I've Never Stopped Smiling

Eileen Thornton

The weeks and months, which followed my special day, have been unforgettable. I have never stopped smiling since 10th September 2007. Because, not only was it my Wedding Anniversary, but it was also the day I signed a contract for the publication of my novel, The Trojan Project. Though I was absolutely delighted at the prospect of finally seeing my novel in print, I never dreamed that such a simple act of signing my name at the bottom of a sheet of paper would change my life so much.

The weeks, months, even years preceding this special day had been so depressing, as each time I submitted my manuscript it was returned with a rejection slip. Unless anyone has been through it, they can't have any idea how frustrating it can be. However, all the disappointments of the past were wiped away, the day I signed that one special document headed 'Publishing Contract'. With it, came a very modest advance from the publisher.

To some people, publishing a novel is old hat, as they have done it so often before. But to me it was an exciting new concept and I looked forward to seeing exactly how the process would unfold. The next couple of months were rather quiet, except for the odd letter from the publisher, informing me of the proof-reader's progress. But then, just before last Christmas, I was sent the first set of proofs for my approval.

At first I found the various strange symbols used to mark corrections in the manuscript, rather bewildering. However, I soon picked up the jargon and was able to use them myself to add or subtract something I felt unhappy with. Checking the proofs was an arduous task, yet at the same time it there was a kind of thrill about it, as it was what getting published was all about.

Then came the book cover. The publisher asked whether I might have any ideas of my own for the cover. Putting our heads together, my husband and I came up with a few suggestions and we waited with baited breath to see whether or not they would use one of them or choose something of their own. Therefore you can imagine my delight, when I heard that the cover was to be made up from one of our designs. When the proof arrived, we thought it was just perfect.

The next thrilling instalment came in the form of the final proofs - I knew then that the publication day was drawing close. Finally, some nine months after my special day, my book was published on the 26th May.

At the beginning of June, I held a Champagne launch in the village where I live. I was so happy when almost everyone turned out to buy a copy of my newly published book. My friends and neighbours were almost as excited as I was. They were so enthusiastic that someone in their own area had achieved the seemingly impossible.

While continuing to promote my novel, I have done things that, only a few short months ago, I would never have believed I would ever do. For a start, I have given a couple of talks. Until then, public speaking was alien to me, as I have always shied away from making any kind of speeches. My very first talk was at our local library and yes, I was nervous. However, once I saw that people were interested in what I had to say, I began to relax. The next talk I found to be much easier.

I have also done book signings. Again, this is something entirely new to me and I was a little anxious about it. But I threw caution to the wind and 'went for it', as they say and I have to add that I enjoyed the whole experience. The people I met had come to the bookshops simply because they wanted to meet me and buy my book. I find it extremely satisfying knowing that people really want to read something that I have created. I have also given interviews for the local papers and Internet Website pages.

It is now just over twelve months since my special day and I am still smiling, as positive reviews of my novel continue to find their way into magazines and newsletters.