NEWSLETTER
Choose your editor wisely
I recently saw someone on social media who wanted to know what they should do if an editor approached them with a deal.
An editor and author’s nightmare
Last week I got an email from a regular client telling me someone had found a glaring error in one of her published stories.
When it’s okay to turn down work
Sometimes, we need turn down a job even if we would like the money. Believe me, this isn’t something I enjoy doing (who does?) but it’s better to say no at the beginning than end up in a sticky situation at
the end.
When things get too much…
Everyone gets a little overloaded at times. We all have work, family, and other things to deal with. It’s easy to think we can multi-task but this can lead to stress and poor performance.
Why writing matters.
Last year, a project arrived in my mailbox during lockdown. We were into our second month of not being allowed out, feeling isolated, scared, and unsure of what the future would hold – much like many other people around the world.
It’s not only commas
People often focus on the technical stuff that editors do, but communication and passion for the project are also important. There are plenty of editors who are adept at grammar and can spot a plot hole from a mile away. However, if you don’t feel any support or empathy from them, then I think you’re missing out.
Getting great feedback
Everybody likes getting good feedback. For writers, it’s that beautiful 5-star review. For editors, it’s a client testimonial.
Finding your voice on social media
Social media is a great way to reach a lot of people so we can tell them about our novels or services. We don’t have to pay anything and it has a potentially huge reach.
Welcome to the Year of the Tiger
Since this is the beginning of a new year, I thought it would be a good time to think about what I’ve managed to achieve in the past twelve months.
Everyone needs some down time
I’m late sending out my newsletter this week. I recently finished editing a novel and after living in someone else’s world for three weeks, reality felt a little boring. I missed the characters, the magic, and even the excitement of changing sentences to make them flow.
A little research is a good thing
Doing research is part of a writer and editor’s role. We need ensure any “facts” included in published materials are true. I’ve spent many hours searching for weather conditions in various regions of the US, journey times, names, dates, and even the medicinal properties of seeds and beans.
Reviews can be painful
Getting poor feedback on something you’ve written can feel devastating but if you can give yourself some distance, you might find something that can help your craft improve.
What are your goals for 2022?
I’ve seen a lot of people talk on social media about what they achieved in 2021. What about this year? What are your goals and what are the roadblocks?
The value of feedback
You’d think as an editor, I would already know the importance of getting a second set of eyes to look at your writing, but today, I had a timely reminder.