Jul 10, 2019 | On Writing
First lines matter. For readers, they’re a welcome sign, the promise that they’re in for a satisfying reading experience. For agents and editors, they’re proof that you know how to open a story in a way that keeps readers reading. If you don’t nail those opening...
Jun 12, 2019 | On Writing
1. Thou shalt not have strange genres before me. Aspiring authors often tell me, “I don’t want to be typecast.” And I tell them, “You should be so lucky.” Sure, when you’re first starting out, you might have to write in a number of genres before you find your sweet...
Jun 10, 2019 | On Writing
These days, it’s all about The Big Idea. That’s what publishers are looking for. Think Hollywood, with more words. As an agent, I hear this every day from editors: I really like this story, but…. …but it’s too quiet. …but it’s too old-fashioned. …but it’s too...
