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Writing Break is a relaxing show for writers, readers, and anyone who enjoys a trip to the library. Kick back with America’s Editor and learn her best writing tips, catch up on the latest publishing industry news, visit bookstores, and recharge with a fel

America's Editor

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    • Apr 8, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 13m AVG DURATION
    • 124 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Writing Break

    Querying Literary Agents, Part 1: Big Five Dreams or Indie Vibes?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 9:34 Transcription Available


    Welcome to the first installment of a four-part series on querying literary agents. In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of publishing with a Big Five publisher versus an independent press. Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, traditionally publishing or submitting directly to publishers, this episode will help you clarify your publishing goals.Plus: A roundup of the latest publishing news, including the growing backlash against tech giants using books to train AI.

    You Like Writing Tips? We Got Writing Tips (Clip Show #12)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 40:42 Transcription Available


    It's time for a heavy dose of writing wisdom, clipped and curated from recent episodes. Whether you're plotting, editing, procrastinating or just looking for a creative nudge, this episode's packed with the good stuff: smart takes, helpful reminders, and maybe a little tough love.Missed a few episodes? I've got you covered.Featuring:✍️ First-draft and second-draft writing advice✍️ Actionable writing tips from bestselling authors✍️ The reality of traditional publishing✍️ Plus more gems you might've forgotten (or ignored

    High-Concept vs. Low-Concept Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 12:08 Transcription Available


    Is your story high-concept or low-concept? Understanding this difference can help you refine your pitch, strengthen your storytelling, and position your book effectively in the publishing industry.

    Navigating the Shifting Publishing Landscape

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 18:01 Transcription Available


    The publishing world is shifting fast, and as writers, we need to keep up. In this episode, I dive into some of the biggest changes happening in the industry right now, from how AI is reshaping publishing to restrictions that could impact book accessibility. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, understanding these changes will help you navigate publishing smarter.I also share a piece of writing advice I give to authors that I'm now following myself as I write my first book-length work. Eight Independent Publishers Form Cooperative to Share Resources, Cut CostsLondon Book Fair 2025 to Focus on AI, Developing ReadersKill Your Darlings - Writing BreakLibrary Database Providers Clash Over Subscription ModelsNew Bills in Iowa Threaten to Tighten Obscenity Provisions for LibrariesWill the Diamond Bankruptcy Change the Comics Business Forever?Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks.

    The Reality of Traditional Publishing, a Cautionary Tale

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 10:41 Transcription Available


    We all dream of making it big with our writing, but what happens when that dream doesn't unfold the way you expect? We'll talk about how that dream didn't quite come true for one author. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing industry and for the latest publishing news. The debate over blurbs in publishing, explained | Vox‘It's quite galling': children's authors frustrated by rise in celebrity-penned titles | Children and teenagers | The GuardianNew RomanceCosy KinkThe acquisition of Text Publishing by Penguin Random House is part of a worrying trend in Australian publishingFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Inspiration vs. Perspiration: Writing, Scams, and Creative Freedom

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 8:22 Transcription Available


    In this episode, we bring you the latest publishing news along with a discussion on finding a balance between inspiration and hard work. I'll let you know where to access tax tips for authors and where to view sessions that took place during the Winter 2024 Book & Author Festival. I also tell you about a literary agent scam preying on authors. Plus, we discuss a significant legal victory protecting creative freedom and highlight resources for creators impacted by the Los Angeles fires.In the second half, we explore the concept of the muse—what it means to create space for inspiration and how to balance it with the discipline of writing. Drawing from personal insights and Stephen King's On Writing, we reflect on the dynamic between inspiration and perseverance in the creative process.Tune in for updates, insights, and encouragement to help you see yourself as the writer you already are.Authors Guild Federal Court Victory: Arkansas Book Ban Declared Unconstitutional - The Authors GuildEmergency Aid for Creators Affected by the Los Angeles Fires - The Authors GuildPublishing Scam Alerts - The Authors GuildTax Tips for Authors 2025 - Webinar Registration - ZoomPRH Winter 2024 Book & Author FestivalFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks.

