Everyone Has a Story---This is Mine.

I Can't Keep Up

2010-05-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

My commitment to my blog, and my novel, has been interrupted by my other great interest...breeding horses. My horses are very important to me, and as summer advances all the reasons why have become clear. Just as writing is a passion, being a successful Arabian horse breeder is also a passion that cannot be ignored. I am currently in the process of breeding my stallion to my own mares, as well as two outside mares brought her by another breeder to be bred to my stallion. I am also marketing two sales horses, and shopping for replacements for them. There's just SO much going on right now!

Which is why I have failed so terribly in the last week with blog posts. I do apologize to my followers...not only for not posting here, but for not visiting your blogs lately as well.

Hopefully things will calm down here soon and I go back to my normal routine--which includes blogging and writing!

A Challenge--Finding the Good with the Bad.

2010-05-25T18:51:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my lack of posts for the last few days. My family had a weekend getaway, and I returned to lots of work on my horse farm that could not be ignored.

Today, in particular, was a really lousy day. But, because I'm so terrible about getting off track, I won't go into the details. Suffice it to say my goal for this day is to find anything good and positive in this world that I can.

So, I have a challenge for all my followers. Find something nice and encouraging to say to someone else. It's that simple. If you're an aspiring author, send an uplifting message to a fellow comrade. If you're an avid reader, find something nice to say about the book you're reading now. Or, just say anything good and sincere about anybody in your life.

That's all. Spread a little love and see how karma will bring right back to you again.

Dealing with Fear and Insecurity While Seeking Representation

2010-05-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid to send query letters. There, I said it. I used to love it...the thrill of typing out a letter, the hopefulness as I hit the send button, and the anticipation as I waited for a reply.

Now, I'm scared silly. Every letter I send that gets another rejection is a lost cause with that agent. As my list of potential agencies grows smaller, my fear grows greater.

I've edited this novel as much as I can. I just can't bring myself to edit anymore. I've rewritten that darn query letter so many times I get sick just thinking about it. I've decided my synopsis sucks and the idea of rewriting it also makes me feel a bit nauseous.

So, I decided to give myself some time. I send out a letter occasionally (four last month) just to keep myself motivated, but lately every time I think about querying another agent I find something else that needs done more...basically, procrastinating.

I've examined this query process from every angle. I've studied every approach. I know more about agents than any sane person should know. It's no wonder I feel burnt-out on this process.

So, how do I get myself out of this funk? How do I get motivated again? Hmmmm...a request would help me, but to get a request I would first have to send a query. And, right now, sending a query seems as scary as that monster that used to hide under my bed when I was a child. Help!

One Line Pitches--Courtesy of Your TV

2010-05-19T12:06:00.001-07:00

I used to joke that I could turn any conversation into a discussion on horses, and it was very near the truth. However, since I wrote my first novel, the same is also true with all things writing and publishing. My topic today is evidence of this. You see, for the past few weeks I have been studying one line pitches....on my tv screen.

The friendly guide that comes with most satellite tv's is full of one line pitches. For every channel and every movie or sitcome episode there is a one line description on the guide. While the subject matter is media versus literary, the object is the same--share one line of information to get someone's interest.

Just for giggles, I have a few from the latest pay-per-view movies. Here's my question to you...Can you rewrite any of these to make them better? Is there anything to be learned from these movie pitches?

Invictus Nelson Mandela initiates a unique venture to unite the apartheid-torn land: enlist the rugby team.

Crazy Heart A faded country music musician is forced to reassess his dysfunctional life during a doomed romance that also inspires him.

The Messenger An American soldier struggles with an ethical dilemma when he becomes involved with a widow of a fallen officer.

The Spy Next Door While babysitting his neighbor's children, a guy winds up having to fight off secret agents after one kid downloads a secret code.

Daybreakers In the year 2019, an unknown plague has transformed the world's population into vampires.

The Blind Side A homeless boy becomes an All American football player and first round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring woman.

I'm interested to hear your thoughts on these. Which is your favorite? Which do you like least? I will share an opinion on one line with you, and that is for The Blind Side...I don't think this line gives the story justice at all. I think the football references are more of a sub-plot and the main story is how one family grows in size and love with the inclusion of a homeless boy who changes their lives forever.

Anyway--whether it's a little or a lot, speak up and let me know what you think!

Clear and Concise...Or, Clever and Unique

2010-05-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

More about queries today, mostly because I'm so frustrated with writing my own. I was reading an article yesterday about query writing that advised query writing is "easy." It left me shaking my head, wondering how many first-time, aspiring authors will read this and believe anything they write is fine as long as it reads like the blurb on the "jacket flap of a book," and has correct grammar and spelling.

There's so much more to query writing than that. Over-simplifying this process is just as bad as making it too complicated. Today, however, I want to concentrate on style when it comes to query writing.

Agent Query has a long list of query letters that led to representation by agents. Each letter is followed by the agent's comments on why the letter gained his/her interest. The answers vary, but a recurring theme I found among many agents was the interest in a "clever" letter...a unique turn of a phrase, for example. Some admitted the letter had flaws, but one little phrase grabbed the agent's interest.

It makes sense, really. Agents must get bored reading queries. I know that I, personally, go a little cross-eyed from reading sample queries online at times. So, I understand how finding something really unique and different in a query letter would make the agent sit up and say "Hey, this is interesting!".

Here's my question. Should we write our letters with this goal in mind...to write something so different, so unique, and so clever, that it will hopefully grab the agent's interest? Or, should we concentrate instead of writing a very clear, consice, easy-to-read letter that best describes the novel?

Okay. Some of you will say both. That's okay--but if you believe the answer is both, which is more important...clear and concise, or clever and unique?

E-Mail vs. Snail Mail Queries

2010-05-17T07:23:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make, and it's one that I'm sure others can share with me. I am much more likely to send an email query than a snail mail query. Why? Well, it's faster...for one. It's easier. And I know it reaches the agent sooner.

Although I didn't realize it, doing my email queries first has worked to my advantage. As I've learned more about the quering process through all those email queries, my query letter has improved....and I still have a nice, long list of great agencies who only accept queries through regular mail.

I also have to wonder....in some cases, it seems logical to assume that some agents may "skim" email queries; whereas, a query letter sent by regular mail (something the agent can hold in his/her hand) would get more attention.

Let me know your thoughts--have you had more requests from email or snail mail queries? Do you believe agents may pay more attention to a query letter on paper vs. one on a computer screen? And which do you prefer sending...email or snail mail queries?

Making It Mean Something

2010-05-13T19:51:00.000-07:00

I have posted about inspiration and motivation, two key components to writing and publishing. Today, I want to talk about meaning. This ties in with my previous posts, as finding those things which are meaningful can inspire and motivate, and it can make a book even better.

There are many books that at first glance may not be neccesarily meaningful. Some call them "fluff", and yet if you look hard enough, either as a writer or reader, some meaning can usually be found.

Other books are full of meaning--moral lessons, concentration on important issues, and/or an examination of some universal truth or life lesson.

My novel is chock full of things I find meaningful, from the deterioration of our planet, to the importance of ancient legends which I believe have merit, to one of the most simple, and yet pure, truths of all--the honesty, love and loyalty our animals have for us.

The other day I was watching an episode of Dr. Phil (yes, I am a fan) about animal abuse and dog fighting. I mention this because it is an example of how something important, and meaningful, inspired me. I instantly thought "how cool would it be to write a book about a child who rescues a dog from a dog-fighting facility and goes through the trials of rehabilitating it?". The ideas flowed. Why? Because those things that touch us the most are often the most inspiring.

What meaningful topics inspire you? What is the most meaningful lesson in the novel you're writing or have written?

Finding Confidence--In the Right Proportions

2010-05-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

How much confidence should a writer have in their novels? To become published, you must have enough confidence in your work to pursue publication, and that's not a light pursuit. It can take months, sometimes years, to get your novel published. If an author had no confidence in their writing, such an endeavor would not be worth the time and effort.

However, too much confidence could lead to arrogance, such as refusing to make changes that critique partners suggest. On the other hand, too little confidence in your writing and you may make every change suggested when, in fact, you should have left it alone.

An overly-confident writer may come off as presumptious or braggy in a query letter. Too little confidence, and the agent will immediately assume by the writing in the query that the book has no merit.

I believe, in many cases, that authors begin their journey to publication with more confidence than they have in the end. Rejections have a way of denting confidence, but perhaps that's a good thing? It makes you look more objectively at your writing and be willing to make necessary changes.

Keep in mind, though, that at some point you must find that initial pride and confidence in your work to continue with all the hard work it takes to get published. That may mean sharing some of that confidence with others who are trying to help you with advice and critiques, and it may mean having the confidence in yourself to believe that sometimes your way is the right way.

An Examination of the New Doctor--DOCTOR WHO

2010-05-11T06:44:00.000-07:00

I was determined to dislike the newest Doctor on the hit BBC series Doctor Who. My children agreed with me. The last Doctor, David Tennant, was a hero in our minds. His adaptation of the famed Time Lord was spectacular, and we felt certain there was no one who could follow his role with the same charisma.

However, beyond my adoration of David Tennant was my love of the show--so I had to watch, although my first impression of Matt Smith, the new Doctor, was not a good one. I thought he had a strange face, his young age concerned me, and the fact that we were most likely saying good-bye not only to David Tennant but all the old companions we had come to love made it even more difficult to accept this new era in Doctor Who.

Okay. The new Doctor is not as handsome as the last. He does not have that unearthly wisdom shining from his eyes that the last did. I feel at times his sincerity with remarks to his past are a bit forced.

The good news: Amy Pond, the Doctor's companion. This young lady is the PERFECT companion to the Doctor, and we already love her. Past companions are beginning to pale in comparison...their blind devotion to the Doctor has been replaced by a feisty, independent and out-spoken red head who plays off of the Doctor with charm and style...making us appreciate him more.

The newest Doctor has big shoes to fill, and I think with time he will grow into the role with a respectable force...as long as dear Amy Pond remains by his side.

Tying this into writing--how much importance do you place with secondary characters in your writing? Do you ever fear a secondary character may outshine your MC? And if that seems to be happening, do you stop it or let it happen?

Oh, and if you're a fellow Doctor Who fan--would love to hear your comments on the new show as well!

I Am A Mother

2010-05-09T17:39:00.000-07:00

I am a mother. From the moment I held my newborn child in my arms, I no longer existed only for my own happiness. My happiness comes from the joy I see in my children's eyes...their laughter, their smiles, their dreams fulfilled.

At night I lay awake, staring into the darkness, my prayers filled with so many requests...keep them safe, keep them healthy, make them strong. On the first day of preschool I held back my tears as I watched them head off on a journey that will will last for many, many years....hours that turn into days, days that turn into weeks, and weeks that turn into months...culminating into years that they are not here with me. It is my first exercise in letting go.

As the years pass, I wipe their tears over scraped knees and broken hearts. I watch them make mistakes...sometimes disappointing themselves, sometimes disappointing me. Through their successes and their failures my love never wavers, never fades. The worry never goes away, nor does the guilt. You see, a mother can never do enough. She may try to be all things, but just as she must accept the failures of her children, they must accept her failures as well. Through these lessons comes forgiveness, empathy, and serenity.

I hold their hand until they grow old enough to pull away. I hug their necks until they are surly teenagers too proud for cuddles. And still, the love remains. When they leave my side to venture into the world, now young adults ready to make their place in the world, I still pray every night for their safety, their health, their spirits. I am always available, even when I'm tired, or depressed, or distracted. My job has not ended. My job will never end, because my love will never fade. From the time they are tiny, fragile babes grasping my finger and staring adoringly into my eyes, to the time they become parents themselves, holding their own children in their arms, my love remains, now expanded to encompass my new role as a grandparent.

I am a mother, and it is the most important job in the world.

Advice for Newbies--Seek Out Fellow Writers

2010-05-07T11:40:00.000-07:00

The road to publication can be treacherous and lonely for many, and while there are no short-cuts, there is a way to forego the loneliness, and that is by reaching out to other writers.

Whether it is someone has been published, or is currently represented by an agent...or a fellow writer with just as many (if not more) rejections than you, each person can help you learn, help you cope, and make the struggle less solitary.

Those who have reached success will bring you hope, as well as helping you with advice through their own experiences. Those who are early on in their travels to publication can share your struggles with you; after all, they know how you feel.

Where do you find these people? Forums (such as the great Query Tracker), blogs, conferences, and critique groups will get you started. Don't be afraid to reach out. Not everyone will have the time (or even want to) read your MS, but their friendship will become just as valuable.

You may have the support of family and friends, but it is only those other writers out there in the world who will be able to fully understand the experiences you will have as you seek publication.

Itchy Fingers for a New Novel

2010-05-06T15:29:00.000-07:00

I'm getting itchy fingers...it has happened to me twice, and it is a symptom of the addiction to writing. A new story is wanting to wiggle its way out of me, from my fingers to the screen.

Of course, first I must deal with the first blank page, which can be frightening. Oh, I have that tiny little letter I posted a few days back that could be part of my newest project....however small, it is a start.

This project has been on my mind for a while, but it is more out of my element, and it requires something I have to admit I'm dreading--research. Oh, don't get me wrong...I like researching things that interest me. However, for the novel to be historically correct, I am going to have to research some things that aren't necessarily interests of mine...they are, however, necessities for this novel to work.

Here's my dilemma--do I jump into the research first, or start writing and do research as I go along? I mean, it's not like I won't have to do zillions of rewrites anyway, and the writing will inspire me more than the research, honestly.

I'd love feedback from my fellow-writers on how you handle research for your novels. The novel I'm currently querying is a modern-day fantasy, so it didn't require much research. My newest project will be a fantasy as well, but set in the 18th century...and I'd like to get my facts straight.

A Mother's Day Project

2010-05-05T11:39:00.000-07:00

With Mother's Day quickly approaching I had an idea for a fun, writing experiment. Using words that start with each letter in your mother's name, write 1 sentence describing her. Here's mine!

You are the epitomy of classiness, always polite and reserved, except when it comes to your love of family, which has no reservations or boundaries.

CLARA

Motivation--Where Do You Get Your's?

2010-05-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

I've talked about inspiration, but this evening the topic is motivation. To be a writer, you must be motivated to write. To be an author, you must be motivated to be published. Which came first--the chicken or the egg? Or, to be more precise--are you motivated to write so you'll be a published author, or are you motivated to write and THEN motivated to become published?

I don't want to sound like a Stephanie Meyer wannabe, but when I wrote my story (no, it didn't come from a dream) I wrote it because I had to get it on paper. My mind wouldn't rest until the story unfolded on my screen. At times, it was actually very annoying. I would try to sleep, but had to get up countless times to write down ideas. I wrote for hours everyday. I had no thoughts of being published. I had no idea if I would ever finish my story.

Only when the last words were typed did I begin to think "What now?". Inspiration actually was my motivation to write (the egg came first). But to consider pursuing publication, I needed to be motivated. After all, writing a novel is just the beginning if you want to be a published author.

I got my motivation from reading about others who had faced the battle of becoming published authors, undaunted by rejections. Those fairy tales about the down-and-out writers who overcame the odds to go on to becoming best selling authors became my motivation to try it myself.

Like the old "if they can do it, so can I" adage, I jumped headfirst into querying agents. Of course, weeks into sending query letters a dose of reality hit--just because those other authors succeeded doesn't mean I will. But I will keep trying. Why? I guess the simplest answer is: so others will read my novel.

What motivates (or if you're already published, what "motivated" you) to pursue the battle of querying agents and seeking publishers to become a published author? What keeps you going?

I Had an Accident

2010-05-02T06:36:00.000-07:00

Let me set this up for you. Saturday afternoon I was standing in my kitchen making sandwiches, comfortably attired in pajamas. My son had a friend over and we were planning to do a short riding lesson after lunch. That is, until my son informed me our stallion was loose in the yard.

My stallion, registered name EA Asaalah, pet name Turbo, is an escape artist. And he has good reason to escape. He's surrounded by beautiful mares that he will, at some point, be breeding. Only, he'd like to speed up the breeding process, which is more than enough incentive for him to break loose.

So, my husband and I go racing out the door (oh, I did slip on my flip-flops...BIG mistake) and grab a lead rope. My beautiful boy, white coat shining in the sunlight and tail flagged, was racing back and forth along the fence line talking to each mare. When I say talking, I mean bellowing like a rabid lion. Anyway, hubby obviously can't catch him...so he tells me to grab a bucket with some grain.

It worked! Turbo ran right up to me and shoved his face down in the bucket. Hubby was quickly approaching with the lead rope, and then our plan fell apart. One whinny from a nearby mare and Turbo's head flew up, grain forgotten.

Suddenly Turbo rammed into me, his eyes centered on the beautiful mare calling his name (in horse talk). I stumbled backwards, stepping on my own shoe (flip flop). He kept coming forward, ramming me again, and I fell backwards....hitting my head on the fence. Luckily, after I fell his attention went back to me, and he scrambled backwards to keep from stepping on me. And, he succeeded--thank goodness.

Unfortunately, I now have two icky cuts (one on the back of my ear and one on my head) along with two bumps on my noggin. It could have been much worse. If he had stepped on me, or panicked and kicked me, I could have been killed. Instead, I will have a sore head for a while.

For those of you wondering, the injuries were minor. I had no blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, or sleepiness...all signs of a concussion. And, I learned my lesson--as much as I love my horses, they are big, sometimes dangerous animals whose brains are primarily ruled by natural instinct. In shorter terms, that means "don't stand between a stud and his mare".

Putting Words Onto a Blank Screen

2010-04-29T12:02:00.000-07:00

As some of you may remember, I've been stewing on an idea for a new novel for a few months now. The other night, I went from a staring at a blank screen to the first few (possible) words for a new novel.

The idea for my novel comes from a local legend in my area. In 1795 a man named William Strange traveled with a surveying crew into my area, which was uninhabitated at the time other than the local Native American tribe. Strange somehow lost his way from the rest of his party, and they were never able to find him. Thirty years later, and forty miles from where he was last seen, his skeleton was found leaning against a tree that had these words carved into it:

Strange is my name,
And strange this ground.
Strange it is,
That I cannot be found.

I have lots of great ideas for this novel, and more than enough trepidation about writing this particular story. Anyway, I did put words onto that blank screen, and here they are: (it begins with a letter--which I'd love to hear your thoughts on....should you ever start a novel with a letter?).

My dearest Mary Ann,

I fear that this may be the last letter I can send for a while. At dawn tomorrow we will leave civilization behind to trek into the wilderness. My penmanship has never been decent, and I know these old trembling hands do me no aide. I do not wish to worry you, my darling, but joining this party to go into wilds where the demons await forces me to be honest, as I have always been with my wife. I can only endeavor to make the best of things. Isn't that all any of us can hope for?

I do not know when I can write again, but please keep your beloved husband in your prayers for a safe return. God help us all.

Your husband,
William Strange

Walter Farley's THE BLACK STALLION--Changing Lives

2010-04-27T16:12:00.000-07:00

When I think of books that changed lives, this is one that sits near the top of my list. Are you surprised? Well, if you lived in the horse world, you wouldn't be. You see, when Walter Farley wrote the book THE BLACK STALLION he changed the lives of thousands of boys and girls. This is not an exaggeration. Through his story of Alec Ramsey and "the Black" he opened a door to a world that for decades to come would draw many children into a timeless fascination and love of horses.

I don't remember how old I was when I first read THE BLACK STALLION, but I do remember that it sealed an interest that I had carried with me from my earliest memories. Horses. Beautiful, proud horses that could thunder across the ground in a movement of total freedom....their images filled my thoughts through the day and my dreams at night.

From the time I was very young there were two undeniable truths that everyone who knew me could cite with certainty. I would own horses my whole life. And, I would also be an author who writes about horses. This one novel sealed my destiny. It reaffirmed my love and respect for these magnificent animals, and it created a love of books that will follow me throughout my life.

How many people have I met who were strongly influenced by this novel? Many. Many, many, many now-horse-owners began their love affair with horses by opening the pages of Walter Farley's masterpiece. I am proud to be one of them. And the greatest achievement I could ever aspire to would be carrying on Mr. Farley's legacy by creating my own horse novel that would touch children of this generation even to a tiny degree the way THE BLACK STALLION has done.

When Should You Call it Quits?

