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Public Speaking Details

For three years, I navigated the challenging world of querying, learning firsthand what it takes to craft a compelling pitch, engage with agents, and ultimately landing a book deal after 197 agent rejections. A few areas I'm always excited to share with aspiring authors are: The query process: tips, strategies, and what I learned from rejections. How to stay motivated through the ups and downs of publishing. The path to traditional publishing: from signing with an agent to landing a two-book deal as a debut. The behind-the-scenes of writing and launching a mystery novel. Building a social media platform before your book is released. Why Me? Publishing Industry Insight: I’ve gone through the querying trenches and can provide honest, practical advice for aspiring authors. Engaging & Accessible: My approach is down-to-earth, informative, and encouraging for writers at any stage. Traditionally Published Author Experience: I can offer a firsthand look at what it’s like to work with a publisher and prepare for a book release.

Biography

Carmela Dutra is a writer from the Bay Area who loves food trucks, family, and cozy mysteries. Her debut, A Murder Most Fowl, has been praised by Kirkus Reviews for its “serious set of crimes leavened by plenty of amusing moments,” by Criminal Element for the “juicy reasoning behind the sabotage that was almost as shocking as the murder itself,” and described as “the perfect escapist read, brimming with banter and an extra helping of fun” by New York Times bestselling author Ellery Adams. She has also been featured in CrimeReads Magazine. A lover of humor, quirky characters, and all things geeky, Carmela spends her days sketching, sipping far too much coffee, and over-cuddling her allergy-inducing cats and dog. She lives with her husband and two dinosaur-obsessed sons, drawing inspiration from rainy afternoons, bustling farmers’ markets, and the unexpected moments that make life memorable.