Meet 2011 Golden Heart Finalist Robin Perini

Over the course of the summer, the Ruby-Slippered Sisters are giving the 2011 Golden Heart finalists an opportunity to introduce themselves and share a bit about their writing life. Today’s guest is Robin Perini, a double finalist in the Contemporary Series Romance – Suspense/Adventure category for IN HER SIGHTS and STOLEN LULLABY. Please join us in congratulating her and welcoming her to the blog!

Seven Golden Hearts – Seven Lessons to Sold!

I’m so honored to have been asked to guest on the Ruby Slippered Sisterhood blog.  Thanks so much for having the Starcatchers (2011 Golden Heart® Finalists) visit and share their stories, advice and inspiration.  I’m following some amazing women, who will be a tough act to follow.

I thought a lot about what I could possibly say.  Not because I don’t like to talk.  My critique group and friends will tell you that for an introvert, I yammer much too much!  But, you see, during the past eighteen months all my dreams have come true.  After being a Golden Heart Finalist seven…yes—a dubious distinction if ever there was one—seven times, I’ve finally caught my falling star, and now it’s soaring.  These days, there are moments when I am speechless.

How did this happen?  How did I go from seven Golden Heart finals in three different categories to sold?  I’ve looked back and found seven lessons I’ve learned since that very first final in March of 1999 with a vampire romance when vampires were…pun intended…dead.

Lesson 1.  Study the craft…always. This may seem obvious, but life can interfere with writing and learning, as I’m sure many of you know.  Over the last decade I’ve worked full time, gone to school at night for my master’s degree, and survived a serious illness.  The most important thing I’ve done, however, is study the craft of writing and storytelling.  I’ve been lucky enough to teach an amazing online class with author Laura Baker called Discovering Story Magic.  The class required me to analyze other writers’ stories.  One of the best ways to learn is to teach.  I highly recommend developing workshops that require you to understand the craft.  It’s been a blessing to me.  This advice goes hand-in-hand with my second bit of advice.  Never stop learning and growing as a writer.

Lesson 2.  Revision is more important than writing. Somewhere along the way, I figured out that I can write.  But that didn’t get me sold.  It got me a lot of contest wins and finals.  What makes the sale?  In my case, it was revision.  And I’m not talking about change a word here or there, I’m talking about understanding what makes a dramatic story and making the tough choices.  Like cutting out that paragraph—or scene or chapter or character—you love so much, because it simply doesn’t drive the story forward.  Understand your strengths and weaknesses enough to play to your strengths and deal with your weaknesses.  If you can step far enough back from your writing to recognize how to strengthen your story, you will find the path an easier one.

Lesson 3.  You’re not alone. Writing is a solitary career, but it doesn’t have to be lonely.  Develop a support system within your family and friends.  Ask and accept support (which I’m not particularly good at, by the way).  Lastly, give to others, in whatever way you can.  Friendship and relationships are a two-way street.  Sometimes you need the help and sometimes your friends need you.  But let people in.  You’ll be glad you did.

Lesson 4.  Trust yourself. I don’t know about you, but sometimes I look in the mirror and wonder how I’ve fooled everyone for so long.  Don’t do it!  Trust your instincts.  Believe in yourself.  Listen to your gut.  I had to learn this lesson the hard way.  I had to really decide who I wanted to be as a writer.  I tried writing numerous books in numerous subgenres.  But I finally discovered the kind of stories I really want to tell.  I love optimistic stories of suspense.  I love heroes and heroines who grow and change and win. I love poignant love stories.  That’s what I do.  Heart-stopping suspense and heart-wrenching romance.  That’s a Robin Perini book.  Know who you are as a writer.  It will help when you doubt yourself.

Lesson 5.  Persistence. One of the reasons this year’s class chose the name Starcatchers is because of the song…”catch a falling star and put it in your pocket, never let it fade away”  Our class is full of writers who have faced the odds, and have come through trials and tribulations.  They inspire me.  They remind me that I can do this.  Our motto could be, “Never give up, never surrender.”  Our song could be Tubthumping – “I get knocked down, and I get up again.”  Don’t get me wrong, there are times I almost quit.  Once I stopped writing for several months, but then I dreamed the stories again.  And I knew.  I am a storyteller.  I am a writer.  Are you?  If you want something badly enough, don’t let the setbacks stop you.  Learn more, grow more, find your path, find yourself.  You’ll be glad you stuck with it.  I know I am.

Lesson 6.  Figure out how to make writing part of your life. One of the changes I made in the last eighteen months is to really look at my priorities. I realized I had to make more choices if I wanted to have a career as a writer.  One very difficult choice was to cut back on teaching writing classes.  I love teaching, I love sharing my passion for the craft of writing, but teaching now comes second to writing.  I also looked at life and determined when I could write so that my production was consistent and predictable.  I chose to write every day.  Weekdays, for ninety minutes before work (even if it means getting up while it’s still dark outside).  I write for at least four hours on weekend days.  This has become routine, and it works for me.  Find out how to make writing part of your life so that when you sell your book, you know that your writing career is integrated into a life where you still have time for the important people in your world.

Lesson 7.  Give it your all. My two grandmothers were huge influences on my life.  One of them told me, after reading my first book, that I had a gift.  Just so you know, this manuscript will never see the light of day, but she believed in me, and I will be forever grateful.  My other grandmother told me that if I wanted to write badly enough, all I had to do was give it all my heart and soul and strength, and I would succeed.  She was right.  Listen to her.

Some might say that being a Starcatcher has been lucky for me.  Perhaps.  To me luck happens when preparedness meets opportunity.

So, yes. I am lucky, because I had two grandmothers, and have a wonderful family and generous friends (as well as a fire-breathing unicorn or two) who taught me how to catch those stars and run with them.

Seven Golden Hearts.  Seven Lessons.  Two Sales.  And counting…

Robin Perini’s love of heart-stopping suspense and poignant romance, coupled with her adoration of high tech weaponry and covert ops, encouraged her secret inner commando to take on the challenge of writing romantic suspense novels.  Robin’s strong characters and tightly woven plots garnered her two Romance Writers of America Golden Heart® finals in 2011.  Her Golden Heart Finalist, In Her Sights, will be one of Amazon’s Montlake Romance’s launch titles on November 29, 2011.  Her Golden Heart Finalist, Stolen Lullaby, will be published by Harlequin Intrigue in May, 2012.  Robin loves to interact with readers.  You can catch her on her website and blog at http://www.robinperini.com or interacting with her via Facebook. (www.facebook.com/RobinPeriniAuthor), Goodreads or Twitter (@RobinPerini).  Her agent is Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

Comments

79 Responses to “Meet 2011 Golden Heart Finalist Robin Perini”

  1. Tammy Baumann says:

    I’m the first to comment? Nice! I have the honor to be one of Robin’s critique partners and here’s the deal. Robin can write. And what I knew the moment I met her was, Robin can sell! It just took having the right book, at the right time, and in the right environment to make that happen!

    Perseverance pays! You’ll sell when the time is right.

    I’m just so happy it is finally Robin’s time!

    Robin has taught me to NEVER give up. You deserve all the good stuff coming your way, my friend. Enjoy!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Awww….Tammy. Thanks for being first. I fully expect your time to come, Ms. Contest Finalist. It’s a blessing getting to listen to you beat up my stuff on a weekly basis. LOL

  2. Kelley Bowen says:

    Robin,
    Thanks for a terrific blog. I love your comments on friendship and making writing part of your life.

    Congratulations on being a GH finalist and on the sale of your manuscripts. I’ve visited your website and will look for STOLEN LULLABY.

    Enjoy NYC!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks so much, Kelley. None of this would mean half as much without the wonder support I have from such amazing friends. And, I have to tell you, once I became a turtle instead of a hare…steady instead of crazy spurts, things really began happening.

      Good luck, and I hope you like Stolen Lullaby.

      Best,
      Robin

  3. Jenn Stark says:

    Robin, what an amazing blog for an amazing person. I am so excited to be with you for this part of your journey as a fellow Starcatcher, and your message is one not only of inspiration, but plain old good advice: make writing your career. No, really, make it your career.

    Every day, I have to remind myself of that – but it’s such a simple way to put the universe on notice. And it works, as any Fire Breathing Unicorn would tell you!

