Podcasts about Reedsy

Mastering Book Cover Design for Amazon & Kindle: A Practical Guide. In the crowded world of self-publishing, your book cover is more than just a pretty picture—it's your first impression, your marketing powerhouse, and the visual hook that can make or break a sale. Whether you're publishing a paperback on Amazon or a Kindle eBook, designing an effective cover is essential. Here's how to make sure yours stands out in the crowded Amazon marketplace. Why Your Book Cover Matters You've heard the saying, “Don't judge a book by its cover,” but let's be honest: readers absolutely do. On Amazon and Kindle, your cover shows up as a thumbnail alongside hundreds of others. A compelling design can make readers stop scrolling and click—while a dull or unprofessional one may get overlooked entirely. Key Differences: Kindle eBook vs. Paperback Cover Before you begin designing, understand the format you're creating for:Kindle eBooks: Require only a front cover. It should be optimized for digital screens and look good at small sizes (thumbnail view).Paperback Books (KDP Print): Require a full cover including front, back, and spine. You'll need to factor in the trim size, page count, and bleed areas.Amazon provides a Cover Calculator & Template Generator for paperbacks:https://kdp.amazon.com/cover-calculator Design Specs for Amazon & Kindle Covers Kindle eBook Cover Requirements:Dimensions: Ideal ratio is 1.6:1 (e.g., 1600 x 2560 pixels).Minimum size: 1000 pixels on the shortest side.Maximum file size: 50MB.File type: JPEG or TIFF.Color: RGB only.Paperback Cover Requirements (KDP Print):File type: PDF for print.Resolution: 300 DPI.Color: CMYK.Bleed: Typically 0.125" on all sides.Spine width: Depends on page count and paper type.Design Principles That Sell 1. Know Your Genre Each genre has visual cues. Romance uses soft, emotional imagery. Thrillers often use dark tones and bold fonts. Non-fiction covers tend to be cleaner and typography-driven. Look at the top 10 books in your category for inspiration. 2. Typography is CrucialUse no more than two fonts.Title should be readable at thumbnail size.Avoid script or decorative fonts unless genre-appropriate.Author name can be smaller but still legible.3. High-Quality Images Avoid using pixelated or stocky-looking images. Invest in high-resolution assets or create custom illustrations/photos. Sites like Unsplash (free) or Shutterstock (premium) are great sources. 4. Balance and Hierarchy Design with clear visual hierarchy:Title firstSubtitle second (if applicable)Author name thirdLeave breathing space. Don't overcrowd. 5. Thumbnail Test Shrink your design to 100 x 160 px. Can you still read the title? Is it still eye-catching? This is how it will appear in Amazon search results. Tools for Designing Book Covers For DIY Authors:Canva (Free & Pro): User-friendly with KDP templates.BookBrush: Designed for authors, with genre templates.Adobe Express: Quick designs with good typography options.For Professional Designers:Adobe Photoshop or InDesign: Full control for advanced design and print-ready files.Affinity Publisher: A powerful InDesign alternative.Using Amazon KDP Cover Creator (Optional) If you're not comfortable with design tools, Amazon's built-in Cover Creator is simple and free. It has templates, font controls, and lets you preview in 3D. However, it's limited in customization, so it's best for basic layouts. Avoid These Common MistakesUsing low-res images or blurry graphicsCentering everything by defaultOveruse of effects like drop shadows or bevelsInconsistent visual tone with the genreMisaligned spine elements on paperbacksIgnoring bleed and trim linesPro Tip: Hire a Designer If You Can A professionally designed cover can significantly boost your credibility and sales. If you're serious about publishing, consider hiring a freelance designer from platforms like Reedsy, 99designs, or Upwork. Always provide your book's genre, blurb, tone, and any visual references you like. Final Thoughts Your book cover is a visual handshake with your reader. On Amazon and Kindle, it's your billboard, brand, and storefront rolled into one. Invest time and care into it. With the right tools, creative direction, and an understanding of what sells, you can design a cover that attracts, engages, and converts browsers into buyers.

