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

I am liking G.E Bentham too! and Denise Dichard has that whole alliteration catchy thing! So you have no worries there! and I like Rudd, because one of my favourite actors is Paul Rudd and I find his name memorable! and thank you Denise for your compliments! I am so glad this question has had so many answers and debate because I felt a little silly for posting it, because I thought it would be something obvious LOL.

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Victoria
Limbert
330 points
Practical publishing
Fiction
Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Speculative Fiction
Adventure
Gothic and Horror
Romance
Victoria Limbert
01/03/2012

Gayle, I like the G E Bentham. I think it sounds great.

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Christina
Howland
330 points
Developing your craft
Film, Music, Theatre, TV and Radio
Short stories
Fiction
Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Adventure
Middle Grade (Children's)
Picture Books (Children's)
Speculative Fiction
Historical
Gothic and Horror
Romance
Christina Howland
01/03/2012

I agree with all of the above suggestions/sentiments, bar one: I think 'Limbert' is a catchy and memorable name, especially coupled with 'Victoria'. It stuck in my head long enough for me to write this, without the need for me to go back and check - and that's saying a lot for my memory. :D

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Denise
Dichard
270 points
Developing your craft
Short stories
Fiction
Business, Management and Education
Historical
Denise Dichard
01/03/2012