Links of Interest

WHY SOME PUBLISHERS AREN'T AS "TRADITIONAL" AS THEY'D LIKE YOU  TO BELIEVE:

http://behlerblog.com/2010/12/22/traditional-publishing-lets-just-change-the-definition-shall-we/

IMPROVING DEEP POV:

http://storyflip.blogspot.com/2010/12/real-life-diagnostics-deepen-point-of.html

SETTING WRITING GOALS, PART 3:

http://mysterywritingismurder.blogspot.com/2010/12/setting-writing-goalsstep-3.html

YET MORE CAREER GOALS:

http://www.genreality.net/focus-on-the-goal-–-start-the-new-year-right

SOME OF THE BEST WRITING ADVICE OF THE YEAR:

http://blog.writersdigest.com/norules/2010/12/22/MyBestPostsFrom2010.aspx

THE KEY ELEMENTS TO STRONG FICTION:

http://www.shennandoahdiaz.com/2010/12/20/key-elements-of-strong-fiction/?sf836523=1

VILLAINS:

http://querytracker.blogspot.com/2010/12/case-for-villains.html

CHARACTERS: Defense mechanisms. Written by psychologist.

http://fictiongroupie.blogspot.com/2010/12/guest-post-using-defense-mechanisms-for.html

BALANCING YOUR SCENES:

https://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/2010/12/20/structure-part-8-balancing-the-scenes-that-make-up-your-novel/

FACEBOOK APS:

http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/facebook-apps/

GRAMMAR 101:  The most common misused words:  it's/its, their/they're, etc. Look at the December archives for all the grammar posts.  

http://unearththeclues.blogspot.com/

BLOG ADVICE FROM PROMOTION TO DESIGNS:

http://catseyewriter.com/

THE SIX DEGREES OF SHOW AND TELL:

http://victoriamixon.com/2010/12/01/the-6-degrees-of-show-vs-tell-rated-by-quality/

WEATHER IN FICTION:  How it can be used.

http://wordplay-kmweiland.blogspot.com/2010/12/7-reasons-weather-is-writers-friend.html

VERBS THAT TELL INSTEAD OF SHOW:

http://wordplay-kmweiland.blogspot.com/2010/12/7-reasons-weather-is-writers-friend.html

WHAT KIND OF WRITER ARE YOU?

http://wordplay-kmweiland.blogspot.com/2010/12/what-kind-of-writer-are-you.html

MISTAKES WRITERS MAKE: An interesting website that deals with nonfiction but has some things to say about writing.

http://mistakeswritersmake.blogspot.com/

AN OVERVIEW OF WHAT IS HAPPENING IN PUBLISHING RIGHT NOW:

http://writerunboxed.com/2010/12/28/qa-how-bad-is-it-really-in-the-publishing-industry/

DEATH BY REVISION:  How to bring that overworked story back to life.

http://storyflip.blogspot.com/2010/12/re-write-wednesday-golden-oldie.html

WALKING AWAY FROM A NOVEL:

http://talktoyouniverse.blogspot.com/2010/12/when-do-you-walk-away-and-how-do-you.html

ADJECTIVES AREN'T EVIL:

http://wordplay-kmweiland.blogspot.com/2010/12/how-to-bring-adjectives-to-life.html

~*~

Marilynn's Workshop Schedule and Information Links

http://marilynnbyerly.com/workshopschedule.html

Writing the First Chapter, January 3-31, 2011. 

Drawing a reader into the first chapter of your novel is more than an exciting beginning, more than a “cute meet,” more than a sexy hero and a feisty heroine.  Step by step, I'll show you the craft needed to draw the reader into your novel and make her eager to keep reading.  I'll also show you how to set up the goals for the main characters and for the novel.

~*~

Writing in the Moment, April 11-May 8, 2011 

How to get your voice, viewpoint, and craft so perfect that you disappear and your story comes alive.  Lots of worksheets. 

~*~

The Blurb: Mother of All Promotions July 25-August 7, 2011 

A blurb is the pithy description of your novel in a query letter, the short "elevator pitch" used at a writer's conference, the log line for online promotion, and the all important back cover copy for a published novel.  Without a great blurb, a novel won't be noticed by agents and editors.  

 Marilynn Byerly--creator of a blurb system used by university publishing courses, publishers, and many authors-- will show you how to create that perfect blurb for your novel.  The course will include a number of worksheets and in-class blurb analysis.

Why Historical Romances Have Clinch Covers

The historical romance cover -- a beautiful woman with her large breasts falling out of an half-opened gown, a handsome man holding her in his seductive embrace.

