Why I go to bed thinking of Freida McFadden
Let’s talk about one of those uncomfortable moments we don’t always admit out loud – when your writing friends hit milestones before you. They… Have
Do Author Blurbs Create Sales?
An author review quote is often perceived as the holy grail of cover candy – second in line to a bestseller label or that coveted Oprah or Reese book club seal. But do author blurbs really matter? And how would you go about getting one?
13 Tips to Writing Full-Time
Being a full-time author is tough. When do you make the dive? Is making the dive the right choice for you? I love writing, but there’s nothing quite as stressful as spinning your wheels and going nowhere fast. There have been years where I failed to make a profit—or a living. I am one of the lucky ones: my husband works full time, and if my job fails to pay the bills, we can make it through.
Gifts for Authors
by Alessandra Torre Writers aren’t the easiest people to shop for. We rarely go out in public. We mumble a lot. Curse at fictional characters.
Editing Tools Reviewed
In a recent discussion with fellow authors, we got around to discussing editing tools, and what they use and love. It was an interesting discussion, and one that caused me to spend this weekend testing out the capabilities of Autocrit, Grammarly, and ProWriting Aid.
How to Get Local Book Clubs to Be Your Super Fans
I recently moved and to say that I handled it in an organized and productive process would be grossly inaccurate. Instead, I alternated between running around in a Dr.Pepper-infused panic attack, stuffing things furiously into garbage bags and boxes AND curling into a ball on my bed and taking three hour naps.
Authors, Here Are Some Books You Might Need in Your Life
I love my local bookstore. I live in Key West Florida and it’s a small place (Island Books) right off Duval Street that is crammed to overflowing with new and used books.
Using Paid Newsletters to Promote Your Book
When I have a book release or sale, my quickest and easiest sales come from an email blast that I send to all of my readers.
Reader Lead Magnets: Two every author should have
Did you know there are two types of lead magnets for authors? They each appeal to different audiences and need different types of content. A
Setting Up a Book Preorder – Should You Do It?
There are a lot of decisions to make when you prepare to release a new book. Today I want to chat a little about whether to put your ebook on preorder or do a live release.
Melanie Harlow’s Top Author Books
Melanie Harlow has joined us for Inkers Con for three years and brings valuable craft and marketing advice each year. We asked Melanie what her
Why the Dirty Alley is Not a Bad Place for Writers
Years ago, I read a post that changed my first draft and editing mindset. I can’t find the original article, so I’m going to summarize it to the best of my ability.
Help! I’m looking for a _____________!
Are you looking to hire a cover designer, editor, beta reader, book formatter, or something else? We often get emails from authors who wanting to find someone who ________________ (fill in the blank).
While we’ve worked with a lot of freelancers, someone perfect for us might not be a good fit for you, based on several factors.
The Hook
What is your story’s hook?
There’s a lot of “rules” out there about writing, and while I abide by some of them, others I ignore. Writing is a very personal journey, and great storytelling can use different shapes and delivery methods.
How a Brain Reacts to Your Book
Want to know a secret? I’m not super smart but I’m really, really good at sitting next to the smartest people in the room and absorbing their knowledge in the same way that this dog steals treats: