Writers – Page 88 – Jean's Writing

Do you want someone to read your story?

Published on October 12, 2015October 11, 2015 by Jean M. Cogdell4 Comments

Then maybe it’s time to submit something.

Here are a few places to wet your feet with a short story, flash fiction or an article. So go on and show your stuff. Then let us know where to click and read.

Mash Stories deadline for next contest submission is 15th October 2015

Nevermore Horror contest Submissions close on October 20th

Novel Opening Chapter & Synopsis Competition over at Flash500. This is an annual competition: closes on 31st October.

A flash fiction Flash500 competition where the prize money truly reflects the skill required to encapsulate an entire story in just 500 words. Next closing is 31st of December.

Words with Jam Short Story Competition 2015 closes 31st October 2015.

Writers’ Village contest deadline is midnight GMT 30th November 2015

For various publications, be sure and check out NewPages.

I’ve been so busy with my book, I haven’t had a lot of time for contests and articles. However, I’m thinking it might be time to get back in the groove.

What about you? Do you have several works in process at one time or are you single-minded with each project?

You’ve made it this far so give me just two more seconds and hit Facebook and Twitter and share.
Thank you!
If you’re not already, I’d be much obliged if you would follow me @jeancogdell on Twitter or jean.cogdell on Facebook!

Who knew they’d be this many decisions to make

Published on October 9, 2015October 7, 2015 by Jean M. Cogdell8 Comments

Some days I’m overwhelmed with the tweaks and decisions and tweaks to the decisions needed to publish a book. Even a small children’s book.

Writing a book is hard but I’m beginning to believe the hard part is just starting once the publishing begins.

So many decisions, so many choices, and so many mistakes before a book is published. The last one I’m trying to keep to a minimum.

Editors, cover, designers, oh my.

I feel like Dorothy tiptoeing down the yellow brick road in the land of Oz.

To publish or self publish, with an agent or without? Those are the questions. (Ah the old Bard slipped in.)

If you thought the writing took forever, take a deep breath, grab a snack and settle in for the publishing and promoting.

To market, to market to sell a new book. (Getting a bit punchy.)

Getting a book “out there” is not for the faint of heart. I’m re-learning the definition of perseverance.

I’ve spent as much time reading and researching how and where to publish as I did writing the book.

Misery loves company, so I thought I’d share just a few articles in case y’all need something to read. After all, what’s a friend for?

Ask ALLi Member Q&A: Your Self-Publishing Questions answered by Joanna Penn and Orna Ross Tuesday October 27th

8 Steps to Write and Publish Your Book by Angela Shelton

The 12-Step Program to Successful Self-Publishing – the talk and slide show by Susan M. Toy thanks to CHRIS THE STORY READING APE’S BLOG

A step-by-step guide to publishing your work worldwide on Amazon by BRIAN S HALL

Getting Published: The Basics for Book Writers by Glen C. Strathy

Start Here: How to Get Your Book Published by Jane Friedman

And these are just the tip of the iceberg!

However, at some point, it’s time to bite the bullet and let it go.

I’m almost there.

What do you think? Got any good tips on publishing?

You’ve made it this far so take a few more seconds. tell me what you think, and then please share on Facebook and Twitter.
Thank you!
If you’re not already, I’d be much obliged if you would follow me @jeancogdell on Twitter or jean.cogdell on Facebook!