    Jenn

    • Robin Perini says:

      Jenn–fellow Starcatcher and FBU–

      One of the most amazing things about this journey is the amazing people who have become friends…and comrades in arms…because sometimes this career is a battle, too. Before, during and after the sale.

      Glad to go into battle with you as the world changes each minute! Thankful to have friends who can share their weapons and strategy with me. There is always more to learn, and you’ve taught me much in viewing myself as a professional…with a brand, and a viewpoint and an image.

      Hugs,
      Robin

  4. Aislinn says:

    Congratulations on the sales. They are an inspiration, as is this blog. Can’t wait to meet you in New York!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Hi Aislinn–

      Thanks for the kind words…YOU are the inspiration, though. Your amazing sale story is one of the fun ones.

      I just love it when I get to watch the magic unfold for others. It really makes it fun.

      See you in NY!

  5. Tamara Hogan says:

    Folks, Robin’s given away the key to the candy store with her Lesson 6. Read it, live it, love it. Simply said, working writers put in the time. We might need to shift some things around, make some tough choices, to find that time. These choices aren’t easy to make. They require sacrifice of some sort.

    Here’s where you’ll discover how badly you really want it.

    Congratulations on your Golden Heart finals, Robin, and a big w00T! on your sale! You’re proof positive that focus and perserverance pay off.

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks, Tamara…

      That one is a biggie! I believe it made all the difference in me internalizing that this is possible. It helps with fear of success as well. So many times, the intangibles stop us.

      Thanks for stopping by.

      Robin

    • Elise Hayes says:

      Yup, I’ll be up early tomorrow, writing :)

  6. Gwynlyn MacKenzie says:

    Robin,

    Thank you. Every time life gets too overwhelming and I start to think, “It’s too much. There aren’t enough hours in the day!” someone boots me in the tush. Today that someown is you.

    • Gwynlyn MacKenzie says:

      Well look who showed up. DUH. Sorry for the reprise (with additions) First it isn’t there, then it is. Magic. Okay. Today’s a magic day.

  7. Gwynlyn MacKenzie says:

    Robin,

    Thank you. Every time life gets too overwhelming and I start to think, “It’s too much. There aren’t enough hours in the day!” someone boots me in the tush. Today that someone is you.

    Now that today’s earworm is Tubthumping, I guess I better get it in gear!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Hi Gwyn….

      Back atcha, because you’re one of the Starcatchers who inspires me. That’s what so great about developing friends in this business…we can help each other…gonna have to go listen to that song again.

      I’m glad that today I gave you that kick. Please return the favor. I think I’m going to need it a couple of weeks from nokw….deadline.

      Robin

  8. I’m so happy for you! I have had the pleasure of taking one of your workshops and it has helped me improve my writing. Thanks! Congratulations and may you catch thousands more falling stars!

    • Robin Perini says:

      You couldn’t have said much else that means more to me, Christine. Im thrilled to know something in one of the workshops helped you. May your falling stars be plentiful!

      Robin

  9. Kate Parker says:

    Robin, your perseverance is a lesson to all of us about how tremendous talent will come to the fore if you work hard enough and believe enough. Congrats on your well-deserved sales, from your fellow fire-breathing unicorn starcatcher.

    • Robin Perini says:

      Hey, FBU, buddy. Thanks. Sometimes it’s hard to keep the positive attitude. Perhaps it’s blind optimism, or pit-bull stick-to-it-ness…or maybe a hefty dose of stubborn, but I find something always kicks me out of the doldrums when they come…so, you all have permission to kick me if I succumb. Hmmmm…that lesson on accepting help…I’m asking!

      Robin

  10. Congratulations on everything, Robin.

    I second Lesson 2: Revision is more important than writing.

    Call me cocky, but I know I do a pretty good job of putting words together into sentences, sentences into paragraphs, and paragraphs into chapters. But good writing doesn’t make a good story — and a good story doesn’t guarantee a good book. Writing happens whenever you tap on the keys. Stories might blossom in your dreams, or while you’re taking a shower. But books are crafted in revision.

    • Robin Perini says:

      You said it!! I absolutely agree, Jamie. Took a while for me to learn that, and I believe it’s part of what takes you from contest finallng to sold!!!

