Today's blog is a eulogy of sorts, an ode to Kate Duffy, Editorial Director with Kensington Publishing, who passed away this weekend.
Those of you who read and commented on my post entitled "Never, Ever Give Up" know that Kate Duffy purchased my first book - A Precious Gem titled Friends & Lovers. What I didn't realize at the time is how fate smiled on me with enough good fortune that I was able to work with a legend in the business of romantic fiction.
Kate launched the Precious Gem line of contemporary romances, wanting a place where new authors could find a home. I found her to be one of the most visionary, warm-hearted and loyal editors in the business. She not only knew how to think outside the box, but she executed her ideas into actions - and the kind of success most only dream of. Gems was a perfect example of that fact and it launched many careers. Beyond that, though, and just as importantly, she treated her authors incredibly well.
I owe her my start, but she earned my respect. To this day, rejections come, rejections go. Working through the roller coaster ride of publishing can leave a writer feeling crushed at times, and sorely lacking in the confidence department.
Now, however, I'll keep one very important fact in mind: Kate Duffy - a legendary editor in the business - saw fit to purchase and publish a book of mine under Kensington's banner. If I succeeded in winning her interest, my writing can't be all bad.
I'll wear that truth like a badge of honor now, and I won't let any degree of negativity knock it away.
Thanks, Kate, from a grateful author who only wishes she could have worked with you time and time again. Rest in peace with angels at your side and "Brilliant Work" aplenty to read and enjoy. You were, as you often said, a fan before you were an editor. Thank you for being our champion.
Kensington, and writers/lovers of romance have lost a legend.