2010-04-26T15:23:00.000-07:00

At what point should an author decide to call it quits when pursuing publication of a novel? The answers vary. There are some very motivating stories of best-selling authors who worked past many, many rejections only to find great success in the end. There are just as many, if not more, tales of authors who failed with their first novel, but went on to find success with the second, third, or fourth attempt at writing. And, there are many unspoken stories of authors who never reach their goals of being published.

So, my question is this: When, in your opinion, should an author give up and move on to another project? (Okay, I understand many will move onto another project while querying the first one, but that is not what I mean with this question). How many rejections does it take before an author should put away the MS, whether he/she decides to move onto another or not?

My opinion has been to query every agent who accepts your genre before giving up. That makes sense to me. Every new agent is a clean slate. That does not mean, however, that after many rejections you shouldn't reconsider your query, synopsis and most importantly--MS. I think for many new authors the querying process is a learning experience that quite often brings changes not only to the query letter, but to the MS itself. What you may believe is polished and complete in the beginning of your journey may be very different from what you have at the end (whether the end means representation or giving up).

One of the most popular sayings among authors is "Never give up." However, I don't know if that necessarily applies to one particular novel. It may mean never give up being a published author...even if it's not the current project your submitting.

So, again, I'd love to hear your thoughts. At what point should an author resign him/herself to the fact that further pursuits of representation are futile?

Story Ideas--What Do You Do With Your's?

2010-04-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

I get ideas for stories quite often (I say "stories" because unless it's written out and finished I don't consider it a novel). Unfortunately, I lose them as often as I think them up. By losing them, I mean I forget them. The other day I had this really cool idea that I can't remember now. If you're wondering how I can possibly label it "cool" when I can't remember it, you'll just have to trust me!

I do remember it was related to some real-life character, and how neat it would be to write a story about another member of that character's life, along the lines of The Red Tent or Ahab's Wife. It's been bothering me for days that I can't remember my idea, which leads me to a small piece of advice that I need to follow, and you might find helpful as well.

Write your ideas down. Store them away somewhere. They may come in handy sometime. In fact, they may turn into a best-selling novel. However, you'll never know if you forget them.

Writing What You Know, and What You Don't

2010-04-23T19:01:00.000-07:00

You've heard it said before. "Write what you know." Seems simple enough, right? No matter who you are, where you're from, or what your background is...there's something you can share with others that could be construed as informative or entertaining. So it makes sense to write about those things.

And luckily, whatever that thing, or the many things, that you can offer are--you can implement them into a novel. If you're a teacher, then you know children and their interests...and that gives you a headstart into writing a novel geared for children, or about children. If you are a doctor or nurse, you can use your expertise in the medical field to implement such areas into a novel.

Here's the good news: you're not bound by only the things you know. Cool, right? There's this thing called RESEARCH, and it can not only help you write a novel that will interest others, it may be something you will find enjoyment with to create that novel. So maybe you are a teacher, for example....but you want to write a horror novel. Just because your expertise or career is about children does not mean you are tied to writing about in that area.

In my opinion, however, it is when you can combine the two---what you know, and what you're willing to learn, that you will have the best results. This becomes a journey of learning for not only the reader, but the writer.

I've mentioned two ingredients...what you know, and what you've learned through research, but in the end the main ingredient will always remain the same with fiction. The power of your imagination.

Being Professional--And Why It's Important

2010-04-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

There are literally hundreds of resources to help writers write professional query letters. Much of this information varies. However, the goal behind the advice you will read is the same--being professional.

This carries over to more than writing a query letter. There is a code of conduct among writers who are seeking representation that every new writer will learn early on if any kind of research at all is done, such as : never call an agent, never harass an agent, never argue with an agent, and rarely (if ever) should you ask an agent to reconsider your work (unless they have read it first).

And once you do gain representation, more rules of conduct will come into play that you must follow. Remember this: no agent, or editor, or publisher wants to deal with an unprofessional author. Period. It's not worth their time.

However, the same should be true for agents/editors/publishers as well. Just as there is a wide range of personalities among authors, there is also a wide range among agents. If you do your research, especially with the bigger houses, you can learn a little more about the personalities of agents, which can help you when you approach them.

It can also help you weed out the unprofessional ones. Yes, that's right----there are unprofessional agents, and not just the ones who are not AAR approved or come from obscure agencies. There are well-known, successful agents who lack professionalism. And if you require that from an agent, it is best you do your homework first before submitting.

As aspiring authors, we become so eager to find representation we often forget that the agents need us just as badly as we do them, and that the relationship between author and agent is a two-way street. Just as you shouldn't enter into a bad relationship blindly, you also should be wary of warning signs you may get from agents that signal an unprofessional attitude.

I don't think I need to define "professional", but if any of you have comments on what you consider to be "unprofessional" behavior by agents or authors, please post a comment and let me know!

Querying is Not a Race

2010-04-21T09:01:00.000-07:00

It took me awhile to figure this one out. I don't understand why I initially felt that getting my novel published was a race, but that is how I approached the process. I cringe each time I think about the first month I spent querying agents. I was sending up to four queries per day, and I let the number of rejections reach into the twenties before I even began to consider slowing down to take another look at my queries (I sent out different queries for each agent).

Even after reconsidering my query letter I continued to send them out. I was totally addicted to researching agents and sending out letters...even when it resulted in even more rejections.

My advice today is for new writers. TAKE YOUR TIME. I'm not suggesting you wait to hear back on each query before sending another. The most common rule is to send up to ten letters and gauge the responses from those before sending more. If you get only rejections, your query may need work.

But before you even get to that point, find beta readers. Find critique groups (if they're available in your area--there are none in mine). Read blogs, forums and articles.

Remember this: 99% of the time, when it comes to querying agents for a novel, a no-is-a-no-is-a-no. So, once you get that "no" from that agent, there is no going back. You can't resubmit for the same project. You can't say "But, I didn't KNOW how to write a good query letter!". Your chances are lost with those agents you reject you. And no matter how good your query may get, if you novel is not the best it can be, you're still digging a hole of rejections that will only get deeper.

My First Paragraph

2010-04-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

I have a concern with the first paragraph of my novel. I think it sets up the scene well and takes the reader directly into the world of the MC. However, my fear is that it could be misunderstood by some readers. Let me share it here, and then I'll explain further.

Her energy traveled through the whip, pushing the gelding from behind as he loped around her. When the warmblood's eyes strayed away, Morgan curled the lunge whip like a hissing snake until it snapped a few inches behind his back hooves. In the centuries-old practice of "lunging," Morgan was directing the horse's movement by using the whip as an extension of her arm. She grinned when he gave a little jump and started cantering. As he loped circles around her, his left ear was turned in, listening for her next command. It was an apology for letting his attention be diverted by those sweet-smelling mares in the adjoining pasture. Every good student must pay attention to his teacher.

Okay. Now my concern. I'm afraid that readers who are totally unfamiliar with horses may perceive this scene as Morgan being mean to the horse. I do "tell" (somethings you can't show) the reader that she is "lungeing", which is a training technique. I've played around with this paragraph quite a bit, and at one point had a sentence that affirmed she never touches the horse with the whip, using it only as an extension of her arm to push him from behind. Maybe saying it that way would be more clear?

The first paragraph is SO important. An agent (or reader) can read the first paragraph and decide early on if it's worth the effort to continue reading. Now, I realize that this scene is not integral to the conflict in my story, and perhaps some of the best opening lines take the reader smack dab into the middle of major conflict....but I really don't think that will work with my MS. The conflict builds slowly (not too slowly...LOL) in my novel. What I am doing with this paragraph is opening up a scene that will then drift into another scene.

So, my wonderful followers--what do you think? I'm not opposed to changes; after all, that's what editing is all about!

Editing--Fresh Eyes are Needed

2010-04-19T05:16:00.000-07:00

Have you ever worked on editing to the point that all the words become a blur and you feel a bit queasy from staring at the screen? Your nails are bitten to the quick and you have this strange, light-headed feeling that makes you wonder if you've become allergic to your own story?

I have. I've literally trembled at the computer after doing pages of edits. It's my body's way of telling me to take a break. That's simple enough, right? Of course it is! Just walk away and come back to it another day.

But what happens when you're at the computer, fired up to do some major edits, and you get lost in your story (for the thousandeth time)? You start out good, fixing grammar, typos and spelling errors...maybe even re-writing entire scenes in the novel. But then your edit button is forgotten when you find yourself ten pages into a chapter and realize you haven't made a single change.

I think this may be worse than the burn-out I mentioned in the beginning. It's worse because you don't feel bad while you're reading...you feel good and you remember why you love the story so much. So, you don't walk away. You just keep reading until something (in the real world) comes up that requires you to put the book away for another day. The problem? You may take up where you left off READING, when you should go back to where you left off EDITING.

My strategy to editing is to do it in smaller intervals. I edit a few pages at a time...maybe go over those same pages several times, before I find myself lost in the story again. That is how I would describe "fresh eyes".

How do you approach editing? Do you edit a minimum number of pages per day? Do you re-read the same parts over and over until you feel you are finished with editing? And, like me, do you ever find yourself "reading" instead of "editing".

Finding a Common Interest with an Agent

2010-04-16T06:19:00.000-07:00

I touched on this subject the other day, but wanted to pursue the idea a bit further with this post. I have mentioned the importance of doing your homework before querying an agent, and the best places to find information on agents.

Today, I want to talk about how a common interest can help you gain a request. Several months ago, when I first started with querying, I sent a query to an agent who was originally from Kentucky. I mentioned in my letter that my novel opens in Kentucky and it is a horse story. This agent wasn't very interested in fantasy, but this common interest led her to request my full MS (which she ultimately rejected).

Another agent name is on my waiting list...meaning, I'm waiting to query her. Through my research (I googled her name) I found that she owns an Arabian horse. I found her and the horse's name on an Arabian show list. BTW--I'm not confusing her with someone else with the same name. She has a very unique name and the show was in the same region where she lives.

My hope? A fellow Arabian owner will be interested in a novel about an Arabian horse. Makes sense! Of course, the whole reason I haven't already sent her a query is that I've went back to work on my MS to get it where it needs to be before querying further.

But, when the time is right, I will send this agent a query. Maybe, just maybe....she will be the right agent for my novel.

The First Few Lines of Your MS

2010-04-15T06:17:00.000-07:00

I took my parents to Wal-Mart yesterday, and while I was waiting for them to do their shopping I headed over to the book section to see what's selling in the most popular store in the US. However, my attention toward the kind of books on the shelves was soon diverted by what was in those books, specifically the first few lines of each book.

I noticed several things. Firstly, most had prologues. I found this surprising, because it seems more and more agents are opposed to prologues. And obviously the majority of these novels were represented by literary agents.

More importantly, however, was those first few sentences, whether it was in a prologue or first chapter. I love reading the first line in books, because it is that one line indicates so much about the book--the style of writing, the level of conflict, and basically...whether I will want to read more.

With each book I picked up, the first line was leading toward some sort of conflict or action. They did not start off with scene-setting or descriptions. The obvious goal with all of these books was to draw in the reader immediately.

However, I also noticed that those books with prologues may have led with a conflict in the prologue, but started slower with the first chapter. Hmmm....

I've been rewriting my first chapter for the past couple of weeks, tweaking and tweaking it until I get it where it needs to be. After all, whether it be agent or reader, those pages are the door into the adventure of my novel, and I have to make sure readers will want to open that door.

When Life Gets in the Way of Writing

2010-04-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

Winter is my favorite season to write. I can stare out the window at the blowing snow and smugly return to my computer screen, warmly entertained. Then comes spring, and with it warmer temperatures and more appealing scenery. So, I find myself spending less hours at the computer and more time outside, whether it be with my horses or my gardens.

Don't get me wrong--my ideas and my writing are always there with me, and I still find time to work on my current project, which is editing my MS. The time I spend with writing is divided now, however, with my other interests.

Is this a bad thing? I feel like I can now take a fresher look at my writing and the editing is going more smoothly, although more slowly. I'm not working on any new writing projects...just continuing with the current novel. So why do I feel guilty?

How is it for all of you? Are you more of a winter writer, or do you work just as many hours on your writing year-round? Do you have other interests outside writing that take up part of your time? Let me know!

Finding the Right Agent to Query

2010-04-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

I have a confession. I have queried agents that were not the right match for my novel. For instance, when I started querying, I went directly for fantasy agents. The problem? They weren't young adult agents. And my novel is definitely young adult.

But it goes even deeper than just finding an agent who represents your genre. You must do your homework. Things I look for: agent's style of writing in bio, books the agent represents, comments in blogs and interviews, and the one I love the most (but see so seldom) WISH LISTS. I love agents with wish lists. It gives me a very good indication of what SPECIFICALLY that agent is looking for.

Usually, it's the blogs and interviews that are the most common and useful. But what about those agents who don't have websites or blogs? Well, my advice for those is a very old cliche--it doesn't hurt to try! Or, you'll never know unless you ask (or query).

Above and beyond any of these tips, however, is finding GOOD agents. AAR agents, or those who abide by the canon of ethics set up by AAR. Agents who don't charge fees. Agents with good track records with their clients. It is better to be rejected by a good agent than to be represented by a bad agent.

What Is Your Inspiration for Writing?

2010-04-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

My inspiration comes mainly from my hopes, dreams, fears and failures. It is a culmination of all those things that influence my life. However, one of my greatest inspirations is my horses...more specifically, the ARABIAN horse. With their proudly arched necks, flagged tails and flaring nostrils, they are truly "living art". IMO, no other breed exhibits such pride and charisma as the Arabian, and with a heritage as old as time, it is truly an honor to have them in my presence.

Pictured above are two mares who arrived at my farm this weekend to be bred to our Arabian stallion. They will be with us for the next couple months. Not only will I take a great deal of pleasure in handling and watching these beauties, but they will prove further inspiration to my imagination and creativity.

So, my question of the day...What inspires you? Is it a landscape scene? A real or imaginary person? A painting? Whatever it is that sparks your imagination and gives you ideas for writing, share it here!

Making Progress--Undoing Overwriting

2010-04-08T05:53:00.000-07:00

It's meant some late nights and a tired delete button, but I'm slowly making progress with edits on my novel. I'm afraid the book may be a lot shorter when I get done...LOL...but I still feel good about how much better I'm making it.

In the meantime, I've been studying articles and blogs about over-writing, and I came across this one last night.
http://helpineedapublisher.blogspot.com/2009/09/big-mistake-3-over-writing.html The blog is called "Help, I Need a Publisher" and it is full of great advice and tips on writing. This particular blog post resonated with me because it described perfectly how everything I've learned about writing has (in some ways) worked against me. And, it gave examples of how to take an over-written scene and condense it into tight writing that conveys the same descriptions with less words.

I'm very thankful for all the online resources available for writers today. I can't image trying to do this 20 years ago (meaning--on my own).

Back to Editing--Cutting to the Bare Bones

2010-04-07T10:35:00.000-07:00

I edited my first chapter. My eighteen pages turned into 7 1/2 pages. I tried really hard to cut anything unnecessary, including adjectives and adverbs. I also tried to cut anything not relevant to the story.

And, my wonderful, patient beta reader who must feel like she's helping a toddler who can't walk, showed me where I can cut even more--a lot more. I'm still over-writing.

I read the comments from my last blog. I almost over-looked them, and I'm so glad I didn't. A big hug and thanks to those of you who continue to read my blog and offer encouragement! I did want to address one piece of advice about reading contemporary novels to get a feel for how to write a novel. I admit I need to take some time to read (I've been trying to read The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown but for the first time in a long time I'm having trouble finishing it--it reads too much like his past books). Anyway, in my last post I mentioned all the classics that inspired me as a college student, but I was remiss in not mentioning that I do read and enjoy contemporary novels as well. Unfortunately, I must still be missing the lesson I should learn from others' writing.

Here's an example. I like Mercedes Lackey books....some more than others, but all the same, I'm a fan. If anything, I've always felt she went much further than I do with her descriptions and "purple prose". As much as I love her stories, many times I've skimmed parts that kind of went on and on and on to get to the plot. Okay. Some of you may be saying that's the lesson I need to learn here. All that "over-writing" can be tedious.

But, like I said...I don't take it as far as she does. And she's a very successful author. Obviously, this is just one comparison. Maybe I'm reading the wrong kind of books.

It's never bothered me to be wrong. I've never had a problem admitting I was wrong. I can take criticism very well. And I believe that has remained true with having a beta reader for my novel. And, I don't have a problem with putting lots more work into this novel. And yet, I feel confused. I'm not confused about the advice--I'm confused about contemporary writing, I guess. I'm confused about what agents want. Cutting my writing to the bare bones makes me fearful that the story will become too bland.

As I've said before, I've always felt confident in my writing. But with so many rejections the truth can't be denied. My writing may have worked in other avenues, but when it comes to writing a novel I have a lot to learn.

I've Had it All Wrong

2010-04-05T19:28:00.000-07:00

Everything I ever learned about writing is now working against me. Let me take you back for a moment. I am a junior at a state college. I'm sitting in a creative writing class. This is different than my journalism classes--totally different. I'm given an assignment to describe a painting. I must use my words to bring this painting to life. I must describe it to such detail the reader can imagine the painting as if it sat right in front of him/her. I am successful. The teacher praises my use of adjectives, my grammatically correct writing, and the substantial length to my paper.

Fast forward to now. I'm a writer. I've always been a writer. I know how to describe those scenes, right? Of course I do! I can use big words, small words, and impressive words...lots of adjectives and adverbs...to build a world with such colorful detail it will appear right in front of you. I can describe the emotions of a character to such a degree you can totally empathize with how that character feels.

And, I'm learning, this is all working against me. It's "purple prose". It's taboo. It's a no-no. It's what makes an agent wince and move on to the next submission. And it's all I know. All those courses in classic literature, from English to early American, that left me wanting more...those are a thing of the past. That style of writing is gone forever.

I must admit, I feel a bit stupid. And believe me, it's not a feeling that bodes well with me. I may be a nervous, anxious, over-sentimental ninny, but I have always been able to rely on my intelligence. And now I feel stupid. This isn't want agents want! I guess this isn't the kind of writing that sells.

I have blamed my query, my first five pages, my synopsis, and my first three chapters...because these were all things agents have read and rejected. I blamed the premise of my novel. It's been done, you see. Orphan boy/girl finds family heritage and saves world. And now, after all these months, I'm learning that none of these factors are nearly as detrimental to my goal of getting this novel published as my style of writing has been. The way I write doesn't sell. Period.

Last week I was ready to just put this MS on a shelf and start concentrating on another novel. But that's not the answer either. Because another novel will have the same writing style--my writing style. And it will not sell with an agent or publisher.

So, now what do I do? Well, I have found someone kind enough to be a beta reader for my story, and honest enough to be brutal. Another kind lady read the first chapter and gave me a good indication of the problem I've described, and the current beta reader will hopefully take it even further.

But how I do unlearn everything I've been taught (and actually taught to others)? How do I write in a way that seems so foreign, so odd, and so wrong to me? Or, do I just accept that I'm not the kind of writer who sells books and let this dream go?

Moms Aren't All that Busy--SAY WHAT?

2010-04-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

On the Dr. Phil show yesterday evening a panel discussed a recent research study that says stay-at-home moms have 30-40 hours of leisure time per week. Obviously, the audience (and panel) was filled with moms who totally disagreed. I wasn't in the audience, but I was at home watching, and I joined the ranks in the opinion that leisure time for moms is few and far between.

Now, my kids are both in school, so I do have more free time than I did when they were home. I work parttime (lately it's been more "part" than "time") as a substitute teacher. Even with my kids in school I feel that I work pretty darn hard.

I'll get to writing in a moment, but before I do let me list a typical day (for me) at my home:

6:40 am---get up and get kids ready for school
7:10 am---get kids on bus
7:15-8:30--breakfast, load dishwasher, pick up toys, make beds (and check my email)
8:30 am--feed hay to horses
9:00-10:00 am--check forums, write in blog, do laundry, feed dogs, vacuum
10:00-12:00--varies....either my household work such as dusting, mopping, etc. or lately it's been gardening
12:00 pm--feed grain to horses, clean stalls, let horses out into paddocks
1:00-2:00 pm--more household/gardening/lawn work
3:00-4:00 pm--down time, usually spent on the computer (lunch or snack)
4:20 pm--get kids off of bus
4:30 pm--help with homework, put bookbags away, make a snack for kids, family time
5:30 pm--feed hay to horses, bring horses into barn
6:00-6:30 pm--play outside with kids (usually ball) and feed for fourth time (grain to horses)
6:30 pm--fix dinner
7:00 pm--eat dinner
7:30 pm--clean up kitchen (leave dishes for next morning), gets kids bathed and clothes laid out for next morning (which usually means doing more laundry)
8:00 pm--watch tv
9:00 pm--kids to bed
9:00-11:00 pm--tv/computer
11:00 pm--bed

This schedule varies widely. Some days are busier. Yesterday I had to run errands (post office, bank, grocery store, both schools, gas station). I also had to unload a ton of grain (literally) by myself yesterday, and I groomed horses. Not much housework was accomplished. This morning I bought mulch for flower beds and I've got one finished with half a truck load yet to put out in other spots.

