If only I knew then what I know now…
Now you can!
When I got serious about writing several years ago, there were places I could go on the net for general help on writing a query letter or a synopsis, but learning the ins and outs of the publishing business? Nah! Today, you can ramp up to speed so much faster if you just know where to look! This list is by no means conclusive and it only focuses on the romance genre. But its purpose is to get you started and from that resource you can check out similar helpful websites or blog links.
Enjoy and go VIRAL, baby!
1) If only I knew how to get started writing that romance novel I’ve always wanted to write…
Romance Writers of America - The largest organization of both aspiring and published writers (over 9,000 in membership)
2) Now that I’ve written my first story, if only I knew how to edit it…
–Within the RWA individual state chapters there are usually critique groups where you share chapters of your work and have critique partners help you make your story better. There are even several on-line chapters if there isn’t a RWA chapter close to your home.
–Entering RWA sponsored state chapter contests - As wonderful as they can be in many respects, you also need to take the contests with a grain of salt. In other words, let them help you learn the rules so you know what rules you’re purposefully breaking when you break them. 
Consider the contests as a way for you practice and hone your craft, but don’t let the judges change your voice. It’s what makes your writing unique. If you see the same comment about the same manuscript from several different judges then it might be time to address that issue in your writing or your storyline.
* Romance Divas - Wonderful supportive group of writers from aspiring to published. Contests, Editor/Agent/Author chats, critque partner opportunites. It’s a wonderful support system of fellow authors who KNOW what you’re going through.
* Miss Snark’s Crapometer - A snarky agent helps out her fellow snarklings with their stories. Updated: This blogger stopped blogging now, but there’s still a ton of helpful information in the archives.
3) If only I knew how to write a query letter…
* Charlotte Dillion Writers’ Website - This site has lots of information on it. It’s definitely one to bookmark.
* Agent Query
* Patrice Michelle’s: How to Write a Query Letter
* Evil Editor - An evil editor takes the time to crit your query letter as long as you’re willing to take some jabs in the process. ;)
4) If only I knew how to write a synopsis…
*Paperback Writer’s Links on Synopsis Writing
*A.C Crispin’s Blog post on writing a synopsis
*Patrice Michelle’s article on Synopsis writing - gives a detailed example
5) If only I knew the INs and OUTs of querying an agent…
*Miss Snark Updated: Check archives.
*Kristin Nelson
*The Knight Agency
*Rachel Vater
And just in case you get frustrated waiting to hear back from an agent, walk a mile in one of their (her) shoes. From Rachel Vater’s Blog. It’ll make you have an appreciation, that’s for sure!
6) If only I knew which agents to submit my manuscript to…
*Romance Writers of America (RWA)
*Absolute Write Water Cooler
* Preditors and Editors
* Ask your published friends for agent references.
7) If only I could meet more people in the industry…
*RWA National Conference
*Romantic Times Conference
*RWA Chapter Conferences
8 ) My first book is sold…if only I knew how to promote myself…
First and foremost..even before you sell, lock in your DOMAIN name and create a WEBSITE!
Once you’ve done that, the following list are site that can be used to help promote yourself.
*Writerspace
*Access Romance
*Romantic Times BOOKclub
*Fresh Fiction
*The Romance Studio
*Romance Junkies
*Romance Designs
9) Great Advice/Discussions for writers in all stages of their careers…
10) The most important thing you can do for yourself is to write the best story you can. The list above could help with that, so don’t be overwhelmed by it. It’s intended to be a place to bookmark and come back to.
I’ll update this list as I find other helpful websites and blogs.
