O = Originality. I suppose if there is a Holy Grail in writing, originality is it. What is really meant is that the publishers want your unique voice. They want to be able to fit your book into a slot where they know they can sell it but the story has to be told in such a way only you could do it. If your theme isn't original (and it is nigh on impossible to find one that hasn't been used before!), then the way in which you tell the story should be. What is unique about you that can come through via your characters and plot?
P = Publication. Including self-publication here. One good development over recent years has been the realisation authors have to work in co-operation with their publishers so there is more of a team effort. Authors get to speak to their readers more since we have to engage with others. And there has been a massive impact with online publishing, which is a great way of building up your writing CV.
Q = Queries. Ensure everything about your story makes sense. You want to leave your reader with the sense they've had a good read. What you don't want is for your tale to throw up so many queries, it distracts from reading. Make sure that all that needs to be resolved are resolved.
P = Publication. Including self-publication here. One good development over recent years has been the realisation authors have to work in co-operation with their publishers so there is more of a team effort. Authors get to speak to their readers more since we have to engage with others. And there has been a massive impact with online publishing, which is a great way of building up your writing CV.
Q = Queries. Ensure everything about your story makes sense. You want to leave your reader with the sense they've had a good read. What you don't want is for your tale to throw up so many queries, it distracts from reading. Make sure that all that needs to be resolved are resolved.
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