Adding Fanfiction to Your Writing Tool Belt

Image by Lexi on We Heart It

Pick a fandom, any fandom, and there’s probably a community of fanfic writers and readers camped out there and having fun.  For those that haven’t heard the term before, fanfic is short for fan fiction and refers to written stories of any length inspired by books, movies, video games, television programs, music and/or celebrities. That’s a broad spectrum of fiction and the internet is riddled with it.

But why would an author writing original fiction want to consider reading and writing fanfiction as well?  Fanfic is actually a useful tool you can add to your arsenal. There are two broad areas where fanfic is useful: first as a creative catalyst and second as a research tool.

Fanfic And Creativity

Almost every writer has had moments when you hit a wall on your work-in-progress. Call it writer’s block, call it brain fog, call it a momentary blip in your creative genius. Either way – the words aren’t flowing the way you’d like them too. Fanfiction can be a great way to take a break, but still flex those writing muscles.

Pick a fandom you love, or even better, one your target readers also love, and write a flash fiction piece. Write a short story. Have fun! Indulge every ship, every pairing, every dramatic or romantic or ridiculous thought and potentiality that you like. Write until you’re smiling so big your cheeks hurt. Then take a step back and read over your work. What about it makes you happy? Yes there are characters and worlds that you love in there, but beyond that – what themes do you see? What situations? Would any of those work in your original writing?

You can use fanfic as just a break, a chance to blow off creative steam. Or you can use it to find what sparks might reignite your passion for your own work-in-progress. Either way, if you’re having fun, it’s worth every moment. Just make sure you do get back to that work-in-progress before too long!

Fanfic As Research

As of this article, An Archive of Our Own (one of the largest and most active fanfiction communities online) has close to 25,000 fandoms represented, over 115,000 users and over 300,000 works posted. More are added every day. That’s a lot of information in one place and if you know who your target readers are and the fandoms that appeal to them, it’s a great way to get a peek inside what they’re passionate about!

Head over, pick any fandom you like, and sort the results by the most popular. Look for common themes. Go read the comments on a few of the most popular pieces – what are the readers saying? What are they most fired up about? What storylines seem to get the most interest? Why? What do you think makes those stories stand out (beyond good writing)? Read a few fanfic pieces and see if they spark any ideas for your own work.

Whether you use fanfic as a way to shake off the writing-blahs or as a jumping off point for your next big idea – it’s definitely worth having a look!

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Adding Fanfiction to Your Writing Tool Belt

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE CHEESE WHEEL

Today is sparkly and shiny and awesome! Why? Because I finally get to share the cover of my debut novel, CHEESUS WAS HERE, with you! And, if you head on over to YA Books Central, you can enter for a chance to win a signed ARC and some gouda cheese wedge jewelry I made especially for the cover reveal. I’ve been dying to share the cover since I first saw initial comps and through every step of the process. The design team at Sky Pony Press worked so hard and they’ve done an amazing job. I couldn’t be more in love with this fabulous cover. Without further ado, here it is:

Isn’t it perfect? I can’t help smiling every time I see it. It’s a bit cheeky, much like the book and very much like me. In just a few short months CHEESUS will be out in the world! Eeeee!

So what’s this book with the ridiculous title all about? I’m so glad you asked! Here’s the official description:

Sixteen-year-old Delaney Delgado knows miracles aren’t real—if they were, her kid sister wouldn’t be dead. So when the image of baby Jesus appears on a Babybel cheese wheel, she’s not buying the idea that God’s got a dairy obsession. Soon, religious signs begin turning up all over Del’s hometown, tiny Clemency, Texas. Overnight, news vans fill the streets and religious pilgrims start searching for God in the discount aisle of the grocery store.

Hell-bent on proving the so-called miracles are fake, Del convinces her best friend, Gabe, to help her find the truth. While Gabe’s willing to play detective, as a preacher’s son he’s more interested in finding evidence that supports the miracles. But when the whole town becomes caught up in religious fervor and even the late night talk show hosts have stopped laughing and started to believe, finding the truth might cause more trouble than Del can handle. This novel is neither pro nor anti-religion, and will appeal to fans of contemporary YA novels that explore deep themes with an element of humor. The voice and characters are funny, strong, and full of heart. This is a book for anyone who loved Saved!

Did you know pre-orders are critically important to authors and publishers? They help a publisher gauge how much interest a book has and can affect initial print runs and other super important stuff. If you’d like to pre-order CHEESUS WAS HERE, please visit one of the pre-order links below.

Pre-order from:
Amazon | Powells | Books A Million | Barnes & Noble | Indie Bound

Don’t forget to head on over to YA Books Central to enter the CWH Giveaway!

