That’s a good one Joan.
Back in the early 2000s I had finished my first novel. But it wasn’t until later I read the 2nd best advice that was something like:
You finished your first novel, terrific! Now wrap it up in something, put it on the shelf and never, ever look at it again. You’re done with it.
Not having heard this advice yet, I sent that 1st manuscript out to a few literary agents that were accepting submissions. I followed all the rules, double spacing, margins, all that stuff.
I got one of the self-addressed stamped envelopes back. The agent had written on my query letter: You’re not ready for an agent. Find a writer’s group.
My wife at the time said, rip it up, but I saved it because I appreciated that the agent had taken the time to send me that message.
Took that agent’s advice, and I still have that letter. Probably on the shelf with that manuscript.
ran across this on my facebook feed, a call for book reviewers and bloggers
https://www.pandorasboxjt.com/about
it’s No Flinch writing, not something I do, though a good story is a good story and I still tear up at E.T.
I also tear up at Jaws, though. That shark was just doing what’s natural for a great white.