Novel Idea
Two writers followed their passion for romance . . . and ended up with a love story of their own.
What: Personalized romance
novels
Who: J.S. Fletcher and Kathy
Newbern of YourNovel.com
Where: Raleigh, North
Carolina
When: Started in 1992
Who knew regular people could star as protagonists in romance
novels? Upon hearing a friend's passing comment about the idea,
writers J.S. Fletcher, 52, and Kathy Newbern, 46, decided it would
make a great business. After purchasing a computer and a printer,
the two launched YourNovel.com and immediately set out to write
their first customized romance novel.
Initially, the partners used simple search and replace commands,
but today they use a custom-made software program to personalize
each book. Since 1992, they've written 10 novels together under
the pen name Fletcher Newbern; customers can choose either wild
(steamy scenes) or mild (hugging and kissing) versions. They've
even released a book written by the winner of their romance novel
contest.
Content Continues Below
Customers who log on to the Web site simply fill out a
questionnaire, which gathers such data as names of characters (real
or imagined--the most popular bachelor is George Clooney) and
romantic setting of choice (such as exotic Caribbean islands,
cruise ships and North Carolina lodges). The order is then sent to
an outsourced printer; the personalized book, featuring a
full-color cover and professional binding, is shipped and received
in a matter of days.
Last year alone, the company sold 6,000 copies. And although
sales were $300,000 in 2001, the payoff for Fletcher and Newbern
has been more than just financial--they got married two years after
launching the business.
Page 1 |
2 