Almost everyone claims to hate these clinch covers, non-readers make fun of them, and readers hide them with plain book protectors or read ebooks in public to avoid showing them.

Why, then, has this type of cover persisted for so many years?

Here's the answer.

In the early Eighties when historical romances began to explode into the marketplace, publishers realized that guys ordered the books for their distribution companies and bookstores and guys usually put them on the shelves of bookstores and supermarkets.

How could the publisher make romances more attractive to these men so they'd distribute them and not hide them behind the racy covers of pulp mystery and science fiction? The big-breasted, half-naked babe was their answer, and it proved successful.

The female readers continued to buy these books, despite the cover, for what was inside -- a great read with well-developed characters which proved that love was the most powerful emotion in the world.

The grip of men on the distribution process finally eased, and a period of flowery covers and landscapes began, but readers had a harder time recognizing books as romances with such generic covers so the clinch cover returned in all its annoying glory.

These covers have become so dang iconic of the romance that they won't go away. We are as stuck with them as sf readers are with guys and skimpily clad babes with ray guns and spaceships.

So now you know.

~*~

Marilynn's Workshop Schedule and Information Links

http://marilynnbyerly.com/workshopschedule.html

Writing the First Chapter, January 3-31, 2011.

Drawing a reader into the first chapter of your novel is more than an exciting beginning, more than a “cute meet,” more than a sexy hero and a feisty heroine. Step by step, I'll show you the craft needed to draw the reader into your novel and make her eager to keep reading. I'll also show you how to set up the goals for the main characters and for the novel.

~*~

Writing in the Moment, April 11-May 8, 2011

How to get your voice, viewpoint, and craft so perfect that you disappear and your story comes alive. Lots of worksheets.

~*~

The Blurb: Mother of All Promotions July 25-August 7, 2011

A blurb is the pithy description of your novel in a query letter, the short "elevator pitch" used at a writer's conference, the log line for online promotion, and the all important back cover copy for a published novel. Without a great blurb, a novel won't be noticed by agents and editors.

Marilynn Byerly--creator of a blurb system used by university publishing courses, publishers, and many authors-- will show you how to create that perfect blurb for your novel. The course will include a number of worksheets and in-class blurb analysis.

Links of Interest

WHAT GENRE PUBLISHERS BOUGHT THIS YEAR IN NUMBERS:

http://suzanne-johnson.blogspot.com/2010/12/what-publishers-are-buying-and-what.html

THE CHANGING FACE OF PUBLISHING, EBOOKS:

http://kriswrites.com/2010/12/15/the-business-rusch-bestselling-writers-continued-changing-times-part-9/

THE DANGER OF THE SCENE THAT GOES NOWHERE:

http://behlerblog.com/2010/12/17/beware-the-big-huzzah/

http://storyflip.blogspot.com/2010/12/find-your-plot-fridays-developing-your.html

CHARACTERS: What traits do you want?

http://mysterywritingismurder.blogspot.com/2010/12/wanted-strong-believable-characters.html

PACEMAKERS AND OTHER NON-BODY PARTS CAN TELL ON YOU:

http://writersforensicsblog.wordpress.com/2010/12/19/stupid-criminals-pacemaker-tracks-down-embezzler/

INTRODUCING A CHARACTER:

http://www.plottopunctuation.com/blog/show/how-to-establish-your-characters-openings

THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS OF PARANORMAL ROMANCE:

http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/The+7+Deadly+Sins+Of+Paranormal+Romance.aspx

REVISING CHARACTERS:

http://www.plottopunctuation.com/blog/show/47

TEN BEST WRITING ARTICLES OF 2010 LISTED:

http://mikeduran.com/?p=10761

http://blog.writersdigest.com/norules/2010/12/20/10BestTweetsOf2010.aspx

THOSE EVIL PROLOGUES:

http://behlerblog.com/2010/12/21/prologues-this-side-of-hell/

SETTING WRITER GOALS

PART 1: http://mysterywritingismurder.blogspot.com/2010/12/setting-writing-goalsstep-one.html

PART 2: http://mysterywritingismurder.blogspot.com/2010/12/setting-writing-goalsstep-two.html

HOW NOT TO OVERSTATE THE OBVIOUS:

http://storyflip.blogspot.com/2010/12/re-write-wednesday-golden-oldie-get.html

~*~

Marilynn's Workshop Schedule and Information Links

http://marilynnbyerly.com/workshopschedule.html

Writing the First Chapter, January 3-31, 2011.

Drawing a reader into the first chapter of your novel is more than an exciting beginning, more than a “cute meet,” more than a sexy hero and a feisty heroine. Step by step, I'll show you the craft needed to draw the reader into your novel and make her eager to keep reading. I'll also show you how to set up the goals for the main characters and for the novel.