    Chuck Palahniuk's Controversial Writing Advice: Ditching Thought Verbs

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 7:02 Transcription Available


    In this episode, we take a look at writing advice from Chuck Palahniuk. Can his approach to storytelling help you craft more immersive scenes, or is it too restrictive for your taste?Nuts and Bolts: “Thought” Verbs | LitReactorFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks.

    The Best Gifts for Writers

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 5:39 Transcription Available


    You can never have too many books, or notebooks, or pens, but here are 5 last-minute gifts for writers that are none of the above. They're all free, but they're all something you really want.Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

    9 Actionable Writing Tips from Bestselling Authors

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 10:07 Transcription Available


    2024 is coming to an end, and publishing slows down significantly at the end of each year. So, don't fret if your query letters remain unanswered this month. Today, we're exploring 9 practical, actionable writing tips approved by bestselling authors. Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

    Second-Draft Writing Advice

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2024 12:54 Transcription Available


    In the last episode we discussed first-draft writing advice, and in this episode we're discussing eight steps to follow when you revise, regardless of genre.Bluesky Hits 20 Million Users as People Flee TwitterHarperCollins AI Licensing Deal - The Authors GuildFaber launches Action! Prize | Journal, News | FaberFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

    First-Draft Writing Advice

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2024 5:44 Transcription Available


    There is a lot of writing advice out there, but remember that not every piece of writing advice is first-draft writing advice. So, for your convenience, today's episode will be filled with writing advice for your first draft. Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

    Publishers Accepting Submissions

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2024 5:32 Transcription Available


    National Novel Writing Month begins next week, which is why today's episode is a pep talk of sorts. Plus, I found a few publishing houses currently accepting unsolicited manuscripts. Dragonblade Publishing | SubmissionsHarlequin Medical Romance | SubmissionsBlack Rose Writing | SubmissionsCollective Ink Publishing | SubmissionsDark Dragon Publishing | SubmissionsFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks.

    7 Literary Conflicts Explained (Clip Show #11)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2024 27:49 Transcription Available


    This season we've been covering seven types of literary conflicts, and I thought it might be useful for you to have a bonus episode that has all seven conflicts back to back.Let's settle in at the Writing Break cafe and get started on a full episode of writing tips.Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Character vs Destiny

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2024 6:04 Transcription Available


    Today we are wrapping up our seven-part series on literary conflicts with the final boss: Character vs Destiny.Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Character vs Technology

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2024 10:07 Transcription Available


    As I record this, a hurricane is sideswiping my city, so if the power stays on, we'll continue our literary conflict series and discuss, aptly enough, Character versus Technology. We're also catching up on the Internet Archive court case. OpenAI looks to shift away from nonprofit roots and convert itself to for-profit companyUpdate: How to Tell Internet Archive to Remove Your Books - The Authors GuildAuthors Guild Applauds Final Court Decision Affirming Internet Archive's Book Scanning as Copyright Infringement - The Authors GuildFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Character vs Supernatural

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 4:40 Transcription Available


    The Writing Break cafe is open, so let's gather on the Overthinking Couch to discuss the literary conflict of Character vs Supernatural.Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Character vs Society

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 5:14 Transcription Available


    Welcome back. After last week's discussion about character vs nature, I hope you managed to work some weather into your current work in progress. In this episode we're discussing character vs society. The Writing Break cafe is open, so let's grab a drink and settle into the Overthinking Couch. Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Character vs Nature

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 7:07 Transcription Available


    We're discussing publishing news today, including what's trending in books. We're also talking about the fascinating literary conflict of character versus nature.Generative AI reduces the collective diversity of novel contentReport Finds Customer Traffic Rising at Barnes & NobleShelf Awareness for Friday, July 12, 2024 | Shelf AwarenessK-lytics Historical Fiction Market ReportK-lytics Sports Romance ReportFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Character vs Character

