Blogger/writer Cara Ellison has some interesting thoughts on agent query letters, and on the writing process.
Just a taste, to whet your appetite:
And now, some of her writing advice:
Also, be sure and read the comments on the post... especially the third one.
Just a taste, to whet your appetite:
1. Write a serious query letter. Do not try to be funny. Do not try to charm them. Be bland. Just describe what happens in the book.
2. Do not ever say that your book is super great, the next bestseller, etc. It’s just ridiculous sounding. Do not boast at all.
3. Do not compare yourself to other authors. You will lose.
4. Follow the agent’s conventions for submission. If she only wants paper queries, don’t send equeries.
And now, some of her writing advice:
2. Don’t drop us into action without giving us some time to get invested in the character. You’ll just confuse the reader. That said, get to the action right away. This is where skill comes in – you have to do two things at once – set up the character, and get the character into trouble quickly.
3. Make sure you have an actual story to tell. I realize this is basic but a list of events does not make a novel. You really have to have a central thrust.
4. Derivative works, basically copying a writer you admire, is normal for a first novel – but first novels are not meant to be published. Wait until every single thought you write down is completely your own before you start thinking about publishing (or as I say, empublishment.)
5. No more vampires, please! I’m sick of vampire stories!
6. Read widely. It will make you a better writer.
Also, be sure and read the comments on the post... especially the third one.
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