  11. Anne Barton says:

    Wonderful post, Robin! Lesson 2 is the biggie for me. Getting-your-hands-dirty type revisions make the biggest difference. And I have my CPs (Lesson 3) to thank for pushing me to dig deep.

    Congrats on your recent sales! The Starcatchers are so thrilled for you AND proud of you.

    p.s. – Fire-breathing unicorns of the world, unite!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Awww, Ann. Thanks SO much. Since the Stolen Lullaby sale came as a direct result of the GH, I have to thank RWA, and those wonderful editor judges. It’s been an amazing ride…and the Starcatchers have been just an amazing support. I am so blessed….and breathing a bit of fire.

      Robin

  12. Susanne says:

    Hi Robin,

    Several years ago I judged In Her Sights in a contest. I was so impressed with what I read. I’d read your name in contest wins and think “soon, it’s coming soon.” :)

    So glad to hear it’s being published.

    Best wishes for lots of sales.

    And your article is spot on.

    Susanne

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks SO much, Susanne. In Her Sights is a book that’s REALLY been through the revision mill. I have always loved my female sniper heroine, and I think with the last rounds of revisions–which started with some interest shown by some editors at an RWA panel, and ended with insightful help from an editor and my fantastic agent, Jill Marsal, I think my hero, is a perfect match. I’m so thankful to Amazon’s Montlake Romance for giving it a home. November is coming around the corner.

      Robin

  13. Welcome, Robin, and congratulations on, um, EVERYTHING! Sounds like you’ve been working hard for a long time, and it’s paying off.

    You may be surprised that I’ve heard of you before the GH finals. I’m president of the Northern Arizona chapter (NARWA), and someone in my chapter had a copy of a LERA (??) production – a very thick book of many wonderful articles and resources. And your name was one of the ones on the cover, I believe. I think I have the right Robin?

    I love hearing stories of people who’ve given so much to other writers catching that falling star and finding success.

    Congratulations!!

    • Robin Perini says:

      The LERA Writers Guide. I helped put that book together when I first started writing. Those articles were my first foray into heavy-duty studying. My wonderful RWA chapter, Land of Enchantment Romance Authors (LERA) inspired me. We had very few published or even experienced authors in our group, so we taught each other and learned together. A real lesson in learning and growing begins with the willingness to open your mind, not necessarily about credentials.

      • Diana Layne says:

        I remember when y’all were putting that guide together and I was so impressed–a brand new chapter and what an undertaking!!

        • Robin Perini says:

          Wow, Diana…that does go way back. I think we were a bit crazynlooking back…perhaps crazy with optimism. I still count the WG among my significant accomplishments because it taught me so much about studying the craft. How kind of you to remember…and congrats on your own news.

      • It’s a great guide, and a huge accomplishment! And I agree the open mind is an important first step to learning, as is a great attitude.

        • Robin Perini says:

          I’m sure there are a lot of other tips people have that would be helpful. Those are just mine…and as I said, since I think growing and changing are important, I’m always looking for more advice!!!

  14. C.J. Chase says:

    Robin, I am just so, so, so happy for you.

    Well deserved, long-time coming congrats to you.

    • Robin Perini says:

      Ditto, my dear friend. We’ve been on an amazing journey, haven’t we. I’m as thrilled for you!!!

  15. Wow, Robin! Awesome lessons to live by! These are worthy of printing-out and hanging them on the office wall, and that’s exactly what I’m going to do! Thanks so much for sharing, and congratulations on your sales! See you in New York!

    • Robin Perini says:

      What a wonderful thing to say. I’m always thrilled when I hear that a nugget of my yammering hit home. You made my day!!

  16. Rita Henuber says:

    Congrats on your sales. Very exciting. Thanks for this post. It gets to basics of writing that many overlook. We all need to work on strong foundations. Once we have that every thing else follows. Very glad you mentioned revisions or editing. I can get all kinds of stuff down. A lot isn’t necessary. Or I go on too long about a topic. In rewrites I’ve come to understand if it takes me too long to get something the way I want it –it should go. I tend to make everyone too nice so I have to write in that evil side and layer in the conflict. I really enjoy revisions.
    See ya in NYC

    • Robin Perini says:

      I think you are SO right, Rita. In In Her Sights, I struggled with motivation for certain elements of my story for quite a long time. In the end, changing one character’s main goal…and as a result, plot and motivation…those painful scenes…that eventually got me my agent…went away.

