Quartet Press has closed.
Let’s just get that out of the way for anyone who hasn’t been around for in the past 24 hours. I can’t write about the details of the why it happened, partly because I’m still a little puzzled and confused about the choice made and wasn’t involved in any part of that decision, but also because I’m still under 48 hours of finding out myself, rather abruptly and without warning, so I’m still processing. Plus, I’m not willing to say anything about it if I can’t be honest, so instead, I can only talk about my personal experience and feelings, I’m sorry.
To say I’m sick, and sad, and shocked (and other “s” words you can think of that might be appropriate) and, yep, angry might be putting it a little mildly. Who would have expected this? But as with my joining of Quartet Press, it’s abrupt closure has caused a lot of speculation, some general nastiness and lots of disappointment, and I know people are looking for some sort of answers that I’m very sorry I can’t give publicly. At the same time, the offers of support and well-wishes have been more overwhelming than anything. Thank you.
Publishing is a business, and like any other business, the chances we take and the choices we make aren’t always going to work out how we planned. Though I didn’t leap into the decision to join Quartet, and spent weeks negotiating with them, agonizing over my decision, long conversations with my husband, and working out contract details, it only shows that even the most carefully thought out decisions and plans can still crumble. It happens. I made a business decision, a choice, and I own that, if anyone expected me to say differently, you haven’t been paying attention to who I am. So, in looking back and Monday morning quarterbacking my decision…I know that I was careful, I didn’t make a precipitous, foolish or sudden decision and I can’t say I’m sure I would have done it differently. And if the opportunity comes in the future for me to work with Kirk and Kassia again, I would be eager to take it, because they’re two of the smartest people I know and I only wish osmosis worked so I could soak up some of that and share the brilliance and ingenuity.
The difficult part of this now is moving on. Moving on to something new and different. Moving on from the speculative comments suggesting I was secretly working for Quartet for months while working for Samhain (I wasn’t, my official start date at Quartet was mid-August and came only shortly after we finalized negotiations. There is no unofficial start date), that I did something unethical or horrendously wrong in making a business decision for myself and my family, or that I somehow got what I deserved for daring to do try to do something different with my career. Moving on from the guilt that I feel towards my husband and daughter, and the people, both friends and strangers, who supported and believed in the project, the authors and editorial candidates that committed time and energy. Moving on to continue to prove that digital publishing IS viable, despite this happening because what happened had nothing to do with the viability of digital publishing. Nothing. And, yes, moving on to the next project I believe in. Because, in the end, I believed in Quartet Press and I still do think it could have succeeded and been an asset to the digital community. That it came to this still has me reeling in shock because, truthfully, the plans were in place, deals were made and we were well on our way to launching and becoming profitable. I’m just so disappointed, you can’t possibly imagine.
So, moving on. Of course it’s not always easy, it’s not always fun but it’s what we do and I’m going to throw myself into that because I’m not the type to be content to sit around. That’s how I ended up in digital publishing in the first place, because I love to work. What am I going to do? I don’t know yet. I believe I have a lot to offer, both in my skills as an editor and in my knowledge of digital publishing. Hopefully some smart publisher out there will recognize that and call immediately 
In the meantime, I’ll look at this as an opportunity to make new plans, do some reading and get some sewing done. When you go from tremendously, overwhelmingly busy to…not so much…you realize all the things you’ve been putting off “until you have time”. I guess that’s now!
This is one of those times you will look back and say; it happened for a reason.
For what I read from you and about you, you have more experience and talent than many of those you worked for in the past. I honesty think you should begin your own epublishing business. It doesn’t matter how small, it will grow eventually.
Don’t be afraid, you helped somebody else’s business to succeed.
Just think about it please, best of luck Angela!
**hugs**
Sorry to hear this, and wish you all the best. (I had just finished up my Content Editor test too, when the news broke!) Ah well, such is life.
I’m sure you will move on to bigger and better things
Aw, Angela, I’m so sorry this happened. Though I haven’t been directly involved with either Samhain or QP, I’ve been following all the news (and I’m a longtime admirer of Samhain) – and the first thing that came to mind when I heard about QP closing was your post about joining them, and how they’d approached you and you initially turned them down. I already knew it wasn’t a decision you’d made lightly, and it was sad to hear that they closed just like that, without any warning.
