Done editing? Time to get that baby...ahem, the book a proper query letter . Be sure to watch how you write it though!

Then there are the agents to search for.

As fun as I like to be, writing is an absolute passion. I take it very seriously. So seriously that at times I feel the need to be cautious. The writing world is no different. There are some wonderful people and then there are others who are out to take advantage of the desperate and naive. It's important for would-be and want-be authors to check credentials. Always make sure the agent you are considering is of value and does not want to simply use you to further their own agenda or bank account. If they are a reputable agent, they should never ask for an upfront fee. Money should NOT be exchanged in any manner! A true blue literary agent will only get paid on commission after securing a deal with a publisher. If you ask for their credentials, they should be willing to let you know what books they have agented. Even if they are with the Authors' Association of Representatives (AAR) or any so-called reputable source. That doesn't mean you can't be ripped off. Remain cautious and ask questions! It doesn't hurt to be safe.

Go HERE to learn more about Literary Agents and what to look out for.

Don't trust agent ads in magazines.

What's that? You got PUBLISHED ? Congrats! You haven't had to give your soul to the devil, sell your first-born, no bribery, and you can quit payments with that shrink you've told about your publishing woes.

Publishing doesn't have to only be traditional! Go to Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Learn! Have fun! Become the successful writer you always dreamed of being!
Perhaps feeling a little Fearless ?

Now that you've managed to stay out of the slush pile and get published, do you really think your publisher is going to market your book? Fat chance! A publisher gets you published but it is the author's turn to step up to the plate and promote their own book. Figure out your marketing, demographic, and overall audience. Every book will not appeal to every single person. This cuts down a hefty amount of money and focuses on the needed market.

Got a create message about your book? Why not say it with a T-shirt? How about a mug? Bumper sticker? Go to Cafe Press . Advertise with pride! If your cover art is eye catching, it all the more helps. A walking billboard for your book! Hey! You also get paid with customer purchases of your items (so you can finish paying your editor).

Best word of advice in this age of advanced technology? Social Networking. Build a website. Shout about your success to the rafters. Don't let your book sit around collecting dust and whine that you don't know who to sell it to. Do something about it. Get out there (on the net) and find a proper audience. Network! Find people who find similar interests. Look through some of these and don't hesitate to join.

Blog! Write and tell people about your adventures with publishing or anything. Garner an audience through creative writing. Show the world your style. Your sense of humor (if you have one). Let an audience know about a future book tour and write about the journey. Editing! Promoting! Marketing! Just write!