Now, according to the research this gentleman did on leisure time, I have a whole lot...especially with my computer time. However, my computer time is used primarily for two things--my writing/attempt at getting published (such as querying or researching agents) and for my horse business.

My question of the day is this: IS WRITING A JOB? IS IT A HOBBY? OR IS IT LEISURE/PLAYTIME?

Excerpt From My Novel with An Explanation of Watchers

2010-03-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

I haven't done this for quite a while, so I thought I'd share an excerpt from my novel. Now, this isn't an exciting, romantic, funny or sad scene. But it is very important to the novel. What I am posting is dialogue (almost a speech) between Philip (a Watcher) and the MC (Morgan). Philip is explaining who and what the Watchers are to Morgan....their history and their lives. Enjoy!

But then it began-the most wild, bizarre and yet very real tale she had ever, or would ever, hear.

Philip began. "Soon after the beginning of time two angels came to Earth to live with the humans. While they possessed certain powers, they looked, acted, and felt just as humans do. They fell in love, and decided to stay in the world they had come to love, forever. The other angels were angry, feeling betrayed that their comrades would rather live with weak humans than share their rightful place in the afterlife. So they were disinherited, you could say," he smiled as he told the story. "Cursed to live out eternity with humankind.

As he spoke Morgan wondered what this could possibly have to do with her situation, but she sat quietly and continued to listen.

"Their kinship with all the creatures of Earth never faltered. It was not just the humans. In that time many mystical creatures roamed the Earth and called it home. As centuries passed, the fallen angels, and now their sons and grandsons and great-grandsons and so forth watched as the balance between humankind and the mystic creatures was broken. The creatures were deemed evil, over time, by humankind, and were hunted and often killed.

"Luckily, the Fallen Ones still possessed the same powers they had in the beginning, at least the first two did. Their descendants were also powerful, but not as encompassing as the founding fathers. So they helped the mystic creatures escape Earth, and gave them a land of their own—Gaia. A few creatures refused to leave, and the Fallen Ones did not wish to force them. So they made it their job to watch over these creatures, as well as the world they had created. This is when they began to call themselves The Watchers."

Philip paused, studying Morgan’s face as she listened. He was surprised to see she was intent, but no noticeable expression. He hadn’t realized her fascination with a good story.

"The original two Fallen Ones, and their direct sons, formed The Council. The rest of the descendants became The Watchers. Over time, the wives (or bonded ones) of The Watchers joined the group and gained their own powers through the love of their husbands. This is what happened with your parents," he explained.

Morgan glanced at her parents, who were listening as aptly to Philip as she had been. None of this made sense, but she was determined to hear it through.

"As the family of Watchers has grown over the centuries with the inclusion of the wives, so has their responsibilities. Originally, they were to look after the land of Gaia and the mystic creatures who remained on Earth. But, in time, they found themselves helping the other creatures of Earth—the animals. And they found a common bond with many of the animals, who shared what we call ‘the gift’, or the powers of telepathy and knowledge of history. Your Epona is a gifted one," he pointed out. Morgan nodded, knowing her mare had always been special, and now understanding Philip’s interest in her.

"In all eternity Watchers have only born sons. Never was a girl born from the union of a Watcher and his wife. And, in the last few hundred years, the Council has frowned on Watchers having children at all. There are more than enough of us to carry out our work, and it is a strain on parents to raise children and do their jobs."

"But my parents had me," Morgan answered, looking at Glory and Christian for the first time as actually her parents.

"Yes, and they paid the price. The Council was not happy when Glory became pregnant, and they were very troubled to find it was a girl. This had never happened. And, they realized that you were completely human, not possessing any of the magic of our race. That is when the decision was made that your parents abandon you to your grandfather. They felt it best you live a normal, human life."

Morgan was startled to hear him call her mother Glory; she had only known her as Gloria. But that was a question that could wait for another time.

"The Council has grown weak," Jasmine’s voice came from the hall, interrupting her thoughts. She entered the room with a frown. "No one had ever dared break the rules of the Council, and then when a rule is broken they condone it. Not only condone it, but help with a reunion." She looked angrily at Morgan’s parents, who stared back at her in equal anger.

"Compassion is not weakness," Christian retorted. "And the reason we are all Watchers is because we have compassion.

"The Watchers compassion for the mystic creatures is what started all of this," Philip pointed out. "But they never lost their compassion for mankind, either. The goal of the Council is finding balance and harmony between creatures, whether it be human, animal or mystic. In today’s world The Watchers are just as busy doing damage control over human problems as they are helping the Gaians.

"You’re leaving out an important part of all of this," Jasmine said. "The Gaians fate lies in the hands of the humans. If humanity keeps the path it is taking, and the world ends, Gaia will end as well. They are like a tree and its roots; you cannot have one without the other."

"Is the world going to end?" Morgan asked, eyes wide. She wasn’t sure she liked this story, after all. Of course, logic told her it was all untrue.

"We have no idea," Philip answered. "We know the past, we live in the present, but it is not for us to know the future. Mankind has definitely done a lot of damage to the planet, and it is stirring up problems that go beyond global warming and wars. The mystics who live on Earth are becoming more and more angry at the humans, and we’ve been very busy lately trying to keep the peace. The Gaians get reports from us on the status of mankind, because it does affect them, and they are angry as well. In the end, however, there is a natural course mankind must take, and while we can do damage control, the fate of man still lies with man himself."

"What kind of damage control do you do?" Morgan asked, trying to keep her voice neutral.

"Many things," Philip sighed. "There are times we must force the mystics on Earth back to Gaia, if they are a threat to humanity or to revealing our secrets. There are times when we must cover up things that threaten our secrets. And, like I said, we must report to the Council on what is happening on Earth and how it could affect Gaia. It’s a busy job," he chuckled.

"Where is the Council?" Morgan asked.

"They are hidden between the planes of the two worlds. When I say two worlds, I do not mean separate planets. I guess the easiest analogy is dimensions. The Watchers have not seen the Council in the flesh for centuries."

"How old can Watchers get?" Morgan asked.

"I am 600 years old, " Jasmine boasted. "The oldest here."

"Christian is very old himself, " Philip teased, grinning at Christian. "He is almost four hundred years old."

"And I’m forty-one years old," Glory laughed. "A mere baby compared to these oldies." Jasmine didn’t find her joke funny, and strode out of the room. Morgan could hear her stomping down the stairway.

"I waited over three hundred and fifty years to meet your mom," Christian said proudly. "And it was worth the wait."

"You have never been married before her?" Morgan asked.

"Never. Marriage for Watchers means much more than the marriages in your world. It is called ‘bonding’, and it only happens once. When a Watcher bonds with a woman, he shares his long life span with her, and he helps her find her hidden magic." Christian and Glory were staring at each other in complete devotion.

"How old are you?" Morgan asked Philip.

"Old enough," he grinned.

"But have you never ‘bonded’?" Morgan wondered.

"Some Watchers never bond. That doesn’t mean we can’t have friendships, or even relationships. We just don’t have to share our power with someone else." Still grinning. "I am satisfied being a bachelor."

"So can you travel to Gaia?" Morgan asked the group. She still wasn’t sure what to make of this strange tale, but she was following it.

"We can," Christian said cautiously, glancing at Glory.

"We are," Philip corrected him. Looking Morgan straight in the eyes, he said, "You are in Gaia now."

The Success of Others Can Be Inspiration for You

2010-03-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

Several bloggers are running interviews with published authors, and I wanted to throw this out there to my followers so you can take a look. These interviews remind us that persistence is the key to getting a book published, and that IT CAN BE DONE. So, to start you off, go to Elana Johnson's blog http://elanajohnson.blogspot.com and you will find her recent interview as well as a list of other bloggers who are conducting interviews as well.

When you read the interviews, take note of the similarities in what is being said by these authors. Many felt like giving up in their journey to be published, but the reason they are doing these interviews now as published authors is because they didn't give in to their insecurities. They stayed true to the path and the results are great!

I hope to join them in the World That is Published Authors someday. Until then, I'll use their stories for inspiration, and I hope you will too!

Keeping My Fingers Crossed! My Entry is In...

2010-03-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

Today was the day for the Query Tracker blog contest. I explained in my last blog that five winners get a free critique of their query by literary agent Jason Yarn of Paradigm Agency. I didn't mention the winner also receives a critique of the first ten pages of his/her manuscript.

I was very excited to enter. I got my one line pitch down (and it did end up a bit different than the one I posted in my last post) and I even re-worked my first paragraph to make it stand out a bit more. I thought I was done with editing. Well, I am done with editing. The paragraph was good in its original version. But this contest relies solely on that paragraph, so I made some changes accordingly.

Here is my pitch and paragraph. Now, I must wait until (around) April 9 to find out the results of the contest.

Pitch: Eighteen-year-old Morgan Meadows has always preferred horses to people, but when she is placed on trial for the crimes of humanity in a parallel world, she must defend the human race to survive.

First Paragraph: Morgan swung gracefully into the saddle, gently grasping the reins as she slowly settled her weight onto the gelding's back. She focused her eyes on his pinned ears as she felt the rippling tension from his body pulsing beneath her. She could hear his teeth savagely chomping the cold iron of the bit, causing saliva and foam to drip from his mouth. His white-rimmed eyes rolled with a mixture of hatred and fear as his flared nostrils expelled the hot breath pushing against them. She knew his thoughts; she was the enemy, and this was a battle. Morgan exhaled, releasing her inhibitions, and then softly nudged his sides with her heels. For the tiniest moment a still silence surrounded them, followed by an explosion that catapulted the pair off of the ground as dust boiled around them.

Now, here's my dilemma. I'm sure there are going to be some pretty amazing entries, and at this point there is no possible way for me to even begin to speculate whether I'll win or not. However, I'm wondering if I should wait until the contest is over before querying any further agents. I have around ten agents I'm waiting to hear responses from now, so it wouldn't hurt to give querying a break for a couple weeks anyway.

Gearing Up For A Contest on Query Tracker Blog!

2010-03-27T13:46:00.000-07:00

The Query Tracker blog... http://querytracker.blogspot.com is sponsoring a contest on Monday, March 29 at 12 noon EST . Contest rules state you must post a one line pitch of your novel and the first paragraph. Winners get a free query critique by Jason Yarn of Paradigm Agency.

I used up all my luck several years ago, but I still enjoy these blog contests. I used up my luck by winning a very expensive grandfather clock...then, a couple years later a very expensive gun (which was a gift to hubby)...and finally, a handmade quilt. I theorize that every one has a certain level of luck (levels vary), but my level must be low.

However, with contest will be a learning experience, so even if I don't win--I do win if I learn something. And, it's been fun coming up with a one-liner for my novel.

I already have a dozen or more versions, but this is probably the best I've come up with:

Eighteen-year-old Morgan Meadows has always preferred horses to people, but when she finds herself on trial for the crimes of humanity in a parallel world, she must defend the human race to survive.

I don't like sticking two prepositional phrases back-to-back, but then again--I am only allowed one sentence and both are necessary for this version. My goal is to show the irony...girl who doesn't care for people must defend the human race.

It's good practice, and I'm excited to read everyone else's pitches as well. Anyone else out there getting ready for the contest and want to share? Just post a comment and let me know!

The Great Question--Why Are We Here?

2010-03-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

I don't watch much tv, but occasionally I will turn on the tv while I'm eating lunch (I don't like eating at the computer). There's not much entertainment on the tube on a weekday afternoon, unless you like soaps (yuck). So, if it's on, I usually watch re-runs of "Everybody Loves Raymond", which alway seems to be on.

I always found this show amusing. I like seeing Debra terrorize Ray, to be honest. The other day, however, they had an episode where Ray and Debra's daughter wanted to know the answer to the biggest question of all--What is the meaning of life? Or, to put it another way--why are we here?

At least, I think the two go hand-in-hand. The show got me to thinking (after all, it was a thought-provoking question). Let's look at this from a general Christian POV (after all, if you're an evolutionist I would assume there is no reason...we're just here because we evolved...and then we die). Anyway, looking at it objectively--Why DID God create us? I mean, before us he had his angels, right? If there's a verse in the Bible that explains it, feel free to comment and let me know. Now--before you jump in and quote all the verses about how much God loves us, let me repeat--I am asking WHY did he create us to begin with? Sure, he loved us after he made us...but what caused him to create Adam and Eve "in the beginning"?

Because God is almighty and all-powerful and wise and all that, I'm guessing there was a purpose behind his creation? It says in Genesis that on the 7th day he "was pleased" with his creation. Was He pleased because he liked what he saw, or because of the purpose his creation would bring?

So, what is that purpose? If God is all-knowing, then He had to know that Adam and Eve would fall from grace and that many people in the thousands of years to come would turn into evil-doers. But that's predestination--right? And if predestination is true, then what does any of it matter? We're all just chess pieces in a game that's already been played...sort of.

It seems a bit far-fetched to think He created us for company, or for someone to love him. That would show weakness, wouldn't it? If our only sole purpose is to glorify him, as some would say, then why are we born with intricate, unique personalities that drive us to follow our hopes and dreams, to like and dislike certain things, and to be constantly battling failure in an attempt to make ourselves better? And why is it worth all the trouble to Allah to watch us run around like a bunch of ants toward goals that will ultimately end, whether we achieve them or not, in the stomp of death?

Is there a point to all this rambling? Well, I getting to that. But first, let me say, I have no clue whatsoever why we were created, if we were created. I do think, however, that the "meaning of life" is different for each person, which is why no one person can find the right answer for everyone. Each of us has something important that we can offer to the world that will make the rest of humanity better. It may be in a small way, or a big way--although I think the level of our contribution is more up to us than anything. Anyway, each person on Earth has the potential to do something great. Obviously, circumstances and environment can influence how much of a great thing. But each one of us has SOMETHING IMPORTANT we're supposed to do, and by doing that we are creating a better world for future people. Hypothetically (it has to be hypothetical because it can never really happen), if every single person on Earth did that one really important thing (gosh, "thing" is so vague, but I don't know what other word to use), over time the state of humanity and the world would improve to such a level that it would be a sort of Utopia...oh, wait...Heaven.

I may do more of these "philosophical ramblings" from time to time. I like to write, obviously...and if one person finds it entertaining it's not a complete waste of time.

My Shiny, New, and (IMO) Wonderful Pitch

2010-03-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

I couldn't have done this without the wonderful, fantastic and kind members of the Query Tracker forum. Finally, I have a pitch for my query that I am really, really happy with...I only hope agents will like it as much!

"Once you make this decision, there is no going back....You may bring the horse with you, but nothing else. And you must come now." These ominous terms are eighteen-year-old Morgan Meadows' only chance to meet her biological parents. Morgan's bond with her Arabian mare Epona has helped her overcome a difficult life; knowing Epona will be with her, Morgan decides anything is better than living out of a trailer and eating macaroni and cheese for dinner every night.

Morgan learns her parents are Watchers, guardians of the creatures on Earth and in the parallel world of Gaia. Morgan and Epona's venture into Gaia introduces a world that depends on the survival of Earth for its own existence, because if Earth dies--Gaia does as well. In a land where magic, fallen angels, and mystical creatures with a serious hatred for humans exist together, Morgan is placed on trial for the crimes humans have committed against Earth and the creatures in it. Finding the magic within herself to prove she is a true Watcher will not come easily. Unlike her new family, she must earn her powers.

When Morgan is faced with Gaian assassins, the murder of her beloved friend, and the possibility of revenge, she wonders if she should have just stayed in her trailer in Kentucky after all. For now, her desire to use her powers for vengeance may cause a rift that could destroy both worlds.

The Irony in THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER

2010-03-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

I mentioned this earlier on the QT forum as I was posting yet another rewrite of my query. Recently I read an agent's review of a query (I'm sorry I can never remember names and don't post links--I'll try to get better at that). Anyway, the agent said that the biggest problem he sees in queries is the author missing the main message or the importance of the story and exemplifying that in the query. It's great to lay out the plot in a pitch, but it's even better if you can delve deeper into WHY the plot is important and the message behind it.

The recurring theme, and underlying theme, of my novel is irony. Below are examples of irony in THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER:

1. Morgan agrees to meet her parents because she's unhappy with her life. Yet, she trades the problems of one life for even bigger problems with another. Or, perhaps I should say--she trades one unhappy world for another (literally).

2. Morgan's family are Watchers. They do good deeds all the time by being guardians of innocent creatures. Compassion is a genetic trait each possesses to different degrees. Yet, their role as guardians began with a selfish motive--to redeem themselves from their fall from grace.

3. The Watchers are ruled by The Council. The Council is comprised of the first two fallen angels and their direct sons. They direct their descendants to do good deeds, yet it is their fault their descendants must live in secrecy and danger because of their past sins.

4. Morgan is captured by the Gaians and placed on trial for the crimes of humanity because she appears to be a human with none of her family's powers. Yet, Morgan has never had a very high opinion of most people. She must defend the very humans she doubts herself.

5. Morgan must find her powers to save herself from the Gaians. Yet, the Gaians help her find her powers by attacking her. It is through the obstacles she faces that her magic is born. In a round-about way, the Gaians create her magic through their attacks.

6. A Gaian kills Epona. The Gaians hate humans for the mistreatment of their world and the creatures in it, yet they commit the same sin by killing an innocent animal to hurt Morgan.

7. Morgan's final decision--to seek revenge or forgive--will be the ultimate test, not only because the fate of both worlds lie in the balance, but also because her decision will become an example of the true nature of humanity...is it violence, or forgiveness and peace?

I've shared the important and underlying theme of my novel. Now tell me--what is the underlying theme of your novel? Or, if you're not a writer...what underlying theme or message did you get from a book you just read?

Information Overload

2010-03-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

There's too much info. There's too much info out there on how to write a good query, and there's too much info from my novel that I need to fit into mine. Which is why my brain feels like it's in overload.

I've tried almost every suggestion possible. After trying the Public Query Slushpile (which I will be using again), my latest version came from the mad lib suggestion on Nathan Bransford's blog. Now, obviously I expanded...but I started with his mad lib layout and went from there.

I tried to take out all backstory and get straight to the conflict. The problem? My pitch didn't make sense. There was too much I didn't explain.

Yet, when I try to explain everything so the plot makes sense, the query lacks voice, tends to be too long, and has back story. Ugh!

In my query, I need to be able to explain the following:

1. Who my MC is, why she is a sympathetic character (the horse ties in here), and why she agrees to meet her parents. (This would be my hook.)

2. Next comes set-up. Here, I need to explain that her parents are Watchers, define Watchers, explain why they are just now becoming a part of her life, and the consequence of their decision to bring her into their own world.

3. The conflict. Transition from last paragraph is to explain how their decision has resulted in the MC being stuck in another world, a description of this world and the creatures in it, and what it means for Morgan (it means conflict).

4. Consequence. I have to lead up to the consequence first. This is where the MC's magic comes into play. Then I have to show that catalyst moment that gives an example of what happens if the MC fails.

Nice, neat and tidy--right? If I write this for someone who has never read my query (an example can be seen with the version I used for the Public Query Slushpile) readers are totally lost. Too much info. Too much back story.

How many ways can you describe one book? I'm on a venture to find out. I'm up to 47 rewrites of this pitch. I keep thinking 50 may be my lucky number, but who knows? Maybe it will take 100 or more for me to get it right. Can I possibly describe the same book 100 times? I may find out.

Taking Time to Rant--I Promise It Makes You Feel Better

2010-03-22T10:51:00.000-07:00

Writing things down has always helped me. Whether it was taking notes in college or making a grocery list today, writing makes my world better. And because I can't afford therapy...LOL...I love to use writing as a way to vent my frustrations over the injustices of the world.

