Before I became a published author, I attempted to follow the advice of getting articles published first to build a resume. This was in 2006 when mortgage rip-offs were rampant and lenders were doing bait-and-switch and piling on needless junk fees like crazy. I was a mortgage broker, so the greed was making me sick to my stomach.
I wrote an article exposing the scams and sent it to a financial magazine for possible publication. Next came waiting for a reply, which can take several months. While I was waiting, I thought I’d get started writing my book, which was truly my passion.
I finished the book, traveled from Seattle to a writers’ conference in New York City, and met my literary agent. My agent sold the manuscript to Wiley & Sons, Inc. My editor at Wiley was wonderful and helped me polish it into Mortgage Ripoffs and Money Savers. The book was released in 2007, sold in bookstores all over the country.
Radio Host Bob Brinker reviewed my book and gave it “12 stars out of 10.” Sales took off!
Then I received an envelope in the mail. It was from the finance magazine. It contained a short rejection letter: Thank you for your submission, but we don’t feel like the topic of mortgage rip-offs is relevant to our audience, because our readers have very good credit.” That made me laugh.
Too late, I thought. My book is already out and selling. Plus, it’s all over the news that people like your readers are getting financially hurt by the mortgage meltdown that is happening right in front of your eyes.
But the thing that made me smile the most is that even though my “practice piece” did not get published, my “real piece,” my book, did. It was ironic that I could write a book, get an agent and a publisher, and have the book out in stores all over the U.S. before my little magazine article could get a rejection.
What is your BIG dream? Go for it! Don’t worry about who ignores you, ghosts you, or disparages you along the way. What do they know, anyway? If you’re an expert on your topic, proceed with full confidence.
My first (now somewhat outdated) and current (new and relevant) mortgage books:
Hello Carolyn,
I hope this message finds you well. I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for all the emails you send. I always read your messages and save the tips you share—they are truly helpful!
Your dedication to providing valuable information is something I greatly appreciate. Thank you for inspiring me to learn more and for your constant support through your emails.
I look forward to receiving more of your advice! Thank you again for all that you do!
Best regards,
i love this story. Thank you for the inspiration.
Jodie