Award-winning author and former Edgar Award judge Bradley Harper will speak on, “Why Good Books Fail: Top 10 Mistakes That Sink a Novel,” at a program of the Chesapeake Bay Writers at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Rocco’s Smokehouse Grill, 207 Bypass Road, Williamsburg.
At the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Harper evaluated nearly 200 submissions for the Edgar Award for Best Novel, a prestigious honor in mystery fiction. Most books didn’t make it past page 20. What was it that made him put a book down?
In reviewing his notes, Harper identified 10 recurring issues that caused him, and likely other judges, to stop reading early.
His talk is designed for writers, editors, and avid readers who want a behind-the-scenes look at what makes—or breaks—a book.
Admission is free. Lunch is available for purchase. Register at chesapeakebaywriters.org.
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