~*~

Writing in the Moment, April 11-May 8, 2011

How to get your voice, viewpoint, and craft so perfect that you disappear and your story comes alive. Lots of worksheets.

~*~

The Blurb: Mother of All Promotions July 25-August 7, 2011

A blurb is the pithy description of your novel in a query letter, the short "elevator pitch" used at a writer's conference, the log line for online promotion, and the all important back cover copy for a published novel. Without a great blurb, a novel won't be noticed by agents and editors.

Marilynn Byerly--creator of a blurb system used by university publishing courses, publishers, and many authors-- will show you how to create that perfect blurb for your novel. The course will include a number of worksheets and in-class blurb analysis.

What Carols Can Teach a Writer

"You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch." The only character greater than a villain is a villain who is redeemed.

"Oh, Holy Night" A powerful story is often best told simply.

"Silent Night" A few simple images can create powerful emotions.

"I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" Sometimes, something innocent can become creepy.

"The Twelve Days of Christmas" A one-sided romantic relationship is boring.

"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" The underdog with a reviled talent makes a great hero.

"Frosty the Snowman" A great character often deserves a sequel. ("I'll be back again, some day." )

"Carol of the Bells" Driving rhythm can pull the reader forward.

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" You can tell a story through dialogue.

"The Christmas Song" ("Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…." ) Setting alone can show strong emotion and story.

"Good King Wenceslas" Sometimes, a character is remembered more for kindness than power or glory.

"I'll Be Home For Christmas" Home and family are two of the most powerful goals within the human heart.

"Baby, It's Cold Outside." "This is for your good, not mine" is a great seduction.

"Jingle Bells" and "Jingle Bell Rock" The times and tempo may change, but the story remains the same.

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" Sometimes, the character's emotions and the message aren't the same.

"Santa Baby" With the right voice, even Santa and a chimney can be made into a double entendre.

~*~

Marilynn's Workshop Schedule and Information Links

http://marilynnbyerly.com/workshopschedule.html

Writing the First Chapter, January 3-31, 2011.

Drawing a reader into the first chapter of your novel is more than an exciting beginning, more than a “cute meet,” more than a sexy hero and a feisty heroine. Step by step, I'll show you the craft needed to draw the reader into your novel and make her eager to keep reading. I'll also show you how to set up the goals for the main characters and for the novel.

~*~

Writing in the Moment, April 11-May 8, 2011

How to get your voice, viewpoint, and craft so perfect that you disappear and your story comes alive. Lots of worksheets.

~*~

The Blurb: Mother of All Promotions July 25-August 7, 2011

A blurb is the pithy description of your novel in a query letter, the short "elevator pitch" used at a writer's conference, the log line for online promotion, and the all important back cover copy for a published novel. Without a great blurb, a novel won't be noticed by agents and editors.

Marilynn Byerly--creator of a blurb system used by university publishing courses, publishers, and many authors-- will show you how to create that perfect blurb for your novel. The course will include a number of worksheets and in-class blurb analysis.

Links of Interest

OVERVIEW OF GENRE SALES NUMBERS:

WOMEN'S LIT.:

http://pimpmynovel.blogspot.com/2010/12/genre-sales-2-womens-literature-part-7.html

ROMANCE:

http://pimpmynovel.blogspot.com/2010/12/genre-sales-2-romance-part-8-of-8.html

THE VILLAIN'S RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOOD GUY:

http://clarissadraper.blogspot.com/2010/12/stephen-tremps-villain-series-villains.html

VILLAINS: A good series of blogs on the bad guy which starts here:

http://stephentremp.blogspot.com/2010/12/let-villain-series-begin.html

STEAMPUNK RESOURCES:

http://www.tor.com/blogs/2010/12/steampunk-links-and-resources

CRIME AND PSYCHOLOGY: Getting it right.

http://murderby4.blogspot.com/2010/12/are-you-getting-psychology-right-in.html

FORENSICS: The 10 most incriminating types of evidence.

http://writersforensicsblog.wordpress.com/2010/12/11/guest-blogger-10-most-incriminating-types-of-evidence/

IN DEFENSE OF ROMANCE: An interesting article on romance studied in academia.

http://yaleherald.com/arts/in-defense-of-romance-proving-the-stereotypes-wrong/

THAT MOMENT OF REALIZATION AND HOW TO MAKE IS STRONGER:

http://www.genreality.net/the-pie-in-the-face-writing-method

FINDING EXPERTS FOR RESEARCH:

http://www.therenegadewriter.com/2010/12/09/7-tips-for-finding-the-best-real-people-sources/