There has been a startling amount of negativity, too, and I’m saddened that people continue to react this way (even after the multiple, heavily blogged and tweeted #fails that seem to abound on the internet lately).
You don’t know me, and I don’t know you (and I promise I’m not a stalker), but I wish you the best of luck. I think you’re important to the future of DP – and I’m sure you’ll find where you’re meant to be.
Cyber hugs.
Angie, reading this news on SBTB and DA came as a shock to me. For a few minutes, I despaired how damaging this was to you, the rep of ePublishing, the authors, and yes, even the principals. However, your post here is simply amazing. You’ve re-established my belief that despite hardships, people and ideas can survive and thrive. It’s attitude that makes the difference. Professional elan, a firm belief in yourself, a willingness to work hard, and being honorable and trustworthy–this is the difference between success and failure. For this, I’ll always be interested in whatever venture you invest in.
In short: You Rock!
(((Angie)))
The one thing that comes across so strongly in your post is your determination. All the best!
I am in a similar situation, where what seemed to be a very promising endeavor crumbled before my eyes leaving me reeling and angry and sadly, unemployed. It seemed like the end of everything. Instead I know now that it was the beginning of something great. Funny, I still don’t know what that something great is (I was one of your editorial candidates and I was hoping for that to be a jump start) but I’m confident that the universe has something in store for us. Good luck and I hope our paths cross in the future. Former bosses be damned! ::-)
Thinking of you; best wishes for something new and wonderful and stable to come along soon.
Just dropping in to send my support – you did a great job with QP, and if it wasn’t meant to be, then that’s because something better is coming along soon.
(Maybe you should just start your own press?)
When I read the announcement in today’s PW, my first thought was of you. I’m hoping everything works out well. You have been a strong champion of e-publishing and of romance in general. I have faith another opportunity will come along.
Best
Cheryl
What a fabulous attitude. You know I wish you all the best. Something wonderful will come along soon.
Hugs and smooches,
AP
Angela,
I just wanted to offer my condolences and well wishes. It’s never easy starting over. No matter the business, the feelings of anxiety, hope and excitement are the same. A lot of people put a lot on the line with the launch of Quartet Press. I was rooting for it to succeed.
You are extremely talented at what you do. The sheer volume of support on this blog is a testament of that. I have no doubts that you will move on to new and exciting opportunities in the future — and I’ll be there, rooting for you.
Like many who have commented, I’ve never met you in person but, from what I’ve heard and read in your Tweets and on this blog, you are a professional. Your refusal to engage in gossip or play the blame game now only emphasizes that.
I truly empathize with all the editors, cover artists, authors and other staff involved in this venture. Waking up to discover that you no longer have a job is devastating. Period. I have hope that everyone involved will pick themselves back up and move on to great, new projects.
Here’s a virtual hug for your positivity in a time when the blogosphere is alight with bitterness about this closure.
Warm hugs,
Michelle Lauren
Everything that I could say about the shocking news, your situation, your professional attitude and your class has been said.
Kellie Sharpe said she wants to be you when she grows up. I said this once, jesting, in a comment here on your blog and after this whole situation and how you handle it, I am dead serious when I say you are my role model of professionalism, poise and class!
Angela,
I was sorry to learn that this door closed for you as QP closed. I shall be keenly interested in what is next for you and wish you only the best. I’ve no doubt that good things will be coming your way.
I wish you nothing but the best and hope that you find success. On a more personal note I would have considered it an honor to work with someone of your experience.
Angie–
Was devastated to hear that QP was closing. Was more worried and concerned for you than anything else. I wish you only the best – - and know that some smart e-publisher will snap you up before you even get something cut out to sew. Enjoy your, what I am sure will be, short respite between jobs. If I can do anything, let me know.
Moni Draper aka Monette Michaels and Rae Morgan
Cripes, you guys are going to make me get all weepy again. Between the amazing comments here, at various blogs and forums, Twitter and direct to my email, when I say I’m overwhelmed by the response, I mean that in an entirely positive and thankful way. Thank you all so much, if your good wishes translate to even a tenth of luck in finding something new, I’m totally set!
I’m very impressed with your classy, positive attitude. I’m sure some wonderful opportunities are waiting for you. Best of luck!
Best of luck to you, Angela. I hope you are soon able to post about finding a great new opportunity.
The whole situation is unfortunate. I’m sure you’ll find something even bigger and better soon.