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE CHEESE WHEEL

Twice The Mentors = Twice The Awesome

I'm back mentoring Middle Grade for Pitch Wars and I couldn't be more excited! But this year, I've got a special surprise for y'all. I somehow convinced my friend and CP, Addie Thorley, to co-mentor with me! That means you get two mentors with one entry.

Now I happen to know that Addie is made of pure amazingness and dear lord that woman can write! Seriously, she's ridiculously talented. But more important for you guys, Addie is a fantastic critique partner. She's great at catching issues and molding stories into something wonderful.

"But wait, slow down", you say. "Tell me a bit more about this Pitch Wars thing." Pitch Wars is a writing contest that matches unagented writers up with published and/or agented mentors to help polish up a novel for submission. There's an agent round at the end of the contest where agents can request subs from the Pitch Wars entries. You can find all the details here. Basically, Pitch Wars is sunshine, rainbows and puppy kisses all rolled into one.

So WHY should you choose me and Addie as your mentors? I'm so glad you asked.

1. I write YA, MG and picture books and I'm represented by the amazing Mandy Hubbard of the Emerald City Literary Agency. My debut novel, a YA contemporary called CHEESUS WAS HERE, will be released spring 2017 by Sky Pony Press. Addie is represented by the utterly fabulous Kathleen Rushall of the Andrea Brown Literary Agency.

2. Addie and I have both spent a long time in the query trenches before landing our dream agents. We have a great eye for queries, know the pitfalls to avoid and how to catch an agent's attention.

3. This is my 2nd year mentoring and I was a Pitch Wars entrant in 2015, though didn't end up being picked. Addie, on the other hand, was picked as a mentee in 2014. She racked up 12 requests in the agent round and had her first offer of rep five days later! Those are some serious chops. Point is, we know the stress, excitement and sheer insanity you're going through.

4. Addie & I kick-ass at critiques. Seriously, we've got references. I'm a details kind of girl and I will leave your manuscript bleeding red - no plot hole or awkward phrase shall be missed. Addie is amazing at big picture, plot structure, pacing and asking the right questions to get your story in shape. Together we are a dynamic duo of critique-slinging awesomeness.

5. Addie owns a wolf. Okay, he's part wolf, but seriously he looks like he needs his own Animal Planet show. I own two hedgehogs. Neither of these two things has anything to do with writing. But it shows we have great taste in pets, so clearly we must have great taste in other things.

6. If you pick us as your mentors, the three of us will work together to make your novel sparkly and awesome. Your query will send all other queries running away in tears because they're consumed with envy.

7. We made a video just for you! No seriously, we sang and everything. We're putting it all out there in our efforts to woo you to our side.

What we're looking for:

To see our wish list, favorite books, and pick up your mystery letter for Brenda's quote challenge, you'll need to head over to Addie's blog. Just think of the cool things she could be hiding over there. There might even be outtakes from our PitchWars Commandments video... but I refuse to either confirm or deny that fact.

Make sure to check out all the awesome Middle Grade mentors helping out with Pitch Wars this year:

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Twice The Mentors = Twice The Awesome

Balance

One of the things I struggle most with is finding balance between my writing life and my non-writing life. I have two kids, a full time job and run a large meetup group. Finding writing time can be tough and having the energy to write when I do find the time is always a challenge.



I admire those writers who wake up at 5am and knock out a ton of words before heading off to work or taking care of their families. I love sleep and hate mornings far too much for that! But the concept is what's important more than actual time of day. If you want to be a writer, you write. It's that simple. Routine helps a lot.

For me that means writing on the train during my morning commute. I'm assured a 40 minute writing block every morning I'm on the train. If I'm lucky I can find a seat on the train home and grab another 40 minutes.

By writing in the same place and at the same time, I'm letting my brain know the moment I sit down that it's writing time.

Sounds fab, doesn't it? Of course sometimes I'm so exhausted in the mornings that I can't string two words together. Sometimes I need to spend that commute time critiquing a MS for a friend, or reading an ARC I only have seven days to finish and send on to the next person in the ARC tour.

But if I want to be a writer, if I want to tattoo that label on my forehead in invisible ink and wear it on my heart, then I have to find more balance and guard my writing time. I have to write even when the words suck. Even when I'm lost. Even when I'm hung over with a sleep coma.

I'm still trying to find that perfect mix which lets me churn out amazing words. Until then, like Dory, I'll just keep swimming, just keep swimming, just keep swimming. Or writing in this case.

It can start small. One sentence. My new goal is to write at least one sentence per day. Even on the weekends. Time to go work on that sentence! And maybe try some yoga while I do. Balance!

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Balance

CHEESUS IS COMING!

I am insanely excited to announce that my debut novel, CHEESUS WAS HERE, will be published spring 2017 by Sky Pony Press.

But wait, what is this ridiculously titled book about? I'm glad you asked. Sixteen-year-old Delaney Delgado hasn't believed in miracles since her kid sister died. When crazy religious signs begin turning up, bringing a barrage of news vans and people searching for God in the discount aisle of the grocery store, Del is determined prove the so-called miracles are fake. Shenanigans ensue.

