Sylvia Hawk’sbee, author of ‘The Messengers’
“Having sent off a synopsis and the opening of The Messengers, a YA novel, I had a reply from a publisher saying it was not suitable for their list. The writer added that she had enjoyed the story and it was likely that someone else would. The letter ended, ‘Do not be disheartened.’ I wasn’t so I sent the material to Cranthorpe Millner. Shortly, I had a friendly response saying it sounded like an interesting read. and I would soon hear the readers’ opinion.
I was very excited to hear their report was favourable; they wanted me to send the whole MS.
Another step on the way. I kept looking in the inbox, fearing the next answer would bring disappointment. It didn’t! Incredulous and excited, I sent my acceptance of the contract offered.
Very often good news is followed by bad. As my neighbour said, “La vie n’est pas une fleuve tranquille.” Next day I could hardly put my right foot on the floor. Tendonitis, a painful condition, had struck, then, stunned, I saw society turn into a re-enactment of the Middle Ages, with Corona-virus the new Black Death. My illness and the new Plague can’t be laid at your door, but the joy and excitement of my story finding approval certainly can.”