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In this episode, we are joined by Tom Bromley, author, ghost writer, and writing teacher who is currently the Head of Learning at Reedsy, where he teaches the How to Write a Novel course, a writing course for authors at all stages of their career looking for insights and guidance on writing their first (or second, or third…) novel. We spoke to Tom about his path to becoming a published author, how his musical talents have helped him write prose, learn more about his ghostwriting career, and get into the How to Write a Novel course he teaches at Reedsy. Tom had some great insights into novel-writing and shared some great stories about students past and present. For those looking to join the course, look no further: the next class begins on April 28th 2025! Listeners of the KWL podcast can use the code WRITINGLIFE to get 10% off the course fee (valid until April 28th 2025). Learn more on Tom's website, and be sure to check out Reedsy and Reedsy's How to Write a Novel course!

ALLi Campaigns Manager Matty Dalrymple talks with Marketing Adviser Ricardo Fayet, co-founder of Reedsy, about the value of professional editing in self-publishing. Fayet explains the types of editing, how to manage costs, and why editors offer more than beta readers. He also discusses when to hire an editor, how editing improves writing, and the limits of AI tools. Sponsors This podcast is proudly sponsored by Bookvault. Sell high-quality, print-on-demand books directly to readers worldwide and earn maximum royalties selling directly. Automate fulfillment and create stunning special editions with BookvaultBespoke. Visit Bookvault.app today for an instant quote. This podcast is also sponsored by Gatekeeper Press, the all-inclusive Gold Standard in Publishing, offering authors 100% rights, royalties, satisfaction and worldwide distribution. Gatekeeper Press, Where Authors are Family. About the Host Matty Dalrymple podcasts, writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage as The Indy Author. She has written books on the business of short fiction and podcasting for authors, and her articles have appeared in Writer's Digest magazine. She serves as the campaigns manager for the Alliance of Independent Authors. Matty is also the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with Rock Paper Scissors; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with The Sense of Death; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts, including Close These Eyes. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. About the Guest Ricardo Fayet is one of the four founders of Reedsy, a marketplace that connects authors with top publishing professionals—from editors to cover designers, book marketers, and literary translators. He is the author of two books on book marketing and a regular speaker at writers' conferences including NINC, Author Nation, InkersCon, and The Self Publishing Show Live. Fayet also serves as the marketing adviser to ALLi. You can find Reedsy online: Website, YouTube, X, and Instagram.