Thanks to my amazing agent, Mandy Hubbard, and fab editor, Adrienne Szpyrka, next year I get to live the dream: strolling into a bookstore, finding my book on the shelf and making high-pitched noises loud enough to frighten small dogs living in Canada. My dreams are simple and specific. Apologies to the small dogs living in Canada. But not really.

Stay tuned to my website, and especially the news and events page, for updates, give-aways and enough animated gifs to blow up the internet.

Don't mind me, I'll be over here acting completely calm and professional.

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CHEESUS IS COMING!

Hidden Stories

Research for my next book has me reading a lot about the early days of train travel in the United States. Of all the resource books I pour over, the ones I love the most are the personal accounts of people who worked on the railroad and stories shared by their families. It's these remembered moments that bring the rails to life, that give a face to such an iconic era and industry.

All those memoirs make me nostalgic for my own past and the stories passed down in my family. My grandfather worked on the railroad most of his life as a safety inspector. A taciturn, quiet man, he seldom spoke about his work. My mother and aunts can tell me very little about what he did day to day, or even how he first became involved with the railroad. Those are stories that are lost, hidden words I'll never know. My grandfather died close to twenty years ago and I've yet to find a time machine. His story will stay hidden, unfortunately.

But there are other stories, about my mother growing up in the fifties, about the time my aunts caught wild tortoises in the desert and brought them home, that aren't lost. It's my job now to write down those stories so I can share them with my own kids one day.

As authors, we write many things. Sometimes, the most important, aren't the ones that will be published and shelved in a library, but rather the personal stories of our families and friends. Simple things that capture a life, a time, a moment in history that will never be again. It's important to remember those stories as well and take time to listen to record them just as faithfully as we do the fantasy worlds living in our brains.

Of course, some of those personal stories would make fabulous fiction novels as well.... If you follow the stories and listen very carefully, sometimes they'll whisper a new tale right back.

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Hidden Stories

The Myth of the Killer First Line

Photo by Nawal Al-Mashouq

How many times have you been told you need to have a killer first line? As a writer, that directive can be crippling. What does that even mean, a killer first line? Are readers expecting blood and guts on my first page? If I'm writing a Dexter novel, maybe. But the truth is that particular bit of advice has been repeated so often, I think it's lost a bit of its meaning. The result is droves of aspiring authors beginning with gimmicky first lines or unnecessary action. You don't need to create the most amazing first line written in the history of literature (although bonus points if you can and please send it to me). All you really need is a first line that intrigues the reader enough to want to keep reading.

First lines are important, that much is true. There are a number of things a first line can do:

• establish voice
• introduce character
• introduce setting
• pose a question

Those four items aren't exclusive, many first lines accomplish some combination of the four.

Establishing Voice
Voice is a buzz word you're probably tired of hearing about. It's this elusive creature that's hard to pin down. Basically there are two types of voice, author voice and character voice. Author voice is the way you, as an author, put words together to convey a story. Give ten people the same plot outline and every single one of them will write it in a different way. Author voice is unique to you. Character voice, on the other hand, is separate from author voice. In first person novels those lines get a bit muddled but bear with me. Character voice is the way your character talks, their world view and the filter through which they perceive events. Those three things should be different for each of your characters.

Introducing Character
This one is fairly self-explanatory. A first line can introduce the view point character, main character or some other character who is important to the plot. This normally means more than just giving us a name, but occasionally a name is all you get and sometimes that's enough.

Introducing Setting
Again this should be self-explanatory. First lines can help ground the reader in a particular location and setting. It's painting your background canvas before you add the main elements. This normally works well if your setting is either important to the story or plot in some integral way or if it's quite unusual.

Posing A Question
This doesn't mean literally asking a question, although it can be done that way. Instead, what I mean is using your first line to make the reader want to know more. Make them curious. If you can get your reader asking questions, they'll keep reading to find out more.

Below are examples of first lines from some of my favorite books. Let's take a closer look and deconstruct them.

"The early summer sky was the color of cat vomit." - Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Westerfeld is setting the scene, but he's also giving us character voice. We know it's summer, we know it's sunset. But look at the word choice: cat vomit. Would you describe the sky that way? I know I wouldn't. So already we know this character sees the world a bit differently than most people and she is probably not happy at the moment. Happy people don't compare sunsets to cat vomit. Read further and you'll be introduced to Tally Youngblood, a protagonist impatient and unhappy as she waits for her sixteenth birthday and the operation that will turn her pretty, like her best friend Peris.

