Goodreads asked Judy Kelly:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Judy Kelly For aspiring writers I suggest that you learn all you can about writing and the writing process. Read all you can, good books and not so good books. You need to be able to see the difference. Read across genres. Know your craft and be well versed. Know the genre you write. Don't tell people you write mystery when you open with a crime scene and police officers are everywhere. Know how to write your genre. While trying to get published, it is important to follow the rules of the agency and of your genre. If you want an agent or editor to invest in you, then show them you are worthy of their time and effort by following the rules of your genre and sending them what they say they want. Learn to accept suggestions, but from your writing group members, an agent, an editor. When you submit your work to your writing group, you know that the work needs help, so teach yourself to accept what people say about your work. Some comments will not be well thought out, but also learn that that happens and you must sort our the comments. Accept those comments that help you improve your work. Most importantly, don't give up. Good writing takes time, lots of it and lots of effort. Be determined and dedicated to your craft.

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