucky or…not so much. Don’t give up. Keep after your dream. If you want it bad enough, it’ll come true.

So tell me, what publisher popped your submission cherry?  If you leave a comment, you’ll be entered to win ebook copies of all 3 novellas in my Bare Naked Designs series.

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Gina loves spinning contemporary tales of knee-bending first kisses, unconditional love and super-hot sex scenes. She loves all things cupcakes and is addicted to Starbucks.  Gina lives in Toronto, Canada with her husband and lovable dog. For more information on Gina and her books, visit: www.ginagordon.net