"I would very much like to know why my mother named me 'Enola,' which, backwards, spells alone." - The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer

Springer begins her novel by introducing character and a question. Why DID her mother name her Enola? What does being named Enola mean to this character? Does she feel alone? The use of 'I' let's us know right away that this is going to be a first person novel and if you look at the word choice you can see that this character is oddly formal: "I would very much like to know" as opposed to "I'd like to know" or "Why'd mama name me Enola?" See how those slight differences give us voice? it's a different character who'd say 'mama' versus mother. If you read the Enola Holmes books you'll discover that Enola is Sherlock Holmes little sister and thus the books are set in the Victorian era so Enola's formality makes perfect sense.

"I don't trust Clive Fagenbush." Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos by R. L. LaFevers

LaFevers begins with a question. WHY doesn't the character trust Clive Fagenbush? And that certainly sounds like a shifty name to me. I'm intrigued and want to know more. Read further and you'll discover that the main character, Theodosia, is plagued by Fagenbush, an assistant curator at the museum she suspects is up to something underhanded.

"In the land of Ingary, where such things as seven-league boots and cloaks of invisibility really exist, it is quite a misfortune to be born the eldest of three." - Howls Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

Jones begins with setting, which, in the case of a story set in a magical land, is both important and unusual. We also get a very strong dose of authorial voice. You can tell right away that Jones has a bit of whimsy in her soul and she's going to share it with you.

"A long time ago, in a market town by a looping river, there lived an orphan girl called Plain Kate." - Plain Kate by Erin Bow.

Bow begins with both setting, character and authorial voice. You can tell right away with the words "A long time ago," that we're settling in for something of the fairy tale variety and Bow quickly delivers on that promise in the following paragraphs. There's a lyrical beauty in the cadence of her words and that hint of authorial voice is also paid off throughout the story.

"Of the first few hauntings I investigated with Lockwood & Co. I intend to say little, in part to protect the identity of the victims, in part because of the gruesome nature of the incidents, but mainly because, in a variety of ingenious ways, we succeeded in messing them all up." - The Screaming Staircase by Jonathan Stroud

Stroud hits us with character voice, character and a question all at once in his opening line. I immediately want to know more about Lockwood & Co. and how exactly they messed up the hauntings. We're also given a hint of setting because clearly we're in a world where hauntings are common or at least more commonplace than the present day and, based on the formality of the speaker, we can tell this probably isn't a tale set in modern times. Character is established with the word 'I' and the information that this person is an investigator. Voice is established with the formality of the character's words and the little bit of cheekiness in how she's basically saying, hey there were some really interesting cases and I'm not going to tell you about them.

"Today I moved to a twelve-acre rock covered with cement, topped with bird turd and surrounded by water." - Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko

Choldenko leads with character voice and setting. The words "twelve-acre rock" and "bird turd" are fairly distinctive. The word "turd" tells us this is probably a young character and his word choices let us know he's not happy about the move. In the case of this book, setting is very important so it's fitting that Choldenko begins with that. The main character is stuck on Alcatraz because his dad works at the prison.

As you can see from the examples above, there are a lot of ways to begin your story. Notice that none of them started with a bang, a ton of action or lots of drama. Each of those first lines, however, works perfectly for its given story to entice the reader to delve deeper into the book and keep reading. Each accomplishes a particular goal and each of those goals relates back to the type of story being told and what's most important to that particular novel.

What is your first line accomplishing? Try playing around with different first lines and find the one that works best for you and your novel. Remember, it doesn't have to be action packed to be perfect.

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The Myth of the Killer First Line

The Ears Have It! K.T. Hanna Talks Sensory Details & Her New Novel

"Wow! A fast-paced, science fiction delight with fabulous action, a seamless world, and the most unique characters I've read in a long time." Elana Johnson, Author of the Possession Series.

 

What I learned writing Chameleon:

Sensory descriptions and fleshing out the world.

I think one of the great things I learned was overcoming my writing weaknesses. Now, I’m not saying I don’t have them anymore, because we all know that would be a lie. But – I do know what my weaknesses are.

One of the main ones is sensory description. I love science-fiction. And whether it’s contemporary based, futuristic, or off world – there is always a world to build. The thing is, there’s more than just sight. There’s all the other senses – feel, taste, touch, and smell.

Unless you round it out, your reader won’t experience it like a movie in their head. I’m very fortunate to have a CP who points out specific areas of weakness in my worldbuilding. Sometimes, even when I think I’ve done it well, I go back and realize it needs more oomph.

Utilizing all the senses in building your world really fleshes it out. I wish it was something I could do off the bat, but it takes me several edits to get it to where I’m happy. And even now, I’m sure when I read Chameleon again, I’ll find places to add more. Always the way, right?

 

The Blurb:

When Sai's newly awoken psionic powers accidentally destroy her apartment complex, she’s thrown into an intensive training program. Her only options are pass or die. 

