When should you publish your book?
Does it really make a difference when you publish your book? It sure does. Most newbie self-published authors don’t really think too much about when they want to launch their books. They are much too focused on the quality of their writing and the process…
What are your publishing goals?
New authors “ready to publish” often come to me with a shiny edited manuscript, ready to just convert it to PDF, pop it onto Amazon, and start raking in cash. Then they start asking questions. “How do I market my book?” “Which platform should I…
How do I price my self-published book?
Pricing your book is not an exact science. There are many factors to consider when deciding on a price for your book. For example, an established author can charge more than a first-time author. A longer, more ‘academic’ book can be much more expensive than…
What type of editing is right for me?
Authors are always asking me about the differences between proofreading, copy editing, and developmental editing. Isn’t it all the same thing, collectively knows as editing? Nope! Be careful. Some editors quote a flat fee for ‘editing’ without specifying exactly what they will be doing. Watch…
The Killer Query Letter
So your book is finally done. After months, years, of perseverance and hard work, you are ready to publish your novel. And you’ve got your eye on traditional publishing. To many authors, the #1 goal is still to get traditionally published. If this is your…
Build writing habits that last
I’m currently reading James Clear’s bestseller Atomic Habits, which looks at the neuroscience behind habits to explain why it’s so easy to stick to some habits (eating all the carbs) and so difficult to establish and maintain others (writing, exercising). I highly recommend this book! As someone who struggles daily with…
Facebook marketing on a budget
In a previous post we touched on marketing essentials for self-published authors. Today we’re diving a bit deeper, focusing on how to market on Facebook when you have no budget. Facebook ads are expensive. Well, they can be quite cost-effective, but only if you really…
Expanded distribution is not enough
Don’t be fooled by the sweet nothings your POD service or vanity publisher has whispered in your ear. Yes, expanded distribution will get you on the (lengthy) catalogue that is distributed to book retailers. No, the chances of your book actually making it into bookstores remains very, very, slim. Approaching zero. First…
Marketing for self-published authors
As great as self-publishing is, it requires significant marketing savvy on the author’s part to run a successful (ongoing) marketing campaign. Make sure you have all your ducks in a row; research; talk to experts; spend some money; do everything you can to make sure…
Author websites: Why and what?
No author website is better than a bad author website. Don’t cut corners. Clients often ask me why they need an author website to market their books. Isn’t it enough to be on social media? While your social media accounts are vital for communicating with…