Like salads. That's not a typo. I didn't mean leek salads. I mean the salads you order at a restaurant. How hard is it to make a salad? You mix lettuce and various other cold vegetables together in a bowl for someone to eat, right? Wrong. First, you must cut those vegetables. I hate, hate, hate it when I order a salad at a restaurant and get a bowl of vegetables instead. A bowl of vegetables and a salad are two different things. A salad has FINELY cut vegetables that you can pick up with your fork and place in your mouth for chewing. A bowl of vegetables has huge blocks of vegetables that you must try to cut up yourself to make a salad---which usually results in a piece of carrot flying across the room after being attacked by your fork.

Want another one? Frozen pizzas. You pay $10 for a frozen pizza that comes in a huge box, only to open it and find the pizza is half the size of the box. You may find serving suggestions on the box, but it's unlikely the proportions of the pizza are mentioned anywhere in that fine print along with the ingredients. I'll tell you what that is...it's fraud. Pizza fraud.

Poor customer service. This ranges from waitresses who chat on the phone with their boyfriends, leaving you to wait 20 minutes just to give your order...or auto stores that leave you on hold for half an hour trying to put your name with the part you ordered. I ordered parts for my son's atv a month ago. They SAID they'd call me in a couple weeks when the parts came in. They took my name and number. I NEVER got the call. And when I called back to see if the parts were in, they left me on hold for over 30 minutes because they had no idea who I was or what I had ordered.

I had a Facebook status once that listed my least favorite P's--Petty, Pretentious and Prissy. I'm a hands-on, get-down-and-dirty kind of gal. At my place, you're likely to see me either dressed in pj's in front of the computer or in stained jeans with rubber boots at the barn. Don't get me wrong--I think a person should have enough class to take showers, dress appropriately and be well-groomed when out in public. But when I see a girl in stiletto heels and a mini-skirt freaking out because her nails are overdue in getting done or a speck of dirt has dared smear her blouse, I get annoyed real quick.

I also don't like it when people don't like animals. Now, make sure you read that carefully. I did NOT say I don't like people who don't like animals. My dear, wonderful mother is not an animal-lover. Animals are not for everyone. But I hate it when people go on and on about how animals are such a nuisance, or smelly, or dirty, or hairy...or whatever the complaint might be. Like it or not, they share this world with us too.

I could go on and on, mostly because writing down those little things that irk me are fun. So, have some fun yourself. WHAT IRKS YOU? WRITE IT DOWN, GET IT OUT, AND SHARE IT WITH EVERYONE. I PROMISE IT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL BETTER!

A Note for Those Who Comment, and a Book Suggestion

2010-03-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

There are two things I'd like to mention in my blog today. Firstly, I want to thank those of you who make comments about my blogs. I'm always thrilled to see comments, and I often read them over several times. The problem I'm having is that I can't seem to comment on my own blog. That's embarrassing. Every time I try to reply to comments I get an error message telling me to try again later. I don't normally have this problem with other blogs--just my own. But I wanted to let everyone know I'm reading what you say and appreciate you taking the time to make comments.

Secondly, in my last blog I mentioned avenues I've used to get my query critiqued. I left out one of the most important. Elana Johnson's e-book From the Query to the Call is an excellent resource for writing queries and I highly recommend it to all those people who are struggling with their queries. Elana's detailed and informative book takes you step-by-step through the query-writing process, as well as giving in-depth information on what to do after that first request all the way through to gaining representation.

As to the comments on my last blog (since I can't seem to post my own comment)...I think both comments were right on. All of my recent queries have been too long, and the recurring problem I've faced is combining all the elements of the novel. I need to concentrate on one main element and leave the rest out. It pains me to say that, because I believe everything is important and intertwined in the novel. But it's WAY too much information for an agent to take in. I don't like it, not one little bit. But, it is a truth I must accept. Now, if I could just figure out what to leave out and what to keep...LOL.

Thank you again to my followers and those who take the time to read and comment on my blogs. Without you this blog would be nothing more than a place for me to rant to myself, and you know what they say about people who talk to themselves....

Query Up for Review on Open Query Blog

2010-03-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

Here is the link: http://openquery.blogspot.com/2010/03/query-watchers-daughter.html

Okay. This is a process. Everyone gets that. But so far I've posted my query for review on writers.net, absolute write, query tracker, and on my own blog. Let me rephrase--I've posted one or more queries for my novel in these areas.

You may be wondering if I'm one of those needy, perhaps even a bit pathetic writers who are constantly seeking reassurance. I've wondered the same--briefly. However, posting my letter to these sites rarely gives me reassurance. Instead, it gives me insight to improve.

Why is it taking me so long to come up with a good query? As I discussed in my last post, the many elements that are intertwined are one reason. Another reason is that this is my first novel (I've attempted to get published) and even after three months of querying I'm new at this. Finally, I have a flaw that makes query-writing difficult...a flaw that many others share. I take too long to explain myself. The proof is in my blogs, which are often WAY too long...LOL.

Last night I visited a site that lists successful query letters. http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/CategoryView,category,Successful%20Queries.aspx This is a site I've visited many times. It shows what works. And the recurring theme I found with most of the letters was VOICE. The theories vary on voice, and my opinion has changed since the time I began blogging. I used to believe having a unique, catchy voice in a query was an extra--not nearly as important as a concise query. Now I think I was wrong. The thing that made these letters stand out from the others was VOICE.

With that in mind, I wrote this pitch last night. I'm still not sure what I think about it. I'm open to hearing your thoughts:

Magic is for beautiful, fairy tale princesses. Eighteen-year-old farm hand, Morgan Meadows, is not a good candidate with her stringy hair, dirty boots and thick-rimmed glasses. In fact, the closest she comes to beauty is through her only friend--her exquisite Arabian mare Epona.

Yet when Morgan meets her parents for the first time, she finds a family who looks like models and learns her father is a descendant of fallen angels known as Watchers. Morgan is the first daughter in history born to this family. That should make her important. In reality, she was so un-important they were forced to abandon her to a live a human life.

This family reunion lands Morgan in a parallel world so she won't blab to others about her family. Gaia is a world filled with creatures who have been feeding the fire of their hatred for humanity for centuries because of the abuse and neglect humans have inflicted on their world and the creatures in it, because if Earth dies--Gaia does as well. When the Gaians capture Morgan and place her on trial for the crimes of humanity, she'd like nothing more than to go back to breaking colts and living out of a trailer. Unfortunately, that is not an option.

Morgan can't return home until she's discovered her own magic. Always the oddball, her magic doesn't come easily; it is born from the obstacles she faces. When she finally finds herself a full-fledged Watcher with her first assignment--to be a guardian over the White Buffalo Calf from Sioux legend, it seems her own fairy tale will have a happy ending. That is, until a Gaian kills her best friend.

My Newest Query--And How I Came Up With It

2010-03-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to believe I will never find a query that suits me. I have said as much in a past post. However, I must strive to come up with the BEST query possible at this point.

So, I went back through all of my old re-writes (especially the most recent ones) and used my favorite lines from each of those queries. I also found a way to tie up a loose-end that has been troubling me for weeks.

Here it is. I would love any feedback anyone can offer.

Eighteen-year-old Morgan Meadows promises her horse Epona they will never be parted. While she works to build a life on a Kentucky horse farm she doesn't realize there are guardians lurking in the shadows, carefully observing her until the secrets of her family can be revealed.

When Morgan gets a chance to meet parents she's never known, she keeps her promise to Epona and takes her along. Morgan learns her father comes from a family of fallen angels known as Watchers, immortal beings searching for redemption as they strive to protect all creatures, including the creatures of a parallel world known as Gaia.

Morgan's parents left her behind as an infant because she showed no evidence of their powers, reasoning it best she live a normal, human life. Only after begging the Council (ancient rulers of the Watchers) are they able to arrange this reunion. However, to protect their secrets on Earth, the Council decrees Morgan be taken to Gaia.

In Gaia, Morgan finds herself a target of creatures who have been feeding the fire of their hatred for humanity for centuries. Their hatred stems from the abuse and neglect humans have inflicted on their world and the creatures in it, because if Earth dies--Gaia does as well. Morgan tries to convince them of the good in humanity, using her love for Epona as an example, but many believe it is a trick.

Morgan has her own magic, a magic she shares with Epona. Her powers grow with each new obstacle she faces. As visions present her first assignment as a Watcher--to find and protect the spirit of the White Buffalo Calf from Sioux legend, she hopes her magic will also help her make peace with the Gaians. But when a Gaian kills her best friend, Morgan plans to use her new powers for vengeance instead.

THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER is an 82,000 word young adult fantasy complete and ready for review upon your request. I have a B.A. in English and taught college-level English courses for several years. I have been co-editor of a statewide periodical and was recently published in Modern Arabian Horse magazine.

Thank you for your time.

Even after a lot of cutting this query is a bit too long. However, that doesn't concern me nearly as much as having a query that is interesting.

As I was working on this I tried to imagine I'm an agent reading this query for the first time. I did this, initially, to clarify points and find errors. Later, though, I started considering the novel itself and why so many agents have shown no interest in it.

Problem #1 = Epona. Agents may wonder HOW Morgan manages to take her horse with her on this journey. How do they get to Gaia? Or, before that happens--how does she manage to take Epona with her to meet her parents? And, finally...some may be doubtful about a novel that the combines horse story with fantasy. Perhaps it seems too far-fetched, or too cluttered by elements. I can say, obviously, that everything makes perfect sense in the MS, but if it leaves these kinds of questions for the agent the MS may never get read. I don't have a clue how to fix this. It would mean way too much detail in the query that I simply don't have room for.

Problem #2 = Again, the mixture of elements...this time with the paranormal and fantasy. The Watchers would be considered "paranormal", yet the land of Gaia brings an almost epic fantasy element to the novel. It may seem a bit much to absorb. Again--it makes perfect sense in the novel. The Watchers helped the creatures who are now considered myth to find and inhabit Gaia to protect them from the oppression they were experiencing at the hands of humans. The Watchers can travel between the worlds and are equally dedicated to both. Because Gaia depends on the survival of Earth, the Watchers are obligated to keep and share records of what is happening in this world with the Gaians. Makes sense? But will agent want to "go there"?

Problem # 3 = The White Buffalo Calf. Or, should I say--the spirit of the White Buffalo Calf. Just when the agent has absorbed girl and horse, girl and paranormal family, girl in epic fantasy world...(s)he has to find yet another big element to this novel with this Sioux legend. How can a Native American legend possibly find a good fit in a novel that deals with Watchers and a parallel world? Once more--it makes sense in the novel. Let me take you back to my comments about Gaia depending on the survival of Earth. Now, consider for a moment all the ancient prophecies predicting doom for Earth--wormwood, the blue star Kachina, and the Mayan calendar, for example. In my story, these prophecies hold just as much importance to the Gaians as they do to the humans of Earth. But all prophecies are not always doom-filled. The legend of the White Buffalo Calf says that when this spirit returns to Earth there will peace and hope. So, Morgan must find and protect this spirit (as her visions are telling her) to hold off the completion of the other prophecies.

In the end, I believe the many elements of this novel may be putting agents off. They may be thinking there is little chance that someone could weave all of this together to make a tight story. And, yet...I have done just that. I don't mean to sound smug or arrogant. But I have to give myself credit where credit is due, and I've said it several times already.

It all makes sense. Each element is important and is tied to the other. But, have I done a good enough job of exemplifying that in the query?

My Recent Rejection--And How It Feels

2010-03-17T04:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Angela, Thanks for sending this to me. Nice to see SOMEBODY writing a horsey YA. That said, I regret to say, it's not a perfect fit for me-- not really drawn to the larger fantasy concept. I apologize for not having better feedback for you-- sometimes it’s hard to put to words something that is just a matter of personal taste. I wish you much luck in your journey, and I appreciate you sharing your work with me.
Mandy
D4EO Lit

This rejection was sitting in my inbox this morning. And, I have to say--it's the nicest rejection I've received so far. Ms. Hubbard seems like an energetic, kind and respectable agent. I appreciated her personalized reply (versus form) and the promptness of her reply (I just sent her a query yesterday afternoon).

But I wanted to give you an idea of how I got to this point, and how it feels.

A very kind QT member pm'd me yesterday to say that Ms. Hubbard had just put up a wish list on her blog. One of the items on her wish list was a horse novel for older teens. After reading the pm my excitement began to build. I started thinking that perhaps this was it--perhaps I had found the agent for my novel.

Just to be sure, I wanted a query letter written specifically for her. I wanted something REALLY good that exemplified the relationship between my MC and her horse. I wrote the letter and then posted it on the Query Tracker forum with a post title that asked members to QUICKLY take a look and give feedback. I wanted this letter in Ms. Hubbard's inbox quick.

Luckily, I've written enough letters that putting this one together was not difficult. I think I'm at the point I can write a letter specific to an agent's tastes using bits and pieces from past letters rather quickly. Anyway, my kind and helpful friends at QT gave me the go-ahead, and I put together my email (which also included the first five pages).

Here is the letter:

Dear Ms. Hubbard:

I was very excited to read your "Slush Pile Wish List" and see that you are looking for a horse novel that will appeal to older teens. I believe my 82,000 word young adult fantasy, THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER, fits the criteria you mentioned perfectly. While it is a fantasy, there are no "wizards or dragons" and I hope you will appreciate the unique premise.

Eighteen-year-old Morgan Meadows has a special connection with her beloved Arabian mare Epona. After everyone else in her life left her behind, either by abandonement or death, Epona has been her one true and constant friend. That is why Morgan has made a promise they will never be parted.

After receiving a cryptic invitation to meet her parents, Morgan keeps her promise and takes Epona with her to chase her family heritage. She learns her parents were forced to abandon her at birth because she seemed to be a human. Morgan's father is a descendant of fallen angels known as Watchers, and the Council who rules them agree to this reunion with the stipulation Morgan be kept in the parallel world of Gaia to prevent her from revealing their secrets on Earth.

In Gaia, Morgan finds herself a target of creatures who have been feeding the fire of their hatred for humanity for centuries. Their hatred stems from the abuse and neglect humans have inflicted on their world and the creatures in it, because if Earth dies--Gaia does as well. Morgan tries to convince them of the good in humanity, using her love for Epona as an example, but many of the Gaians believe it is a trick.

Both Morgan and Epona have a magic that is all their own, but the magic evolves slowly, growing with each new obstacle they face. Morgan's magic takes form in visions warning she must find and protect the spirit of the White Buffalo Calf from Sioux legend to save both worlds. But when a Gaian hurts Epona, all thoughts of destiny are forgotten as Morgan plans to use her new powers for vengeance.

I am an internationally-recognized breeder of Arabian horses. I have a B.A. in English and taught college-level English courses for several years. I have been co-editor of a statewide equine periodical and was recently published in Modern Arabian Horse magazine.

THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER is complete and ready for review upon your request. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

The problem is obvious. I point it out in my first paragraph, and she points it out in her rejection. She's not into fantasy. I knew this when I queried. I had hoped that in her eagerness to find a good horse novel for older young adults she would give it a chance. That was naive.

Many agents are very specific about what they want. They know what their personal tastes are, and that is what they are asking for. Other agents say they're open to just about anything, but even then your idea must excite them in some way.

I've worried so much about my query. I worried my novel was too "been there-done that". I worried that my query sucked. However, I am beginning to understand that it is neither of these things. My novel is not a good fit for any agent I've queried thus far. It may not be a good fit for any agent...period. I hope that's not true. I hope there is an agent out there waiting for my novel.

This rejection was not a good way to start my day. I AM disappointed. And, it's my own fault. I knew better than to get all hopeful and excited, but I did it anyway. The disappointment I faced this morning was my own fault.

There's nothing left to do but move on.......

A Little About Me...For Those Who Are Wondering

2010-03-15T11:30:00.000-07:00

My purpose with this blog has been primarily to document my experiences querying agents and attempting to see my novel published. However, occasionally I can use my blog to write about other things of interest that are not related to my novel, and this is one of those times.

I thought that today I would just tell you a little about me. I'm sure many of you may skip reading this blog altogether, and that is fine. But for any inquiring minds who want to know....

First and foremost, I am a mother. I have two beautiful, bright, vibrant and talented children. Troy is 12 years old. He's always been at the top of his class in school. He's won more awards than I can count. His teachers are constantly praising him for his charm and politeness. His feelings are hurt easily, so discipline is not a problem.

Then there's Gracie Jo--my six year old daughter. She's sassy, independent, and extremely bright. Also at the top of her class (which, admittedly, is only kindergarten), she is out-spoken, confident and a total delight. She loves singing, dancing and Hannah Montana--in many ways your typical girl.

My husband and I are blessed not only by our children, but by the assortment of animals who make their home with us. A few years ago I had to have my Great Dane euthanized. He had grown VERY aggressive and could not be handled. I felt such guilt over the whole thing I swore I'd never own another dog. But the angels sent me Honey. Honey is a collie-mix who showed up at our house one day. She had wire wrapped in her tail, was very thin, and she immediately appreciated the new home she had chosen. Along with the bad came the good---Honey was house-trained, spayed, and would sit and shake hands. She's the most polite dog I've ever met and I love her dearly.

Then there's Major--he's my daughter's dog. Major is a mut. Sorry, but he is total mut. He's a combination of Jack Russell, Beagle and Chihuahua. I think he's annoyed, but we wouldn't know what to do without him. He's totally Gracie's dog.

Our third dog is Cash. Cash is a Newfoundland. He slobbers. He barks loudly. He will knock you over. And he's always making me smile.

There's also our cat, Shadow (I have a whole story with her I may share some other time) and our horses. We own three mares, one stallion, and a pony. My stallion ( pictured above ) is my love, my inspiration, my joy. He is a dream come true, literally. His pet name is "Turbo", but his real name is ASAALAH (means "of noble blood").

I started off intending to talk about myself, but I now realize that I have used this time to talk about my family instead (two and four-legged). I guess a great deal of who I am is wrapped up in those I love. I'm sure that's the way it should be. I know I wouldn't have it any other way.

Fantabulous Followers Giveaway--Check it Out!

2010-03-12T19:24:00.000-08:00

Here are the prizes (very cool!):

"Suzie Townsend, literary agent extraordinaire with FinePrintLit, has consented to give to the grand prize winner a 40-page partial submission PLUS a critique of those pages! (We know! INVALUABLE!)"

"Kimberly Derting, author of THE BODY FINDER (release date 3-16) has donated an awesome Body Finder black totebag (perfect size for a whole stack of library books), a signed-in-silver poster, autographed bookmark, and sticker for one lucky winner! (Check out the Literati Blog for pics!)"

"The book THE HOST, by Stephenie Meyer. Need we say more?"

"HOW TO WRITE THE GREAT AMERICAN ROMANCE by Katherine Lanigan makes writing almost easy! The step-by-step guide can easily be applied to writing fiction of any genre. "

"Ever had Enstrom's Toffee? Seriously, the most delicious confection EVER. Suzette's husband flew to Colorado to pick up this 4 ounce box, and we are giving it away to one lucky winner!"

Prize List copied and pasted from the Suzette Saxton Shooting Stars blog. Here's the link so you can enter (and maybe win!).

http://suzettesaxton.blogspot.com/2010/03/fantabulous-followers-giveaway.html

Animals in Novels

2010-03-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

What character can be more sympathetic and endearing than an animal? I guess it depends on whether you like animals or not, but I would love to know the statistics on how many people in America (or the world, for that matter) own pets. I'm sure the number must be huge.

When I think of novels that touched me, my mind is filled with titles such as Black Beauty, Where the Red Fern Grows, The Black Stallion, Ole Yeller, and Marley & Me. How many children have laid in bed at night imagining that he/she was Alec Ramsey riding "The Black" across the sand on a secret island? How many of us cried when Ole Yeller died? Heck, there's even a country song about that one!

For anyone who loves animals, nothing touches us more than to read about the struggles of someone's cat or dog or horse. Nothing compares, IMO. Romances come and go. Epic, fantastical worlds are interesting, but seem detached from reality. Horror, suspence and mysteries leave us on the edge of our seat as we read frantically to see "who did it" or "who dies", but it does not evoke the EMOTION that a reader feels when following an adventure or journey that involves an innocent, pure-of-heart animal.

I believe this is why so many great animal novels stand the test of time. The story may be old, but the emotion it brings always seems fresh. Animals make us laugh and cry, and they teach us to be humble and forgiving. Anyone with an iota of common sense knows that animals have personalities, emotions and quirks.

I can't imagine writing a novel that didn't include an animal. Of course, one of the main characters in The Watchers' Daughter is Epona, the MC's horse. Sequels will also include animals that play important roles in character development and plots.