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 8:17 Transcription Available


    The literary conflict of character versus character seems simple enough, right? Two characters are pitted against each other in some way. This clash can be physical or mental, but it's best when it's a bit of both . . . or a lot of both. Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Character vs Self

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2024 6:03 Transcription Available


    Today we are talking about the literary conflict known as character versus self. Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    7 Types of Conflict in Literature

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 9:27 Transcription Available


    Whether or not you seek to avoid conflict in real life, avoiding conflict in your writing will make for a boring book. For the first half of this season we are covering conflict as a literary device and taking a close look at the seven different types. I'll offer examples, I'll discuss how conflict should guide your story, and I'll explain how more than of these conflicts can be at play within your manuscript. Has the DEI Backlash Come for Publishing? - The AtlanticWSJ | Kindle is the new must-have accessory (again)Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    How I Beat Back Imposter Syndrome

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 9:25


    I discuss the new format for the show moving forward and how I talk myself out of having imposter syndrome.Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Straightforward Writing Tips (Clip Show #10)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 21:03 Transcription Available


    Thank you to everyone who filled out the Listener Feedback Survey. I am in the process of reviewing and revising the show's format accordingly, but there is still a little bit of time to complete our survey and tell me what to do. Check the show notes for a link to the survey, and remember that all responses are anonymous and highly appreciated. For now, it's review time again.Writing Break Listener Feedback Survey - Please complete this survey.The Art of the Mini Sales Pitch: How to Subtitle Your Book So People Will Read It ‹ Literary HubFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    How to Write Better Than AI (Finale)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2024 10:55 Transcription Available


    Today we are wrapping up our series on how to write better than AI and insisting on our cup of stars. Please remember to fill out the Writing Break survey. The feedback we're receiving is changing the format of the show. Thank you!Association of American Literary Agents - Association of American Literary AgentsK-lytics Fantasy Romance Report and Market Seminar VideoWarner Music Loses Appeal In Supreme Court Case Over Copyright InfringementSights and Insights from the 2024 U.S. Book ShowFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Sideway Love (Backtrack)" by Yagull Music"Tropical Dance" by Sondé

    How to Write Better Than AI (Part 3 )

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 12:56 Transcription Available


    We have a Listener Feedback Survey for you today in addition to our usual publishing news and writing tips. We appreciate you taking a minute to complete the survey.Writing Break Listener Feedback Survey - Please complete this survey.Bloomberg - Are you a robot?Farshore Annual ReviewJudge a Book by its Edges | Barnes & NobleHow to get kids to read for fun: People who work on middle-grade books have some ideas.Yes, People Do Buy BooksPEN America Cancels 2024 World Voices FestivalReaders Take Denver 2025 conference canceled after "Fyre Festival of books"Authors Guild Supports FTC's Proposed Ban on Non-Compete Clauses - The Authors GuildFTC Announces Rule Banning Noncompetes | Federal Trade CommissionFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“No More Phone Calls” by The Turquoise Moon“Feel good laid back jazz piano” Gerardo Garcia Jr

    write fyre festival listener feedback survey
    How to Write Better Than AI (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2024 14:37 Transcription Available


    It's break time, writers. We have a lot of publishing news to get through today, and we're continuing with our four-part series on how to write better than AI.10 Things Author-Publishers Should Know About Amazon AdvantageAI book publishing platform Spines raises $6.5M to disrupt centuries-old industry - SiliconANGLEFake AI law firms are sending fake DMCA threats to generate fake SEO gains | Ars TechnicaThe Bookseller - News - Trade debates shift towards shorter books for childrenHow One Author Pushed the Limits of AI Copyright | WIREDPEN America Cancels 2024 Literary Awards CeremonyFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Gazing Out of a Café Window on a Rainy Day” by The Turquoise Moon“Jazz You Up” by Julian Gross

    How to Write Better Than AI (Part 1 )

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2024 15:29 Transcription Available


