Ep 51: From First Draft to Book Deal with Novelist Neely Alexander

Click Here to ask your book writing and publishing questions!When Neely Tubati-Alexander started working on her first novel (Love Buzz; HarperPerennial, May 2023), she wished someone could give her a straightforward understanding of the steps she'd need to take, from writing her first draft to properly querying agents to getting that often-sought-after publishing deal.  In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, she illuminates the path from draft to deal---at least the one she took---so that other aspiring authors have more of an understanding of what to expect, what to avoid, and how to keep going when things seem go awry.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTSThe #1 way to piss off a literary agent (don't worry, it’s easy to avoid).Should you have a manuscript edited (and to what degree) before querying a literary agent?How to develop a strong query plan (and choose the best agents to query for your book).The 3 most important things to know about your book before querying a literary agent.What agents and editors look for beyond a great book.The submissions process from agent to acquisitions editors. ABOUT NEELY TUBATI-ALEXANDERNeely is the author of women’s fiction with rom-com feels you can escape into with a smile. And if you like seeing women pursuing love AND careers, you'll love her writing! If she's not tucked away at the little desk in her bedroom writing, you can find her at some kiddo activity (so many activities), drinking wine, or watching reality TV, usually the last two together.  FOLLOW NEELYInstagram: @neelyalexanderWebsite: neelytubatialexander.comLove Buzz (debut novel): https://amzn.to/45N6Luz OTHER RESOURCES MENTIONEDCarly Watters: @carlywattersCece Lyra: @cecelyraBianca Marais: @biancamarais WAYS WE CAN WORK TOGETHER!Book Outlines Made Simple (outlining workshop)Through this pay-what-you-can on--demand workshop, you'll discover the 5 components of all bestselling books, learn how to zero in on your core message, and get access to the outlining spreadsheet I've used to write six books (and help countless authors write theirs) so you can masterfully organize your thoughts, perspectives, and insights. Learn more >> Write the Damn Book Already! (memoir/nonfiction writing program)A program for writing powerful nonfiction or memoir that readers can't put down. it's time to sha🧭 BACK COVER BLUEPRINTGet back cover templates for nonfiction, memoir, and fiction; real-world examples; a polishing checklist; and a guide for turning it into an optimized online description that attracts the right readers. 🔗 https://www.publishaprofitablebook.com/blueprint Looking for hidden gems, date night spots, and staycations you didn't know you needed? Find your next adventure at TheBestoftheSouthwest.com and follow along on Instagram at @thebestofthesouthwest.*episode sponsor WANT TO SELL MORE BOOKS (WITHOUT THE SELF-PROMO CRINGE)?The Author Visibility Bundle gives you 200+ done-for-you email templates, social media graphics, and other book promo tools designed to help authors build buzz and drive sales, without feeling pushy. 👉  PublishAProfitableBook.com/bookvisibility ✍️ 33-DAY BOOK WRITING BOOTCAMPYou've Been Thinking About This Book Forever. So let's get it written (for real this time). 👉 https://www.publishaprofitablebook/writethebookSupport the show******Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.  Available wherever podcasts are available: Apple PodcastsSpotify YouTube Let's Connect! InstagramWebsite Email the show: elizabeth [at] elizabethlyons [dot] comThe podcast is a proud affiliate partner of Bookshop, working to support local, independent bookstores.To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written and published, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth