Every once in a while, no matter how high the mountain of work looms and no matter how much we want to write, we need to leave the computer (and the yellow pads) behind. That’s exactly what I just did, which is why I missed posting last week. And just as the dogs adapted to… Continue Reading
Writing Lessons from my Dogs: How to Keep Writing
I’ve always been the type of person who wanted to do something well or not at all. Looking back, I realize how much that’s limited me and how many experiences I watched from the sidelines instead of leaping in. I try not to do that anymore, a lesson I learned from my two English Cocker… Continue Reading
Writing Dialogue Rules
Dialogue rules really boil down to some basic, commonsense writing tips. To write good dialogue, just listen to how people talk. You might even want to take notes, though I recommend discretion or you could wind up with fodder for a story you don’t want to star in. I know telling you to listen probably… Continue Reading
Success Story – Breakthrough Rosemont Romance Series
Practicing attorney Barbara Hinske published her contemporary romance Coming to Rosemont, the first book in her Rosemont series, on December 12, 2012. Since then, she’s worked hard to promote the book and establish a fan base. It’s working. Her romance novel about a forensic accountant whose well-ordered life is shattered by her husband’s untimely death… Continue Reading
Efficient Writing Process
When you’re working with a lot of background research, you will bog yourself down if you try to incorporate every shred of evidence or every detail in your rough draft. Not only is that hard and time consuming, it’s a sure-fire way to get sidetracked. Here’s a more efficient writing process or approach that will… Continue Reading
Self-Publish Like a Pro
Self-publishing is all the rage these days, to the point that self-published books are actually getting recognized by the establishment. Reviewers no longer automatically turn up their noses at a self-published book. Traditional publishers consider adding successful self-published books–defined as those that have sold at least 5,000 copies according to one literary agent–to their lists.… Continue Reading
Lessons from my Dogs – Writing Routine
Creativity and inspiration notwithstanding, writing often boils down to establishing–and honoring–a routine. That’s something my pups know all about. The second I stir in the morning, whether it’ s5:30 a.m. or 6:30 a.m. (never any later than that I’m sorry to say), the dogs know it’s time for breakfast.With a joyful and irreconcilably irritating bark… Continue Reading
No More Writing Regrets
I’ve said it before. We writers are too often filled with regret and self-recrimination. Over the years, I’ve developed expertise in both. Maybe that’s why Ellis’ song “Right on Time” makes me want to cry every time I hear it. As I watched Ellis perform the song at the Belfry in Sisters the other night,… Continue Reading
Challenge Day
I can’t remember ever feeling so physically tired or emotionally spent. Neither can I remember ever feeling so fulfilled. I recently participated in Challenge Day, which non-profit organization Younity (formerly Serendipity West) brings to Central Oregon every year. The program is designed to combat bullying by challenging preconceptions and encouraging kids to be the agent… Continue Reading
Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing
Portland book designer Jennifer Omner, All Publications, included the following information about traditional publishing vs. self-publishing in her newsletter. In the report What Advantages Do Traditional Publishers Offer Authors?, authors were not overly satisfied with their traditional publishing experience. And here’s a surprising tweet from that Digital Book World conference session: Over 1/3 of traditionally… Continue Reading
Literary Agent:
Ted Weinstein
Ted Weinstein Literary Management
Mechanics’ Library Building
57 Post Street, Suite 512
San Francisco, CA 94104
tw@twliterary.com
www.twliterary.com