Surviving means proving her continued existence isn't a mistake--a task her new mentor, Bastian, takes personally. Her abilities place her in the GNW Enforcer division, and partners her with Domino 12, who is eerily human for an alien-parasite psionic hybrid. 

After eliminating an Exiled scientist, she discovers nothing is what it seems. With each mission more perilous, Sai must figure out who to trust before her next assignment becomes her last.

Available at:

Amazon | Kobo | iBooks | IndieBound

If you'd like a signed physical copy, Watermark Books has them in stock.

CELEBRATION!

We're having a blog hop, and an e-card & mega swag Rafflecopter giveaway!

The blog hop stops are noted below. Each day has a different theme and you can find out about the process, the idea, and the evolution of Chameleon, and even a bit about K.T. by visiting each blog, when their posts go live.

4-Aug	5-Aug	6-Aug	7-Aug	10-Aug
Fun facts about the book	What I learned writing Chameleon	Author Interviews	The world of Chameleon	The Evolution of Chameleon
Manuel Soto	Marlo Berliner	Leatrice McKinney	Rebecca Enzor	Patricia Lynne
J Elizabeth Hill	Stacey Trombley	Dawn Allen	Sharon Johnston	Bex Montgomery
E.L. Wicker	JC Davis	Suzanne van Rooyen	Mandy Baxter	Madelyn Dyer
Jessie Mullins	Andrew Patterson	Heather Rebel	Jessica Therrien	Carissa Taylor
Emma Adams	Lady Jai	Elyana Noreme	Kendra Young

I’m giving away e-cards of your choice from B&N, iTunes, & Amazon – one to the value of $25, and three to the value of $10! Each prize includes a swag pack of a magnet, sticker, bookmark, postcard, and mousepad!

Just follow the options listed on the giveaway and you'll be entered!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author

KT Hanna has a love for words so extreme, a single word can spark entire worlds.

Born in Australia, she met her husband in a computer game, moved to the U.S.A. and went into culture shock. Bonus? Not as many creatures specifically out to kill you.

When she's not writing, she freelance edits for Chimera Editing, interns for a NYC Agency, and chases her daughter, husband, corgis, and cat. No, she doesn't sleep. She is entirely powered by the number 2, caffeine, and beef jerky.

Note: Still searching for her Tardis

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The Ears Have It! K.T. Hanna Talks Sensory Details & Her New Novel

Ten Tips for Making the Most of a Writing Conference

Today the Romantic Times 2015 conference officially kicks off. Thousands of writers, industry hopefuls and book fans will be coming together to celebrate reading and meet and learn new things. Not going to RT? No worries, there are a ton of writing conferences offered each year. See my previous blog post on why you should attend one and how to find one that is right for you. But let's say you've made the leap, your found the writing conference of your dreams, you've bought your registration and you're ready to go. What now? Below are a few tips to help you make the most of your conference experience.

1. Bring business cards with your name (or pen name), website, Twitter & Facebook URLs
You probably don't need a ton, but having a few on hand is always a good idea. Moo.com has some utterly adorable mini cards that are perfect for this purpose. You're going to meet a lot of other writers and exchanging cards can help you keep in touch after the conference is over. You're probably not going to be passing these out to agents and editors, but keep your design professional just in case.

2. Print out a schedule ahead of time or download the conference app if one is available
There can be a LOT going on at a conference. Planning your day ahead of time makes sure you don't miss out on programming you're really interested in. In addition, if the conference has an app, download it. This will let you know when programming rooms are moved, special announcements, etc. The app may offer a map or let you create your schedule on your phone - all great features you're sure to use.

3. Make time to chill out
Don't over schedule. Yes you want to take it all in but you don't want to be a mental zombie halfway through the conference. Plan a bit of downtime if you can and grab a snack or a tasty beverage with new writing friends.

4. Take Advantage of Pre-Conference Workshops & Agent/Editor Pitch Sessions
If your conference offers agent and/or editor pitch sessions and you have a finished manuscript, consider signing up for one. This is a good opportunity to meet with an agent face-to-face and make a good impression. Your writing conference may offer workshops prior to the conference start or during - normally you have to sign up separately for these and there may be an additional cost. If one of the workshops looks appealing make sure you sign up early enough to get a spot. This last tip is more iffy, but it's worth considering, print out a copy of your query and first three pages, that way you'll have it on hand in case an agent or editor asks (and ONLY if they ask). If you attend some query workshops, you'll also have your query on hand to mark up or share if that opportunity is presented.

5. Meet up with writing friends
Do you have friends or acquaintances also attending this conference? If so, get together for a coffee or cocktail and enjoy some time with a friendly face. Networking and meeting other writers is one of the best parts of a writing conference. That and geeking out over books.

