Editor Invites Writers to Show off Techniques

Writers are invited to share examples from their work to be showcased in a new, all-genre sequel to Don't Murder Your Mystery, the Agatha Award Finalist for Best Nonfiction Book of 2006 by Chris Roerden, an editor for 43 years.

The best 140 examples that demonstrate the effective use of specific fiction-writing techniques will be showcased, with full credit to its author, in the sequel to this highly acclaimed book of insider information about getting published.

No payment, fee, or purchase is required. Examples from either published or unpublished novels, short stories, and creative nonfiction will be accepted until Thanksgiving 2007. A contest open to April 25 (07) will determine the title of the all-genre edition.

"It is scheduled for 2008 publication," says Roerden, "provided enough writers make me aware of their own good examples to replace most of those now featured in the mystery edition."

NYTimes best-selling author P.J. Parrish calls Roerden's selection of examples "wonderful." Mystery Scene magazine says "excellent examples."

For submission guidelines, contest rules, and a list of the authors currently showcased, visit: www.tinyurl.com/yclawc [Link opens a PDF file.]

Chris Roerden is the recipient of awards for both writing and editing. She holds an MA in English and a BA summa cum laude from the University of Maine, where she also taught writing. She is past president of MAPA, a regional trade association of publishers; served 6 years on the southeast board of Mystery Writers of America; and is a member of Sisters in Crime and Mensa.

Authors she has edited are published by Berkley Prime Crime, Midnight Ink, Intrigue, Viking, Rodale, Walker, St. Martin's, and others. Bella Rosa Books is a small royalty press located in South Carolina.

DON'T MURDER YOUR MYSTERY
24 FICTION-WRITING TECHNIQUES
TO SAVE YOUR MANUSCRIPT FROM
TURNING UP D.O.A.
Chris Roerden
Bella Rosa Books, May 2006
Bibl., index; vii, 293 pp TPB
ISBN 1-933523-13-1; $17.95
Avail: Ingram, B&T, Brodart, etc.
http://bellarosabooks.com

Q. & A. How to Research a Publisher

Q. "What can I do to find out more about a publishing company, service, or agent?"

I get asked this question quite often and usually by those authors who are fairly new to this whole "publishing thing" so to save a bit of time, I thought I would post these handy tips:

1. First, visit their website and print out any detail pages, sample contracts, or FAQs sections and read them offline--you'll see more this way. Once you've read everything you can from their site, compile a list then contact the staff to further clarify any questions you may have about them or their policies.

2. Another idea is to contact a few of their present authors and ask them how their publishing experience went and if they are happy. Keep in mind that happiness can vary from author to author depending on their personal goals and expectations, but most authors will offer at least a general opinion of their publishing experience which can help you in making your decision.

3. Next, type the company name into your favorite search engine and see what comes up. To define your search further, put quote marks around the phrase (like "ABC PubCO") then add words like "beware," "warning," or "complaint" to your search.

4. Make sure to visit Preditors & Editors, SWFA.com, EPIC.com. Online writer organizations sites often offer valuable information in regards to publishing in general and paying a visit to Preditors&Editors--which offers a lengthy index of agents, publishers, services, and more--is well worth every author's time and effort. (TIP: You can find links to these sites and more on my Links & Leads page!)

5. And don't forget to visit online forums such as: AbsoluteWrite.com, WritersWeekly.com, and Piers Anthony's publishing info page to see what others are reporting, discussing, and or complaining about when it comes to the publishing world--doing so just may open your eyes to a whole new spectrum of options. (TIP: Use the link above to find links to these sites & more!)

So there you have it. Five ways to get going in your research so you can find the best company for you!

Enjoy!