Writing No-Nos

There are certain things many authors do that murders their manuscript. These things can render your manuscript worthless in the site of any legitimate agent or publisher. Some of those no-nos are:

1. Undeveloped characters and/or storylines - if you're going to write, do it well. Take time to give your characters a life of their own. Make sure your story is not too short or too long. Make sure it doesn't leave any unanswered questions, unless of course, you plan to write a sequel or full fledge series.

2. Elementary grammar mistakes - I know editing can be expensive, but NEVER send a manuscript full of grammatical and spelling errors. Spend that extra money, if necessary, or use a free group, your college, etc. Do whatever is necessary to make your manuscript the best it can be. Speaking as a publisher, not one of us wants to spend a cool grand on editing your manuscript.

3. Avoid over used cliches for first sentences. A dead first sentence will kill the editor's interest in the book.

More to come soon. In the meantime, visit my blogs:

http://thebookviews.blogspot.com
http://paradiseforwriters.blogspot.com
http://livingwaterspublishing.blogspot.com


Lacresha Hayes
Living Waters Publishing Company
www.livingwaterspc.com