Dogs are Smarter Than People, Writing Exercise, Cool Submission OpportunitySo, we're been talking about dialogue in novels lately and tips about it and the purpose of it. To find any back posts, just head to LIVING HAPPY and search “dialogue.”One of the things that some writing stylists talk about is the three-beat rule, which is credited to Screenwriter Cynthia Whitcomb.Reedsy explains this as:“What this recommends, essentially, is to introduce a maximum of three dialogue ‘beats' (the short phrases in speech you can say without pausing for breath) at a time. Only after these three dialogue beats should you insert a dialogue tag, action beat, or another character's speech.”If it sounds a bit formulaic, well, it is. But it can be really helpful, too, the way formulas usually can.Reedsy made a little graphic to demonstrate all this:Here's another example from Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451:Montag stopped at the door, with his back turned. “Millie?” A silence. “What?” “Millie? Does the White Clown love you?” No answer. “Millie, does—” He licked his lips. “Does your ‘family' love you, love you very much, love you with all their heart and soul, Millie?”There's no Rule of Three here. It's more Rule of Three or Less, which makes it a tiny bit less formulaic, right, and it's natural.What Bradbury does is integrate the dialogue (spoken word) with the dialogue beats (the stopping at the door, the silence, the licking of lips.”That action beat is different from a dialogue tag, which is the she said, he said, we yelled. It is a beat of action or emotion or setting/senses. And the dialogue beat again (which is what the rule is about) is the "short phrases in speech you can say without pausing for breath.:But back to the less-than-three-beat rule. When we look up that at that Bradbury piece, emotions glide right in. He communicates the tension of the scene, right? And those short lines and short bits of talking make it very fast paced.People's brains react to that fast pace and recognize it and look for it in dialogue.PLACE TO SUBMITTHE FABER ACTION! PRIZEFaber launches the Action! Prize in direct response to research from the National Literacy Trust that reveals children's reading enjoyment is at its lowest level in almost two decades, and that the problem is most acute for boys.The prize will be launched in conjunction with Literary Manager and Film/TV Producer Eddie Gamarra, who will be judging the prize alongside Kieran Larwood, author of the World of Podkin One-Ear series, and with the support of EmpathyLab.The Action! Prize, now open to agented and unagented writers in the UK, Ireland and US, calls for fast-paced and filmic, action-packed adventure stories, and offers a publishing contract to the three winners. Entries to the prize need to feature a diverse cast of fully rounded characters in any one of these four age bands: 7–9, 9–11, 12–14, 14+.Faber Publisher Leah Thaxton says:‘We are all alarmed at the falling number of children reading for pleasure, especially when it comes to boys; it is clear they are not finding enough of what they need on the shelves. I'm keen we offer a much wider range of instantly appealing, action-packed stories that will compete with the adrenaline rush of gaming and screens. We know books are vital to children's development, so this prize is a call-out for high octane, filmic, thrilling fiction that will get children hooked (back) into books.'Founder of EmpathyLab, the UK's only charity that focuses on building children's empathy through use of high-quality literature, Miranda McKearney, OBE, says:‘This generation of boys face so many issues, including toxic masculinity, where an empathy education would help. Scientific research shows that empathy is learnable, and that books are a powerful tool to build it. So this Faber prize is a really welcome, practical initiative. Over time it will be a pipeline for author events from male authors, acting as inspiring empathy role models. Right now, our world has never needed empathy more.'Submissions are until January 30. More information is here.DOG TIP OF THE PODDogs like short sentences when it comes to dialogue. Sit. Treat. Walk.People do, too.It keeps our attention.COOL EXERCISEKatherine Cowley has a cool action beats exercise to help.“Write one paragraph in which a character takes a trip to the grocery store. Use just ONE type of action beat (for example, only long-shot action beats, only extreme close-up action beats, or only future action beats).“Then write a new paragraph in which a character takes a trip to the grocery store. This time use as many different types of action beats as possible.”RANDOM THOUGHT LINKMost of today's random thought was brought to you by Carrie being anxious and depressed, but the cool stuff about the wallaby is from here.SHOUT OUT!The music we've clipped and shortened in this podcast is awesome and is made available through the Creative Commons License. Here's a link to that and the artist's website. Who is this artist and what is this song? It's “Summer Spliff” by Broke For Free.WE HAVE EXTRA CONTENT ALL ABOUT LIVING HAPPY OVER HERE! It's pretty awesome. We have a podcast, LOVING THE STRANGE, which we stream biweekly live on Carrie's Facebook and Twitter and YouTube on Fridays. Her Facebook and Twitter handles are all carriejonesbooks or carriejonesbook. But she also has extra cool content focused on writing tips here. Carrie is reading one of her raw poems every once in awhile on CARRIE DOES POEMS. And there you go! Whew! That's a lot! Subscribe

On this episode of The Daily with Syl Stein I am talking about writing tips and we're focusing on the blog by former literary agent and author Nathan Bransford. We are talking all about perspectives and writing mainly the third person omniscient and the third person limited and what is head, jumping in writing and why should we avoid it all through his blog Nathan Bransford provides detailed examples and tips. I've also recommended his books on writing and publishing and also check out his page at NathanBransford.com I also talk about Former literary agent and Editor Rachel Stout check her out at Rachelestout.com Book recommendations : How to Write a Novel by Nathan Bransford How to Publish a Book by Nathan Bransford Other books by Nathan Bransford; Jacob Wonderbar series Check out Reedsy.comCheck out my pages: @thedailywithsylstein InstagramAuthor Sylvia Stein Facebook Email: sylwriter07@gmail.comhttps://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fshoutout.wix.com%2Fso%2Fe6P6_H5lB%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2BYp0NvFG1y2camNxZZ2G9PQG2g5pzQggeRaq6JbMfaKDjp-dFc50R60I_aem_af4pRVQ-Nth9Dc9zPhnjYA&h=AT2K_HsE2KLM4Mp-JW0Wu1t-wsshQrM5T-zO30CvNUwP-oMkUjoUANgoxEep3Yny2D3EEWpwX3VxUZ3tKBGrJwgiqrCM4gejcnxS29heuPt7PumsXNAInNy3xh98fo8gO_gbNtazlB7s0as&s=1

