If an author were to compile a vocabulary list for writers in the making, or writers stuck in the middle, they might put the dreaded NO at the top of the list. To many, it feels as if they hear …
Random Agent Thoughts
Yes, this is a blog post of random agent thoughts.
A few weeks after my father’s heart stopped beating for the last time, we discovered among his office files a three-ring binder labeled “497 Random Thoughts.” Over the course of …
Words as Quandrums
Quandrum. If a quandry (perplexity in a difficult situation) and a conundrum (vexing question) had a baby, it would be…a quandrum.
Writers love words, but they’re less in love with words that are quandrums. “What does that mean?” “How is …
Self or Trad: What Do They Share in Common?
Self or Trad: What do they share in common? Great question.
We’ve seen an undeniably radical increase in writers choosing self-publishing. Why? Innovations in technology, access to higher quality materials and options, and the shrinking of traditional publishing slots that …
Not What You Think
Some elements of an author’s proposal are not what you’d think. They seem like a good thing, but may make the opposite impression from the one you’re looking for.
“I’m in the process of having a professional website created/updated.”
What …
Marketing and Madness
Marketing and madness don’t have to be synonymous. Platform-building is not pedestal-building. Creativity and compassion can steer marketing honorably.
Last week, Wendy Lawton revisited a blog post from a year in which authors were scrambling to figure out how to …
Reader Psychology Book-shapers
Image by Ted Erski from Pixabay
I enjoy having conversations with authors who are just discovering reader psychology. Maybe you are also fascinated by how the psychology of reading factors into the role of writers creating stories or nonfiction.
Imagine …
Ready for a Contract?
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Did you think it was a typo? Why is there a question mark at the end of the title of this blog post? Of course, you’re ready! Eager! Trembling with anticipation! Gimme!
It’s not …
Disappearing Hair and Other Video Distractions
Raise your hand if you feel perfectly comfortable in a video meeting or appointment with an agent or editor. I see that hand. The one of you.
Most of us cringe at seeing ourselves on the screen during a virtual/video-based …
The Never-Always Myth
Among the myths writers often entertain is Never-Always. You may have it embroidered on the fabric of your mind regarding your writing projects or career:
No means never.
Yes means forever.
Be encouraged today. Those are myths, as are other …