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I mentioned I was starting research for my next novel? Yup. I have a combination of computer and paper notes.

I have removed the ‘star’ icon from my Phoenix file on my computer. : (  And now have it next to another writing project!

Here’s a picture of my starter notes for my next novel, Inertia.

It’s worth investing in a few different sizes of shipping boxes. You can use padded envelopes if your book is fairly lightweight. But if it has any heft to it at all, the post office is likely to tear your package apart and dent the edges. Read more »

Beta-readers!

It’s up to you when to hand your material over. I hand mine over chapter by chapter. I have two main beta-readers, but you may have more if you have a group. Mine are Eli—who gets first crack at things, tells me when sentences don’t make sense, says where it appears things are going, and suffers through not knowing when the next chapter is coming. Then Andrea, who gives me broad, general feedback, usually after the first draft.

Content Editors.

These people can be your best friend or your worst nightmare. First, as the writer, be sure you know if you are writing for you or to sell. These people know what sells. Read more »

Before you send out any piece of marketing, make sure you proof read it. A typo looks beyond unprofessional and can turn people away from your book. Read more »

At some point on the road to getting published, you will need to get an editor. There are a handful of different kinds of editors. Read more »

Many book clubs, conventions, and book fairs have opportunities for authors to do a reading from their book. Pick out a few sections that are really catchy ahead of time so you’ll always be prepared if a reading is requested. Read more »

Yesssss! I have my first copy of the galleys in hand. As usual, this makes me positively giddy. Read more »

Finishing your novel

Getting published

Marketing

What do these tasks all have in common? They are HUGE undertakings. So, how do you eat an elephant??? Read more »

Once you have asked your question, you may find that the suggestion you get is crazy. You might find out that you have gotten yourself into a 3-hour lecture given by an enthusiastic speaker to a captive audience of one. Read more »

Many writers have told us over the years that they are the “creative” types, which they immediately follow with “I just can’t get organized”. So, here are some tips for keeping things running smoothly. Read more »