Walk, Trot, Run: An Author's Journey from Novice Writer to a Multi-book Publishing Contract

Join the St. Louis Publishers Association on May 11 for “Walk, Trot, Run:  An Author’s Journey from Novice Writer to a Multi-book Publishing Contract”, featuring Debbie Burns, best-selling author of the Rescue Me series. 

Writers have many paths to publication and face multiple roadblocks. Debbie’s journey over several years landed her a three-book publishing deal in 2016. Since then, she has signed two additional multi-book contracts and written eight manuscripts. Her deep dive into working with a mid-sized publisher resulted in an entirely new learning curve.  

Debbie will talk about her journey from novice writer to traditionally published author with a ten-book deal with one of America’s top ten publishers. She will review her milestones from pre-publication, including rising above rejection to landing her first agent for a young adult manuscript, deciding when to seek new representation, and receiving her first three-book deal. She will also share her experiences working with a traditional publisher and what she has learned along the way. 

To date, Debbie’s published work includes six contemporary romances:  the Rescue Me series (set in a fictional no-kill animal shelter in St. Louis) and one stand-alone work of mainstream women’s fiction, with a second to release in 2023.   

Debbie Burns is a best-selling author of the critically acclaimed Rescue Me series. While her books have earned many awards and commendations, including a starred review from Publishers Weekly, her favorite praise is from readers who’ve been inspired to adopt a pet in need from their local shelter. 

Debbie lives in Saint Louis with her family, two thoroughly spoiled rescue dogs, and a ridiculously grumpy Maine Coon cat who (most) everyone loves anyway. Her hobbies include hiking in the Missouri woods, attempting to grow the perfect tomato, birdwatching, and daydreaming, which of course always leads to new story ideas. 

You can find Debbie on Instagram @_debbieburns, on Facebook @authordebbieburns,  and at http://www.authordebbieburns.com.   

ZOOM INSTRUCTIONS:  Sign up is free. You can join from your smartphone, computer, or tablet. If it’s your first time, follow the prompts and allow it to access your camera and microphone. Click on this link for the meeting:  https://zoom.us/j/86782144399. Meeting ID is 867 8214 4399. Password is 668448.