Hello fellow writers!

    I was recently touring the west coast, and on the return flight to New York, I found I was seated next to a woman who was interested in what I was doing. She had been looking over my shoulder while I was editing a manuscript. She became inquisitive, and began sharing her experience with me.

   Apparently, like so many others, she has a story to tell, but she was unable to write it. So, she engaged the services of a ghostwriter. I bet you know what's coming next . . . especially if you have been in this industry for some time. She explained that she engaged the ghostwriter's services, and gave the person 5,000. fee to write, but she never saw a page. That has not changed the fact that she has a story to tell, but her funds are gone to accomplish just that.

   A few years ago, I sent the infamous query letter out to several agents to solicit my first, and now-published novel. I was ecstatic because I received three contracts in the mail on the first go-around. I was pleased with myself, but not to the point of moving ahead blindly, thank goodness. 

   At the time, there was access to a writer's website that saved the day. I asked if other writers had had dealings with any of the agents. Was I ever surprised by the answers that I received! The agent that I had been considering was using some unprofessional practices; charging fees, holding manuscripts, and not making presentations to publishers. Another agent wanted me to see a friend, who was an editor, for an exorbitant amount of money, before the agent would make a decision.

   That was my introduction into the writing world. Considering the fact that most query letters flow right into that slush pile without a glance. There are too few agents and a lot of talent out there that seldom gets recognized. Of course, so many new writers are naturally in love with every word they write, and manuscripts can be soooooooooo overcome with wordiness. You have to do your homework and remain open to constructive criticism. The competition is fierce! However, I can see that I am not alone in my brushes with people with unscrupulous practices. Especially now, as the entire industry is in a slow state of metamorphosis, writers must be wary of empty promises and pretty wrapped package deals.

   Aside from the services that we intend to provide on this website, we would like to extend a hearty invitation to all writers, in all fields, and at all levels, to share their experiences, triumphs and pitfalls with others. If you have a story to share we would love to hear about it. If you would like your story posted, please state it in your e-mail.

   We look forward to hearing from you.