Carly Watters's Blog, page 6
November 30, 2015
5 Things Writers Should Stop Worrying About
Worrying has to be one of the essential parts of a writer’s DNA. There are so many things to be concerned about! However, the reality is so many things are out of a writer’s control–especially during the writing process. Here … Continue reading →
November 23, 2015
Guest Post: The 4 Platform Elements That Catch an Editor’s Attention
Editor-turned-Agent Maria Ribas has a guest post for everyone today! It’s a small world in publishing and the story of how Maria and I know each other is a reflection of that. When Maria was an editor at Adams Media … Continue reading →
November 16, 2015
Infographic: Do You Know The Difference Between Literary, Upmarket and Commercial Fiction?
Knowing how to categorize your work is one of the most important skills a writer needs to know–especially while querying. Here’s an infographic to help.
November 9, 2015
15 Things I’ve Learned in 5 Years: Celebrating my 5 Year ‘Agent-versary’
Last year I wrote a post about my “four year agent-versary.” And focused on what I was grateful for. Last week my friend, and super agent, Katie Shea Boutiller wrote about her 4 years as an agent. Including some great tips about why … Continue reading →
November 2, 2015
6 Tips To Hook A Reader on Page One
I’ve read thousands of “page ones.” Very often I don’t read page two. Sometimes all I read is that first page and I make judgements based on what I see there. As an agent and a reader my practice is that … Continue reading →
October 26, 2015
Perfect Characters as Default: Why this is problematic
The number of pitches, synopses or opening lines I’ve seen like this is outstanding: [Your character’s] life was simple, quiet and perfect…until it wasn’t. I’m being dramatic, but perfection as a default is firstly boring, and secondly I want to … Continue reading →
October 19, 2015
Crafting a Novel’s Pitch: 7 Tips + GIVEAWAY – Guest Post by Chuck Sambuchino
[September 2015 saw the release of three of Chuck’s new books, the 2016 Guide to Literary Agents, the 2016 Children’s Writer’s & Illustrator’s Market, and his anti-clown humor book When Clowns Attack: A Survival Guide. Chuck will pick a commenter of … Continue reading →
October 12, 2015
Manuscript Wishlist Update: Fall 2015
I haven’t updated everyone on my wishlist in awhile. There have been some recent changes. I am no longer signing up or working on children’s book projects (picture books to YA); I will be focusing my efforts on adult fiction … Continue reading →
October 5, 2015
“The Call” Reversed: What agents like to know about potential authors
Authors are usually busy studying up for “the call” (an agent reaching out via phone to offer representation) when they know it’s on the horizon. It’s an exciting time for authors and agents! Resources are everywhere and there are many … Continue reading →
September 28, 2015
Workshop: Literary and Upmarket Commercial Fiction
Backspace is hosting great workshops this fall! Check out my multi-agent workshop on literary and upmarket commercial fiction October 19 to 23. This week-long conference session includes: A query letter workshop with 6-10 students and 2 literary agents An opening 2 pages … Continue reading →
