Why do book editors reject manuscripts? As a fiction-writing coach, I'm asked that question a lot. Most authors are baffled by the vague correspondence that book editors send. For example: "Thank you for the opportunity to read (Title of Manuscript.) Unfortunately, this story isn't right for us. We wish you luck, placing it elsewhere." Why […]
Book marketing is essential for fiction writers. In today's "Million Book Market," readers aren't likely to stumble across your novel on an e-retailer site. That's why successful fiction writers promote their work. Authors have a variety of promotional venues at their disposal. However, a talk show is often considered the Holy Grail of these venues. […]
Book marketing is a necessity in this digital age. With millions of titles competing for readers, one of the quickest ways for fiction writers to reach their target audience is to appear on a podcast or radio talk show. As a former publicist, I've gained lots of experience, working with the news media. That's why […]
Sure, every author wants to receive glowing book reviews. But do book reviews help sales? That's the million dollar question. As an Indie author, I've had my mind blown. In the old days, when I was published in paperback by Bantam and Avon, I had no trouble getting reviews -- GREAT reviews -- from trade […]
So you're writing a novel? Good for you! But be forewarned: no TRUE writer escapes the Seven Stages of Fiction Frenzy... 1. Eureka! An Idea! Nothing is better than that first spark of inspiration. You feel alive. Your Muse is finally cooperating. You’re buoyed with hope and visions of obscenely large paychecks. You balk against […]
What considerations should go into choosing a book excerpt for a blog tour or a post on social media? First and foremost, you must understand that an excerpt is a sales tool. If you keep that in mind, you’re already leagues ahead of most touring authors. If you’ve been following this blog, then you know […]
Want to keep your Cozy Mystery reader turning pages? Then read on! Today's guest columnist is Nancy J. Cohen, sleuth writer extraordinaire. Nancy is the author of the writer's guidebook, Writing the Cozy Mystery, and she comes bearing gifts! Readers who comment on today's post will receive an ecopy of her mystery novel, Hanging By […]
One of my favorite literary mottoes comes from Alexander Dumas’s The Three Musketeers: “All for One, and One for All!” I’ve often thought that any kind of critique – whether it be of a fiction manuscript or a friend’s hair cut – should be delivered from this rousing spirit of good will and helpfulness. Unfortunately, […]
If you're writing commercial fiction, you can jumpstart your career by judging writing contests. Many aspiring authors already know the benefits of entering writing contests. These days, even the larger regional contests have celebrity judges. Why would these professional book editors and literary agents take time from their busy careers to judge writing contests? Because […]
As a book writing coach, I often get “True Confessions” emails from my students. These messages – which are full of angst and guilt – start with, “I haven’t forgotten about my writing assignment…” then spew forth every conceivable excuse for ignoring that student’s HEART-FELT WRITING DREAM. (Sometimes I think my novel-writing students confuse me […]