Query Roundtable Introduction
Welcome, traditional route writers!
We’ve all struggled through our query letter at least once. For many of us, it’s been a masochistic rehashing of the same 250 words over and over. And over. The worst part isn’t writing it, at least not for me. It’s reading your summary and thinking, “Is this the most succinct way to tell an agent how wonderful my story is?” Or, “Does this make any sense?” Or maybe, “Will an agent even like this?” That doubt is going to end here.
As much as we can work on our query letters (until we’re blue in the face) and hope for the best, what is really needed is a new set of eyes. Someone else to look over our pitch and ask the tough questions: Does this draw me in? Do I understand the conflict and stakes? Do I get a feeling for the main character? Those secondary opinions are what can help clear up any lingering problems potential agents might find when your query crosses their desk.
The point is to ensure that your letter stays out of the slush pile and sparks a fire in the agent’s mind enough that they choose to request more. Whether it’s a partial or a full sampling, your chances at hooking an agent begin (and sometimes end) with your query letter. I figured- what better way to help other queriers out than to have a query roundtable where anyone who wants open and honest feedback on their pitch can receive it?
Here’s the deal:
1- Let me know in a comment here or on twitter @rachelhwrites that tells me you want to submit your query letter and participate in the roundtable.
2- Take a last look at your letter and get it ready for the event on May 22nd. That’s less than a week from now (as to prepare for other contests but not interrupt them)!
3- Post your query on your blog (or renew your post from The Writer’s Voice Contest- if you participated) and give me the direct link to your post so I can compile the list here on my blog.
4- When the roundtable list goes live here on the 22nd, be sure to comment on as many other submissions as you can (preferably everyone so all of our unique perspectives can help each other refine our queries).
5- Use #QueryRoundtable on twitter for any discussions outside of the blogs related to queries where we can share experiences and best practices.
There’s not exactly an end date, or any sort of prizes, this is a way for us to assist each other down the traditional publishing path and encourage each other in our joint venture to get agented! If this sounds like something you want to participate in, let me know!
Writing Tips A to Z Part 3
It’s that time again, time for A to Z writing tips! Wow, if that doesn’t sound like the opening to a game show, I don’t know what does. With that said, here’s your host, Rachel (read it like this: Raaaacchhell)! Thanks for the introduction. On this episode of A to Z writing tips, we explore that middle part of the alphabet everyone mashes together into one word. The letter elemeno. With k at the forefront. Let’s see what suggestions the alphabet has in store for writers today!
Kill Your Darlings- It’s been said before and I’ll say it again, you can put your characters through hell, but if they come out without a scratch – you’re going to catch flack for it. Be realistic. Make them laugh and cry and maybe even sleep with the fishes.
Lie and Cheat- The meaning of this is to confuse your reader. Lie to them. Cheat them out of or into different emotions. Make them suspect one thing and then see another! A good misdirection never hurt anyone.
Mind Your Magic- For all my scifi, fantasy and spec writers; make sure your supernatural aspects have defined rules to make the seemingly impossible not only credible, but logical.
No Nonsense- When editing, you should be sure to clear up any nonsense in your writing. Not sure what is nonsense? Ask yourself: Does this make sense? If you’re answer is no, clean it up.
Onomonopia and the like- Literary devices are the tools of the writing world. They’re at your disposal to create wonderful metaphors, similes, allusions, ironies and so forth. You don’t have to use them all, pick one or a few to add spice to your story.
Tune in again folks! Same time, same channel for another installment of A to Z writing tips!
Let Them Speak Guest Post by Nicole L. Bates
The thing that surprised me the most about writing my first novel was the fact that I did not feel so much like the creator of the story as the vessel into which it was poured. The ideas and characters filled me, threatening to overflow. I had no choice but to put pen to paper and begin writing.
I was fascinated at times as a scene played out in my mind and a character responded in a way that even I did not expect. The words flowed across the page and theresponse felt right, but it took the story in a very different direction than the one that I had planned. It was exhilarating to experience the story through them. I experienced the same feeling that I do when I’m reading; I needed to know how it would end.
Of course it didn’t always happen so smoothly. There were moments when I tried to impose my will upon the narrative. When that happened I would look back at the scene or the direction of the story and realize that it didn’t feel right. I would have to replay the events in my mind and ask myself, “Is that how I would have reacted, or how my character would have reacted?”
People often talk about writers finding their voice. I think it’s even more important to listen to the voices of our characters. Find their voice and let them speak through you. After all, it is their story we’re telling.
Do you feel this way when you’re writing? What do you do when something feels “off” in your story?
Nicole L. Bates is a science fiction and fantasy novelist who loves creativity in all its forms. She has completed two speculative fiction manuscripts for which she is currently seeking representation. Nicole also loves to read, run, and eat organic food! You can join Nicole on twitter @NicoleLBates or on Facebook. You can read more from Nicole on her blog at http://www.nicolelbates.com
Writing Tips A to Z Part 2
It’s Monday, which means it’s time for another edition of Writing Tips A to Z. This is a recent series of posts I came up with based on the alphabet themed blog posts that are taking the net by storm. The last piece of this tip tome was a popular talking point for folks, so I’m excited to share this new collection of tips with everyone. Short and sweet, but to the point. Just how I like it! Take a look:
Finding Flow- The pacing of your novel can change people’s opinions of how the story was portrayed, so find the flow equilibrium that balances events with time and page space.
Get Off on the Right Foot- Make a great first impression. Start your story in a manner that will draw readers in and hook them to stick around.
Hole up Mistakes- Inconsistencies are bound to happen, but get a second look of your draft and patch up those holes.
Imagination- Don’t write something that’s been written before. Be fresh, original and imaginative. Tap into your imagination and create something unique.
Just Do It- Sorry to snag your slogan, Nike, but it fits with writing too. Writing is tough, huh? Sitting around wondering how you can write your tale, or how to work in a certain character or event gets you nowhere. Just do it!
Look for the next installment of A to Z writing tips soon!