There are a lot of young girls (and boys) out there who will pick up any book with an animal on the cover. That right there grabs their interest. People of all ages have a fondness for a good story about the plight of an animal. It is a timeless interest. And I am so glad!

Ready to Begin (Again)

2010-03-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

The 40+ rewrites I've done with my query has become a not-so-personal joke. I don't know if everyone, or anyone, else shares my humor with it....but I, personally, have found it very funny. It wasn't always funny. In fact, just a few blogs back I did that dramatic analogy of the "Query Hole". It wasn't funny then. It seemed hopeless.

I gave it almost a week. One week went by without one rewrite. That was a new record. As the days passed, I contemplated how I could possibly write this query that wasn't similar to what I've already done. Okay. That wasn't going to happen. But the words did finally creep into my thick skull that I needed for my newest query.

My problem has been finding balance. There are two essential things a successful query must contain. A clear, concise, and brief summary (pitch).............and narrative voice. I struggled with this a great deal. Everytime I tried to make the query more interesting, inserting my own voice into it, I left out information that was vital. On the other hand, I wrote a very concise query that by all rights was perfect, but it would never work. It was dull and stiff.

Now. Finally. Hopefully. I think I have done it. I think I have THE letter. Does it suit me 100%. Heck no! Nothing will ever suit me 100% when it comes to queries. Why? Because there's not enough room to completely say what you want to say and how you want to say it. But the query I have now says enough. It's good enough.

Once I decided I was done with rewrites I felt such a weight lifted off of me. I can finally go back to sending letters, instead of writing them. I will get more rejections. I'm prepared for that. But I feel like the tireless work I've put into this query should result in some requests as well. As the cliche goes--only time will tell.

Check Out my Interview with Author Ellen C. Maze!

2010-03-10T13:42:00.000-08:00

I am very excited to post my first interview on this blog. I did a review recently of Ellen C. Maze's debut novel RABBIT: CHASING BETH RIDER. It was only fitting that the next step be an interview.

Here it is:

To start off with, perhaps you could tell us a little about yourself--whatever you would like to share.

I suppose the most compelling thing about me now is my writing. I have done many things in my forty years, but this is the one thing that I have dreamed of doing since grade-school: being a published author.

In Junior High School, I dreamed of being a veterinarian, mostly because I loved animals. But one trip to the Vet School in Auburn changed my mind forever. In High School, I wanted to be a psychologist and hang a shingle in town. In college, I majored in Psychology and Sociology and found I had a sure knack for listening and helping people with problems. Then I got married after college and became a full-time mom for the next ten years. When I went to work again, I was an artist and worked from home. I was successful and sold paintings all over the world. Yet on the side, I was writing. And guess what I was writing? Vampire Tales. Yep. Just like I did in Middle School Creative Writing class! All I needed was the courage to work at writing full-time. That chutzpah didn’t arrive until 2009.

How did you get the idea for RABBIT: CHASING BETH RIDER?

Interestingly, the main plot point of this book – a writer is hunted by vampires because she writes about vampires – came to me in the seventh grade. I wrote a short story about a girl and her friend who were given a creative writing assignment, and they chose to write that their Math teacher was secretly a vampire. The teacher finds out, turns out that he is a vampire, and he kidnaps them for exposing him. The story ends with both of them being turned into vampires. Sort of short on plot and action, but hey, I was only twelve years old.

As I got older, this basic theme tumbled about in my head in my subconscious until in 2006, when I had completed Books One and Two of my Christian vampire series THE CORESCU CHRONICLES, I began writing Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider. Not quite ready to publish, I started writing about a woman (Beth Rider) who wrote THE CORESCU CHRONICLES and her work threatened the true ‘vampires’ that lived in her world. This is how the two series are connected. When CORESCU CHRONICLES comes out, readers will get to see exactly why the vampires were chasing Beth Rider! Interestingly, RABBIT is aware of THE JUDGING (Book One of Corescu Chronicles) but THE JUDGING is not aware of RABBIT. Chew on that a little while!

For all those unpublished authors who read this, can you tell us how your journey of publishing RABBIT went?

My personal journey as this novel went to print was wonderful and exciting. In the next section, I will talk more about the different ways to get published, but for this answer, let me tell you how it went with Rabbit.

I did not seek an agent or editor for this book but wanted to publish it myself while I waited for THE CORESCU CHRONICLES to be picked up by a big publishing house and turned into the Christian version of Twilight. I researched dozens of independent publishers and printers and I ended up choosing an amazing Publisher (a Fortune 500 company) with an impeccable reputation and a promising future. Outskirts Press promised to not only turn my ‘baby’ into a beautiful product, but they would also promote and distribute it just like any big publishing house. So with a very small investment of $1500, Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider hit the shelves and immediately sold in 10 countries. You can see why I’m so happy. I will definitely use Outskirts for the Rabbit sequels too. I am so happy with this book and this company’s performance.

One last thought here, I would share that every writer needs to be prepared to self-promote. Every editor and agent is going to expect you to promote yourself vigorously. If you are a shy person and maybe unable to do this, you’ll need an advocate who will do it for you. Self-promotion is done online and in person. By mail and by phone. Email me if you need titles of great books about self-promotion and building an author’s platform.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers? And, what advice do you have for authors seeking representation?

Oh, I want to encourage and edify unpublished authors. In overview, there are two basic ways to be published: Traditional Publishing, where a publishing house either buys your book (along with the rights) and pays you varying royalties, or Independent Publishing, where you (usually) keep all rights and you provide the money to be published. For decades Independent Publishing has been tucked into a dark, shameful corner, but the industry is changing mightily. With the economy forcing the big Traditional Houses to buy fewer and fewer manuscripts, for as little as a thousand dollars, a writer can publish their own book.

I chose to go both routes and leave the rest up to God. I am taking the Traditional route with THE CORESCU CHRONICLES. This series has been approved by one powerful agent, but not picked up. And it is also sitting before three other agents/editors, awaiting approval or interest. So since I sent it out (I did my part), I am waiting to see what God will do with it. Now with Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider, I prayerfully sent this one to be independently published by Outskirts Press. Now I have a published novel that is widely accepted by people all over the world, and I can promote it while I wait for CHRONICLES to find a buyer.

So my advice to all writers is to 1) keep writing, 2) buy a copy of THE WRITER’S MARKET and GUIDE TO LITERARY AGENTS (both available in stores or online) 3) hone your craft through attending writer’s conferences and plugging into writers critique groups (you can find these all over, email me for lists), and 4) learn the business end of writing.

Last but not least, do not despair. Try to get an agent, try to rope in an editor. But if you have an excellent product and the industry just cannot see that, don’t be afraid or ashamed to self-publish. It’s a competitive world and we need your book!

Back to RABBIT. What is the most important message you wanted your readers to walk away with after reading this book?

RABBIT is a sexy and titillating book. Without taking it beyond a PG-13 rating, the novel takes you into the darkest areas of the human and inhuman heart. Still, every reader comes away with something gained. Something good. Read the reviews on Amazon, and you’ll get a peek at what the Rabbit Chasers (the readers) are seeing in this debut vampire novel.

Although it is never preachy or pretentious, RABBIT is written from a biblical worldview. The reader does not need to be a Christian or Jew to enjoy it, but every issue in the novel comes from the basic understanding of the world that is put forth in the 66 books of the Bible/Tanach. I am a Jewish follower of Jesus, so the book has some Hebrew elements that give the story a firm foundation readers can rest on comfortably as they follow the characters along.

This is a book about Faith and Redemption. In one perspective, people stand in one of two corners—they need redemption and haven’t faith yet, or they have been redeemed (by God) and have faith that God protects/loves/cares for them. In RABBIT, Beth Rider has faith to move mountains. The Rakum (vampires) and Cows (humans who voluntarily let blood to them) are either seeking redemption or seeking to destroy Beth and her faith.

I want my readers to identify with a character or two and then enjoy the ride. There is a plethora of personality types, some vampiric and some human, and every reader will be able to find their likeness inside to some extent or another. The beauty of it is, you can be like David (a young Rakum just realizing the truth about God) the first time you read it, and then more like Beth the next. I have heard reports from readers all over the world who love choosing their favorite character and then following them on the road to redemption.

Every reader who knows me personally says that I am Beth Rider. My answer to that is, yes, I am Beth Rider. But, what they don’t realize unless they are writers themselves is that I am also Jack Dawn (the bad guy), Meryl (bad guy’s minion), Javier (Rakum confused about God), and all of the rest. Every character is a piece of my personality. That might seem creepy but it’s true. Ask any writer. We’re all functioning schizophrenics!

Who are some of your favorite authors?

The first vampire book I read was Bram Stoker’s Dracula at age eleven. Oh boy. That was where it started. Then I read Robert McCammon’s vampire and werewolf stuff, then Anne Rice, and into the horror of Stephen King. These days, I’ve mellowed considerably and read mostly Christian Thrillers. My favorite authors are Frank Peretti, Bill Myers, Paul Bortolazzo, Eric Wilson, and Angela Dolbear (a brand new author you must google!).

One of the most important things an aspiring writer should remember is that to write, you must read—A LOT. So make a habit of reading other author’s work and writing reviews for them. Posting reviews on Amazon may seem lame, but as soon as your own book is published and you are selling on Amazon, every review you’ve ever written will direct people to YOUR book by proxy. So read and review all the time!

I know you've finished your second novel THE JUDGING. Can you tell us a little about it?

Oh, be still my heart. In THE JUDGING (Book One of the Corescu Chronicles), a priest named Corescu is turned into a vampire by an apparent demon. The priest refuses to reject God and thus assigns a divine calling to his blood thirst—he decides to kill only evil people and thus satiate his craving for human blood. Three hundred years pass this way, and in the present day, Corescu meets and falls for a lovely young woman who (along with a Christian friend) slowly bring the vampire to an awareness of his deeds. All along, he thought he was doing the will of God by killing the killers, but learns that there is one Judge and it isn’t him!

In a very real sense, THE JUDGING is a love story. Sure, there is truth stuck in there, but like RABBIT, the Christian element will not bang you over the head. The series has four installments, and the woman from Book One, Hope Brannen, will take all four books to resolve her relationship with the vampire Mark Corescu. The side stories regarding Tony Agricola (a righteous character who most knows God’s ways) and Paul Black (a young vampire) are entertaining galore and I can hardly wait to get these books into the hands of the readers.

THE JUDGING has three more books that wrap up the story-line. RABBIT has two more series installments and a possible Young Adult spin-off. In closing, I’ll share that I have several other novels in the works. I usually work on 2 or 3 at a time as the spirit moves me, and here are a couple more to watch for.

THE TALE OF JANE FROST, another unique take on the vampire tale, where bloodlust and longevity are part of a Satanic curse thrust upon a set of triplets. This one takes place within a Messianic Jewish Community and will be very compelling. You should also watch for GUARDED, the story of an ordinary and seemingly-average young man who is rescued over and over by a being everyone assumes is his guardian angel. What no one knows is that this being is actually a demon, keeping him alive for the devil’s purposes. Ever heard of having a Guardian Demon? Believe me, if the devil is keeping you alive, it’s for a nefarious purpose and you’d be better off dead! And the newest addition to my in-the-works pile is WAX, the story of a teen who sees demons and soon realizes that his calling in life is to thwart their work no matter the cost. A tough job for a seventeen year old boy!

Last words? Love one another.
God bless, Ellen

Ellen C Maze, www.rabbitnovel.com email rabbitnovel@aol.com

Where I'm At Now--And Why it's Crucial

2010-03-10T05:13:00.000-08:00

Where I'm at now....I'm tired, frustrated and feeling a bit hopeless. I have a query that is tight, concise and totally useless. Why useless? Because it lacks an interesting narrative voice, and it does not show the unique qualities to my novel. Oh, sure...I've explained everything very well. The grammar is perfect, the pitch is well-written and (again) concise, but that's not nearly enough. Everytime I send out a query that's not good enough, I've lost chance with another agent. The number of agents who represent my genre is not endless. So, I can't afford to take any more chances.

But when you've written a query as many times as I have, what do you do? I look at a blank screen and that hopeless feeling I mentioned earlier floods over me. How else can I explain it that's different from what I've already tried? Now...believe me when I say this--this does not make me doubt my novel. The novel is great, and if I can get in the hands of a few agents I feel confident I'll find representation. The query is what is holding me up.

Why is this crucial? Sometimes I want to give up. There, I said it. Sometimes I think I should just put the MS away, put my agency lists away, put all the query re-writes away, and just come back to them another time. I believe this is my test. I have reached the point where my resolve and determination are being tested to the fullest. I am hanging from a precipice and wondering if I should just let go and fall or keep hanging on with hopes someone will pull me up.

I think in everyone's life a time comes when you are tested. I'm certain that the point I'm at now is a test to whether I will succeed with seeing this novel through to publication. I just have to keep hanging on.

A Welcome Break

2010-03-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

When I was writing my novel, I treated it like a full-time job. When I edited my novel, the same. And, when I started querying for my novel--I found myself working overttime.

So, this past weekend I got a much-needed break. Oh, don't get me wrong--I love my new job! I can work in my pajamas, eat my own food, and take my own breaks. But, I've felt myself burning out a bit lately. The query has gone out less and less as I've tried to make it perfect, and the revisions have gotten tedious.

A trip to North Carolina to visit my brother-in-law took me completely away from my computer for the weekend. No email, no blog, no forums, and no Facebook.... Just me and my family taking a few days away.

The family time was nice, and the weather was great. But it was my visit to flea markets that made the trip extra-special. I love to uncover treasures that are totally unique with the extra bonus of being cheap. And, I came home with plenty. A very cool, very rustic coffee table....a huge, western-style mirror...a handmade chest and garden bench....and lots of goodies to add to my flower beds this spring.

Of course, my mind wandered many times to my newest venture, but it didn't consume me. With all my new treasures came new ideas of decorating and landscaping, and with my thoughts of the approaching spring came my guilt that I haven't been grooming as much as I usually do, and that my horses surely notice me spending less time with them lately.

Writing has always been a winter-project for me. Actually, so has reading. I can read anytime of the year, but when I'm stuck indoors there's nothing nicer than curling up on the couch with a cat in my lap and a snack by my side while I delve into a new novel. In the warmer months of the year, I may enjoy a good book, but I'm also enjoying many other things that have nothing to do with being indoors--like riding my horses, working in my yard, taking walks and swimming in the pool.

As the weather grows warmer and trees begin to bud, will my interest in pursuing this journey of getting my novel published die? Absolutely not! However, taking some time to breathe (smell the roses, if you will) may give me more energy and a more positive attitude as I continue on with my pursuits.

Why I Was Chosen to Write this Novel

2010-03-04T18:14:00.000-08:00

I don't believe I created this novel. I believe the story was given to me. It was a gift, and I could do with it what I chose. In gratitude for the privilege of putting the words into sentences, the sentences into paragraphs, the paragraphs into pages and the pages into chapters, to culminate into a story that I believe is revelant, important and strong enough to stand the test of time, I am taking it as far as it will go--hopefully into publication and beyond.

But, why me? Why was I the author chosen for this novel? Well, for one thing, I believe I am the kind of writer who can weave a young adult story. I realize that young adult novels are as varied and random as any adult fiction. Some go WAY beyond what I consider appropriate for young adults (I am a teacher, remember).

Firstly, my writing style is "gentle". I've been told this more than once by beta readers. In fact, two have compared the writing style of my novel to the NARNIA books (you won't catch me mentioning that in a query letter, btw...that's way to close to some serious boasting). There is a softness to my writing, even at the brink of a climax, that fits well into the niche of young adult books.

You see, I have respect for my writing. I don't mean the kind of "I respect myself because I'm that damn good" kind of respect. I mean that I respect the POWER of my writing. Here's an example. I come from a very conservative Baptist family...the kind who goes to a one-room church every Sunday with a temperature of 105 degrees (summer and winter). It's the kind of church where you'll never find a musical instrument (they're the work of the devil) and the sermons are filled with terrifying and explicit images of a fiery, tormenting hell.

I don't remember how old I was, but let's say my older teens.... I sat in the floor of my bedroom and picked up a notebook. I didn't think about it--I just started writing. The words flowed from my mind onto the pages. When I was finished, I read it. That invoked a WHOLE lot of thinking. I had described hell on those pages. When I read what I had so mindlessly written, my stomach knotted and I began to tremble. I quickly tore the pages into tiny shreds and threw them away. However, the thoughts did not leave my mind nearly as quickly as the paper left my hands.

What I had discovered was the power my writing could have. If I so choose, I can write the most grim, frightening and horrid scene imaginable. I choose not to. I do not need such negativity in my life. I choose to write words that (I hope) flow like velvet, opening scenes into the mind of the reader that leave them wanting to read more...not afraid to keep reading.

That explains why I am a good candidate for young adult writing. When it comes to fantasy, it all comes back to my very vivid imagination. My mind constantly wanders to some very fantastical ideas, and I like how that makes me feel. I like the idea of expanding beyond the norm, beyond reality, into a region that is born completely from the totally made-up scenes in my mind. Just as I avoid the grimness of things I could write, I shrink away from the grimness in reality quite often as well. I don't like to hear stories of children and animals being abused or neglected. I literally sob when that commercial for the Humane Society comes on tv (the one with Sarah McLaughlin singing "In the Arms of an Angel"). So, the more fantastical and alter-reality I can build a world, the better I like it.

That explains why I make a good fantasy writer. As for the specifics of this novel, you can look back through my old posts (labeled "my novel") and find my ramblings on the why and how of what THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER contains.

The Query Hole

2010-03-03T11:37:00.000-08:00

I've fallen in the query hole and I can't get out. I dug this hole myself and fell in. Then I lost the shovel. Now, murky water is coming up from the bottom and rising too fast. I've worn my fingernails down to nubs trying to dig my way out. I'm dirty and tired. I want to get out of the hole and fill it back in with rich, soft soil that will become a bed for beautiful, spring flowers. But I can't get out.

Others are trying to help me. They're holding down their arms, trying to reach me and pull me up. They're shouting their encouragements to me. "You can do this!" They're saying. But each time I try to climb the walls of my hole, walls that I made myself, I only fall back down into that cold, cold water that is now knee-deep.

I may drown in this hole. Perhaps someday it will become a well. Children will throw coins down and squeal with delight when they hear them plunk! into the water, making a wish that will hopefully come true and bring them great joy.

But where is my joy? Each time I try to climb out I'm pulling more on the wet, dirt walls down with me. I'm getting deeper and deeper, and the water keeps rising.

There are no ropes to pull me up. The people standing around watching me are growing tired. They want to move on....pursue their own dreams, fill in the holes in their lives, and forget the sad, wretched girl staring up at them from the bottom of a hole that she dug herself.

I picture the hole filled in with that rich soil, covered in green grass and tulips, or daisies. Oh no...not daisies. I don't want to be "pushing up daisies". But it seems that's where I'm headed.

Maybe the water will rise enough I can tread it until I reach the top. It seems more likely I'll freeze to death, alone in the darkness. I can't sit or rest. I must stand and catch my breath, then try again and again to reach the top.

This scenario may seem to be a bit drastic as an analogy to my query-writing, but I do feel it depicts the desperation, the fatigue, and the drive that come with writing a query. My hole signifies the failed attempts I've made at writing a query. And let me tell you--I've dug a pretty deep hole. Each failed attempt at a query leaves me deeper in the hole. I find my queries to agents going out less and less as I struggle to come up with that one good one. My friends (many on Query Tracker) are those reaching down to help me, but as they watch me fail over and over I wonder when the time will come that they lose interest and move on, leaving me to crawl out alone. There are no ropes to throw down to me, because in the end this is something I must do myself. Each rejection signifies the water that is oozing out around me, making my situation that much more dire.

The fact is--I've written enough queries on this one novel to make a new chapter in my book. I've tried everything. I've used other queries as examples. I've read hundreds of descriptions on the jacket flaps of books. I've posted my query for critique on three different forums. I've done circle graphs, outlines, and taken notes on what my query should include. Yesterday, out of total desperation, I even sent a query to the Query Shark, just so she can gobble me up and put me out of my misery. Are there sharks lurking under the earth in the water below?

I have a query right now that is T-I-G-H-T and concise. But I feel it is stiff and lacks voice. I'm afraid the only thing that will get me out of this hole is to write a query that leaves the agent squealing with delight, jumping up and down in his/her excitement, sure that this book is a winner. That's my goal. That will be the rope that pulls me out. But, it is a rope I must make myself.

