Helpful Writing Links

Completing a novel can be daunting enough, and then comes the task of submissions, markets, rights, editors, agents, and a plethora of other issues that follow. Learning the business side of writing is the next step that must be taken. It can be a jungle out there when first starting out, and a lot of time can be used in the research that needs to be done. Below is a list of places that can answer some of those writing questions and hopefully cut down on time consuming searches. Some of the listings are free to use while others charge a fee. Each of these listings are legitimate and helpful.

AAR - The AAR was formed in 1991 through the merger of the Society of Authors' Representatives (founded in 1928) and the Independent Literary Agents Association (founded in 1977). To qualify for membership in the AAR, an agent must meet professional standards specified in the organization's bylaws and agree to subscribe to its Canon of Ethics.
AAR

Copyright - An author's work is under copyright the moment it is created and fixed in tangible form. Some confusion arises over copyright registration. You do not have to pay for a copyright, only if you register your copyright with the US Copyright office. Registering a copyright allows the author to sue for infringement of their work. For much more information on copyrights, visit the U.S. Copyright Office

Duotrope Digest - A free database of over 2700 current markets for short fiction and poetry. Use this page to search for markets that may make a fine home for the piece you just polished.
Duotrope Digest

Miss Snark's Blog - Miss Snark is a legit Literary Agent that blogged for a while. Although she no longer adds to her blog, the information she has listed there is priceless. Got an agent question? She's probably answered it, with spice.
Miss Snark

Preditors & Editors - A free guide to publishers and writing services for serious writers. P&E is chock-full of information on all aspects of writing and they list scams and places to avoid.
Preditors & Editors

Publishers Weekly - The International Voice for Book Publishing and Bookselling. THE place to find publishing news.
Publishers Weekly

SFWA - Widely recognized as one of the most effective non-profit writers' organizations in existence.
SFWA

Writers Market Online - Where and how to sell what you write. More than 8,000 listings including: fiction, nonfiction, children, scriptwriting, poetry, publishers, literary agents, magazines, and contests.
Writers Market Online