I had heard rumors on various loops that Triskelion was going for RWA recognition, but when the latest list of recognized publishers went up, Triskelion wasn't on it. I emailed Jaynie R., an editor there, and here's the scoop (posted with permission): Triskelion made the required sales, but the RWA felt the book (Bewitched, Bothered, and Bevampyred) wasn't a romance.
Oh-kay. I must confess I haven't read the book, but its authors include Mary Jo Putney, Vicki Lewis Thompson, Gena Showalter, and MaryJanice Davidson. Hard to believe that book can't be categorized as a romance. Besides, RWA hasn't yet managed to clearly define what a romance is, so I'd like to know how they're so sure this book doesn't fall into that category. The RWA site currently says, "All romances have a central love story and an emotionally satisfying ending." That's not a very precise definition, and efforts to redefine romance haven't gone over so well.
Jaynie R. told me:
"Fact: It had nothing to do with our sales.
Fact: They didn't like Bewitched, Bothered and Bevampyred as a romance.
Fact: We will not give up."
Good for them. Selling so many books is a victory in and of itself for a small press. They deserve RWA recognition, and I'm sure they'll get it before too long. They have the right attitude-- don't give up, guys!
Thanks Ellen for your vote of confidence!
ReplyDeleteThe RWA can keep "changing the rules in midstream" but eventually the epubs will beat them at their own game.
Cynthianna Appel
Triskelion Author
About all I can say is... oh gee.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry, I really want Triskelion to achieve recognition, but I read that book. It isn't even close to having a central love story, and as fun a read as it is, there's no unifying ending, either.
ReplyDeleteI wish them luck with their next try!