Yeah, Jen - WHEN?!!!! *taps fingers*

Now I'm running, because she's going to be chasing me with a wooden spoon...

You and me both, Orly! I am not a patient person.

Thanks for sharing it with your critique group. I'm honored!

And most writers have a problem with over-sharing! Because it's our beautiful, amazing, we-spent-hours-writing-this story. Hey, if someone would only listen, I'd recount my whole novel from Chapter 1 to The End with facial expressions, hand gestures, and vocal variations throughout. (Did I mention that it's my baby? LOL.)

So true, Fae! Some I've pitched to have been really good at helping a writer communicate the crux of her story. Others, not so much. (Of course, in a written query, you don't have that back-and-forth.)

I love that you pointed out knowing the conflict. That's where a lot of agents and editors focus; they want to know what story tension will keep a reader reading. Thanks!

Here's my answer for WHEN: Not when it's perfect, but when it's as good as you can make it. That requires studying craft and getting feedback and making edits, but at some point, you've done all you know how to do. My manuscript will not be perfect, but it is the best story I can tell. And then, I want others -- agent, editor, copy editor, proofreader -- to polish it the rest of the way for publication.

As for you specifically, Jenny, I've read some of your novel, and the answer to WHEN is very, very soon. Maybe even now. 😉

That finish line is so tempting, isn't it? You so want to run through, lift your hands in the air, and feel that ribbon break against your chest. But running a few more laps makes you a better runner; I mean writer in the long run. Thanks, Laurie!

Cue horror movie music? That was a perfect description of the feeling, Diana. I've definitely heard that tune in my head! LOL.

I personally agree with you that you should go ahead and revise, but yeah, get movin' on it quickly, if at all possible. And I can't wait for your novels to be on the shelves!

Thanks, Orly! And I think your piece of advice here is fabulous -- a great way to approach it.

Thanks so much, Laura! It was my pleasure to share what I've learned. And great point about #1 -- EVERY book needs that summary description.

I really hope others take your Submissions That Sell class. It was sooooo helpful. I'm actually itching to query now!