      A real lesson!!!

  17. ROBIN!!!!! So, so happy for you. I knew it’d happen. I’m just glad it finally has so YOU knew it would happen. Woot!!!! Lucky number seven, baby!

    Super Congrats!!!
    ~D~

    • Robin Perini says:

      Crazy how things just happen like a lightening strike…I know you know a thing or two about that!! You warmed my heart with your belief in me…if only we could believe in ourselves as much as others believe in us. Sometimes actions come before the belief.

      The human mind is an interesting beast.

  18. *waving hello* Great advice, Robin. I hope I can put it to good use.

  19. Diana Layne says:

    Robin, another one here that is so happy for you!! It had to happen–never give up, never surrender!! I also used to have the Tubthumping song as my theme song, then it occurred to me I was damned tired of getting knocked down. So I changed my theme song (don’t gag) to Miley Cyrus’s The Climb. It worked, I guess. I just made my first sale, too! Oh, and thanks again for that workshop you gave at DARA, I understand plot points so much better!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Love The Climb. I even have the video :-) . But I say whatever works. And just so whatever slight coolness factor I had still survives, I really like Barry Manilow…Beyonce and Taylor Swift….and Garth Brooks.

      Actually, I’ve decided I’m cool because I dont care what others think of my taste in music. I’m inspired.

      Hugs,
      Robin

  20. Louise B says:

    Robin-
    As one of your critique partners, I know how hard you work to make every book the best it possibly can. You teach these lesson every time we meet. Now I’m about to learn Lesson #2 Revision. I’m glad you’ll be there to help me through it!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Louise my dear friend…no one inspires more than you. You are one of the truly gentle hearts in the world….even if you are a Golden Meanie (our CG’s nickname). I can’t wait to see what you do toyour wonderful story!!! Last chapter…you rock!!!

  21. Hope Ramsay says:

    Robin,

    Congratulations. And what a wonderfully inspirational post. Thank you.

    Would you take a moment to tell us about the book that sold.

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks for asking about the books hope. My first actual sale wa to Amazon’s new Montlake Romance. They bought In Her Sights, one of my GH finalist manuscripts. The publication date is November 29, 2011.  In Her Sights is the story of a female SWAT Team Sniper with a secret past who reluctantly teams with an investigative journalist to uncover and stop the stalker bent on destroying her and everyone she cares about.

      In Her Sights is currently available for pre-order in both paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon. Search for my name.

      Stolen lullaby was the second sale, to Harlequin Intrigue, and as a direct result of the Golden Heart.  It is expected to be available for sale in March, 2012.  Stolen Lullaby is the story of a woman suspected in her husband’s death and baby son’s kidnapping.  She teams with the embattled SWAT cop assigned to prove her guilt, determined to find her son.

      There’s more info on my website about each book…even a trailer for In Her Sights. http://Www.robinperini.com. That’s also where my ‘how to write’ blog is located.

      Thanks so much for asking. I love chatting about my books!! Or anything else for that matter.

  22. Shea Berkley says:

    What can I say that I haven’t said to you a million times before? You are one-of-a-kind, Robin. You’re determination is inspiring. I’ve read every one of your books in their many incarnations, and I’m always amazed at your ability to rip your baby apart and force it back together into one amazing story. I’ve seen you grow as a writer, and I couldn’t be more proud of you. That I won’t be in New York to celebrate with you is tragic. Seriously, you know I’m not happy about being left behind. (temper tantrum will commense in three, two, one…)

    Okay, I took a time out, and I’m better now. (giggle, snort) ENJOY yourself!! Really, tear up Times Square.

    We’re on this crazy journey together, sweetie, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. CONGRATULATIONS on a catching that star!! There isn’t a more deserving person. Hugs and kisses.

    • Robin Perini says:

      So, first off…one of a kind…hmmmm…now that could be taken a lot of ways…LOL. Back atcha, btw.

      Seriously, my poor Critique Group has the misfortune of watching me eviscerate books when they’re not working. More than once. I also know some out there don’t have to do that. I’m in awe of you.

