Buying and Editing!!! And sometimes writing?

So it's been too long since I last blogged. Again. *hangs head* However, I have good reason (even thought that's really no excuse -- there is a difference). I have been buying and editing books for Crescent Moon Press left and right, up and down, and even catty corner!! LOL

I thought this would be a good chance to give some pointers on what I do and don't want to see in submissions. I want you to be excited about your book. It comes across in the query, believe me. Have confidence in yourself and your writing. This is most important, because if you don't love it -- no one else will.

Second and almost equally important --- REVIEW that manuscript and have OTHERS look it over so that when it's time to be sent, you are presenting the most polished and attractive version of your book. It is also vital that you pay attention to your first pages, first paragraph, and first line. You may have the greatest story ever, but if you have no hook or do not draw your readers in at the beginning, they won't give you a chance to tell the story at all. For example, DO NOT start your story in a dream or waking up from sleep. YAWN! Give me a great first line that tells what your character's most pressing dilemma is at the moment (and I don't mean breakfast!) If you are able to convey a sense of urgency and create an immediate connection with your character, you've already won half the battle. Now, that being said, do not give me an awesome first line that has nothing to do with the book! (It happens..bad form!)

Third, be ready to succeed. If you get a request for a partial or a full after submitting a query -- send that material in ASAP. If for some reason you can't, respond and let me know. But sooner is always better. :) If you get an offer, respond immediately. (Even if you need time to mull it over -- respond and let us know you've received the offer, and ask when the offer expires so that you don't miss your first deadline. :)

Finally, (well, finally for today -- I could go on and on and on....) if you are not sure your book fits, submit it anyway. (Unless you write something that we say we absolutely do not take.) If you still aren't sure, ask!

I actually started this post at the beginning of September....tsk, tsk, tsk. Time is not my friend lately. I want to get all the wonderful books I've acquired out into the market so that you all can enjoy them! So I will get back to editing and hope to see something exciting from you!

May the muse inspire you to succeed and may you listen to her!

Slainte`