    Since the release of ChatGPT, the number of freelance writing jobs is shrinking. Can writers even compete? I hope so, which is why today we are beginning a four-part series that will highlight several writing techniques that elevate any work, be it fiction or nonfiction. Let's see how many of them you already incorporate into your work.The Forgotten Painting: A Historical Mystery Novella (The Jack Rogan Mysteries) by Gabriel Farago - Featured AuthorUnderground Bookstore, Carrollton, GA - Featured BookstoreThe jobs being replaced by AI - an analysis of 5M freelancing jobs - bloomberryThe Boom in Middle Grade Novels Turned ComicsReal Person Fan FictionAmerican Library Association reports record number of unique book titles challenged in 2023 | News and Press CenterWhere Do We Draw The Line With Real Person Romances in Publishing?Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Warm Spring Groove: Chill Lo-fi” by The Turquoise Moon“Our Love Will Fight” by Humans Win“Midnight Cool” by Yagull Music“Late Night Jam” by Eno Orefice

    Innovations in Publishing and Selecting a Subtitle

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2024 14:07 Transcription Available


    Today we are looking at innovations in book publishing and discussing subtitles. The Writing Break cafe is open, and we have a lot of publishing news to get through today, so let's grab a drink and a snack before settling in at our usual table.The Art of the Mini Sales Pitch: How to Subtitle Your Book So People Will Read It ‹ Literary HubThe Art of the Mini Sales Pitch: How to Subtitle Your Book So People Will Read It ‹ Literary HubRomantasy, AI and Palestinian voices: publishing trends emerge at London book fair | London book fair | The GuardianThe Bookseller - Rights - Transworld wins five-way auction for Antony Johnston's interactive crime novelDutch Publisher Develops AI Books - Publishers LunchA Rise in Ai-Generated Unauthorized Book BiographiesAuthors Guild Response To Findaway and Spotify's Audiobook Terms of Use - The Authors GuildBrandon Sanderson Says Deal with Audible Is in the WorksFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Casa De Frio” by Jon Presstone“Before You Go” by Humans Win

    Dramatic Irony in First-Person POV

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2024 12:34 Transcription Available


    As an editor, my authors' late-night, semi-coherent correspondence, choppy first drafts, and deepest darkest secrets die with me. However, today I am sharing an email exchange between an author and myself, with the author's permission, of course. The Touch of Her Voice by Sara Scott - Featured AuthorBlush Bookstore, Wichita, Kansas - Featured BookstoreWhy romance novels are having a moment - MarketplaceFrom Boston to Chicago, romance bookstores are popping upSexily ever after: how romance bookstores took over America | Romance books | The GuardianTor Books Criticized for Use of AI-Generated Art in 'Gothikana' Cover DesignThin Margins: The Paper Shortage and Its Toll on the Printing Industry: Episode 1 — Baldwin TechnologyFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Space Cassette" by Humans Win"Wichita" by Humans Win "Before You Go" by Humans Win

    Writing Advice from Neil Gaiman

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2024 16:02 Transcription Available


    In this episode, we are discussing book awards, book marketing, and the bit of writing advice Neil Gaiman gave out this week.Science fiction authors were excluded from awards for fear of offending ChinaAuthor J.D Barker Apologizes, Dropped by Agent After 'Creepy' BookTok RequestGUNGNIR: tales for the dreamers & thinkersBook Sales in FranceNational Book Awards Expand Eligibility to Non–U.S. CitizensPulitzer Prize Rules Expanded EligibilityAkutagawa Prize winner credits ChatGPT for 5% of 'Sympathy Tower Tokyo' | Daily SabahFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Cool Jazz Background (Trippy Trombone Version)" by Tencher Music"Yes Or No" by Precarious Perch“Jazzy Jingle V1” by bzur“Little Duke” by Humans Win

    Writing and Publishing Tips (Clip Show #9)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2024 25:32 Transcription Available


    Tune in for wall-to-wall writing and publishing tips for authors.Start Here: How to Write a Book Proposal + Book Proposal Template | Jane FriedmanFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks

    Writing a Good First Line

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2024 15:03 Transcription Available


    In the last episode we discussed what makes a good opening line in fiction, and in this episode we're doing the same with nonfiction, some of which overlaps with fiction. I also share some examples of good opening lines from nonfiction.Fit for the Throne: The Trial of Ten Kindle Edition by S. McPherson - Featured AuthorLost Books, Montrose, CA - Featured BookstoreBig Five Domination of Adult Bestseller Lists Slipped in 2023In Major Win, Appeals Court Upholds Block on Texas Book Rating LawFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"California Blues" by Style da Kid"Down to Get Up Again" by Humans Win

    3 Questions to Ask About Your Opening Line

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2024 12:16 Transcription Available


    This week we begin a two-part series on writing memorable opening lines. Today we're discussing fiction, and in the next episode we'll be covering nonfiction. Hay Festival Cartagena 2024Ábaco, Cartagena, Colombia - Featured BookstorePublic Domain Day 2024 | Duke University School of LawJudge Blocks Key Provisions of Iowa Book Banning LawThe New York Times Complaint Against Microsoft and Open AIFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Colombian of Latin Music” by Gushito“The Way You Move” by Sleeping Ghost

    Authors Behaving Badly

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2023 9:10 Transcription Available


    This final episode for 2023 is a short one but a juicy one. We are looking at corporations behaving badly, authors behaving badly, and readers behaving well. Because we know readers can do no wrong. Cait Corrain Goodreads Controversy ExplainedAuthor Apologizes After Review Bombing Books on Goodreads | TIMEThe Bookseller - News - Tolkien estate wins two lawsuits against author of unauthorised Lord of the Rings sequelTikTok's #BookTok trend 'literally changed my life'Five years and 2m copies later, self-published author lands UK book deal | Crime fiction | The GuardianMeta Used Copyrighted Books AI Training Despite Warning from LawyersFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Atmospheric Auld Lang Syne" by Humans Win"Stay Right There" by Humans Win

    New Book Trends on Amazon

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2023 12:31


    In this holiday episode I share new book trends on Amazon, new publishing awards, and the latest publishing news. First Year in Estonia Kindle Edition by Pynchon Woo - Featured AuthorRüütel & Matilda, Tallinn, Estonia - Featured BookstoreThe Paranormal Romance eBook MarketThe Fantasy Romance Book MarketScreen Door Press - The University Press of KentuckyThe Yale Review | The Yale Nonfiction Book PrizePenguin Random House, Authors Sue to Block Iowa Anti-LGBTQ Book Banning LawJulian Sancton v. OpenAI IncFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Dreaming of Christmas" by Boomer"Christmas Happy Home Relaxing Atmosphere [Version 3 | 30 Sec]" by Volodymyr Piddubnyk"Santa's New Suit" by Humans Win

    Examples of Foreshadowing

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2023 13:49 Transcription Available


    We are continuing our foreshadowing discussion today, and I might say something about genres that you will not like.Depot Café and Bookstore, Mill Valley, CA - Featured BookstoreSalt by Liz Shipton (Adult Version) - Featured AuthorSalt Paperback (YA Edition) - Featured Author57 Writing Contests in DecemberWorkers at Two More B&N Stores Vote to UnionizeCircana BookScan: US Print Book Market 'Slowing a Bit'Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Morning Coffee Full Mix” by Bobby Cole"Strawberry Daiquiri (instrumental)" by Sarah Angel"Blow Off Some Steam" by Ben Bostick"Sail Away" by zoze

    Foreshadowing Takes Finesse

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2023 9:26 Transcription Available


    We are beginning our discussion on foreshadowing today, in both fiction and nonfiction. Amazon Sues Publishing FraudstersThe 'Wall Street Journal' Drops Its Bestseller ListsFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Calm and Cozy: Lo-fi Vibes" by The Turquoise Moon“Little Noir Night” by Humans Win

