Terry snapped up my book after fifty-two other Christian
literary agents who represent my genre declined my queries. He placed it with a
small but reputable publisher that was just beginning its fiction department.
My first book went into its second printing five weeks after its official
release date--almost unheard of sales numbers for a new novelist--and swiftly
landed at number eleven on ChristianBook.
What does Terry see in these new writers that others agents don't? Many agents,
wisely, work with established authors whose books have consistently resulted in
high sales numbers. It's good business and it insures good writing will land in
the hands of CBA readers. Perhaps what Terry sees, and why he takes chances on
the unproven wannabes, is that he sees writers who are eager enough and
determined enough--and are aware enough of what it takes to land among
giants--that they pour their souls and all their creativity and countless hours
into works that bring the readers something new, perhaps new characters, new
settings, new plots, and new voices that their audience hasn't seen before.
What I DO know is that if Terry didn't have a gift for singling out the best
new authors he can find--folks who are hungry and who stand firm against the
odds--then he wouldn't be consistently near the top of the Publisher's Market
Place list of top dealmakers for debut authors.
The man runs. While wearing rocket shoes. And he doesn't stop. He maintains
frequent contact with each of his authors, and has built a successful clients
loop wherein we learn from, promote, and encourage each other. Terry's methods
are genius, and that with his heart and conviction and his ability to see the
best possible publisher/author fit, have launched the careers and success of
many authors.
His clients are loyal because we know all that he does, and we want to give
back just as much as he gives to us. I, tucked into my soft bed at night and
surrounded by stacks of my published novels, thank God for Terry Burns.
Tammy
Award-winning, Best-selling Author.
Five-star Manuscript Editor.
~ Love's Rescue ~
Recently #11 on ChristianBook'
~Hope's Promise~ Coming August 2010!
~Faith's Reward~ Coming January 2011!
Lassos -N- Lace
Newsletter ~ Always something new. Always inspiring. Always great with
chocolate.