When life knocks us down, we just get right back up and keep on trucking baby. Take care.
When QP brought you on board, there were still a lot of questions hanging, even if their enthusiasm and best intentions were obvious.
Were they for real? Would there be decent editing? Did they understand romance?
You were the answer to those questions and many more — in particular: Should I submit my work to Quartet Press?
QP has gone away. But you and the work remain. I imagine there are many works and works in progress just waiting to find where you land so they can start flowing your way again. Any publisher looking for a manuscript magnet should snap you up now!
Angie,
I am a firm believer that all things happen for a reason. Like many of the other commenters mentioned, I believe you won’t be idle for long.
You will now never have to wonder, “what if” because you acted courageously by making a decision.
I look forward to seeing what is next in store for you!
Jenny
Even in your utter disappointment (anger/bewilderment, etc) you still post with the same eloquent professional level-headedness we’ve come to expect from you, Angie.
I’m sorry you had to go through this, but I have no doubt given your talent, skills, knowledge and passion, that you will be All Right.
Best of luck in exploring all the opportunities that will surely come your way. Here’s to bigger and bette!
Angela – my first thought was for you for taking such a brave step. I am disappointed for me too as I had applied to edit. However I also believe in karma & although it seems awful now, I know that there’s a reason for all this. I hear nothing but great things about you & you will land on your feet. Best wishes.
Angela~
I am sorry and I wish you the very best of luck.
Wow Angela, I’m sorry to hear that but your handling of it is great and really inspiring. I’m sure this just means there’s something brighter and sweeter on the horizon for you.
Good luck!
hugs,
WendyK
I’m so sorry to hear this, Angela (yes, I was living under a rock)–you’re an example of grace and smarts, and I know you’ll land on your feet. Hugs, and I’m sorry for any naysayers.
This may sound silly, but the minute I read about Quartet closing I thought: “What’s gonna happen to Angela?!” In fact, that’s all I’ve thought every time I read/saw any postings regarding the subject. I’m truly sorry for everyone involved, but know it bears no reflection on you, the spirit and intentions behind QP, or digital publishing. I hope you enjoy this (unplanned) mini-vay and soon find a project worthy of your talents & passion.
You are one class act! Seriously. Anyone would be lucky to get you to work for them and by the sheer responses to your post… you know that you are well respected. You took a big risk and unfortunately this happened. It isn’t fair and it’s heartbreaking. I’ll say what a lot of people are thinking. Samhain would be really smart to Whoo you back. I submitted to them simply because you worked there. I wanted to work with you and would work with you in a heartbeat. I’ve read some of the trash talk put out there since you took the new job and it’s all bitter talk. People forget that sometimes it’s not about them but instead it’s about opportunity and doing what is best for your family. I say to them… GET OVER IT, GRAB A REALITY CLUE, and put on the big girl panties or the manly boxer briefs. (Hopefully they are sexy because I know that always makes me feel better and puts me in a good mood) I am sure that you will land on your feet and that some SMART publishing house will be on the phone to you. You’re the best advertising for digital publishing at it’s best that there is. Hang in there, enjoy the mini vacation, and just look at all these responses. Feel loved!
Hi
I am a day late, but I wanted you to know that my first thought when I read dear author’s tweet about Quartet closing was “WTF – They just hired Angela James away from Samhain!”
I was thrilled when you were took the opportunity to help craft/create a digital publisher from the start, putting your own imprint on it.
I was outraged for you when the opportunity turned to dust.
I am hopeful for your future prospects.
Sending you and yours love & best wishes,
RKCharron
xoxo
I can’t imagine the shock of this. Kudos to you for handling it with grace and class. I hope it does not deter you from taking chances in the future; it sounds as if it won’t. I hope for all the best including a quick return to the publishing world for you.
You will get snapped up, I have no doubt. So enjoy your vacation while it lasts. I’m very sorry it didn’t work out.
LIfe happens for a reason. With your reputation for excellence and professionalism, I’m sure you’ll land on your feet quickly.
I’m so sorry to hear about this. I send you and your husband my sincere prayers for a smooth transition into something even better. I also extend my thoughts and prayers to the authors and other staff who must now move on. You have such a wonderful attitude. People will say what they will, but you made the best choices you could make for you and your family and I can only wish you all the best.
And, yes, I pray that another publisher will snap you up quick! The digital publishing world has certainly not seen the last of you and I know you’ll find another niche soon and come back better than ever.