    Query Letters vs Book Proposals

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2023 14:23 Transcription Available


    Happy Halloween. In this episode, we're talking about book proposals, how much writers make, and other such spooky things. The Ghost of Lilly Pilly Creek by Abbie L. Martin - Featured AuthorHutchinson Public Library, Hutchinson, Kansas - Featured LibraryStart Here: How to Write a Book Proposal + Book Proposal Template | Jane FriedmanWriting Books Remains a Tough Way to Make a LivingNEA Survey Finds Decline in Adult ReadingThe Bookseller - News - HarperFiction launches crime imprint Hemlock PressAuthors sue Meta, Microsoft, Bloomberg in latest AI copyright clash | ReutersFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Creepy Halloween” by MoodMode“Mystery of a Haunted Memory” by Jon Presstone“Ghost Town” by Jayson Wayne Brown“Through the Fields” by zoze"My Dark Room" by Enzo Orefice

    Publishing Tips for Authors (Clip Show #8)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2023 32:25 Transcription Available


    Let's review some of this season's publishing tips.Free Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory

    What to Do While Marketing Your Book

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2023 11:01 Transcription Available


    Today we are catching up on quite a bit of publishing news, including the new Amazon upload limits and book category changes. I'm also sharing what I think is the most important thing to do while marketing your book. These 183,000 Books Are Fueling the Biggest Fight in Publishing and Tech - The AtlanticSpotify will use AI to Replicate and Translate Podcasts‘Harry Potter' UK Audiobooks Narrator Stephen Fry Warns That AI Ripoff Of His Voice Is Only The Beginning – DeadlineHatch Press takes flight with Bonnier Books UK - Bonnier BooksThe Fanfic-to-Romance Pipeline Goes Mainstream in PublishingEd Dept. Hires Book Ban Czar to Monitor Escalating Challenges Over ContentWhat the Writers Won - The American ProspectFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Cabin Socks” by Amber Waldron"Gazing Out of A Cafe Window on a Rainy Day" by Tencher Music

    Free Audiobooks, Wholesale Discounts, and Amazon's New Policy on AI-Generated Books

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2023 18:00 Transcription Available


    Today we are talking about what wholesale discounts mean for authors, free audiobooks from Spotify, Amazon's new policy regarding AI-generated books, and a bit more. Autumn's Game by Mary Stone - Featured AuthorThe Montague Bookmill, Montague, MA, USA - Featured BookstoreBook Profit CalculatorKDP Royalty CalculatorSpotify to Offer Paying Subscribers Free Audiobook Trial - WSJUpdate: How to Tell Internet Archive to Remove Your Books - The Authors GuildBrooklyn Book Festival, Sept 24 to Oct 2Free audiobooks | SpotifyAmazon's New Disclosure Policy for AI-Generated Book Content Is a Welcome First Step - The Authors GuildNew Literary Agent at Martin LiteraryFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Strawberry Daiquiri" by Sarah Angel"I Like You a Latte" by Amber Waldron"The Calmest River" by The Turquoise Moon"Slow Water" by Enzo Orefice"Sweater Weather" by Amber Waldron

    What Makes a Good Editor?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2023 18:26 Transcription Available


    In this episode, we're talking about a predatory publisher. We're also discussing the difference between a good editor, a great editor, and your ideal editor.U.S. Book Show: B&N CEO Says Chain Is in Midst of Significant ChangeMembership - The Authors GuildAmazon's Kindle Rewards Beta ProgramAdelaide Continues to Ignore Author ComplaintsJudge Blocks Texas Book Ban LawFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Hola Amigos" by Oleksii Abramovych"Dreamboat Farewell (Trumpet & Acoustic Guitar)" by zoze"Coast Of Mexico" by Ben Bostick"Acapulco Sunset" by zoze"Over The Ocean" by Sondé

    Build Your Publishing Team

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2023 13:15 Transcription Available


