Author names

by Victoria Limbert
29th February 2012

Hi, I recently have read a few stories about writers who have sent off their manuscripts and met rejections only to change their name, to a pen name of sorts, and been accepted. I was wondering if anyone else had encountered a similair story, and whether having a catchy name is very important in getting your manuscript even seen. I am aware that it is possible that a publisher/agent will change your name around a bit (JK Rowling) but I did not think about the effect your name could have in getting your manuscript read.

Replies

A S is quite right; the initials thing is a good idea. J K for example. JRR Tolkein being another. Two great authors right there.

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Christina
Howland
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Christina Howland
29/02/2012

V.R. Limbert. Sounds good to me.

Though AS Glenn is not my birth name. AS Ali was until I got married and took my wife's surname...

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Anthony Scott
Glenn
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Anthony Scott Glenn
29/02/2012

well we do share a great name of course, Victoria! :)

I was just wondering, due to the stories, whether I would be better off just using my first and middle name, which is Ruth, as a writers name as I am not sure Limbert is a catchy nor memorable name. Stories like that seriously make you think about the names parents gave you! Thanks mum :p

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Victoria
Limbert
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Victoria Limbert
29/02/2012