      Shea is one of the most gifted writers I know. I’m so, so lucky to have you as a CP and as a friend. I’ll miss you!!!

      Now, don’t throw a tantrum or go beating up anyone…I know that’s tough for you. LOL

      Seriously, we’re on a wild ride…it’s going to be fun and scary and more.

      Hugs, my friend….lets grab those stars in a whole new world.

  23. Lani Rhea says:

    Robin,

    Thank you for the post. I enjoyed it. I try to live by every detail you mentioned. And I stress “try.” Life seems to get in the way. Congratulations and have a wonderful day!

    • Robin Perini says:

      No truer words, Lani! I think all we can don is understand what the most important things are and do our best to spend our time on the important, not necessarily the urgent. I love the Franklin Planner system of writing a constitution for ourselves. Identifying core values for ourselves, associated goals and then trying to do something each day or week to get to where we want to go. At least then, I’ve thought about what’s important. That makes the choices easier to live with, I think.

      FWIW,
      Robin

  24. Alicia Dean says:

    Wonderful post, Robin. Exellent advice. Thanks so much for the reminders of things I already knew and some additional information I can use in my never ending quest to improve my writing. I am so very, very happy for you! It is definitely well-deserved and long overdue. Enjoy the ride, my dear!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks, Alicia. So far it’s been fantastic. The funny thing is, as long as I’ve been at this, once it happens, some is exactly like you imagined, and so much is not. Partly because it’s a whole new world out there these days. Partly because there’s a new set of challenges. So far, though, it’s been a great ride. This being said on no sleep last night…and I haven’t done an all-nighter in years…how’d I do this in college….LOL?

  25. Sharon Sala says:

    Robin,

    You are such a savvy lady. I can’t wait for the release of your first book and am so proud to call you my friend.

    Sharon Sala

    • Robin Perini says:

      Oh, Sharon, how good of you to stop by. You are one of the people I truly look up to in this business. Not just because of your amazingly wonderfully, emotional books, or you bestselling success, but more because of your willingness to help others and give back…be it family or friends.

      Guys during one of those times that I was the most done, Sharon ended up reading my book through her generous support of the OKRWA chapter–Go Outlaws. She took the time to call me and let me know that I really could write. I SO needed those words at that time. She offered to put herself out there. Because of her belief in me. That’s why her RWA lifetime achievement award is particularly apropos to me. I don’t think I would have been here if not for her timely willingness to give.

      I pray thatni will be able to pay it forward one day.

      Love you, Sharon!!!

  26. Karen and Dale Perini says:

    Robin,

    We are so proud of your accomplishments. You set your goal and saw it through to the end! “The difference between men is a thin as a thread; it separates those who win from those who lose!” You are a winner!! Grandma, Nonnie and Aunt Dadee would be proud of you, too!! We love you!

    Mom & Dad

    • Robin Perini says:

      Oh, man…thanks so much, Mom and Dad. Could I have been more blessed than to have family who love and support me in everything I do!!! I do realize who lucky I am. I’m thankful every day for the ones who inspired and love me.

      Love,
      Robin

  27. Tina Joyce says:

    Wow, Robin! That’s quite some resume! Mega-congrats on yet another final, and more importantly…on those sales! Yay! You’ve learned some great lessons along the way. Thanks so much for sharing them with us (I’m making notes)!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks, Tina!!!

      So glad something I said was noteworthy. See, my loving CG…sometimes my yammering is noteworthy!!! I bet I could learn something from you as well…any advice???

      Robin
      (thanking Tina, and maturely sticking my tongue out at my very, very, mean CG….who I love dearly!!)

  28. I’m arriving late, Robin, but I want to congrat you on your final. And, I loved your message. Totally great advice! See you in NY.

  29. Robin Perini says:

    So great to see you here, Autumn. You’re not late. Thanks for the congrats. Can’t wait to see you!!! It’s gonna be a blast!

    Robin

  30. Robin Perini says:

    Hi everyone,

    I want to thank the Rubies for hosting me, and everyone else for stopping by. It’s been a real blessing and a lot of fun. For those going to NY….find me and say ‘hi’. I’m giving a workshop on Wednesday…Discovering Story Magic, a three step method to creating a story they can’t refuse.