One of the most common questions people ask me about ghostwriting is, “Where do I get clients?” It's a natural question, of course, because all writers who are doing client work would probably like to increase their income and have more consistent work. My answer to these friends is sometimes a little disappointing because almost all of my clients have come to me via referrals from colleagues, friends, and previous clients. A great network takes time to build, but it's worth it because those relationships are the foundation for a client-based business over the long haul. However, there are other sources for client work as well. One of the most popular ones is Reedsy, a marketplace for writers, editors, marketers, and designers. I've asked my friend, Alice Sullivan, to join me for a conversation about Reedsy since she's had a lot of success connecting with ghostwriting clients there over the last few years. Alice Sullivan is a #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling ghostwriter, New York Times bestselling editor (11 times over), collaborator, and speaker. A natural-born storyteller, she has written 64 books and edited over 1,300 titles since 2001. In addition to her NYT and WSJ bestsellers, other books have achieved Amazon bestseller status and won several awards, such as Readers' Favorite, Living Now Book Award, and Nashville's Best Local Children's Book Award. She has written for Forbes, Hay House, Thomas Nelson Publishers (Harper Collins), Abingdon Press, Made for Grace Publishing, World Net Daily, Changing Lives Press, Carpenters Son Publishing, Clovercroft, and KN Literary Arts. Alice specializes in memoir, self-help, personal growth, and leadership because she loves personal stories and practical advice. Her favorite projects challenge her point of view, expand her knowledge, and add meaning to her life. Alice is not just a consummate storyteller and writer. She's also one of the most kind and down-to-earth people I know. In this conversation, I get to ask Alice all my burning questions about getting started on Reedsy. We talk about: Alice's experience on Reedsy. How to connect with clients and be successful there. Alice's income from Reedsy projects. How to get started on Reedsy. How the platform is different than going to clients directly. If you want to expand your client base as a ghostwriter, editor, or designer, you'll love Alice's advice! Make sure to connect with Alice at https://alicesullivan.com.

S.M. Sykes (Scott)Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know S.M. Sykes. Scott Sykes is an author in the young adult (YA) fiction genre. In this episode, we chat about what his career was before he started writing, and what led him to eventually start writing his first novel. After serving in the U.S. Navy, and settling down in Delaware, Scot got inspired to pick up the pen. In addition to his THREE novel series (The Blue Series), Scott has written tons of novellas and short stories. You better believe I ask him to explain the difference to me! We discuss several different writing forums including Medium, and NaNoWriMo, and even some of his social media strategies. The Blue Series consists of: Eyes of Blue, A Dim Blue, and Loss of Blue. Scott thought the series was done there, but the story won't be laid to rest! Expect more books in the series from this tireless indy writer. You can catch Scott at various writing & horror conventions around the country, and don't forget to check out his social media. He posts some pretty fun and inventive videos on Instagram & TikTok.

Audible announces a new royalty model for indie authors publishing direct to their platform while signaling they aren't quite ready to roll it out for ACX account holders. Alessandra Torre is selling a part of her company Authors AI, but is it truly worth $8 million dollars? And, ProWritingAid unveiled their new branding with a statement by the CEO and founder of the company. All that and more in the self-publishing news this week! Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com  Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships  Join Me on Discord - https://DaleLinks.com/Discord Check out my main YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DaleLRoberts  Sources: Book Award Pro - https://DaleLinks.com/BookAwardPro (affiliate link) A new chapter for ProWritingAid - https://prowritingaid.com/new-chapter?afid=6615 ProWritingAid - https://DaleLinks.com/ProWritingAid (affiliate link) Kindlepreneur - https://kindlepreneur.com/ Self-Publishing for New Authors - https://DaleLinks.com/NewAuthors  Dibbly Create - https://DaleLinks.com/DibblyCreate (affiliate link) Authors A.I. - https://authors.ai/  GET A PIECE OF AUTHORS A.I. (Start Engine) - https://www.startengine.com/offering/authorsai  Audible's New Royalty Model: More Opportunities for Authors and Publishers - https://www.audible.com/about/newsroom/audibles-new-royalty-model-more-opportunities-for-authors-and-publishers Streetlib - https://streetlib.com  Win $250 in Reedsy's weekly short story competition - https://blog.reedsy.com/creative-writing-prompts/contests/ Kindle Storyteller Award - https://www.amazon.co.uk/b?ie=UTF8&node=12061299031  Authors Guild Launchpad: Platform Building for Self-Publishing Authors - https://authorsguild.org/event/ag-launchpad-platform-building-for-self-publishing-authors/ Authors Guild Launchpad: Marketing and Promoting Self-Published Books - https://authorsguild.org/event/ag-launchpad-marketing-and-promoting-self-published-books/ Dibbly presents Time Traveler's Guide: Crafting Captivating Historical Fiction Epics - https://omniform1.com/forms/v1/landingPage/5b8fd6e4597ed708a4080856/6699402ed7d48ea3b4e80740 Children's Book Mastery Summit - https://childrensbookmastery.com/childrens-book-mastery-online-summit-2024-registration How to Attract Book Clubs to You and Your Book with DiAnn Mills - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0od-Csqz4iH9AbR1I4RLyut-h4Du7qsJVw#/registration  Credit:  The Alliance of Independent Authors - https://DaleLinks.com/ALLi (affiliate link)  The Hot Sheet - https://hotsheetpub.com  Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts

