Google+ For Writers...What You Should Know

So much buzz is going on about Google + these days that I thought I'd pass along some interesting articles I've come across. 

There are a lot of really cool ways to tweak your profile and one of these is a Google+ ID shortener.

I love to add new ways to connect with other writers and readers so I was excited to see this cool widget maker to customize one for my blog's sidebar.

So far, the most helpful information has come out of Galley Cat. Its a post on Promotional Tools for Writers. They have a list of writers currently using Google+ as well as some tips to help you optimize your profile. There is even a section on how to organize a book party.

If you're looking for ways to "tag" people like the @ on Twitter or like to add hot keys, then this article on Google+ Tips and Tricks is just up your alley.

I for one am excited about the hangouts. I think it would be fun to have virtual critique group meeting.  That would be both useful and fun!

You need an invite to join, but they are plentiful. Anyone who has a Google+ account, can send out invites. I got mine off a Twitter buddy.

So whether or not you're excited to try it or you think its another time-suck...at least you have the lowdown on how to use Google+ correctly. For those of you interested in more information, the Google+ Blog is brimming with videos and tutorials.

Until next time...Go Write!

What to Look for In an Agent

Agents are people and as such, they vary from micro-managers to the other end of the spectrum. One thing to help you decided what you to look for in an agent is to look at yourself and how you work. 

·         Do you need hand holding?

·        Do you hope for a movie-esque relationship where they call you up at night with a great idea?

·         Do you see an agent as a sort of mentor or teacher?

·         Do you want them to help you with your manuscript because it needs an overhaul?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you don’t need an agent. You need more time.

You see, agents take you on spec. That is, they don’t make any money unless they sell your book. So when looking for an agent, make sure that YOU’RE what THEY’RE looking for in a client.

Once you feel you’re ready to query, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help you separate the honest, reputable agents from the scoundrels.

·         Agents do not charge you money. Period. Not for a reading fee or a submission fee or anything else.

·         They do not say they will take you if you use their editorial services. Reputable agents with connections to an editing service let you know about that relationship up front. And whether or not you use their service should not affect your submission with them.

·         You can check their track record on Publisher’s Marketplace or similar sites. If they are successful and have been in the business a while, then it will show. 

·         If their commission is outrageous, more than 10-15% domestic, or they penalize you for being new by charging a higher commission then walk away.

Where do you find a great agent? 

One of the best places is to meet them face-to-face at a conference. My own agent has said that he finds 80% of his clients during sessions at conferences. This is a wonderful way to dialogue with an agent about what to expect, how they handle client questions, and what level of interaction you are looking for.

Websites like Query Tracker, a free database of literary agents and publishers, is a fantastic place to start when you’re ready to submit your query. Finding an agent is a long process, but worth it when you connect with the right one. 

As a wise person once pointed out…publication isn’t a selection process, it’s a survival process.

(Post originally appeared on Purple Knot blog tour.)

Photograph by John Buckman. 

Clash Of The Titles - The Champion Announced!

guest post by April W Gardner

Clash of the Titles is proud to announce that author Marianne Evans with her novel, Hearts Crossing, is our newest champion!

About the book: 

Collin Edwards, a former parishioner at Woodland Church, has renounced God without apology, his faith drained away in the face of a tragic loss.

Daveny Montgomery cares deeply about her relationship with God, and the community of Woodland. Lately though, she's been in a rut, longing for something to reignite her spiritual enthusiasm.

A beautification project at Woodland seems the answer for them both. Daveny spearheads the effort and Collin assists, but only with the renovations, and only because he wants to know Daveny better. Despite his deepening feelings for her, even stepping into the common areas of the church stirs tension and anger.

Can Daveny trust in Collin’s fledgling return to faith? And can Collin ever accept the fact that while he turned his back on God, God never turned his back on him?

Marianne competed with the 
Adam and Andrea Graham, and their YA book Tales of the Dim Knight.

What readers said:

• I'm amazed--can't wait to read more!
• These books have very different plots and backgrounds, but both sound as though they are great books. Congratulations to the writers.
• Both were so well done and packed with emotion. This just keeps getting harder and harder!

A glimpse at Marianne's winning excerpt:

Officer Lance Edwards banged hard on the front door of the home. A cacophony of sound increased. “Saint Clair Shores PD. Open up.” Seated in the squad car, Collin Edwards watched his brother cast a quick glance back at the squad car then up and down the street.

Lance trotted back to the vehicle, opening the door. “I'm calling for back up.” He was laser focused. “Stay where you are, and keep alert.”

“Yeah. Got it.” Collin frowned as Lance barked into the car radio and activated the roof top light bars. He left the car to return to the front door.

This time the door was yanked open. A hulking, angry man filled the entrance.

“Step outside, sir.” Lance rested a hand against the butt of his gun.

READ FULL EXCERPT HERE

About her Clash Marianne said:

It has been an honor to "clash" with such a worthy opponent! :-) I love Clash of the Titles.

Next week, April Gardner hosts a special "Author's Choice" Clash. Anything goes with this one--authors chose their favorite excerpts from their own works to submit, and we narrowed it down to the top two for readers to vote on. Spread the word!

-April W Gardner is the Sr. Editor at Clash of the Titles 

and author of Wounded Spirits.