    Today I'm taking my own advice, plus we're working on building your publishing team. We're also learning of a good reason to make sure your print books are also available as ebooks.Pan Bookstore & Cafe, Izmir, Turkey - Featured BookstoreThe Izmir Situation: Book 4 of the Sauwa Catcher Series by J.E. Higgins - Featured AuthorOtto Penzler Announces New True Crime Imprint Crime InkJudge Approves Internet Archive Permanent Injunction, Limits It to Works That Have eBook Editions - Publishers LunchThe Bookseller - News - YouTube narrowly beats TikTok for young adults discovering books online, according to Nielsen reportFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Deep House With Middle Eastern Vibes" by Sondé"Istanbul Morning Coffee (Oud & Guitar)" by zoze"The Sound of the Middle East" by Rent Kid"Turkish Action" by MoodMode"Shadow Dance (Turkish Oud)" by zoze

    What Can Beta Readers Do For You?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2023 16:24 Transcription Available


    Today we are talking about new imprints, working with beta readers and editors, and hiding your expertise. Hiring - Editorial Freelancers AssociationMarilynne Bradley - Featured Author & IllustratorThe Novel Neighbor, St. Louis, Missouri - Featured BookstoreThe Booker Prize 2023 | The Booker PrizesHardie Grant PublishingBaker & Taylor Opens a New Chapter with Paw PrintsTen Speed Launches New Ten Speed Graphic ImprintHarperEnfoque is HarperCollins' New Spanish-Language ImprintThe Bookseller - News - Canelo breaks new ground with horror imprintFern PressMcGraw Hill Stops Business Book Acquisitions - Publishers LunchKKR Wins S&S for $1.62 BillionFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Sunset in Los Cabos” by Humans Win“Barcelona Night” by Yagull Music, Storyblocks Label“Shake It and Break It” by Humans Win“St Louis Blues” by Humans Win“Singing the Blues” by Humans Win

    Increase Your Chances of Getting a Large Book Advance

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2023 16:57 Transcription Available


    We will be talking about is your book's BISAC categories, the average advance for nonfiction authors, and how to transition from being your book's author to your book's publisher. FREE Complete BISAC Subject Headings List - Book Industry Study GroupDonorsChoose: Support a classroom. Build a future.Charity Ratings and Donor Resources | Charity NavigatorSeeing Novels from Both the Writing and Publishing Sides6 Writing Careers To Consider – Forbes AdvisorHow big will your book advance be? Results of my nonfiction author survey. - Josh BernoffUSPS Ground AdvantageAmazon's New European Sourcing Policies Raise Concerns for U.S. PublishersFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Road to Cuba" by zoze“Welcome Home (30 seconds)” by Enzo Orefice“Shopping Street” by New Library Sounds“Lofi Beat - The Peace of Mind” by Oleksii Abramovych

    Are You a Plotter or a Pantser?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2023 15:26 Transcription Available


    Today we're talking about what happens after you've signed a contract with a publishing house. I'm also asking if you're a plotter or a pantser.Rahva Raamat bookstore in Viru Keskus, Estonia - Featured BookstoreDeath in Tallinn by Allan Martin - Featured AuthorLooking Glass Literary & Media ManagementLiterary — Triangle HouseWattPad Introduces Scheduling FeatureIntroducing Bookstat's Bestseller ListsUSA TODAY Best-selling Booklist is back: What you need to knowFederal Trade Commission Proposes Rule to Ban Fake ReviewsSimon & Schuster Draws Bid From Investor Backed by Abu Dhabi-Based Sovereign Fund - WSJFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Anything for the Blues" by Humans Win"You and Me in Paradise" by Humans Win"Late Summer Night Blues" by The Turquoise Moon"Night Crawler (Tenor Sax)" by zoze"Summer Hop" by zoze

    7 Tips for Landing a Literary Agent

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2023 17:52 Transcription Available