6. Bring a small notebook & pen
You may or may not want to take notes during some of the programming you attend, but it's better to be prepared than not. Some conferences provide small notepads and pens, but don't count on it unless you are 100% sure they'll be available. I am a note-taker. I always think I'll remember the fabulous tips I'm picking up but inevitably some of it gets lost as I cram new tips and tricks into my head during successive panels. Notes make sure I remember all the little tidbits I really want.

7. Bring a small tote bag for books & promo materials you pick up
Some conferences give attendees a tote bag when they check in. Others don't. Tote bags are awesome. Bring one. Fill it with new books you'll pick up and cool promo materials like bookmarks and such. Or just use it to schlep around that bag of chips you didn't finish at lunch. Either way, you'll probably find a use for your fancy, schmancy tote bag. Bonus points if it's nerdy or book-related!

8. Bring books to get signed (if that's offered) or some extra cash to pick up new books
Many conferences have author signings. Assuming you like the authors attending, bring a copy of their books or buy some on site, get autographs, meet other authors and fangirl. They'll appreciate it :D Don't pester authors for a signature at panels, however. Unless you're friends with them and they've said it's okay.

9. Bring a spare charger for your phone, just in case
Inevitably, at some point during the conference, you are going to reach for your phone to enter a new friend's contact info, check the conference app or just have a quick look at email, and then you'll see it. The red bars of terror - you're battery is low and now you get to choose between going phone less (the horror!) or being chained to a wall with your phone charger if you have one handy. But wait! You are smart and planned ahead, you whip out your handy dandy little power brick, plug it into your phone and suddenly you've got enough juice to make it through the rest of the day. Yay! You win at life. Seriously, these things aren't expensive and they're super useful.

10. Have fun
It's easy to get caught up in nerves fretting about that editor or agent you want to pitch or trying to cram in just one more panel or worrying that you're too much of an introvert and everyone thinks you're acting stuck up and ignoring them. Pause. Take a deep breath. Look around, you see all those people around you? Most of them are in the same place you are writing/career wise. Or they have been or will be soon. THESE are your people. Chill out, mingle, talk books, talk writing, but whatever you do, relax and have fun. This is the most important tip. Yeah you may have paid a lot of money to be here, but if you're not enjoying the conference because you're too wound up - was it really worth it?

One last bonus tip - if you have a tiny laptop, consider bringing it. I use mine to take notes and, if I have downtime between panels and hanging out with friends, I can work on my current WIP. My laptop is a Macbook Air and weighs next to nothing; if it was a huge beast of a thing I'd be leaving it at home. You don't really need your laptop, and it is one more thing to haul around and keep track of, but if you think you might want to use it, it's handy to have right there.

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Ten Tips for Making the Most of a Writing Conference

Would you, Should you, Could you - Are Writing Conferences Right For You?

There are a wide range of writing conferences every year. Some are super specialized, such as World Fantasy, and some are very broad such as the Writers Digest annual conference. There are merits for each but there are also some broad things most conferences will have in common. Writing conferences can be quite pricey, so the question is, are they worth the time and cost? That's a question each writer needs to figure out for themselves, but here are a handful of reasons I think conferences are worth the time and monetary investment:

1. Networking
Writing can be a solitary, lonely endeavor. But there are thousands and thousands of aspiring and established writers out there. Conferences give you chance to meet some of them in person. You can find new critique partners, friends, chat buddies or social media acquaintances at conferences. These are your peers and though your writing journey will inevitably twist and turn in its own unique way, I guarantee you can find some people who are on the same general leg of the journey as you are. These people can offer support, advice, insights into how they handle the ups and downs of writing. Yes writers are often introverts, but if you give other writers a chance, you'll find a fantastic group of people just waiting for you.

2. Workshops & programming
Most writing conferences offer a variety of programming and workshop options. From small critique groups that meet at the beginning to a conference to huge auditoriums filled with audience members hanging on the every word of a famous published author, there's a lot to enjoy. In the past I've sat in on panels about how to polish your query, writing effective log lines, what makes a good first page, an in-depth look at creating compelling character arcs. All of them had valuable information that I was glad to take in. Even the best author can learn a little something new and we should always be working on improving our craft.

3. Getting a handle on the industry and recent releases
Most conferences will have a bookstore or book booth where you can peruse offerings from guest speakers and other recent releases. Sometimes an editor will talk about industry trends and such. Conferences can help you see which books are popular at present, which may be over-done and perhaps help anticipate the next big thing. Should you be writing just toward trends? Probably not, but knowing those trends is always a good idea.

4. Geeking out over published authors
I hope that you're not only a writer but a big reader as well. If so, there must be some authors your really love. Assuming you're not a pure classicist, in which case, my apologies, you'll need a spirit medium to commune with your favorite authors, writing conferences can give you a chance to see authors you like in person. I love getting books signed and letting other authors know how much I've enjoyed their books. I also love hearing other authors talk about their process and their personal publishing journey. It's fascinating stuff. I freely admit that I tend to fangirl authors rather than anyone conventional like movie actors so the special guests at a conference are always a special treat.

