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Querying strategically
May 24, 2020
Remember, always, that this is a long road.
- On querying
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Book Broker – an interview with Chelsea Eberly
May 23, 2020
A first draft is just for you. Don’t put any pressure on it beyond existing. Second, third, fourth, etc. drafts are for you and your critique partners.
- Agent interviews
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The First Page Challenge – a writing contest for novelists (now open to submissions)
May 21, 2020
The First Page Challenge is a writing contest for novelists. Hook us in a single double-spaced page for a chance to win a growing prize pool, plus publication on the Chopping Blog.
- Contest updates
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Rearranging Words—a webinar (June 14)
May 21, 2020
Join the Darling Axe senior editors for a webinar hosted by the Federation of BC Writers!
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Out of the gates: how to avoid overused openings in your manuscript
May 20, 2020
It makes sense that many authors endlessly revise their opening pages. Finding the right entry point is no small task.
- On the craft
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Slushpile Standouts: episode two
May 19, 2020
In our second YouTube video, two Darling Axe editors read the first pages of several manuscripts and pose the question: would you turn the page?
- On the craft
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Book Broker – an interview with Carlisle K. Webber
May 18, 2020
I always know when a writer does or doesn’t read in the genre they’ve written. Sometimes the best thing to do as a writer is to put your manuscript away, read a book for the same audience, and come back. Know how your book fits into the marketplace.
- Agent interviews
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Literary representation: by the numbers
May 17, 2020
It's critical to keep honing your craft, keep reading, and keep writing. There is no way around it: success as a novelist comes only after a tremendous amount of dedication and hard work.
- On querying
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Book Broker – an interview with Sarah Davies
May 15, 2020
I’m always looking for the two “C” words – concept and craft.
- Agent interviews
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Book Broker – An interview with Harvey Klinger
May 13, 2020
Be honest; be modest!
- Agent interviews
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Literary agents on revision
May 09, 2020
You only get one chance with an agent, so don't blow it by submitting your manuscript before it's truly ready.
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- 2 comments
Editor profile: Katie Zdybel
May 01, 2020
I’ve learned the most important skill I can foster in writers is an instinct for telling their own unique story.
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- 1 comment

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