It has taken a couple days to write about this–a couple days to believe that it is true.
On this past Saturday night, my second novel, The Measure of Katie Calloway won the most prestigious award in the romance genre–the RITA.
I was up against such strong writers, I didn’t think I had much of a chance. Still….I watched the tweets of those who were at the awards banquet in Anaheim with a small flicker of hope in my heart.
Then I saw my name come up as the winner of the inspirational genre and I will never forget that moment as long as I live. I screamed, and my husband came running. Then he realized what had happened and threw his arms around me and we hugged and cried and laughed and sobbed. It has been a long, long road.
I read many times that it was practically impossible for an unknown author to get published anymore. I kept telling myself that the Lord had never asked me to be successful, He had only asked me to be faithful.
It’s hard to write year after year with nothing to show for it except a stack of unpublished manuscripts and the blind faith that some day all those hours will mean something.
And then, after over a decade of hard work, Sandra Bishop came into my life and quickly established herself as one of the best literary agents in the world. Vicki Crumpton turned out to be the perfect editor for my historicals. As these two women and I worked together, I began to think that maybe we were creating something special.
Saturday night I learned that The Measure Of Katie Calloway truly was a winner. I am so grateful. It is no small thing to be allowed to make a living—while living a dream.
Joleen Pederson
August 1, 2012 @ 1:52 am
You probably won’t read this, since you’ll have thousands and thousands of people writing to you. Still, I want you to know that I truly enjoyed reading your novel, “Love Finds You in Sugarcreek Ohio”. I began reading it yesterday and I couldn’t stop reading it, until I finished it today. I’m passing it on to my mother and sisters because it is one of the best novels I’ve ever read. I love the mystery and the romance, but more than that, I love the integrity of human morals in your story. And I love that the good characters end up well. I went to “google” tonight to find more books written by you. What I found was this website. I read that you won the RITA award. I’m a kindergarten teacher with a masters degree, but I have had no knowledge of the RITA award. Now I know more about it! Congratulations! Please keep writing your stories!
Sincerely,
Joleen Pederson
Serena
August 16, 2012 @ 12:24 pm
Hi Joleen,
Thousands and thousands of people writing me? Bless your heart for thinking so, but that isn’t my life–at least not yet:-) I still read and appreciate every e-mail I receive. I also reply to each one–although it sometimes takes me awhile. Thank you so much for recommending Love Finds You In Sugarcreek to your sisters and mother. I think you will enjoy the other books as well. Let me know what you think.
It takes a special kind of person to be a kindergarten teacher. I know your children are blessed to have you.
Serena
Laura Frantz
August 2, 2012 @ 1:12 pm
Serena, Just heard the news and am SO thrilled for you! Katie’s story is very special and I know readers can’t wait till October for you next historical!
Serena
August 16, 2012 @ 12:16 pm
Hi Laura, Thanks so much! I have been, and am still on deadline but I wanted to tell you that I just picked up one of your, and one of Ann Gabhart’s books as my big reward when that deadline is met!! Going to lounge around on the porch, sipping tea, and let you two tell me great stories! Already ordered a tin my favorite tea from Amazon. Can’t wait!
Laura Raper
August 2, 2012 @ 1:36 pm
Wow! Serena that is just wonderful news! Congratulations!
I have enjoyed all your novels and am anxious for the next one. They have all been “page turners”. Keep up the good work!
Love you!
Serena
August 16, 2012 @ 12:29 pm
I’m thrilled with the award, Laura, its a really big deal to me, but hearing about your son miraculously regaining his health is a million times more exciting. I am so relieved and grateful that all of you have such hope.
Robin Brunett
August 5, 2012 @ 2:01 pm
Serena, I am so happy for you. The award is much deserved! I am looking forward to your next book, as well. Mom filled me in on your recent visit. Wish I could have been there!
Love,
Robin
Serena
August 16, 2012 @ 12:25 pm
Hi Robin–I’m so sorry we missed you on our last visit. We had such a nice time with your family. Your mom and dad are amazing!! They make being in one’s eighties look like fun!
Vicki Crabtree
August 14, 2012 @ 12:04 pm
Serena,
I’m so proud of you, and so glad I know your heart. I received a note from my friend Shawna in TN who loves your books. Here’s what she said,”I’ve just read 3 novels, Love Finds You in Sugarcreek Ohio, An Uncommon Grace & The Measure of Katie Calloway by author Serena Miller – they are Christian love stories and they were GGRRRRRREAT! Thank you Vicki Crabtree for these delightful gifts. I have enjoyed every minute while reading them – riveting, heart pounding, charming & interesting down to the last sentence. I can’t wait for her new novel to hit the market. Teeheehee!”
You are famous all all over this country and around the world…Remember Marla in Paraguay who loves your books, too. Keep writing for us and for the Lord.
Love you, Vicki
Serena
August 16, 2012 @ 12:32 pm
Thanks, Vicki! I’ll try to continue to produce books you won’t be embarrassed to share with your friends:-)
Jillian Kent
September 30, 2012 @ 6:34 pm
I am so incredibly proud of you, Serena. Remember when? 🙂 And I love these words of yours: “I read many times that it was practically impossible for an unknown author to get published anymore. I kept telling myself that the Lord had never asked me to be successful, He had only asked me to be faithful.”
Hugs,
Jill
Karen Lee
April 14, 2013 @ 7:03 pm
Wow God is so faithful..keep up the good work.