    You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website…www.robinperini.com. You can connect with my Facebook and Twitter accounts from there as well.

    June 5, 2011.  Amazon Montlake Romance will be publshing Robin Perini’s 2011 Golden Heart® Finalist manuscript, In Her Sights.  The publication date is November 29, 2011.  In Her Sights is the story of a female SWAT Team Sniper with a secret past who reluctantly teams with an investigative journalist to uncover and stop the stalker bent on destroying her and everyone she cares about.

    In Her Sights is currently available for pre-order in both paperback and Ebook from Kindle.

    Stolen Lullaby will be published as a Harlequin Intrigue and will be available for sale in March, 2012.  Stolen Lullaby is the story of a woman suspected in her husband’s death and baby son’s kidnapping.  She teams with the embattled SWAT cop assigned to prove her guilt, determined to find her son.

    All my best, and may all of you catch your own stars.
    Robin

  31. Wonderful, inspiring post, Robin! I’m so happy for you! It’s an honor to be in your *last* GH class. ;) Your grandmothers must be so proud of you.

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks, Valerie. As much as I love the GH, I will admit that I’m glad I’m ineligible next year. Here’s counting on many of our Starcatcher sisters being ineligible, too. We’ve already had quite a few wonderful successes, haven’t we.

      And yes, I’m sure my grandmothers are proud of me. I carry them with me, always.

      Robin

  32. I’m a bit late, but just had to chime in on your inspiring, insightful article, Robin. Seven Golden Hearts is such an amazing accomplishment and you’ve been so great about sharing your knowledge and advice with fellow writers.

    I love your ideas for “Never Give Up, Never Surrender” ti be our motto. That so fits us, and we’ve bandied it about so many times on the loop.

    Also love Tubthumping. It’s on my iPod!

    See you in NY!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Hi Laurie–

      Thanks so much for the kind words. I hope that some of the things I’ve said have helped or inspired others. I can only pray that’s true.

      I do like the *Never Give Up, Never Surrender” motto. Loved Galaxy Quest of course, and it goes along with the Starcatcher theme! Hope it catches on.

      Ditto on Tubthumping :-) See you in NY. Let’s celebrate!

      Robin

  33. Seven’s a lucky number, Robin, but I couldn’t agree more with your words: “luck happens when preparedness meets opportunity.” So nice to see someone who’se worked so hard work and been so persistent finally catch their star!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks, Jacqui. I will say that getting prepared required a lot of support and help from a lot of writers, friends and family out there. While no one can write my books for me, there was so much knowledge, and brainstorming and thought that came from my relationships with others.

      Makes it all the more special.

      Thanks SO much for stopping by!

      Robin

  34. Hi, Robin! Congratulations on selling in spectacular style after working so hard all these years! See you in New York!

  35. Linda Hill says:

    Hi Robin…

    I was thrilled when you doubled in the GH…and OVER-THE-MOON – when I read you’d sold. ABSOLUTELY fantastic. Couldn’t happen to a more deserving person. Maybe now “The Right Price” will find a home.

    Looking forward to congratulating you in person next week. I’m printing off your advice and will read it every time I start getting negative and down in the dumps about my writing.

    I’m hoping conference will re-charge my sagging writing spirit. This last year – between moving twice and my husbands 2 surgeries – has been a rough one.

    Hoping to get my rear in gear and back into writing. I’ve been lost without it.

    Hugs…
    Linda (the purple one)

    • Robin Perini says:

      Linda, my friend–

      I’m so sorry it’s been a tough year. I’m hoping that this year brings peace and a renewed spirit. Thanks so much for thinking of me. It means the world!

      Robin
      P.S. Since vampires are no longer all-the-way dead…you never know.

  36. Elisa Beatty says:

    Welcome, Robin!! Sorry to have come so late to the party…but COGNRATS on GH final #7 and on the SALES!!! Your story is inspiring!!

    • Robin Perini says:

      Thanks so much, Elisa. It’s been quite a ride, and I’m so thankful something I said was found to be of value.

      I’m truly blessed.

      Robin

  37. Karen Fonville says:

    Robin, congrats on the final, and on both sales! What a wonderful break in the dam for you. May it continue for a long long time!

    Karen

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