5. Meeting agents & editors in person
If you are still looking for an agent, or would like to submit your manuscript directly to editors that accept slush submissions, conferences are a great resource. You get the chance to meet agents and editors in person, hear them present at various panels and may even have the opportunity to sign up for a pitch session. Some conferences, such as DFWCon, offer a free pitch session with your full registration, others may charge an additional fee for pitch sessions. If you have a completed manuscript that's ready for the query trenches, and there are agents or editors you are interested in at the conference, this is a great opportunity to meet face-to-face and make a good impression.

Cost can be a barrier for a lot of potential conference attendees as some conferences cost several hundred dollars for a basic registration. If you're not ready or able to shell out that kind of money, you have a couple options. Most conferences offer day passes which are much more affordable. You can pick a day that has programming you're interested in and just pay for that single day pass. Regional and organization associated conferences, like the many SCBWI conferences offered every year, can be quite affordable and are a great place to dip your toe into the writing conference waters. If you write YA or MG the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators is a fantastic group. You don't need to be a member to attend one of their conferences, though the registration cost is lower if you are a member. Also, check your local library for writing workshops that may be offered. These are normally free or have a modest fee and are a great way to meet other local authors while improving your craft.

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Would you, Should you, Could you - Are Writing Conferences Right For You?

Read To Learn

The best writers are also enthusiastic readers. It’s an old adage, but a true one. It’s important to remember, however, that while you read for pleasure, you should also read to learn.

There are so MANY things you can learn that will improve your writing each time you read a book. Pay attention to pace, conflict, character development, dialogue. All the little nuances that bring a story to life. Even if you’re not enjoying a book - that can be just as helpful. What is the author doing that’s turned you off? How would you improve the narrative?

As you read, ask yourself questions: how different would this book be if it was in a different point-of-view? What if the point-of-view character was different? What do you love about the book? Write down phrases and descriptions that sing to you. What is it about them that makes you sit up and pay attention?

If possible, keep a reading log and jot down notes about the books you read. What worked, what didn’t? Make a shelf of your favorite books and when you’re stuck in your own writing, take one of those books down and see how that author approached the same problem. Struggling with your opening? Study the openings of several books you love and see if it sparks any ideas.

You don’t have to analyze every book you read, but if something occurs to you mid-story, jot it down. I often read a book two or three times. The first time is for pure pleasure, falling into the words and reveling in them. The second time is with an eye to structure, pace, and all the little tools we use as writers. I want to know how authors I admire bring a story to life so that eventually I can make my own writing just as strong.

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Read To Learn

How I Got My Agent

Last summer I finished my second novel, Cheesus Was Here, about a girl determined to prove miracles aren't real when her small Texas town is overrun by ridiculous religious signs. I sent it to a friend and waited expectantly. I just knew my friend was going to love it and tell me how awesome I am and how fabulous my book is because, unlike my last disaster of a novel, this book was THE ONE.

She ripped the story to shreds. I cried. Then I picked myself up and began revising because she was right, the novel was a first draft and had sooooooooooo many flaws it's embarrassing. It's HARD telling a friend their story is a mess. I've been there. Thank God, my friend had the courage to tell me the truth.

I revised feverishly, impatient to get my book out the door and into the hands of agents. I finished a draft, had several CPs and Betas look it over and promptly sent a handful of queries out. I also entered a contest called Pitch Wars.

I knew in my heart, even if I wouldn't admit it out loud, that my book wasn't quite ready for agents. I was positive I'd get into Pitch Wars and a mentor would help me polish my poor little MS into literary gold. I carefully stalked and selected my mentor choices. But on reveal day, I didn't make the cut. There was some more crying. It's a theme.

Despite not getting picked, Pitch Wars was amazing. I made good friends, somehow talked one of the mentors I'd pitched into becoming my CP and had a lot of fun. I regret nothing. I also decided contests were fun so what the heck, might as well try a few more. I entered a Twitter pitch contest called PitMad and got several requests. After that I was hooked so I entered Pitch Slam, made the finalists list and picked up two more requests. Never one to quit I entered two separate Secret Agent contests, won both and got two  more full requests

Meanwhile, I flung queries out into the world, got some personalized rejections and *gasp* full and partial requests. I got quite a lot of full and partial requests. THIS WAS IT! One of these agents was going to fall in love with my novel and sign me right away! (Do you sense a trend?)

The rejections began rolling in. I could handle query rejections, but full and partial rejections were harder to shrug off. Especially when the agents were all saying the same thing. I began to despair. No one was going to love my novel and I'd blown my chance by querying too soon.