Naming the Characters in Your Novel

2010-03-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

I had a lot of fun naming my characters; I've shared below how I came up with names and why I chose those names. I'd love to hear how my author-blog-buddies named the characters in their novels--so please post a comment and share your story!

Morgan Meadows. She is my MC (main character). I like the name Morgan for two reasons. For one, I like Morgan horses. But the reason I chose the name for my MC had nothing to do with this. Her name came from Morgan (Morgaine) le Fay of the King Arthur tales. MISTS OF AVALON is one of my favorite novels, and I felt Morgan's name fit my character well. As for "Meadows"--when I think of my MC, I picture her riding her horse across a meadow....therefore, "Meadows" was fitting.

Epona. She is the MC's horse, and she is named (appropriately) for the goddess of horses.

Philip. He's the MC's love interest, and his name is Greek for "lover of horses"....See where I'm going with this? LOL.

Grandpa George. He's named after Saint George, the protector of horses.

From there, the names vary, but many still have meaning. The MC's parents are Glory and Christian....symbolic of the Christian references in the novel. (This novel is not inspirational or in anyway aimed at evoking one opinion over another involving Christianity; however, as the Watchers are descendants of fallen angels, the subject of God (and real angels) does come up.

There's also Jasmine, David, Anna, and then there's Calvin...my hunky Australian charmer.

Oh, there's also Luther...he's a horse as well. He's named after Martin Luther King, Jr.

So, that's a little bio on the names of my characters. How did you come up with names for your's?

Examining the Market

2010-03-01T10:30:00.000-08:00

When I went about writing my novel, I didn't really think about the market that my book would appeal to. I just wrote a story that had elements that interest me. Now that I'm querying, I often find on agency websites a question about what market would be best suited for your book. This could be vague--young adult, fantasy, etc....but that's more genre. The MARKET is the type of readers who would buy your book...specifically.

I believe THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER would first and foremost appeal to horse-crazy girls. IF there's a horse on the cover, that would be even better. I'm a horse-crazy girl (okay, not a girl anymore--but you know what I mean), and I know a whole lot of horse-crazy girls. If they visit a book store or library and find a new book with a horse on the cover, you better believe they're going to dive into it. This is true for those girls who own horses, or those girls who can only dream of them (think of BLACK BEAUTY, or THE BLACK STALLION).

Another element that is more genre-invoked is the paranormal/fantasy elements, and for my novel this is two-fold. Anyone who likes vampire novels (think TWILIGHT). However, mind is unique because it is about Watchers, who (IMO) rival the mystery and seduction of vampires.

As far as the fantasy goes, my novel crosses between urban and epic. There are many scenes, in this world, where the MC faces fantastical creatures. But a great deal of the book is set in another world, the world of Gaia. So, I've managed to combine dwarves and fairies with vampires and werewolves. It has it all.

Finally, my book has the element of prophecies and legends. These range from biblical prophecies to Native American legends. End-of-the-world prophecies are hot right now, and I've included them into the plot so that in the end everything ties together and makes sense.

I know I'm tooting my own horn here, but hey--sometimes that's what it takes! In the end, I believe there is a wide market for my novel. And, I like to think that's a very good thing!

Some Things Worth Sharing

2010-02-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

I think the greatest thing that can come from this blog (beyond exposure for my novel) is even one person learning something from what I've written.

With that in mind, I'm going to share with you my advice to any new author just getting started on the path of seeking representation.

1. Do your research. Find every piece of information you can uncover about possible agents. Take notes. Make lists. Research genres they represent, books they represent, and any personal tid-bits you can find. The one, solitary agent who requested material from me did so because I pointed out to her that the novel opens in her home state and has a horse in it.

2. Work hard on your query. It may take you as much time to write a good query as it did to write the book...no kidding. Join QueryTracker and post it there for reviews/critiques. Don't send it out until it is PERFECT.

3. Word hard on your synopsis. Many agents ask for one. Do the same with it as you've done with your query.

4. I'm assuming with all of these points of advice that your novel is complete, edited and polished. That being said, re-examine your first five pages. Again, many agents ask for these. Make sure they are PERFECT. Back story, info-dump and the such should not be found in the first five pages. Edit until your eyes are crossed. Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors. An agent can forgive a few further into the MS, but finding even a couple in the first five pages can be a warning sign.

5. Get your story out there. Don't wait for representation. Start a blog. Start a Facebook group. Send out mass emails. Get that novel on everyone's mind. So, when the book is published, you have a platform of buyers waiting.

6. Gauge responses carefully. Send out 10 queries (you don't have to do them all at once). Then wait. See what responses you're getting. If you get 10 rejections, re-examine everything. It may need more work. After that, send out ten more. Wait again. See what happens and go from there.

7. Don't send out your first ten queries to the ten best agents on your list. Mix it up. Save at least a couple of the REALLY good ones to query later, just in case your query isn't up to par and you will only find that out through rejections.

8. Be professional. Make sure your format is perfect in everything you send. Do your research on format for queries, synopsis, and the MS. And always save a back-up of everything (hard copy).

9. Be patient. This takes time. It's not an over-night thing. Find other things that can occupy your time while you're doing querying. That may be starting another project, reading someone else's book(s), or just everyday life.

10. Don't give up. Don't think after 30 rejections it's a lost cause. Don't think you'll never get it right. Persistence is the key. For every good book there's an agent who will represent it. As long as you follow 1-9 first, you can succeed in finding representation.

Useful Sites for the Aspiring Author

2010-02-25T06:30:00.000-08:00

There is a lot of resources through online venues for the aspiring author. I thought today I'd share some of my favorites.

The #1 very best all-around site, IMO, is Query Tracker http://querytracker.net/ . This site is multi-fold. It has a comprehensive list of agents that you can search by genre. Information on such agents includes: Comments, Record of Responses, Acceptable Genres...there's more, but I can't remember. You can actually use Query Tracker to send out and keep record of your queries. I don't use it for that, but I have used it quite a bit to research agencies. There is also a wonderful....let me repeat, WONDERFUL forum on Query Tracker. Those folks are great....encouraging, supportive, and with tons of information. They have sub-forums for query critiques, critique of first five pages of MS, synopsis critiques, and much more.

The one thing Query Tracker unfortunately lacks is information about the submission guidelines for the agents it lists. For that information, you can go to http://www.agentquery.com/ . This is another great site for researching agencies.

I have to mention Publishers Marketplace (google it), although I'm not a member. The two sites I've already posted are free, but Publishers Marketplace requires a subscription. Every single thing I've ever read about that site gives high recommendations.

Absolute Write Water Cooler-- http://absolutewrite.com/ . This is a forum site, and the most valuable resource you will find there is the Bewares & Backgrounds Check sub-forum. I have used it hundreds (literally) of times. Posters can relate on this forum their experiences with different agencies. It gives amazing insight into how agents are responding, how quickly agents are responding, and can be very useful in weeding out the "bad" agents. I definitely recommend you use this site before querying an agent you're not familiar with.

Writers.net http://www.writers.net/ also has a forum that offers query and writing critiques as well as discussions on all things dealing with publishing. It has a more simple layout than the others, and it strictly a writing forum, but it's definitely one you'll want to visit.

There are tons of agent blogs out there you can visit for further information, but I'm not going to try to list them here. I think one of the most popular agent blogs must be Nathan Bransford (google it); he's with the Curtis Brown LTD. Agency. Very nice guy with plenty of useful information. (Oh, and if you query him, don't expect to wait long---he's a fast responder).

If you've read this and want to add your own recommendations, just comment below. What I've shared barely scratches the surface of the sites out there for writers.

Stages an Author Goes Through with Rejections

2010-02-24T08:06:00.000-08:00

QNumbness--"another rejection, ho-hum"
Sour Grapes--"They're not the right agency for me anyway"
Defensiveness--"I'm an English major, have been an English college instructor. I KNOW a good book, and mine is great!"
Defeat--"I give up. I can't do this anymore. I'm wasting my time."
Fear--"OMG, I actually may never get this book published."
Disappointment--"And I REALLY liked this agent too!"
Confusion--"But he SAID he was looking for my type of book! Why didn't he request at least a partial?"
Bitterness--"They'll never know what they missed."
Mortification--"I am stupid, stupid, stupid. How could I have misspelled that word and not caught it?"
Guilt--"I'm letting my book down, myself down, and all those people who always said I'd be an author down."
Envy--"They requested material from HER??? My idea is so much more unique and grand!"
Shame--"I can't tell anyone how terrible this going. They'll think I'm a failure."
Doubt--"Maybe it's not as good as I think it is. Maybe I'm missing something that others can see but I can't."
Loneliness--"No one understands what I'm going through."
Obsession--"I'll keep doing this until my keyboard falls apart and I've queried every agent in the industry."
Acceptance--"That agent was not the one. I have not succeeded. Today is not my day."
Persistence--"Just keep trying. Lots of authors get rejections, even the really good ones. Don't give up."
Determination--"I'll work more on my novel today. Edit more. Review more. Query more. Keep trying."
Comfort--"These people really CARE. They want the best for me. They want me to succeed. Friends make my day brighter."
Desperation--"I want to write to this agent and beg. Please, please, please...just give me a chance. Just one chance."
Sadness--"This hurts too much. Rejection sucks. I want to eat cookie dough ice cream until I puke and sleep for days."
Anxiety--"Do I hit SEND? Maybe I should wait. This query may still need work. I don't know whether to hit SEND or not!"
Frustration--"Tell me something people! Just one time, one agent--tell me something useful, instead of no reply at all, or a form rejection everyone gets."

HOPE-- "There is an agent out there, waiting for my book. There is an agent who will recognize all those elements that make my story unique and special. I only need ONE agent. All the rejections in the world mean nothing if I can have one spectacular, appreciative, hard-working agent who wants to see my novel succeed. Every atom in my being, every nuance that makes me--me, my heart, my mind, my experiences, my education, my drive...each tells me that this book is worthy. I will hold onto that knowledge. I will not give up, because it WILL happen for me. This is a trial, a test, to my determination and resolve, as well as my faith that what I am doing is worthwhile and will pay off in the end. IT WILL HAPPEN. "

QUESTION FOR THE DAY: How do YOU deal with rejection?

Show, Don't Tell, Active vs. Passive...My Writer Ramblings

2010-02-23T11:00:00.000-08:00

If there was a ten commandments for writing (there very well may be), I believe the first commandment would be "Show, don't tell."

Every writer struggles with this, or I have to believe the majority of writers must. It's called having an "active" voice, as opposed to a "passive" voice.

As with most things, there is a gray area. For instance, is a feeling "active" or "passive"? Better yet, how do you "show" a feeling, versus "tell" it?

And memories...how do you "show" a memory? In my novel, I sneak them in as best I can...and even then I'm left feeling dirty somehow, as if I've broken an unspoken rule dooming me to a life as a poor writer. If my character is remembering something, I make sure to describe WHAT she's doing while she remembers it, and HOW she reacts to the memory. In the end, however, I've told the memory. What other way is there around it?

It seems that writing style has become as fast-paced as this world we now live in. As an English graduate, I studied a lot of books in college. And I read just as many more in my free time (as I do now). I love a page-turner, but I certainly don't object to getting lost in a scene that is described with beautiful (or clever) narrative.

And I like to know how the characters feel. Perhaps I'm a lazy reader. I want to KNOW exactly how the character feels without having to read between the lines. Active voice tells me WHAT the character did, but how did the character feel about it?

It comes down to building characters and scenes, that gray area that I find the most difficult...as a reader, or writer. I love for an author to describe, in detail, a scene....how it looks, how it feels, how it smells. Obviously I get bored if the author goes on and on and on about it. I do have some imagination, after all. But set it up for me. And, to do that, the action may have to stop briefly.

The same for characters. You can slide in some active sentences that hint at a character's appearance. "She flipped her strawberry blond hair off of her slender shoulder." But, what's wrong with saying "Her soft, strawberry hair fell in waves over her bare shoulder, framing the delicate features of her innocent face." First is active. Second is passive. Which is easier for you to imagine?

It seems that both agents and publishers want books that go straight to conflict and keep the reader in that conflict until the last page (or a string of conflicts with one underlying big conflict that the story revolves around).

I've even gotten critiques about using too many adverbs. Adverbs contribute to the action, right? They give the reader a better idea of what is happening, keeping the writing from being stiff.

And I've read just as many complaints (not necessarily about my novel, just in general) about adjectives. Those words that turn black and white to color, that make the mundance original.

Are we just in too much of a hurry? Does anyone savor a scene anymore? Do you read a page, or several pages, with no sword-drawing, gun-shooting, kick-boxing scenes and still find interest? Do we care how the characters feel, what motivates them?

How do we discuss these things in an active voice? How do you describe a field of flowers, a snow-capped mountain, or a dwarf-village, in an active voice? Sure, you can use the actions of your characters to clue the reader into the scene. But is that always enough?

I had a friend in school who could describe a scene to such perfection it would put me in awe. After she was finished writing, I knew in intricate detail every nuance of that scene.

I understand too much of this dulls the book. I understand that at every corner there must be an action taking place, a decision to be made, or a reaction to be imagined. But again...where is the gray area?

A friend was telling me about a book she read recently ( we discuss books on the phone almost everyday). She was saying it was a slow-building plot, but that the author was a master at setting up a scene and building sympathetic characters. The book sounded fascinating to me, one that I'll definitely read. But I couldn't help but wonder "So, what did an agent think when he/she read the first few pages of this slow-building book?".

I can't even count the websites, articles, interviews and blogs I've read where agents stress that they want to be excited in the first page of the novel. No info dump. No back story. Put them right into a scene that makes them want to read more.

However, I've read books before that took 2-3 chapters to get to the exciting stuff. And I still loved them. I guess I would make a terrible agent.

I mentioned on a forum once that perhaps the confusion comes from the differences between "plot-driven" and "character-driven" novels. I envision a plot-driven novel as the page-turner, action-packed adventure. I envision a character-driven novel as one that shares the thoughts, feelings, memories, motivations and desires of the characters in such a way you have to read more, because you've found yourself in love with these people. Obviously, a character-driven novel must still have an interesting conflict, but it is the reader's association with the character that makes the book good. Just as the plot of a "plot-driven" novel make that type of book good.

When I told my friend on the phone this morning that I'm considering pitching my prologue, she was outraged. She truly feels I'm betraying my book, my baby. I know she thinks my drive to be published will somehow ruin my work of art.

Yet, I read over and over how agents do NOT like prologues. Get straight to the story. Many advise that most books need the first few pages deleted, so they can get right to the crux of it.

Is this really to help the book, or is it to make life easier for a busy agent who doesn't have time to let things build?

That's my question for the day.

The Legend of Strange Creek

2010-02-23T05:18:00.000-08:00

In 1795 a surveying party came through the area where I now live, obviously to survey the area. Mainly uninhabitated at that time, the land was rough and wild. The party had further concerns over the Native Americans in the region, unaware that a treaty had already been signed and they were in no danger of being massacred.

In this party was a man named William Strange. He was a cook, to my understanding. And, at some point, he got off course from the rest of the group. With a poor sense of direction, he lost his way. The party set out to find him, and eventually did stumble onto his horse, which was tied to a tree. William must have wandered off to get a lay of the land, leaving his horse, and never found his way back.

In 1835 it is rumored that William Strange's skeleton was found near a big Beech tree. Above his skeleton, carved into the tree, was this:

Strange is my name,
And strange this ground.
And strange it is,
That I can't be found.

What happened to poor William after losing his way? His skeleton was found 40 miles from where he originially came up missing. Did he lose his mind? Did paranoia from his fear of the Native Americans cause him to to travel so far?

When the surveying party found his horse, they shot into the air. He would surely have heard the shot. Some believe he feared it was Indians killing the rest of the party, and instead of coming forward he ran in the other direction.

Whatever happened, your imagination is the limit to fill in the gaps of those days/weeks/months/years William wandered alone in the wilderness before eventually carving that poem and dying under it.

I think this would make a fabulous novel. I just don't know if I'm the person to write it. It would require quite a bit of research to make it viable. Also, it would require the challenge of writing a great deal of the book with a sole character--William Strange. As I said, this land was wild and uninhabitated, other than the few Native Americans who might be passing through. It doesn't leave much in the way of possible new characters.

It's still a good idea, one I've shelved to consider another day. Until then, I thought it was worth sharing here.

Review of Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider

2010-02-22T05:15:00.000-08:00

When I first saw this book, I had to wonder--What association can there be between a rabbit and a vampire? What is a Rakum? And, of all things, why are there "cows" in this book?

But Ellen C. Maze cleverly ties all these things together in her novel RABBIT: CHASING BETH RIDER. This unique and spiritual novel takes the reader on a fast-paced, page-turning adventure as author Beth Rider finds herself thrust into a world she thought was only a myth to become a prophet of hope for creatures who, by their very nature, believed they were doomed from birth.

Maze's novel has no lull. From the very first page the action begins, and it does not stop until the last. The family of 100,000 known as the Rakum have lived along the same guidelines, the same ideals, for thousands of years. Until one unseeming author writes a fictional, and inspirational, novel about a priest, turned vampire, and the power of redemption. As this best-selling novel falls into the hands of members of the Rakum, they being to question their very existence, as well as the possibility of hope for the darkest of creatures.

Of course, not all feel this way. Just as some journey to find Ms. Rider to find hope, others are determined to destroy her...hence, she is marked as a "Rabbit". A rabbit is a person who carries the mark of the Rakum, a signal for others that she has been set loose for a delightful chase, and eventually--kill.

But Beth Rider is not your typical rabbit. She does not cower in fear of the Rakum, because she knows that through the power of prayer, the spirit of God, and in the end--her own special guardian angel, she can face any battle with the faith that she will be protected.

Ellen C. Maze does an incredible job of delving into the feelings of her characters--their temptations, their doubts, their motivations, and their fears.

A typical vampire story? Far from it. This unique novel has a new twist of vampires that you haven't read before, and from the very first page you will find yourself engrossed in the world of Beth Rider and the obstacles she must face to help the darkest of all creatures.

Failing Is Not An Option

2010-02-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful day today. I have a birthday coming up in the middle of the week, but we celebrated it today since everyone will be in school/at work on my b-day. We went out to dinner, did some shopping, and watched a movie I've been anxious to see.

I told myself this morning that I would put all thoughts of my novel and querying out of my mind. That was much easier said than done. Throughout the day, whether I was laughing in the restaurant over my daughter's comical expressions, or looking for bargains at the shopping center, that little voice in my head was reminding me that I still don't have an agent, and what am I going to do if I can't find one to represent me?

I don't like thinking about that question. I cringe when I read in an article to just stick your novel on a shelf and start another if this one doesn't work out. For me, it's like someone saying I should stick Morgan and Philip, the Watchers and Gaia, into a box and forget them. I'm doing them a disservice if that happens. They SPOKE to me when I was writing. During the four days of a freak blizzard that we had no power, they were screaming at me to keep writing...which I did, by the light of a lantern late into the night. Then came the day when an agent asked to see my MS, in Word form (which I don't have). Another blizzard was ripping through our area, and my daughter and I walked into the cold, dark night, our hair covered with snow, to my neighbor's to save and send my MS as quickly as possible to the awaiting agent.

My characters were so anxious their story be told they often interrupted my sleep. I tossed and turned many, many nights, their images floating into my dreams. Just as many nights I got up over and over to write down notes that had to find their way onto paper before I could sleep.

This story found me...I didn't find it. I am the caretaker of Morgan's story. I am her guardian. Failing is not an option. And yet, over and over, I've received those dreaded rejections. The one solitary agent who read the MS said I'm a good writer and she liked the premise of the story. Three outside readers have finished the novel, all with good feedback (I quoted one reader in a previous blog, because her comments were so encouraging). Otherwise, it's just been a string of form rejections. Not one single personal comment aimed at my book, good or bad.

Since I rewrote my query I've sent out 9 queries. I got one rejection back. I'm waiting to hear from the other 8. Although, if I don't hear back I know it's a rejection, as several have the "no reply, no interest" policy.

Honestly, I'm getting scared. As I said, failing is not an option. If I had even the slightest doubt about this novel...even one tiny, nagging insecurity regarding the story itself, I would have already given up. But the things I know to be true will not allow me to consider this novel unworthy of publication. I am an English graduate. English major, journalism and literature minors. I have TAUGHT college-level English courses. I've not only read thousands of books, I've studied them (in-depth) and taught them (in-depth). I've read it all--historical, classic, gothic, western, romance, science fiction, paranormal, fantasy, memoir, biography, autobiography, etc. etc. etc. I've read and studied wonderful novels, and horrible ones as well. And I know...let me repeat, I KNOW, this novel is good. It's really good. It's still-on-the-shelf in ten years good. I won't be such a ninny to say it's the next best seller, but I do know it is VERY marketable.

