There are such good, brilliant people working at my publisher's house (Hi, Lisa, Heidi, Emily!), and sometimes I just take their word for stuff. You know, like I would with my parents back when I was suggestible to their direction. Sure, okay, if you say so, I'll go with you.
But with this title change, the more I thought about it, the more it simply didn't fit. I did some rewriting, threw in a few references that would tie the book in to the title, but you know what? It felt false. It felt like I was using the title (which wasn't mine, and wasn't particularly pertinent) to sell the book, the way I would if the title were brilliant but the book were just... okay. Do you know what I'm saying?
So late Friday evening, we came to a solution. I almost said "to a compromise" but that suggests that we both lowered our expectations to meet in the middle. In fact, I think we came up with something better than any of my previous ideas and better than theirs. So, without any further whinging and moaning, here is the new and improved title for my book which will come out either in February, in May, or not at all:
THE RIDICULOUS ROMANTIC OBSESSIONS OF SARAH HASTINGS
a romantic comedy by Becca Wilhite
Want to tell me you hate it? Just wait a while, okay? I'm still re-learning how to breathe without a paper bag.
I'm hoping this isn't a joke because I rather like it. =]
ReplyDeleteNot a joke. This is where we are right now. Glad you like it! (rather)
ReplyDeleteCongrats again on how well you weathered the drama. And congrats on coming up with a title that everyone likes! No easy task.
ReplyDeleteSo glad that a compromise was possible! It must all be especially tough as the title for your first book fit it just perfectly. That must have made the title you weren't happy with all the more jarring. Can't wait to get my hands on this next one - it sounds like a fun read!
ReplyDeleteI WOULD BUY IT JUST FOR THE TITLE. I'm serious. We all know that titles are everything.
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