Calling New Authors and Book Lovers!

That's right, folks, it's a blog hop!

And not just any blog hop. This is a chance-to-spread-the-word-about-a-debut novel blog hop!

Is this brilliant or what? Yes. Yes it is.

Basically, you either promote your own debut novel, or help someone else spread the word about theirs. Indie or traditional - doesn't matter. This is about getting the word out. 

So let's hit the possible questions here:

Will there be giveaways involved? Oh yeah! (Though giveaways are not mandatory, they are highly encouraged.)

When does this thing take place? November 23rd - November 30th

How in the world do I join in on the awesomeness? Click on the 'New Author' Blog Hop square above and add yourself to the link.


I'll be featuring a debut author, and will be giving away at least one copy of his/her novel. But you'll have to check back on November 23rd to find out who.

Hope to see you on the link, my friends.
Until then, go eat a Krispy Kreme; it'll do you good. :)

Kill, kill, kill! The Query.

Been thinking you've got too much hair on your head? Need some incentive to pull it out by the fistfuls? (Sorry, that was morbid.)
Then try writing the perfect query. One that will highlight all the genius in your newly finished novel while making you sparkle like the morning sun. A letter that tells just enough about your story without rambling while still relaying (in a precise manner) your conflict while giving a good feel for the characters and don't forget that it should have a nice sense of voice. AGH! This can be a daunting task.
Luckily, there's a lot of help out there. Tons. There are certain blogspots I turn to while seeking advice, inspiration, support, sanity, you know.

I'll be highlighting some of my favorite "helps" every week or so. Today I want to tell you about author Elana Johnson's e-book, From the Query to the Call. A magnificent tool that teaches how to write a "killer query". This book rocks! In fact, it's so amazing that it even has samples of FULL QUERIES! Plus - it's free! Seriously, folks, it doesn't get better than this.
To get one for yourself simply go to http://www.elanajohnson.com/ and then click on 'Query to the Call'. You may also find it on her blogspot at http://elanajohnson.blogspot.com/ While you're there, check out what James Dashner had to say about her debut novel, Possession, which comes out on June 7th. (Can't wait for this one! I've read the first two chapters [they're AWESOME!] and you can too, through her site.)

Have some insight as to what helped you write the perfect query?
Have you mastered your query, or do you still get slightly nauseous at the mere mention?
Share! I love your comments! I would eat them up like Krispy Kremes if I could! Just sayin'.