    We've talked this season, and since the inception of this show, about the challenges of landing a literary agent. Today I'm offering 7 practical and actionable tips to help you land an agent.Freakshow Summer by Anthony Bartley - Featured authorSt Rita's Amazing Traveling Bookstore, Tobacco Valley, Montana - Featured bookstoreHiring - Editorial Freelancers AssociationQuery Shark RatesQuery Shark BlogQueryTrackerLayoffs Begin at Penguin Random House as Buyout Departures Come into FocusSimon & Schuster Draws Bid From Investor Backed by Abu Dhabi-Based Sovereign Fund - WSJFake books on AmazonIn OpenAI Copyright Lawsuits, Discovery Complications Likely to Take Center Stage | Legaltech NewsAI and Hollywood StrikesFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Note To Self" by Simon Jomphe Lepine"Blow Off Some Steam" by Ben Bostick"Wasting Gas" by Ben Bostick"Quirky Life" by MoodMode"After All" by Enzo Orefice

    Uninterrupted Writing Tips (Clip Show #7)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2023 25:08 Transcription Available


    I hope you enjoy this bonus episode. Next week, we're on summer break. Do something fun. The week after that, we'll be continuing on with season 4. Thank you so much for listening. As always, you deserved this break. AG Recommends Clause in Publishing and Distribution Agreements Prohibiting AI Training Uses - The Authors GuildFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing Tips

    Generative AI and Copyright Protection for Authors

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2023 16:12 Transcription Available


    Join me on the Overthinking Couch in the Writing Break cafe for what I hope to be a useful overview of artificial intelligence in book publishing today.AG Recommends Clause in Publishing and Distribution Agreements Prohibiting AI Training Uses - The Authors GuildChatGPT Secret Training Data: the Top 50 Books AI Bots Are ReadingThose Fancy Large Language Models Were Trained On eBooks From Smashwords, Without Permission - Publishers LunchAI-created images lose U.S. copyrights in test for new technology | ReutersOpenAI Releases First $20 Subscription Version Of ChatGPT AI ToolThe Age of AI has begun | Bill GatesFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes FactoryStrawberry Daquiri by Sarah AngelI Don't Hate You But Goodbye by Sarah Angel

    3 Hints That It's Time to Stop Writing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2023 13:07 Transcription Available


    We are California dreaming today. As usual, I'm bringing you the latest publishing news. Plus, I'm also sharing 3 ways to know that you are ready to seek out an editor, a literary agent, or beta readers.The Only Black Girls in Town by Brandy Colbert - Featured AuthorThe Salt Eaters Bookshop, Inglewood, CA - Featured BookstoreCCBC Releases Statistics Regarding Diversity in Children's Literature Published in 2022CI2023: Trends in the Children's MarketNaNoWriMoThe Scribe Media Files | Sam Lacrosse | Substack'Eat, Pray, Love' author Elizabeth Gilbert pulls new Russia book after backlash : NPRFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory“Summertime Blues” by Humans Win

    Should You Self-Publish before Landing an Agent?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2023 13:50 Transcription Available


    The road to publishing is not as narrow as it used to be, and today we're reviewing evidence of that, and we have publishing news to discuss, of course.Antigone Books, Tucson, Arizona - Featured BookstoreGLITCH: Book I of the Static Series by Erin Zak and Jackie D - Featured AuthorsCormac McCarthy, ‘No Country for Old Men' author, dies at 89Mobius to Publish Actor Michael Caine's Debut ThrillerOwning Your VoiceLegendary Knopf Editor Robert Gottlieb Dies at 92NYDOC Rescinds Proposal after PEN BacklashHarperCollins, KKR Said to Be Eyeing Simon & SchusterHarperCollins, KKR Emerge as Bidders for Book Publisher Simon & Schuster - WSJFree Style Sheet TemplatesFree Writing TipsMusic licensed from Storyblocks:“More Jam Please” by Raighes Factory"Lofi - Aces" by STÉ"Lonely Dusty Trail" by Jon Presstone"Journey Of Wonder" by Jon Presstone"Yes Or No" by Precarious Perch

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