The whole podcast series can be found on iTunes or at PodOmatic.
The Flogometer challenge: can you craft a first page that compels me to turn to the next page? Caveat: Please keep in mind that this is entirely subjective.
Note: all the Flogometer posts are here.
What's a first page in publishingland? In a properly formatted novel manuscript (double-spaced, 1-inch margins, 12-point type, etc.) there should be about 16 lines on the first page (first pages of chapters/prologues start about 1/3 of the way down the page). Directions for submissions are below.
Some homework. Before sending your novel's opening, you might want to read these two FtQ posts: Story as River and Kitty-cats in Action. That'll tell you where I'm coming from, and might prompt a little rethinking of your narrative.
The writer of this Flogometer post has had her manuscript accepted for publication and has requested that this sample be taken down from FtQ so as to not drive search engines here instead of her eventual website. Glad to oblige, and congratulations to Karen.
Ray
© 2010 Ray Rhamey
Just wanted to add that the editor decided to keep the opening that was a bit controversial. Of course some of it was reworded, but I hope you will give it another shot. In the Storm, Feb, 2011.
Posted by: Karen | November 30, 2010 at 09:51 AM
Congratulations, Karen!
Posted by: Doug | November 30, 2010 at 12:02 PM