Novels

Creative writers need help at many points in their pursuit of success. Mainly it is a chase to get a novel published. These are some of the most helpful online resources I've retained in the drafts file for this blog. The first contains a common grammar error in its title--using the wrong word that sounds like the right one (expedite). Don't let that put you off.

Hard-Won Lessons from Artists to Expediate the Learning Curve is by Suzanne Falter-Barnes, who writes about overcoming the fears that impede creativity.  Equating writing to creating art seems quite reasonable to me. In this fairly short article for creativity coaches, she provides seven insights to the "real nitty gritty" of the creative process and persisting to completion.

While you are writing your masterpiece, undoubtedly you'll encounter specific problems.  Chances are that Australian writer/editor Marg McAlister has it covered in the Writing4Success Tipsheet Archives. I've received her newsletter for years and learned much about creative writing from it. She has also operated a private writers' club online, but in her recent newsletter (No 173), says she will open "up most of the content to everyone as a free site." She also wrote:

Opening the site to all writers is in the nature of an experiment. Since I have limited time to administer the site, I won't be adding 5-6 new articles each week as I did last year. However, I WILL welcome well-written articles from writers in all genres. If you would like to share some of your expertise, send your article to me at tipsheet.article@gmail.com for consideration.

Once you master your masterpiece, you will benefit from The Blog of Fantasy Author Paul Genesse: How do I get published? I have pointed out this piece in the past (it's three years old) and I think the advice Paul provides is still invaluable for any "real, serious writer" who intends to have a book published in the traditional manner.

Going for the gold standard may appear an Olympian feat these days, but honestly, I don't think it is truly any different from the past.  The best way to find an agent is still by referral.  The best way to have your manuscript submitted to an acquisitions editor is still by an agent talking the editors into taking a look at it.  And if you are aiming for publishers who consider unagented mss, personal contact is still holds the best chance for this to take place.

You may not yet be an Author, but you certainly are a Writer and deserve the best--the best advice, the best help, and the best publishing.

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