Writer's Tools

In many of the workshops I present, I talk about "writer's tools" and "writer's toolbox". I feel that with each bit of knowledge we build a repertoire of contacts, skills, and tips. This post will be filled with some information that writers can use and keep in their toolbox.

Romance Writers of America - The queen of all RWA writing chapters and a great resource for all writers no matter your expertise.

2008 Writer's Market - a resource that is valuable past it's year because address and phone numbers rarely change. If an editor leaves a house, it is still fine to call and see who takes their place. -- However, for a resource that is updated frequently, here's the url Literary Market Place

Association of Authors' Representatives - Looking for an agent? Go here to check them out and see if they belong.

Guide to Grammar and Style - Need grammar help--this is the site to use!

Trying to up your writing output? - This page tracker located on the home page of my website and created by Kresley Cole is a wonderful tool to use and push yourself for maximum output (directions are on tab #1).

Favorite blogs I visit often:
BookEnds Literary Agency
L.Perkins Agency - Jenny Rappaport
Knight Agency


If you have any other resources, please add them in a comment.

That's it according to Maddy ~

Tootles,
Madelyn

Contest Winner

Congratulations to Joy I. of Mesa, AZ. She has won a signed copy of Mended Promises and a sweet treat! Please check my website for future contest information.

Tootles,
Madelyn

Jane Austen

Jane Austen, the name alone brings to mind empire-waist dresses, Colin Firth, and prose that evokes a time gone by. I work in education and Masterpiece Theater is currently airing all of Jane Austen's film adaptations. They are wonderful, engaging, and timeless. And, a draw for English teachers.

Why? I'm post more on this later, for I'm truly become an Austenite and would love to research more on Jane, her writing, and inspiration. I'll recommend the Jane Austen Society of the United Kingdom for now because let's face it, it's Jane's playing field.

But I wonder, how after all of these years, Jane has endured? Her novels aren't easy for the contemporary reader to consume. They aren't laden with sex and seduction (at least openly, sometimes it takes just a look to stir the fires).

Why do you think Jane has endured? And why do you love/hate anything Jane Austen?

I find that I truly love history and historical characters. I love timeless love that is romantic and suspenseful. I love that an author, without the help of a typewriter or computer wrote 6 novels in 7 years--got published in a decidedly difficult time for female writers, and is still a best seller.

~That's it according to Maddy

Tootles,
Madelyn