Honestly, I’d rather be writing novels than short stories, though I’ve learned to enjoy writing short stories. I’ve read that publishers (or should I say editors?) will give your work a better look if you have some writing credits like being a finalist in the Writers of the Future Contest, which I’m rigorously pursuing.

I’ve just finished reading “No More Rejections” by Alice Orr, and she gives great advice on submitting and promoting a novel. Every book I’ve read on the subject says more-or-less the same thing about how to submit and what should be done after that first vital publication. One thing Ms. Orr drives home is that almost no editor will look at your work (or even open the package) if it isn’t from an agent. So how will writing credits help if they don’t even read the query letter or proposal that announces you as a finalist or better of the WotF contest without an agent?

Ms. Orr then drives home the importance of the synopsis and the query with some outstanding ways to makes both these items pop. But, again, how do you get an editor to read it before throwing it into the slush pile?

Promotion… and this is the part that scares the crap out of me. Evidently, you cannot depend on the promotional department to follow through with promotional promises once your book is accepted for publication. This you must do yourself and you better do it well. She talks about compiling a mailing list and getting business cards. Business cards I understand, but the mailing list of cool, warm, and hot contacts leaves me baffled. Who are these people? What should I contact them about? How is this to promote my book sales? Right now the only writing contacts I have are here on Hatrack. Is this what Ms. Orr is talking about? She talks about attending writer’s and reader’s events for warm contacts. Hot contacts are on a more personal level… those with a personal awareness of your writing. I have no idea who these people are. Or is this something I’ll understand when the time comes and by going to conventions and such?

I somewhat understand about making a list of publications, non-print media, and Web sites that review books. Where do I find this information? How do I use it? I’ve also been told that much of this promotion should start before my book is published. Ms. Orr also includes the use of media coverage, putting together a press kit, and what it should contain. She expresses the need for using local newspapers, radio, and public bulletin boards. Talk radio is mentioned.

I’ve heard pros and cons about book signings. One is if you are an unknown, they’re practically worthless… that you must have a name before anyone will take interest, though Ms. Orr gives many creative ideas to make it more successful.

Other items she includes are promotional giveaways, using flyers, brochures, and newsletters along with general mailings, paid advertising, and online promotion by starting your own website and how to keep it interesting.

Like I said; some of this stuff I understand and some I have no idea where to begin when the time comes for me to do it. Then there’s the cost. I’m a production worker at a factory. My husband is on permanent disability. We live comfortably, but some of these promotions can become expensive in a hurry. And when I look at it all from how it’s been explained, I wonder if I’m really up to the task. Is my writing good enough to be worth it? What am I getting myself in to and will I be able to handle it and come across as a professional?

You don't need an agent unless you've written a novel. So, do that first. Then take the next step and the next in order.

Some things you can start a little early. Worried about a website? Start a blog. I did. It's not that hard and, better yet, it's free. Mine doesn't exactly get a lot of traffic, yet. But I've at least got my big toe in that door.

Deep breaths. We can do this. We will do this. I'd like to see them try and stop us.

You don't eat a whole elephant in one bite, you eat it one bite at a time.

Also don't fall into the idea that the writing business is so mechanical, there is way more than one way to get in the door.

First write a novel. That is the fun part. Worry about the rest later, but for now just enjoy writing your novel.

As for short stories, sure it helps to have some publications, but plenty of authors break in with no short story sells. Write what you want to write. That's my advice.

However, if it's something that you can't give up, if writing, or the idea of holding a book with your name on the front and your soul in the pages is too big of a dream to let go of, then you know that no matter the cost, it will be worth it.

Anything worth having is worth paying a price for.

But don't give up because you are afraid of being successful.