And, really, the novel has had very little judging. The rejections are coming from my queries, not my novel. And each rejection I get makes me feel like I'm letting myself down, as well as all those people standing behind me with faith I can do this, and the book itself.

I am not putting this novel out there into the world lightly. I knew after writing this novel, and then re-writing it, and reading it a thousand times, and editing it, and revising it...I knew that it's a novel that needs published. It has all the elements...it makes you laugh, it makes you cry...it has an antagonist readers can easily relate to, and it addresses many hot topics in today's society. It takes the reader to another world, and then back home again. And for all those horse lovers out there, it is a story about a young woman and a remarkable horse on an adventure like none other.

But I can't say that stuff in a query. Agents have heard all that a thousand times. They just want "good writing", not necessarily from the MS itself initially, but from that one little letter...that one query that holds the fate of this novel in the few lines it possesses. Every time I try to write the query, I wonder "How can I ever combine all the elements of this novel into one or two paragraphs, linking them together in a tight, sensible narrative that echoes my voice in the book? " Agents say that it is something an author should be able to do. They say if you can't write a good query you couldn't possibly have written a good novel. Whether the query I have now completes this challenge is yet to be seen.

I do know this--the novel came to me so easily, the story unfolded itself before my eyes, flowing smoothly from my fingertips onto the computer screen. My characters knew what needed to happen, and so many times they surprised me with their decisions on what would happen next. I wish they would speak to me now, and tell me what I need to do to get their story published. Instead, they're just waiting quietly. Their story has been told. It's up to me what happens with it.

Please dear God--please don't let me fail them.

TEASER--Totally Random Excerpt

2010-02-19T11:14:00.000-08:00

Here is a totally random excerpt from my novel. To set it up...Morgan has fallen ill and is having those dreams I've talked about in my last blog. Her family is at a total loss of how to deal with her sickness. And here we go!

The trio watched over Morgan throughout the night; luckily, none required sleep, so they kept a constant vigil, always listening for more visions. Her dreams came and went, sometimes just brief images. But all her dreams were important, very important. From images of the Mayan calendar, which predicted the end of the world in 2012 to the prophetic comets, wormwood and Kachina, these were images too burdensome for any one person to bear, and yet they suffered with Morgan as she lived the nightmares in her mind.

As the dawn light began to filter into the room, Morgan grew quiet. Her fever seemed worse; it was dangerously high. They all feared she would slip into a coma.

"Should we bring a doctor here?" Glory whispered, wiping Morgan’s face with a cold, wet cloth.

"A human doctor?" Philip asked in shock. "We can wipe his memory, but getting him to keep his wits once he realizes he’s in a different world could be difficult."

"Perhaps we can get him here without him knowing he’s in another world?" Christian offered, still standing by the window. "This house looks like any house on Earth. We can confuse him during the trip and he’ll never know where he is actually at."

"And then what?" Philip returned. "He’ll suggest taking her to a hospital, and you know that’s not allowed. In fact, we’d be breaking some major rules bringing him here at all." Philip hated to argue the point. He wanted more than anything to save Morgan. Seeing her so sick was bringing up some painful feelings he had stifled up until this point. He realized that the girl meant much, much more to him that he had ever acknowledged, even to himself.

"What about the elves?" Glory said in an excited voice. "They have amazing healing powers. We can ask Yonath to come." She smiled for the first time, knowing they couldn’t argue with this idea. Yonath was a dear friend to them, and they knew he was trustworthy.

"I’ll get him," Christian replied, sharing Glory’s excitement with new hope. In an instant, Christian had disappeared.

Glory remained on the bed with Morgan, her worried eyes examining her daughter’s face. Philip stood next to them, also staring at Morgan, as he examined his own feelings for her. His dark eyes studied her flushed face and her brown hair spread out over the pillow. The first time he had seen her she had seemed so plain and ordinary. And now he realized that she was anything but that. She did not possess the ethereal beauty of the Watchers, but he saw in her a beauty that he had ignored up until now...the softness of her skin, her beautiful little lips, and while her eyes were closed at the moment he imagined them as they had been during the time he had known her; whether happy, or sad, or angry her eyes had always been beautiful.

At this moment she seemed so frail, more frail than he could have ever imagined. He had always admired her tenacity, especially for a human. She had shown great courage in her acceptance of their world and who they were. She had shown greater courage in trying to escape the mansion. He remembered how angry it had made him to find her in the sylph field, captured and frightened. He realized his anger was not for her. His anger was toward anything that would harm her. Every cell in his body screamed that he must protect her.

Only a few moments passed before Christian returned with Yonath. The elf was tall, well over six feet, and very thin. His skin was ghostly white, with ice blue eyes. He wore a green, velvet robe that hung to his feet. Perfectly combed blond hair curled over his long, pointed ears. Glory moved away from the bed as he walked up to Morgan. He ran his long, thin fingers over her face and neck. His blue eyes studied her carefully, and then he turned to her parents.

"This is not a human illness," he explained. "But it is also not a curse. This is natural."

"How is this natural?" Philip demanded.

"She is a human in an inhuman world," the elf explained dryly. "As much as you may try to shield her from magic, she is surrounded by it. Her body must adjust."

"Will she be alright?" Glory asked, holding Christian’s hand.

"I don’t know," the elf admitted. "I will try to bring down her fever, but I must return to my castle first to get some herbs."

"I will go with you," Christian said. "And remember Yonath—we can not let the Gaians know that she is here."

Yonath smiled. "I will not reveal your secret, dear friend, but you must know it is already being whispered across our world, gossip spreading from village to village, that a human girl lives in Gaia with the Watchers."

"We didn’t know," Christian admitted. "We’ve been so absorbed with her," pointing to Morgan’s sleeping form, "we haven’t been able to stretch ourselves beyond our daughter and our work."

"I understand," Yonath chuckled. "I have children of my own. I believe if you have more faith in the creatures here, you will find that they will accept your daughter much more readily than the humans have ever accepted us." There was no wrath in his statement, just fact.

Christian reached out his hand to grasp Yonath’s long arm, and the two vanished. Philip looked at Glory’s worried face and said, "It will be okay. We will not let anything happen to her." Glory nodded, her eyes still worried.

Important Issues Addressed in My Novel

2010-02-19T06:44:00.000-08:00

Today, I thought I'd share with you some of the important issues that my novel addresses. Now, let me say--it is purely a piece of fiction, a fantasy story that I wrote with the hope that readers would enjoy it. However, throughout the novel the MC (Morgan) is faced with some very real fears and concerns people today are experiencing.

Gaia is a world for creatures believed to be myths. From dwarves and fairies to centaurs and goblins, you can find them all in Gaia. These creatures live in Gaia because they could not live in harmony with humans thousands of years ago. And because the two worlds are linked like a tree and its roots, the Gaians continue to have concern over the fate of this world.

Very briefly, issues like global warming, wars, etc. are brought up in the novel. You see, the Watchers travel between the worlds. They have an obligation to Gaia to make reports about the status of Earth, good or bad, because Gaia depends upon the survival of Earth.

The Watchers also have the responsibility of governing/policing mystical creatures on Earth. While most creatures live in Gaia, they can travel to Earth and some choose to live here...although it is usually the darker creatures, such as vampires, werewolves and witches. (That's juts a side-note...not a comment on the subject of this blog).

Morgan falls ill in Gaia, and during her fevered state she has some very important dreams. There are four dreams in particular. One dream involves the blue star Kachina. This comes from the Hopi legend about a comet that will destroy Earth. One dream is about Wormwood, which is from the Holy Bible. There have been different interpretations of Wormwood, but some also believe it is a comet. The third dream is about the Mayan Calendar, and it also involves a white owl sitting on a fence. A white owl can sometimes be considered a good symbol, but during my research I found that a white owl sitting on a fence is a sign of doom. Morgan sees the white owl in her dream holding the Mayan Calendar in his beak while sitting on a fence.

The final dream Morgan has is a dream about the White Buffalo Calf. Morgan dreams she is running, carrying the white calf with her to protect it. This dream evokes an especially strong reaction from Morgan, and later in the novel she begins to realize that this dream was speaking to her....telling her that she must find this spirit from Sioux legend, to curtail the doom of the other dreams. The legend of the White Buffalo Calf Woman says this spirit will return to bring hope and peace to her people ("her" people is subjective to interpretation).

These are all real legends, and I enjoyed weaving them into my story. From the Gaians' dislike for humans due to the mistakes they've made in the past (and today), to these apocalyptical prophecies, to the legend of the White Buffalo Calf Woman, I felt that I had added ingredients to my novel that not only make it more marketable, but also openly address these concerns with a final message of hope for humanity.

My Thoughts on the Michael Vick Controversy

2010-02-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

This evening I watched a two-part documentary on Michael Vick. There is a third segment I have to wait to view. The episodes can be found on the BET channel.

I was very curious when I read the info blurb about the documentaries...curious mostly to see if I could find something redeeming in Michael Vick to change my opinions. Unfortunately, that was not the case.

Throughout the show I listened to the same old excuses..."Everyone deserves a second chance." "He did his time." "The Eagles need him." And so on, and so forth.

Firstly, I thought the time he spent for the crime he committed was a joke. During the documentary I heard one person comment that others had been caught dog-fighting and served less time. Shame on our justice system if that is the case.

I think the penalties for animal abuse and cruelty, including dog-fighting, should be MUCH harsher.

But let's just argue for a moment that he served his punishment and should be allowed to go back to work. Everyone who has served a prison sentence has to find work...right? But Michael Vick's case was a bit more unique. He's a football player, which in this country means superstar. That means there are children out there who look up to him, and for me that changes everything.

Is this really the type of person we want to be a role model for children? Oh...I know, he's "speaking" to school children. I listened to one his speeches in the documentary. He urged the children to stay in school (positive) and to do the right thing (positive). But his reasoning was this--do the right thing so you stay out of trouble, so you don't end up in prison.

WHAT? What happened to doing the right thing because it is the morally responsible thing to do? Do you do the right thing to keep from being punished, or do you do the right thing to make yourself a better person?

He commented in his speech at the school that "doing the wrong thing is easy, but doing the right thing is hard....do the right thing." Again--WHAT? Are we all a bunch of evil-doers who must force ourselves, however difficult, to do good? Or--should our values, MORALS, and integrity lead our lives, instead of sick impulses?

To put it simply, I didn't see the remorse I was looking for, and I truly looked hard. I wanted to hear him say something about the endless torture he inflicted, the weakness he gave into to inflict such torture, and how rising above it would one day make him worthy of a second chance.

What do I mean by "rising above it"? Listen, it's easy to give a speech, especially if you're someone used to being in the spotlight of the media (I'm talking about in a good way). I could give a speech on just about any subject and make it believable, and so could many of you. What I wanted to see was a heart-felt apology, EMOTION. I wanted to see something, anything, that made me believe he regrets the awful crime he committed, that he truly understands the implications of his acts.

He seems to avoid, at all costs, being specific about the dog-fighting. Did he ever lay in bed at night unable to sleep because of his acts of cruelty? Did something happen (other than being punished for his crime) that made him suddenly "see the light" and understand how sick and twisted his actions were? Throughout the show I kept thinking "show me some sign that you truly get it."

But I don't think he gets it at all. I don't think he's sorry for what he did. I think he's sorry he got caught, and that he had to spend time in prison. During the two episodes there was so much talk about how difficult it was for him to be away from his family, and what a rough road he has to build back his reputation. At one point he compared himself to Rocky, and that right there just reinforced my poor opinion of this man.

These episodes were an attempt to portray Michael Vick as the fallen hero, a man with flaws who overcomes the odds to make his life better. Their attempt, at least with me, failed miserably.

I know Vick is not allowed to own dogs. I understand why and agree with the reasoning. But if it was up to me (I know it's not) to dish out his community service, he would be working in a veterinary hospital, in a dog shelter, and best yet---treating dogs injured by dog-fighting. I see shows like Dog Town and Dog Whisperer that try so hard to help dogs that have become victims of humans. Dog Town was active in rehabilitating many of Vick's dogs. I think HE should have to be there (not with his own dogs, as that would just traumatize them) helping animals who have been victims of cruelty. I think he should see, firsthand, the months of tireless work, the havoc of emotions, and the goodness in people who don't find it so hard to do good. I think he should see a dog with ripped ears and missing teeth, a dog that shudders in a corner in fear from anyone who approaches, find hope again with the help of people who are the exact opposite of himself.

Maybe that would help him understand. Talking to kids about staying in school and hiding behind the curtain of those who will support him because of his race, his skills, and his fame is not going to redeem Vick in my eyes.

How can you forgive someone who doesn't believe they need forgiving? What has Michael Vick done to show he is truly remorseful and truly aware of the magnitude of the acts of insance cruelty he inflicted on creatures who depended upon him for their very survival? I have not heard him utter one word, yet, about how his crime hurt those animals. I have not seen for the tiniest moment any shame or true remorse.

Mistakes--We All Make Them

2010-02-17T15:42:00.000-08:00

Whether you're just getting started with querying agents, or you've been doing it for a while, you may as well expect at some point or another to make a mistake. I've made a LOT of them. One week in January, in particular, was a time when I made one mistake after another. Let me share them with you....

I sent out four query letters to top-notch agencies. Then, I read somewhere (I don't remember where), that queries should be double-spaced. If you're new to querying, let me assure you--queries are SINGLE SPACED. Anyway, thinking I had royally screwed up, I went on to make more mistakes.

I tried to manually double-space my email. The result was a horribly formatted letter that skipped every TWO lines.

Then, I called the agencies to ask if I should re-submit. Never, ever, ever call an agency unless you're a client or have been invited to do so. Luckily, most were nice. One agent was very annoyed by my call and basically said he was much too busy to deal with phone calls about formatting problems. I was horrified and embarrassed.

One agency, an agency here in my home state, returned my call after I had left a message and kindly left me a message (we were playing phone-tag) that I could re-submit the query and not to worry about it. I was thrilled. I thought the kindness of this agent was a clear signal that I needed to pursue this agency. So, I hurriedly (this was my mistake) copied and resent the query.

I sent the wrong query. Of all the mistakes you can make, this is probably in the top two. The agent replied to my email scathingly telling me how unprofessional I had been in sending her a query addressed to another agent. I was beyond horrified. I cried. I wailed. I sent her a heart-felt apology. In the end, there was no reply...no forgiveness...just a lesson learned.

Could I have possibly made more mistakes than these? You betcha! I sent a query out a couple weeks ago with an agency that has automated confirmation emails. I thought (mistakenly) that as soon as I sent the email her email editor would shoot a confirmation email back at me. When I didn't get one, I emailed her general email box and asked if she received it, trying very hard to be extremely polite. Her reply was less than patient, reminding me to have patience. The autmoated reply came only after she opened the emails. Another lesson learned.

So, that has to be it...right? Wrong. One more, that happened just a few days ago, was a reminder to keep my mouth (and my writing) quiet before thinking it through. I had submitted a query to an agent with a blog. This agency had just had a contest where they asked contenders to pitch their novel in 100 words or less. At one point, the agent mentioned that a good letter will have a pitch with his number of words. I didn't participate in the contest (it was already over) but I did make certain my pitch was close to 100 words (it was actually 110). Later, I was reading her blog and she published an example of a query that got an author represented by their site. His pitch was 176 words (yes, I counted). In my comment to her blog, I asked if she preferred a word count closer to his, or closer to 100 words, and pointed out my recent query with a pitch of a little over 100 words. She wrote a comment back warning me not to be so literal, and reminding me it was more HOW the query was written than the number of words.

Lots of mistakes, and I'm sure I'll make more. One of my biggest weaknesses is trying to go at things too quickly, and it sure does get me in a lot of trouble. As a teacher, I always believed (and preached) that the only dumb question is the one not asked. Wrong. At least in the agent/author world it's wrong. Think first. Ask only if you absolutely have to.

But I have learned quite a bit from these mistakes. Anything in the body of an email is expected to be single-spaced. I don't even apologize anymore when I put the first few pages of my MS single-spaced in the body of the email. Email editors aren't set up for double-spacing. Your query and synopsis should be single-spaced anyway.

Again, don't call agents. They're busy, and just because they post their phone number on the site does not mean they invite calls.

Automated replies don't come back instantaneously. Wait.

Be careful what you comment on an agent's blog. Especially if you just queried that agent.

A mistake is not a waste if something has been learned from it.

Lacking Perfection--Authors and Their Novels

2010-02-17T12:00:00.000-08:00

Querying agents is a task toward perfection. Unfortunately, nothing (and I do mean nothing) is perfect. Making your submission as close to perfection as possible is the only possible goal.

However, querying is also subjective. It seems each agent has a different idea of what he/she wants to see in a query. I sent out a query today to an agency that had a mock query on their site for reference. It was very specific about format, and how the information should be included.

My format is the same, but the layout is different. For example, the mock letter signified that the author's credentials be in the first paragraph. Mine is in the last paragraph. The mock letter had one paragraph for synopsis, mine has two. I could have re-written my query to match the example, but that seemed a bit absurd. I FINALLY have a query I can live with, and I do not want to revise anymore.

This agency asks for the first 20 pages to be included in the body of the email. Not a problem. However, I've been debating on whether I want to keep my prologue. Actually, I like my prologue, and I feel its necessary. But it is also "heavy", and I find myself worrying that the agent will think it's overdone and read no further. So, with this submission, I noted at the top of the first page, in italics, that the novel IS complete, but I am debating on whether to keep the prologue, and for the agent to keep this in mind (thanking her for her patience in advance).

A big no-no? Perhaps. It can be perceived as a lack of faith in my writing. The agent could surmise that the novel is not actually complete after all, since I'm having doubts (although I did emphasize it is complete). Or, the agent may just be annoyed with another writer who steps outside the boundaries of their instructions.

I do this everytime I send a query. I second-guess myself on everything. My hope was that the agent will surmise I am in-tune with my writing and see possible flaws that I'm willing to fix. I'm an author who is motivated to make the manuscript the best it can be. Or, the agent will believe it should already be "the best it can be" and not want to waste her time on it more.

But what novel is perfect, even post-published? As an English teacher, I am always catching flaws and grammatical errors in writing. My biggest peeve is the misuse of who/that. A person is a who. A thing is a that. "She was the one that left the food on the table," in incorrect. "She is the one WHO left the food on the table." I make that mistake myself at times, even though it is a peeve. But it is an example of common mistake.

If I wanted to rip a novel apart according to my own standards, just about any book that I open could be changed in some way. It may be something small, like re-wording a sentence. Or, it could be something big, like editing out half of a chapter.

In the end, the note I made with my manuscript about my doubts on the prologue was my honesty coming forward, an admission that there is ALWAYS room for improvement.

Now, I wait. This is a relatively new agency, with great agents. As always, my goal is for them to ask for more. Whether noting my thoughts on the prologue can either help or hinder my chances, it's already done. I hit SEND (this time).

I Couldn't Hit SEND

2010-02-17T06:46:00.000-08:00

I started to send out a query last night. I had everything in the email that was requested...query letter, synopsis, and first five pages. As usual, I looked over every word of every sentence, and made changes to a few things (esp. in the synopsis). All that was left was to hit "Send", but I couldn't do it. I exited out of my email and went to bed.

This particular agent is one who initially made me hopeful. He seems to ask for more requests than the norm, and from reading about him on Absolute Write, I got the impression he is great to work with and open to new ideas. However, some other things I read about him kept echoing through my mind, getting louder and louder until I chickened out and didn't send the query.

For one thing, he mentioned in an interview that he hates seeing a cliche in a query, and that he often finds cliches within the first few lines. I questioned what he considered a cliche. Did he mean an actual cliche, or did he mean an idea that is cliche? I agonized over every line in my query trying to determine if he would see any of it as cliche.

Another thing that bothered me was his interest in Middle Grade books for boys. Oh, having those type of books doesn't bother me...I have a 12 year old son who loves to read, and I agree that we need more books for boys. However, my novel is not targeted at boys. And, it is not multi-cultural (another thing he said he'd like to see).

So, I started wondering--what's the point? Sure...he loves fantasy and represents Young Adult. But, he has in mind what he'd love to see...and my guess is that my book is not it. He also mentioned an interest in steampunk, and once more---I'm way on the other side of the spectrum from steampunk.

