On Writing
To get started in the publishing business you need a few basic things, dedication, persistence, thick skin and more thick skin. There's no easy way around it or shortcut to the top. It's going to take hard work and plenty of it. Here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Study the business. Know that publishing is a business and like any business, money is the bottom line. The more you know the better prepared you'll be. I went to the local library and studied, but seminars, workshops and conference’s work as well.
2. Read and study the craft. Read. Study. Read. Study. Read. Repeat. You might want to start a resource bookshelf. Some books on my shelf include – The Elements of Style, Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the current World Almanac, books on grammar, baby names, character traits, and sex (for obvious reasons). I also keep my favorite authors on hand for inspiration - Michelle Monkou, Candice Poarch, Kimberly Kaye Terry and a few others.
3. Words to know - point of view, inner conflict, outer conflict, character motivations, character descriptions, setting, blocking, plot, heroine, hero, guidelines, query letter, submission, back-story, galley, pacing, hook, outline, voice, tone and dozens more. Know these terms and you're well on your way.
4. Meet your peers. This means networking. Join professional organizations like Romance Writers of America (RWA), reading/writing groups and online authors sites. Stay connected with readers and writers and pay attention. Most authors and editors will readily answer any questions you might have.
5. Sit down and start writing the best manuscript you can. Review, edit and rewrite. Send it out and start writing all over again.
6. Most publishing houses offer tips on writing written by published authors and working editors. Check out for more tips.
Here are some sites tht have helped me:
Kimani
Kimani TRU
LiveLaughLove&Books
Romance Writers of America
Novelists Inc.
Romance Slam Jam
Our Teen Voices
Romantic Times
Affaire de Couer
R.A.W. Sistaz Book Club
Shades of Romance