Get the Breakdown on Writing a Query

March 4, 2015October 21, 2016 / Sheila McIntrye Good, Author / Leave a comment

Photo Courtesy of http://www.google.com/info.agmednet.com

Writing a query can almost be as hair pulling as writing a novel, not to mention, revisions. As a newbie, I didn’t have a clue, but in 2012, I was fortunate to win a raffle from The Bookshelf Muse. My prize included a free copy of the book, Keep Calm and Query On, and a free consultation with the author, Luke Reynolds.

Luke was amazing and walked me through the process of writing a query for my work in progress (WIP). After our initial phone consult and numerous emails, I had a finished product; a query for Hello Hell. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with Luke.

We don’t always have those types of opportunities, but this week on Query Tracker Blog, Adriana Mather, wrote an excellent post on queries. Breaking Down the Query, covers the inner workings of writing a query, and the best methods to achieve success.

Thanks Ariana, this one I will be keeping in my important file. If you want to know more or find yourself ready for a query, please check this one out.

Breaking Down the Query (the story of a colorful noob getting results)

Life in Agenting – 2: Querying: Do’s and Don’ts (caitieflum.wordpress.com)
Query Me This… (eemoxam.wordpress.com)
Mastering the Essential Query Letter for Writers (wordservewatercooler.com)

Tied in Knots

March 2, 2015October 21, 2016 / Sheila McIntrye Good, Author / 9 Comments

Photo Courtesy of mens-fashion/images/

100 Word Challenge for Grown Ups – Week#169 Prompt…so what time did you say it was?…

Bill walked into the kitchen. “Honey, can you help me?”

Carol laid the morning paper down, walked over and pushed his hands aside.

“How long have you been tying these things?”

“I know, just nervous, I guess.”
She looped the tie into a perfect knot and kissed him. “Relax, you’re gonna nail this interview.”

He pulled her close, “Thanks.”

She glanced at the clock and frowned.“So what time did you say it was?”

His gaze landed on the wall calendar below the clock. “Shit,” he said, yanking the tie loose, “It’s tomorrow.”

Carol’s laugh followed him down the hall.

The tie – “Do’s & Don’ts” Pt. V (mfshn.com)
Infographic: How to tie a tie? (myfashionlife.com)
This simple trick will help you tie your tie perfectly every time (dailydot.com)

Interested in a Free Revision Workshop?

March 1, 2015October 21, 2016 / Sheila McIntrye Good, Author / Leave a comment

It’s here and free. If you have a work in progress (WIP) or competed a draft manuscript, you’ll love this opportunity to walk through a detailed revision with Janice Hardy.

Fiction University: Janice Hardy

Today is day one of Fiction University’s Month-Long-at- Home Revision Workshop. Today’s lesson focuses on your story structure.

Ms. Hardy provides a number of links, for outliners and pantser’s alike, to begin the process of analyzing your structure.

Need to play catchup? Find the preliminary preparation here on her introductory page.

Thanks Janice, for this amazing opportunity.

A Pantser Technique: Editing as I Write (garridon.wordpress.com)
What You Need to Know About Story Structure (scriptmag.com)
The Three Act Structure (altitudewriters.wordpress.com)

I Hope I Nudged Your world

February 27, 2015October 21, 2016 / Sheila McIntrye Good, Author / 4 Comments

This is In response to The Daily Post’s writing prompt: “Last Words.” (Cow Pasture Chronicles isn’t going anywhere) 🙂

I don’t know quite how to say this, but this is my last post. I toyed with the idea of just disappearing, knowing you would stop visiting, eventually. I imagined my fellow fence jumpers climbing back over the fence in search of greener pastures, and becoming a distant memory or even forgotten.

But, something stopped me. First of all, I have always believed words matter. The words we say, write, and share have great potential to touch those around us. They can mend fences, relationships, encourage, delight and sometimes hurt. But, how sad the world would be without words.

Secondly, I pray the words I’ve shared will be a legacy, of sorts, for those I leave behind. Perhaps, my grandchildren, or their children’s children will get to know me and be inspired. Maybe not, but a woman can hope.

It is with great sadness to know my journey is over, but what a journey it has been. I pray that somewhere along the way, I touched you, inspired you, or gave you a moment’s respite. I know being a part of this community of writers changed my world. So,thank you.