A Writer’s 8 Most Important Tools to Becoming Successful
There’s a boat load of resources floating through cyberspace about how to succeed as a writer. Though everyone’s process is different, I’ve found that the absolute most important tools are the same for everyone. I managed to round them all up in one quick list. 1. DON’T SEND YOUR MS OUT TOO EARLY: The problem is, how are you supposed to know if it’s too early? A good rule of thumb is to have at least five HONEST readers (a mix of writers and readers) take a...
Read MorePitch-ilicious Blog Hop WINNERS
I had a heck of time choosing the winning pitch–everyone did a fabulous job of tweaking them to make them sparkle. I hope there was much learned and new writer friendships were made. And as always, write on! PRIZES: FIRST: A critique of your manuscript up to 2,000 words and a FREE WRITER’S WEBSITE/BLOG from professional web designer and developer, Brian Mowell. SECOND: A critique of your mansucript up to 1,500 words THIRD: A critique of your manuscript up to 1,000...
Read MoreGuest: Bestselling Author Kate Quinn & Empress of the Seven Hills
I have the great pleasure of welcoming national bestselling author of DAUGHTERS OF ROME and MISTRESS OF ROME, Kate Quinn. I met Kate at the Historical Novel Society Conference last June in San Diego. She was delightfully witty with a streak of sarcasm (my fav), and happy to answer any questions newbie authors had for her. I knew I had to read her books! And what a feast they are–packed with well-drawn characters, page-turning action, and lush descriptions of ancient Roman times. Her...
Read MorePitch-ilicious Blog Hop Contest
I just love a good contest. How fun it is to interact with other writers and possibly gain A.) more friendships, B.) writerly advice, & C.) PRIZES! So it’s high time I ran another! Trust me, you don’t want to miss it. WHAT Create your best THREE line pitch for your novel (does not have to be a completed ms), give and receive feedback from other entrants, and submit your pitch for a chance to win! WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE 1. Writers in need of help with their pitches 2. Writers...
Read MoreWhat’s With All the Conference Hype?
We just discussed Rocking the Conference Circuit, but let’s back up and discuss why bother going to one in the first place? They cost money, you probably won’t know anyone there, and you’ll feel like a phony because you aren’t published. I mean you’re not a REAL writer, right? Or hey, maybe you ARE published so what’s the point? Most of these excuses are about FEAR and to be a part of this industry one must be FEARLESS, at least to some degree. So buck up, stop your...
Read MoreRocking the Conference Circuit
As an extrovert, I LOVE attending conferences and I’m gearing up (with much anticipation!) for the couple I’ll be attending this year. I get a buzz from meeting all of those talented writers, agents, and editors. This is not the case for some of you. Many cower at the thought of working a room or being on the spot. So how do you get into the groove of selling your books, of selling you? How do you rock the conference circuit? 1. REGISTER IN ADVANCE It cuts down on the...
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