Goodreads asked Michael J. McManus:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Michael J. McManus I feel that I am an aspiring writer, so I don't know how much can be taken from this advice. I think the most important thing is to write and keep writing, even if what you write is never read by anyone. I wrote three books before I tried to get one published. My close family members were my only readers for years. If you use your talents to tell a story, your talents will improve.

Also, don't be afraid to rework a story, even to the point of starting over. If you get to the place where you don't like how the story is turning out, odds are that readers won't be happy with it either.

Be patient. Don't publish until your story is finished and polished as best it can be. If you can afford it, have it professionally edited. If you can't afford that, have it edited by knowledgeable friends, people who will point out even the smallest error or inconsistency. And don't publish without a marketing plan. If a book doesn't sell well from the start, it is likely that a delayed marketing effort won't help it. At least that is my experience.

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