Will I still send him a query? Of course. But my hopes aren't as high; my expectations are more realistic, and I'll probably leave it for another day.

Creating Lists of Prospective Agencies

2010-02-16T12:07:00.001-08:00

Today's project (and I do mean ALL day) was compiling a new list of agencies to query. I thought it might be useful to other authors to read how I personally go about putting together a list of agents to query.

At the moment, I have three lists. But each was put together in the same way. I begin by using QueryTracker.com. I don't use querytracker to actually track my queries, but I do use it as a reference to find agencies. It allows you to search agencies according to genre.

Next, I put together a wordpad document with different categories. These categories are based on how the agent wants you to query. So, I have a category for email queries, snail mail queries, and online submissions.

Each entry is as follows: Agency Name, Agent's Name, Query Directions, Special Notes.

After querying each agent, that name goes into the Query Sent list. And, once I receive a response (or rejection), it goes under the Rejection List.

If you're wondering why I have three lists, the answer is simple. In the beginning, I put together a list of agents who represent Young Adult and/or Fantasy, with an emphasis on fantasy. My second list was a combination of agents who represent fantasy (alone) or young adult (alone). And, my third list is a list of agents who represent young adult only.

I've almost finished list one, other than several snail mail recepients (weather has been too horrid to get to the post office much). List two has many agents left to query, and list three is all new.

Of course, making the list is just the beginning. Each agency is put into a separate folder in my "Favorites" on the computer to find easily. After making the list, but before querying, I have to do more research on the agency. Absolute Write Water Cooler's Bewares & Backgrounds is an exceptional resource for this, as it is a forum where writers share their stories of querying specific agents. I check to see if the agent is an AAR member (not a necessity, but it is a plus), and I make sure the agent doesn't charge fees (AAR members never charge fees). I look at the books and authors represented by the agency, and read blogs from agents who have them.

Once I feel I've learned everything there is to know about that agent, from their website, blog, or articles/interviews, I put together the query. My query is now standard that I use for everyone, but I feel more comfortable doing my homework before sending a query, and if at all possible will add a personal touch to the query that is specific to that agent (such as mentioning I've read their blog, or mentioning a book/author they represent).

For the reasons above this endeavor has turned into a full-time job. I spent five and a half hours today going through a list of hundreds of agents who rep young adult to compile my newest list which as a total of 30 agents. I won't even touch this list until more homework has been accomplished on specifics for each agency.

I knew this wouldn't be easy, but I didn't realize in the beginning how time-consuming this journey would become. Most days I stare at my computer screen until my head aches and my stomach is queasy. It doesn't help that I'm on dial-up and must wait twice as long for pages to load (that's why I really hate flash sites).

But I keep trying...and keep trying....and keep trying. Until that one special agent reads my MS and loves it. Until I am officially represented.

Suffering Through Rejection(s)

2010-02-15T19:17:00.000-08:00

I got a rejection this evening I wasn't expecting. Oh, don't get me wrong--I wasn't necessarily expecting a request, but I had heard this agent is slower to respond. I thought there would be a waiting period where I could imagine her requesting my MS.

It especially hurts because I've read her blog and she was one of my top picks. That's not a unique idea. From visiting writing forums I've read the woes of authors who got rejected by their "dream" agent....that agent who represented works they respect, but even more so, an agent who genuinely seems "nice" in a blog or on a website. I think authors begin to imagine agents as demi-gods who sit on their thrones up in the sky, ready to either strike you down or pull you up into the clouds with them.

And then when the rejection comes, it makes you question everything. This particular agent I queried asks for the a query letter and the first five pages of the manuscript. So, of course, I asked myself "What didn't she like?". Did she not like the query? Or, did she not like the five pages? Was it just not her "cup of tea," or is there some glaring grammatical error I've missed?

Agents often reject by using the phrase "I just could not relate to the narrative voice as much as I hoped." WHAT does that mean? Who knows.... I think it means that the agent doesn't think the writing is good enough. The one agent who read my full MS said I was a good writer and she liked the premise of my novel, but then "could not relate....". It seems a bit ironic that she could call me a good writer but then say she couldn't relate to the narrative voice. Perhaps she didn't read it at all. Or, she either doesn't think I'm a great writer, or she does think I'm a good writer but not her style.

The thing is...I've read a LOT of books in my time. And those books came from a large variety of "voices". For instance, John Steinbeck was always one of my favorite writers. His voice, IMO, is a bit gritty, and stiff. Then I think of the Bronte sisters. JANE EYRE is absolutely my favorite novel of all time, but it's not flowery prose. There is a starkness to her writing. But how could I not love Jane Austen, who is completely on the other side of the spectrum from the previous two?

Anytime I doubt my work, I go back and re-read it. When I start reading, I look at it with a discriminating eye that I would imagine is the agent's. But once I get started, my pretenses are gone as I'm once more swept into the novel.

The thing I find most frustrating is that I truly believe this novel is very marketable. People who own/love horses will want to hear the story of Epona. The apocalyptical prophecies are hot, hot, hot right now (forgive the pun). BIO and NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC channels are constantly airing episodes about prophecies. Fantasy, itself, is huge right now...one of the most sought-after genres out there. But my novel is unique. There have been a few books about Watchers, but not enough to make them old news. And the legend of the White Buffalo Woman...that's unique, IMO.

In a week's time I have over 200 members in my facebook group for this novel. I have over 1000 friends on Facebook. How many would actually buy the book? I can't say...but it's not a shabby platform for an unpublished author.

Now I'm sounding defensive. Really, I'm just thinking online. And defensive or not, some of this has merit. Heck, being a published author in this state (WV) would be big. West Virginians are hungry for success stories from its citizens. A published author in WV would definitely sell her books, at least in this state.

In the end, however, it's not how many friends I have, or where I live, that matters. It's the quality of the book. And each time I get a rejection, I question whether it's good enough. And I always have the same answer. Yes. It is good enough. It's really good. I only have to convince another agent, on another day, to read it and find out for him/herself.

So, I keep trying. I keep sending out letters. I keep plugging along until I make it happen. It will happen. Persistence, persistence, persistence. And keeping the faith. These are the things I must do.

Your Novel is Your Baby

2010-02-15T12:59:00.000-08:00

I have another terrific mock book cover to share with you today. This one comes from my friend and photographer, Christy Hazel. Christy is an equine photographer who is making huge strides in the horse industry with her captivating photos, and I'm thrilled that she was willing to share this particular photo with me, as it is one of my favorites.

You may be wondering why I have such an interest in these mock covers, because when (Yes, I said "when") my book is published the publisher will design one for the book. Well, it makes perfect sense to me. You see, when you have a dream that you are trying to fulfill, you must be able to envision it. There is no room for being vague when you're a dreamer. You must be able to see it, taste it, feel it, hear it....know it. These covers are visions of my book, the published version that is still to come.

Many authors refer to their books as their "babies". As a mother, I can see the connections. I created this story, just as my children were created in my womb. I molded the story, just as I'm molding my children into the adults they will become. And, with both, I want to make them the best they can be.

Another cliche is that the characters from a book "come alive on the pages". I know mine did. The story "had a life of its own" (I can hear some of you groaning from the use of the cliches). I didn't outline this story. I sat down at my computer and started writing the ideas in my mind. The story unravelled before me. Many, many times my characters made decisions I could not see coming. Even more often I found symbolism in the actions of the characters with things that had been floating around in my self-concious.

I wrote "feverishly" (I can't stop myself now). Some days I would type over 30 pages. Often, I found myself getting up from bed in the night to jot down ideas that would not allow me to rest until they had found their way onto a piece of paper. My imagination had taken over, and instead of me finding the story, the story had found me.

I can't say if that's how all authors feel, although I'm sure there are some out there who would agree. My next novel is floating around in mind, wanting out....hoping to find its way onto a piece of paper. But it must simmer for awhile, and be allowed to grow. It is not ready, just as an embryo is not ready for the bright lights and cold air that will greet her at birth. She must grow, and develop some more. And when her time comes, she will come squalling into the world, bellowing out her arrival for everyone to hear. It is the same with my next novel.

In the meantime, I must guide this novel along, and help it finds it's way onto the shelves of libraries and bookstores. Once it has found its way, I can help the other in the same way.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T14:06:00.000-08:00

I've never understood why Valentine's Day is in February. It seems like a holiday that would be best suited for spring, but nevertheless, I do love this day. That's what it's all about--show me some love!

So, in keeping with the day, I am going to post a romantic scene from my novel. This is a teaser (what's romance without some teasing?). To set it up...Morgan is the MC. She's young, innocent, and very self-concious among the family of Watchers she has come to know. Philip is a Watcher, and along with his many powers, he is a captivating, sexy, and very charming man....Morgan has been in love with him from the beginning, but she can't imagine him ever having more than a doting fondness for her. And here it is....

After about three hours of riding Philip suggested they stop and eat near an ice-rimmed stream at the bottom of a hill. Morgan was relieved to stop; her muscles ached and her stomach
was grumbling. They tied the horses to a nearby tree and Philip laid a large, fuzzy blanket on the ground and pulled the food from his saddlebags.

Anna had packed more food than they could ever eat, but they did taste everything she had packed for them and then some. Morgan ate until she could eat no more and laid back against the blanket, staring up at the sky. Philip laid next to her, his arm touching hers. After a few seconds she felt his hand wrapping itself around her hand, and her heart leapt into her throat.
"This is perfect," she sighed, smiling. Philip smiled as well, heartened by the enjoyment he was able to give her.

"I’m glad you’re having a good time," he replied. He squeezed her hand to affirm the thought.
They laid there for a while in silence, until he felt her trembling. Turning to his side, he propped his head with his hand and asked, "Are you cold?"

Morgan’s trembling came more from emotion than the weather, but she did admit, "It is a bit chilly."

Sitting up, Philip said, "Perhaps we should go back now? I don’t want you to get sick again."

"Oh no!" She exclaimed, horrified at the thought. "Please, let’s not go back just yet." She wanted this moment to last forever, just her and Philip alone.

"Then here," he said, pulling her against him. "Move closer so you don’t get cold. Body heat is the best kind." He grinned at her then, knowing how flirtatious the statement sounded, but not really caring.

Morgan didn’t care either. She was thrilled to feel his lean body curled against her’s. She laid her head against his shoulder, utterly content, with all thoughts of being cold a distant memory.

"This is the best present ever," Morgan murmured, closing her eyes.

Philip stroked her hair and replied, "I think this present is mine. You will get your present from me later."

Morgan blushed, imagining the kind of present she would like to receive from him later. She blushed even more realizing he probably read her thought. She glanced at his face, but his eyes were closed, a contented look on his serene face.

The sound of hoof beats broke their perfect moment. Philip sat up, cursing under his breath. Morgan sat up as well, frightened for a moment about who could be approaching.

The American Idol Analogy

2010-02-13T06:52:00.000-08:00

When I was watching American Idol this week, I could relate more than ever to the feelings of the contestants as they struggle through each step of becoming one of the "final twelve".

The reason I could relate so well is because there are many similarities between the journey of an American Idol contestant and an aspiring author trying to get his/her work published.

For example, in the beginning American Idol hopefuls go to the initial tryouts. They get only a few seconds to sing part of a song that (hopefully) the judges will like enough to get them to the next round. This is like querying. You use one short query letter to grab an agent's interest enough to ask for a partial.

Next is Hollywood week. This is set up in two main areas...solo performances, and group performances. For me, this week is comparable to an agent reading my partial, and then asking for the full manuscript. It's all on the table, and it's up to the judges (or agent) to decide whether you will go any farther.

Finally, once you make it into the top 24, your next step as American Idol contestant is to do well enough to make it to the final stage of the competition--the top 12. I would compare this to an agent agreeing to represent a novel, and the new process of sending it off to publishers. You've made it this far, but you're still not there yet. The agent may agree to represent, but that doesn't quite yet mean you will be published.

And the final stage--the top 12. Each contestant then tries to be "the NEXT American Idol" (as Ryan Seacrest would quip). If a publisher has agreed to publish your book, you're in the game. But, it's up to America (just like it is in American Idol) to determine how well your book will do. And America is the toughest audience. They will love it, or hate it. And they must love it for your novel to be successful, or your singing talents on American Idol to get you to the top.

So, that's my analogy, and I personally believe it is very fitting. Now when I watch American Idol I'm not so quick to laugh at a poor performance, or shrug off the tears of a contestant who doesn't make it. I understand this ladder that must be climbed...the difficulty, the emotions, and the persistence and talent needed to get to the top.

2010-02-12T15:48:00.000-08:00

I was very excited to open my email box this evening and find this beautiful book cover. It was designed by Elizabeth E. Little, a very talented young woman who graciously took on this project.

I may be up-dating at a later date with a revised cover, but I couldn't wait until then to share this one.

Many thanks to Elizabeth for sharing her talents!

Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider

2010-02-12T11:53:00.000-08:00

I just hit the "Buy" button to purchase this novel before coming here, and it is with great anticipation that I await the opportunity to read Ellen C. Maze's novel RABBIT: CHASING BETH RIDER.

If you'd like to buy your own copy, just visit http://www.rabbitnovel.com. After I've gotten a few more followers, and a chance to read it, I may invite Ellen here for an interview, and give my own review.

This novel has already gained a great deal of success, and I just read on Ellen's site that there are steps being taken to make into a movie. As with any movie, I always suggest reading the book first, so this is your chance!

Some Ramblings...And the Pitch

2010-02-11T09:39:00.000-08:00

I have never been able to tolerate out-right rudeness. Call me sensitive, but I believe anything worthwhile that needs saying can be said without being rude. Have I ever been rude? Sure. Everyone has. Rudeness is usually an emotional response, and it is more forgiveable when it falls into that category.

The other kind of rudeness--those people who are rude for the sake of being rude, whether to stroke their own egos or to emphasize their supposed superiority...that's what really gets me. I think it bothers me because my other pet peeve is a pretentious attitude. I hate it. I really do.

What brought this on? I've seen that kind of attitude recently. It was not only directed toward me, but to a great many people who are also aspiring to be published authors. People who have asked for help, and instead received an unprovoked attack that was disguised as a criticism.

A criticism does not have to be rude. The only kind of criticism I believe to be worthwhile is "constructive criticism". Criticism that constructs. That makes perfect sense to me.

Luckily, I have received constructive criticism, and it was a true blessing. It helped me tremendously to hear an objective, yet encouraging critique that would help me to improve. But when I compare that to the other kind...it only reinforces my opinion that mean critiques are to be ignored. As much as you or I may try, we will never find something constructive from a criticism that was launched by a condescending ego-maniac.

Now that I've said that. Here's your reward for reading my rants and ramblings. A pitch for my novel THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER.

She was not supposed to exist. The family of fallen angels known as Watchers only bear sons. And yet twenty years ago she was born...a tiny, shriveled mass of humanity. The Council, those ancient forefathers who have all the answers, were frightened. They decided it best she be left behind to live a normal, "human" life.

Morgan's "normal" life has molded her into a bitter and lonely young woman. Her Arabian mare Epona is her only friend, her only joy. But the Council has done something that shocks the Watchers--they have changed their minds, leading to a reunion that reveals secrets and opens the door to a destiny Morgan could never have imagined.

Morgan's reunion with her family introduces her to Gaia, where she must defend her very existence in a land where being a human is a crime. However, her parents' magic is nestled inside her, hiding. The greater the odds, the tougher the battle, the more magic Morgan discovers. And she needs all the magic she can get. Visions of ancient, doom-filled prophecies are haunting her sleep, and the spirit of the White Buffalo Woman is beckoning.

As Morgan battles Gaian assassins with only Epona by her side, her growing magic leads her a little closer to the spirit she seeks. But when a Gaian kills her best friend, Morgan must choose between vengeance or forgiveness. The fate of both worlds rests with her decision.

Let Me Introduce You to THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER

2010-02-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

To follow the journey, you need to know a little about the story. I'd like to introduce you to THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER. Hopefully some day soon you will have your very own copy that you can read and enjoy.

To know the novel, you must know Morgan--because this is her story. She seems as real to me as a childhood friend. A friend, and beta reader, mentioned to me the other day that she is a mirror of me. Perhaps. I don't know if I have her tenacity, but I considered it a compliment.

BTW--this is what my friend had to say about my novel (she gave me permission to quote her):

"This story fulfills all my requirements for a good read. It kept me turning the pages. I left the dishes until I finished it. I laughed. I cried. I'd have liked some more but didn't feel left hanging. I'm not an agent, editor or publisher, but a voracious, discriminating and eclectic bookworm. I wouldn't feel cheated if I bought this book."

I considered this a high compliment indeed, because while she is my friend, she shoots from the hip and doesn't spare feelings.

Back to Morgan.....As the title implies, Morgan is a daughter to Watchers. Want to learn more about Watchers? You can google it....but to find out more about mine I'd love for you to wait until the copy is in your hands.

And Morgan has a horse. What's a story without a horse? Horses are my inspiration, and my passion. Morgan feels the same way about Epona, her beautiful Egyptian Arabian mare.

Both paranormal and fantasy elements are intertwined with ancient prophecies predicting the inevitable apocalypse, and one very special Native American legend, a legend of hope. These are the ingredients in Morgan's story....combined to create elements of hope, forgiveness, love and loss.

I'd love to tell you more, but unfortunately the W-W-W is full of P-R-E-D-A-T-O-R-S who would not lose a moment's sleep stealing any idea they could find.

And if I tell it all now....what do you have to look forward to later?

New Beginnings

2010-02-10T07:07:00.000-08:00

With the end of 2009 came the ending to my novel THE WATCHERS' DAUGHTER. This paranormal fantasy is a re-write from a novel I wrote last winter. I wrote it. I edited it. I polished it. I got beta readers to read it. I edited more according to their advice.

It was finished. What's next? (I asked myself). I decided that it was worth publishing. So, I started doing research on literary agencies. I compiled a list of 20 or so agents. And I started sending out letters.

Whoa Nelly! Anyone see the problem? If you've never travelled this road, you're probably wondering what I'm talking about. What I'm talking about is QUERIES. Those dreadful, heart-wrenching, pain-staking, time-consuming....well, you get the idea. Writing a query letter is an art in itself, and I didn't realize this.

You see, I was under the mistaken impression that the pitch in my letter should read like "the jacket flap on a book". Honestly, that was such a vague reference it resulted in a vague pitch. I didn't understand the rules, and I didn't understand the competition.

Agents receive hundreds of letters every week. Your query has to stand out. It has to be unique. It has to have a narrative voice that "speaks" to the agent, grabbing his/her interest.

Of course, it took me a while to get it. Over twenty rejections, in fact. Oh, I got one request for a full manuscript, and now I believe that was actually to my downfall because I assumed my query was adequate or the agent wouldn't have requested it. Later, I realized that this agent requests a lot of MS's, which meant my query wasn't nearly as great as I had thought.

As my list diminished, I went about putting together a new one. Still lots of agents out there to query. But with the realization that my query was not up to par, my querying process slowed down TREMENDOUSLY. Why send a letter that I now realize is not good enough?

It's not enough for it to be good enough. It has to be better than the hundreds, or even thousands, of queries such and such agent is getting.

I joined writers' forums, which are a great resource for getting critiques on your letter. And from there, I improved. But things got a hell of a lot more confusing. One member might say "Your protagonist is too passive...HOW does she do what she does? Show us action." I worked on it...diligantly. I crafted a letter that showed the main conflict, and it answered the three main questions a query should answer:

What does the protagonist want?
How does the protagonist get it?
What happens if the protagonist fails?

I was getting there, but then I joined another forum. And what did the members there have to say? "I can't identify with you MC (main character)". By putting so much into the conflict, I had left out all those things that make my MC special.

Back to the drawing board. At this point, I'm suffering chronic headaches and fitful sleep as I dream about queries and agents.

Here's the deal. The query has to be SHORT. Most agents ask for one page or less. That leaves the pitch to be 1-3 short paragraphs that are less than 250 words.

It seemed that no matter how hard I tried, I could not intertwine the feelings/voice of the MC and the main conflict (when there are actually several different elements to the conflict) in fewer than 250 words.

Just by reading this post you can see that I ramble, and I rarely run out of something to say. That's why I was able to write a book. Ironic? Yes.

And that's where I'm at now. I have a beautiful, new list of agencies I can query but I'm struggling to write a letter that will turn those rejections into requests.

Angela's Story for Today is This: The best manuscript in the world will never be seen if you don't have a query that will interest an agent.