Comments on: Editor blog: Angela James, Executive Editor of Samhain Publishing

By: Vivien Dean

Vivien Dean — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 14:59:13 +0000

This is the kind of reminder quite a few people can use, not just authors. But in regards to authors, it always amazes me how many of them are so caught up in their “art” that they fail to remember that there is business to be done as well in getting their work out to the public. I know too many who think they are above their editor’s opinion, or ignore deadlines repeatedly with the argument “you can’t rush it when it’s not there.” I just want to shake them sometimes, and ask them if they’d expect this kind of behavior in a different workplace.

Thank you so much for posting! I can only hope that enough authors see it and take it to heart.

By: Tez Miller

Tez Miller — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 12:10:00 +0000

Ooh, I like the top she’s wearing in that photo

Have a lovely day!

By: Theresa

Theresa — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 06:12:01 +0000

Angela,

Thanks so much for stepping in and producing such a wonderful blog. This is a very timely reminder too. Think before you speak, or in this case type, because those words can come back to haunt you– over and over and over again.

There is no excuse for rudeness or lack of professionalism. Nor do people forget such rudeness.

By: Marcia

Marcia — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 00:58:23 +0000

Great post, Angela. This reminds me of a post I read about a year ago where an agent let her client go after having a diva-complex meltdown at a book signing. Not only was she rude to the store managers for not having her chocolates as requested–I kid you not–but she berated some of her fans while they stood in line for her “precious” signature. Unbelieveable.

Stories like that lead me to believe that unprofessional authors are a lot like lottery winners. Whether it’s $100 million or a 1-book deal, without common sense and some good home-training, it won’t mean jack come a year from now when you’re sitting alone and wondering what happened.

By: Liz Kreger

Liz Kreger — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 00:43:33 +0000

Thanx again, Angie, for stepping in to do this blog. A stellar job given the lack of notice I gave you. (I so owe you that Margherita at RT! )

Great subject matter. Yes, we ask editors what they’re looking for in a book, but you’re right … an editor has a right to ask what THEY expect in an author. Far too often common courtesy is ignored.

Thank you for the reminder.

By: Zoe Winters

Zoe Winters — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 23:55:22 +0000

We all know what happened with the author who took a page out of Nora Roberts’ books. Sorry, couldn’t resist.

Great post. You’re right in assuming this is a far more helpful topic than “what an editor looks for in a piece of writing.” Because then we get that vague laundry list lol.

How I come across is something I’m concerned about. I don’t want to be seen as someone who might be difficult to work with, but I don’t want people to think I’m a suck up either. In written communication it’s nearly impossible to come out not looking like one or the other sometimes and I’m never sure which is the lesser evil.

By: Edie Ramer

Edie Ramer — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 22:00:42 +0000

Hi Angela, thanks so much for stepping in today and whipping out this great blog. When I see a writer dissing other writers/agents/editors, etc., I avoid that person. I wonder about their manners and their common sense. Luckily, it doesn’t happen often — at least, not that I see.

By: Cynthia Eden

Cynthia Eden — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 21:10:18 +0000

Hi, Angela! Like Michelle and Kathy, I’ve seen plenty of examples of authors not being professional or courteous–and it makes me shake my head. A great reminder for us all–thanks!

By: Karin

Karin — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 20:55:20 +0000

Well, said, Angie. It appears manners are becoming a thing of days gone by. (and thanks for stepping up for the ladies here at MM today)

Barbara, you nailed it, courtesy is crucial in every aspect of every life.

Karin Tabke

By: Barbara Vey

Barbara Vey — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 19:54:50 +0000

And, once again, not being an author, this is how I see it.

Professional and courteous is crucial in all walks of life. I learned long ago, in the business world, to wait AT LEAST one day to give yourself time to cool off before sending an emotional email.

I’ve only been in this blogging business since March, but I’ve been a human being with feelings much longer and even though I try to keep the two separate, sometimes it’s difficult.

At RWA last year (my first), I tried to do everything and make time for everyone. Unfortunately, some events overlapped and when I wasn’t able to get to an event I’d promised I’d TRY to do, that person gave me a very public tongue lashing. It was extremely embarrassing and even though I tried to blow it off, I find I’m not in any hurry to do any favors for this person in the future.

So, my take on this is, be kind to editors. Contrary to some beliefs, they are humans with feelings and it’s always better to have someone who doesn’t consider you a pain in the butt.