Oh my, this was too funny.
Been there. Done that.
Don’t try to fix it!
Blog
When Do I Write Book Two?
Recently someone posted a question I get asked all the time:
After finishing my current book should I write the sequel or start something new?
This question is usually posed by a new author whose agent is marketing a series. The editors have not had a chance to weigh in with their interest in the series or lack thereof. Meanwhile, the writer is bored and wants something else to …
Misused Words and Phrases
The English language is full of persnickety quirks, the most despicable of which are buzz words. Words and phrases we’ve decided work better than plain speech. Why say what you mean when you can just toss out a phrase that says what you want, but in such a vague and convoluted manner than people spend so much energy figuring it out that they can’t challenge you? Genius! Or how about those words …
News You Can Use – May 28, 2013
10 Brands That Will Disappear Within a Year – stunning to find the Nook in this list Create a Great Title for Your Book – A well done article that could help your Muse Five Things Indie Authors Do Very Well – Dr. Alison Baverstock makes some solid observations. Cover Letters and Book Proposals – Looking for some help with these? This article provides the basics. Proofread Like a Pro – Never …
Fun Fridays – May 24, 2013
I love Henri the Cat. (aka "the existential cat.")
Enjoy his most recent adventure "Cat Littérature."
and one of our favorites:
Do Some Plots Break Their Contracts?
In 1995 I watched the movie Cold Comfort Farm. A British comedy, the story was not without charm, though I wouldn't recommend this parody of literature for everyone. Early on, Aunt Ada, who seemed to be a bit crazy, said, "I saw something nasty in the wood shed."
Throughout the movie, I waited to find out what Aunt Ada saw. I waited. And waited. But the question was never answered, at least not …
Get the Job Done with Focus!
I was just talking with a client the other day about the writing life. She’d struggled with getting started on her novel. Then, once she started, she said it was as though she couldn’t keep her backside in the chair. Everything else caught her attention: laundry, dishes, kids, dogs, yard work, and on and on. And when she finally managed to write most of the book, there was that darned ending! …
News You Can Use – May 21, 2013
Happy 8th Birthday to YouTube - Yesterday was the day. Who could have ever imagined? (It also happened to be my daughter's birthday. Happy Birthday Fiona.)
Stephen King Delays E-Book! - In an effort to support physical bookstores he has delayed the ebook edition of his newest release.
The Anatomy of a One-Sheet - Barbara NcNichol provides a simple explanation that you can use to help promote …
Fun Fridays – May 17, 2013
This simply made me laugh. Ever had a roommate like this in school?
Watch is a second time and look at the others in the room!
Leave ‘Em Wanting More?
Do you like stories with unsure endings? Where you don't know if the main characters will live happily ever after?
I am a reader who doesn't like open endings, probably because I enjoy novels that are heavy on romance and I like to know the couple can expect a happily-ever-after. My personal preference is for a novel that doesn't beg for a sequel for the protagonist.
A Satisfying …