For the indie author, correctly formatting the elements of your manuscript, such as a page break, is essential (unless of course you pay someone else to do it). If you’re seeking traditional publication, all publishers have submission guidelines. Those guidelines often include such items as what font to use (e.g. Times New Roman), what font…
There are those of you who prefer to let editors or proofreaders worry about commas, but if you’re hiring a freelance editor or proofreader, learning some punctuation basics will save you money because he/she will spend less time fixing your manuscript. I’ll be the first to say the rules governing the English language are confusing. I’ve often…
As I mentioned in Tuesday’s blog, many Christian authors write with the purpose of helping others. Sally Meadows is a good example. Sally is a two-time Canadian national award-nominated inspirational singer/songwriter, author, and speaker. After three professional degrees and a diverse career path that included being an editor, children’s entertainer, and educator, Sally took the plunge…
When it comes to tools in the writer’s toolbox, the query letter is a must. I can always tell newby writers (or those who refuse to learn the tools of the trade), by their query letters. These letters are either chock full of the wrong information, or have barely any information at all. I’ve even…
Guest Posting today is Jennifer Slattery Every first draft I write seems to be crammed with cliché characters. The Sunday school teacher with silver hair pulled back in a bun. The buff and burly loan shark. The alcoholic husband who burps and slurps and does all sorts of other crude things unfit to share in…
Making Scrivener work for you—rather than the other way around—can start with customizing your toolbars. Scrivener offers a lot of tools to make things easy. As you discover them, you’ll want the ones you use most, on your toolbar for easy access. Last time we were talking about snapshots and I promised to tell…
I’ve been reading an excellent blog series by Erin Buterbaugh found in the archives of Chip MacGregor’s blog. It’s about voice—something that seems to elude writers, beginning writers especially. To quote Erin, voice is “the personality of the author as revealed through the writing.” When I first started writing with the intention of earning money…
Author interviews have become one of my favorite posts. While there are similarities to the publication journey, there are always unique perspectives and experiences that come from each author. I hope you glean information and strategies that will aid you in your journey. Today’s interview is with Vickie Phelps. Her book, Postmark from the Past,…