In early November, one of the agents who'd requested a full through PitMad sent me a Revise & Resub request. I leaped on it. This was my chance to revise the novel and address all those issues I'd missed the first time. Plus, bonus, she had some great recommendations on how to fix the novel. YAY! I promptly sent every single agent who had my full or partial an email saying I was revising the MS at an agent's request and would they like to see the new version when it was ready. All but one said yes. I now had 16 agents waiting on my novel. Ohhhhhh the heady excitement of it all.

I revised. Rewrote. Sent to beta readers. Incorporated feedback. Was lucky enough to find a few new beta readers and CPs and fixed more things. I revised that manuscript so many times there was red ink dripping from my laptop. I murdered a lot of darlings.

Finally, the manuscript was done. Now the agents would love it. Now I would get all the offers and my shiny new agent and I would dance off into the sunset together. In early February, I sent my revised manuscript to the 16 agents waiting for it and queried a few more.

The very next day I received my first rejection on the revised manuscript. DESPAIR! No one was going to love my novel. No one. Okay, my CPs loved it. And every rejection had really nice things to say. Sometimes bafflingly nice. But maybe my novel wasn't good enough after all.

The rejections trickled in. Four weeks later I was getting almost used to them, but still cringed every time I opened an email from an agent. When another email hit my inbox I prepared for the inevitable "love your writing but this just isn't for me" note. Instead, Agent A wanted to set up a call for the following Monday. OMG! This was IT! THE CALL! I tried to remain calm. It could be another R&R. But I just knew this was it.

On Monday, I called at the appointed time. Agent A had written down our appointment for the wrong day. Doh! We rescheduled for later that afternoon. That sounds horrible but it was kind of nice because by the time our second call time rolled around, I no longer felt like throwing up. It's the little things in life that get you through.

Agent A began by saying how much he enjoyed my MS and a few changes he'd like to see and then said the magic words: "I'd like to offer you representation." At this point 11 agents still had a full or partial. I immediately emailed them all, giving a deadline of two weeks to respond.

A few stepped aside right away. But, several more let me know they'd get back to me. A week later I got a second offer. Agent B called Sunday evening. I took the call sitting in my garage on the bare concrete so that the sound of my kids trying to murder each other wouldn't interrupt our conversation. (My kids are mortal enemies, true story.)

Agent B and I talked for an hour and it was amazing. My butt went numb thanks to the concrete and I didn't even care. We really connected. She was one of those dream agents I'd queried but never expected to actually work with.

I was so giddy after our call I danced around like an idiot, emailed my closest CPs and then stared at the calendar moodily. I knew, KNEW deep down, that I was going to sign with Agent B and waiting an entire week seemed like horrible torture.

I emailed Agent B the next day and asked her advice. She recommended letting the other agents know that we'd really hit it off and I was withdrawing my submission if they hadn't read the MS yet. If they had, I was willing to chat if they wanted. That way if an agent had already read the full MS and wanted to make an offer, I wasn't pulling the rug out from under them, but I also wasn't wasting anyone's time who hadn't read the MS yet.

All of the other agents stepped aside after that email, some really grateful that I'd been upfront about wanting to sign with Agent B. Agents are busy people and they read A LOT of requested material. Wasting their time when you've already made a decision is not terribly nice, even if you're just trying to be polite.

The next day was the most surreal of my life. For the first time I was happy every time an agent emailed to say they were stepping aside. I was HAPPY at being rejected. Every single email was one closer to letting me sign with Agent B. All of the agents were amazingly nice and wonderful, I really hated disappointing several of them and especially the agent who'd originally requested the R&R. But, as I said, I knew in my heart that Agent B was the perfect fit for me, Cheesus, and my future projects.

On Wednesday, March 25, just over six months after my first query went out, I signed with Mandy Hubbard of the D4EO agency!!!!!! I love that Mandy is a writer and an agent. Plus if you follow her Twitter feed you'll see that she's essentially made of awesome. And now I get to dance off into the sunset at last!

The Stats
Queries: 74
Full & Partial Requests: 27
Offers of Rep: 2
Agents who stepped aside: 9

Both of my offers came from slush pile submissions, though several fulls and partials were from contests.

The Oscar Speech
A few friends went above & beyond, reading the book multiple times and holding my hand through late-night angst sessions. Special thanks to Kimberly for inspiring me, distracting me & offering great advice. To Kate for being a kick-ass editor and reading the book so many times she can probably quote the entire thing by now. To Erica, for telling me that first draft had promise but needed a hell of a lot of work. To Addie, Jake, Rachel & Heidi for their amazing CP abilities. To the writers in my YANA critique group for line edits, support and all around awesomeness. To everyone who helped with my query during WriteOnCon, to every Twitter friend who cheered me along the way, to every writer who inspired me by posting their own agent stories: Thank You! And finally, thanks to my family for being excited for me, even when they're not sure why. I am blessed with amazing people in my life. 

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How I Got My Agent