“Ask Jane” Shorts
One-to-three minute videos on critical writing questions that give you the answers you need quickly and let you get back to writing!
Do you own the copyright to your traditionally published books?
In this video, we dive into the details surround copyright ownerships in common traditional publishing arrangements. We'll look at my personal situation which...
How do I get an agent via email?
In this video, I look at tips for both finding the right agent for your work and how to capture their attention in today's competitive and crowded publishing...
How do I know when my book is finished?
In this video, I discuss the process of turning a draft into a final manuscript and the indicators you might look for to know that you're ready to pitch or...
Help! I have writer’s block! What do I do?!
When it comes to overcoming writer's block, knowing why you're experiencing this dreadful issue is the first step in winning the battle. In this video, we...
Where do high concept ideas come from?
In this video, we look at my favorite ways to fire up the imagination and discover the high concept story ideas lurking in your creative mind. Have a question...
What makes a killer opening?
In this video, I highlight critical considerations when creating a killer opening and provide an example I think is brilliant from author John D. MacDonald....
How do I get a seven-figure advance?
In this video, I look at the myriad considerations and elements you must align to land that big advance on your next published book. Have a question you’d...
What is the most common writing error and how can I avoid it?
In this video, we look at one of the most prolific problems I see in writing: the overuse of "to be" verbs. I provide a list of words to look out for, offer...
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