I wish you all the best of luck. Just try to recharge and catch up on your sleep and fun activities.
I’m sorry this has happened to you. It’s never easy. But I also know that you’re smart, savvy and a go-getter, and you’ll find something else that will capture your imagination and enthusiasm.
I’m also sorry about all the negativity. Unfortunately, there are some people who spin massive webs full of conspiracies where there are none. All you can do is know that you made the best choice for yourself and your family with the information you had.
Julie
I waited a bit until I commented to get my thoughts together. I have seen companies come and go and it is unfortunate that this one folded before it was even able to get going.
I met you briefly at the RT Convention and let me tell you, you changed our perspectives on e-pub. I really think that 10 years from now, you will be someone that people in the industry look back and say “She was a key person in the e-pub movement.” I really look up to you and I think that you will do great wherever you go to next.
Good luck. I’m really sorry to hear this happened.
All the best for the future Angie.
All I can say is anyone (are you listening publishers!!) would be lucky to have you! You are a passionate individual that believes in what you do and your next adventure is just waiting for you to pick it – of course after you take care of those “putting off until you have time” things!
Angie, I’m so sorry that things didn’t work out as you’d hoped. But I’m a firm believer that things happen for a reason. And I’m sure that you will find something bigger and better than ever. In the meantime, enjoy a little downtime, and some extra special time with Brianna and Josh.
Angie, I’m really sorry to hear about this. With your skill and talent I have no doubt you will have another wonderful opportunity come your way.
I saw on your site you were getting into running. There’s nothing better in times of stress. Go run. Loads of work will come.
I know I am responding to this weeks after the fact, but I only got around to reading this just now.
I know its so cliche to say I know how you are feeling, but it’s so very true. I had a job that I loved, heart and soul and after 4 years of pouring my very being into it, they laid me off. To say I was heartbroken does not quite explain it. It took me almost 2 years to get over the loss, 2 years to not feel a stab of pain when I drove by the street the company was on, or heard about anything that had to do with it.
Afterward I tried to look on the brightside. I got to stay home with my kids, got to read , sleep in…get dinner ready early. But something in me broke a bit when I lost that job. Looking for a new job, doing the same thing left a bad taste in my mouth. Finally one came along but my heart was not in it. It became a chore to go to work. My only saving grace was that I got to go home and write, which I soon began to look at as my full time job. My day job was just something that was nessessary for the paycheck. Then needless to say, after a year and half, I was laid off again.
So here I sit, an unemployeed, unpublished writer. This time is much easier. There is none of the ill feelings or hurt associated with that first job. I wasn’t all that crazy about this last job and really was kind of relieved. I have all this time to write now, and yet again, I was able to spend some of the summer with my boys. Small pleasures. But now I face a bigger problem than I did with the original layoff. I have about a year to reinvent myself. I do not want to get back into what I was doing, which is all I have ever done since I stumbled into it at 18 yrs old. The question is what. I still haven’t figured it out. Of course it would be nice to become a published author, I have no illusions to the difficulty in it. Regardless, I strive for it, but I know that even if it did happen, I still would need a day job.
So I understand the bitter feelings, the stab of pain when thinking it all over. It’s not your fault they closed down, just as it wasn’t mine that they were cutting staff, still the feelings linger. You can’t beat yourself up for making a wrong choice when you mulled over the choice to thoroughly. You did what you felt was best. Fate just had different plans. Still, it stings, badly. It may take longer than you think for those feelings to go away, but when they do, you will be able to breath normally again and I promise you, it will happen.
I know I told you this, as I was one of the many that passed on my regards when this happened, but everything does happen for a reason. There is something else waiting for you although you might not know what it is right away. For me, I feel like the universe or God or what ever you believe in is trying to tell me that I don’t belong in accounting. The moment I got comfortable in it, I was tossed out, and then again, so I definitely feel like I’m being guided toward something else. What, don’t know. But I have to have faith and explore my options.
You have an amazing job, one that I am green with envy over. Its an wonderful gift to be able to do what you do. You may not really think so but your work is completely unattainable from my view. So when you start to feel down, remember who you are, and what you do and know that there is a plan for you. Have faith. Remember to breathe. Your next opportunity is right around the corner.
Be well.
Ginger
If they were smart, Samhain should hire you back without recriminations.