Persistent, according to my online Oxford American dictionary, means “continuing firmly or obstinately in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.” Another definition is “continuing to exist or endure over a prolonged period.”

We often hear how difficult it can be to get that seemingly impossible first contract, and yet new writers see their books in print every year. Despite the dire statistics, seven of the sixty-four Romance Writers of America® 2008 Golden Heart® finalists have been offered contracts this year. One finalist sold her GH manuscript, one a non-GH entry, another two shorts. Three of these amazing women were offered two-book contracts, and one has sold four of her romances.

Yes, persistence leads to publication. Richard Bach, author of Jonathan Livingston Seagull, put it so well: “A professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit.” The truth of that statement resonates with the six finalists who sold. They kept writing and dreaming of getting The Call for years. For one it was four, another eight and one an incredible sixteen. They were persistent, and they sold.

On Thursday, June 26, author Beth Trissel, will share her twelve-year journey to publication. She’s a shining example of how persistence pays. Prepare to be entertained and encouraged.

How long have you been writing? How do you remain motivated when you encounter obstacles in your path to publication?

Every person leaving a comment will be entered in a drawing for a $5 Starbucks gift card. I’ll accept entries until 9 p.m. PDT on Tuesday, June 24, when I will post the winner’s name.