BLOGGING: Making your blog stand out.

http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/5-ways-to-make-your-blog-stand-out-from-the-crowd/

CREATING AN EMAIL SIGNATURE:

http://blog.hubspot.com/blog/tabid/6307/bid/7255/Create-a-Social-Media-Optimized-Email-Signature

FACEBOOK ENHANCEMENT:

http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/26-tips-for-enhancing-your-facebook-page/

NAILING THE TEEN VOICE:

http://lydiasharp.blogspot.com/2010/12/nailing-your-teen-voice.html

PROMOTING YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA:

http://www.problogger.net/archives/2010/12/09/9-practical-ways-to-start-attracting-an-audience-to-your-new-social-media-account

PROMOTING THROUGH AMAZON:

http://authorculture.blogspot.com/2010/12/making-most-of-amazon.html

HOW TO HAVE A POPULAR WRITING BLOG:

http://annerallen.blogspot.com/2010/12/how-to-blog-part-duh-13-steps-for.html

THRILLER DOS AND DON'TS:

http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/Thriller+Writing+The+Dos+The+Donts+And+The+Dont+Even+Think+About+Its+And+A+Free+Book+Giveaway.aspx

PROMOTION ON AMAZON:

http://www.publetariat.com/7-ways-get-your-book-discovered-amazon

CREATING A BOOK READERS CAN'T PUT DOWN:

http://jodyhedlund.blogspot.com/2010/12/creating-book-readers-cant-put-down.html

THE BOOK PROMOTION PRESS RELEASE:

http://bookmarketingmaven.typepad.com/book_marketing_maven/2010/12/press-release-for-a-book.html

CREATING THE FACEBOOK FAN PAGE (VIDEO):

http://www.thecreativepenn.com/2010/12/02/how-to-create-a-facebook-fan-page-for-your-book-or-author-brand

WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOUR BOOK IS PUBLISHED:

http://www.guidetoliteraryagents.com/blog/5+Things+Writers+Should+Do+BEFORE+Release+Day.aspx

TYPES OF BOOK OPENINGS:

https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/types-of-book-and-chapter-openings/

SCENES: 10 THINGS TO CHECK YOUR SCENES FOR.

http://www.darcypattison.com/revision/scene-30-scene-checklist/

MAGICAL AND SUPERPOWERS: When to use them, when not to.

http://www.superheronation.com/2010/12/04/how-to-keep-your-storys-superpowers-andor-magic-extraordinary/

WHAT'S AT STAKE FROM HIGH TO LOW:

http://storyflip.blogspot.com/2010/12/up-up-and-away-raising-stakes.html

THE SECOND DRAFT: What you need to do before you start it.

http://writerunboxed.com/2010/12/14/7-tasks-to-bridge-your-first-and-second-drafts/#more-6192

PUBLISHING LAW LINKS:

http://circleoffriendsbooks.blogspot.com/2010/12/publishing-law.html

CREATING A STRONGER STORY:

http://storyfix.com/your-story…-on-steroids

EXPRESSING EMOTION IN A SCENE:

http://storyflip.blogspot.com/2010/12/re-write-wednesday-do-you-think-he.html

EDITING AND THE YA MARKET:

http://writerunboxed.com/2010/12/15/qa-editing-and-the-ya-market/

PRO PUBLICIST ON SOCIAL PROMOTION:

http://www.ninc.com/blog/index.php/archives/meet-rebecca-crowley2

~*~

Marilynn's Workshop Schedule and Information Links

http://marilynnbyerly.com/workshopschedule.html

Writing the First Chapter, January 3-31, 2011.

Drawing a reader into the first chapter of your novel is more than an exciting beginning, more than a “cute meet,” more than a sexy hero and a feisty heroine. Step by step, I'll show you the craft needed to draw the reader into your novel and make her eager to keep reading. I'll also show you how to set up the goals for the main characters and for the novel.

~*~

Writing in the Moment, April 11-May 8, 2011

How to get your voice, viewpoint, and craft so perfect that you disappear and your story comes alive. Lots of worksheets.

~*~

The Blurb: Mother of All Promotions July 25-August 7, 2011

A blurb is the pithy description of your novel in a query letter, the short "elevator pitch" used at a writer's conference, the log line for online promotion, and the all important back cover copy for a published novel. Without a great blurb, a novel won't be noticed by agents and editors.

Marilynn Byerly--creator of a blurb system used by university publishing courses, publishers, and many authors-- will show you how to create that perfect blurb for your novel. The course will include a number of worksheets and in-class blurb analysis.