Several people in my writers group are interested in this community. What link should I give them to join and participate in our forum and such? I’ve tried the home page but where I think there should be links to join, nothing seems to work. I’m sure that operator error is involved but I at least know computer basics. Where do I send them to join?

Be aware there are ‘bots’ opening in this forum.

In the past I've been lucky enough to make a few competition lists and have agents reach out. I, and my manuscript weren't ready at that time so things didn't go further. But I'm now sat with my completed (and strange) epistolary thriller in hand, ready to commence querying. Whilst attempting to find information and assistance, I'm coming across a lot of people with their hand out, and a lot of conflicting and generic advice. How did/do/would you go about trying to find the right eyes for your manuscript? Are you just searching on query tracker or a similar service? Checking industry sites and newsletters? Paying for a service? Reading tea leaves?

Hi all! I was lucky enough to attend an Agent led event last night, discussing queries, pitches and the editing process. Here's a couple of (hopefully helpful) things that came out of the discussion: 1. Make your query letters as short and professional as you can. You might want to fill it with loads of lovely detail, but they find it refreshing and attractive when one is brief. 2. Lead with your "comp" books. Don't start by getting into the plot or characters, show that you know the market and have an idea of where your book sits by comparing it to successful, well regarded (recent if you can) books in that area. Then tease the plot in two or three sentences, then end on a question or note of suspense. 3. Don't bother trying to "hide" your genre. People are tempted to claim a different genre because they're worried their novel isn't currently marketable. The agent will know immediately when they start reading the sub, so why bother hiding it? 4. (In the UK) Avoid querying in March or October. The London and Frankfurt book fairs pull a lot of agents away from reading at those times. 5. Agents give EVERYTHING a read... But bear in mind they have existing clients and an inbox of up to 20 subs a day. They also then let some of us pitch to them and get live feedback (which was heartening and super useful), so do keep an eye out for similar events. Even if it's not stated, there might be a similar learning opportunity offered.

Am starting the process of sending queries to agents and wondered if you guys could comment on some pitch ideas: A strong-willed, self-reliant old woman struggles against the weakening of her powers as she gradually loses her memory. Judy, a furiously independent old woman, battles the loss of identity and control of her deteriorating memory. (feels like there might be some grammar issue here!) The novel follows Judy, an independent, aging widow, from the early, mysterious signs of memory loss to her death. Something like that - my, I find this stuff difficult! All ideas gratefully accepted. And huge thanks in advance.