Send us a Text Message.Episode 220 /  KimBoo York joins us to share how to embrace flexibility and spontaneity in your writing process through discovery writing. Whether you thrive on outlining or prefer a more free-flowing approach, there are different techniques to suit your writing style.

Join James Blatch and Stuart Grant from Digital Authors Toolkit and also the highest rated web designer on Reedsy, as they discuss the future of Author websites, direct selling, and how you can make your website stand out.

Today I interview Alice Sullivan. She is an incredible ghostwriter of memoirs and other books.  We talk about her strategy of getting clients via Reedsy as well as how she's been able to grow from making a few thousand per client to where she is now at 150k per client. Hope you find inspiration and value in this episode. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/timmy-bauer/message

Notes:We've done a previous Fable and the Verbivore conversation on the subject of writing craft books. That episode is here:- Episode 79: Let's talk about craft booksThe Verbivore references several YouTube video essays, interviews, websites, and articles as part of the free resources she loves. They are:YouTube TedEd Writers Workshop Playlist - Favorites include: How to Make Your Writing More Suspenseful by Victoria Smith | Titan of terror: the dark imagination of H.P. Lovecraft - Silvia Moreno-García | How to write descriptively - Nalo HopkinsonYouTube Ted Talks on Writing Playlist - Favorites include: Your elusive creative genius: Elizabeth Gilbert | The mystery of storytelling: Julian Friedmann | The clues to a great story: Andrew Stanton Diane Callahan - Quotidian Writer YouTube Channel - Favorites include: How to Title Your Novel: The Complete Writing GuideLike Stories of Old YouTube Channel - Favorites include: Lighting the Beacons, and Other Perfect Movie MetaphorsActors on Actors Playlist by Variety - Favorites include: Cilian Murphy & Margot Robbie | Greta Lee & Andrew Scott Directors on Directors Playlist by Variety Favorite Websites- Writers Helping Writers & One Stop for Writers - Searching emotion thesaurus by topic and writing craft blog - MasterClass.com Articles - Use key words to find a plethora of well written articles on a specific writing related topics or click “Writing” button to bring up all of their craft articles- WritersDigest.com - Thoughtful and well researched articles on the writing craft for a variety of stages of writing- Reedsy.com blog - Useful and in depth articles on a variety of writing craft related subjects - LitHub - Honest interview essays from writers on their experiences and processBooks Mentioned:- Wired for Story by Lisa Cron - How to Make a Living as a Writer by James Scott Bell - Gentle Writing Advice: How to Be a Writer Without Destroying Yourself by Chuck Wendig - Ten Things About Writing: Build Your Story, One Word at a Time by Joanne Harris- Getting Into Character: Seven Secrets A Novelist Can Learn From Actors by Brandilyn CollinsMusic from: https://filmmusic.io'Friendly day' by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) Licence: CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

The term "self-publishing" doesn't mean that you sit in a cabin in the woods all by yourself and emerge with a published book as if you'd done it all singlehandedly.It's rare to find one person who has all the skills required to turn an idea into a physical book. We need cover designers, formatters, web designers, assistants, and more. You might be self-publishing, but you will need some help.But what if you don't know anyone who can help? Where can you find skilled professionals who can produce the high-quality work your book deserves?I asked Ricardo Fayet, the cofounder of Reedsy, a curated community of book professionalsIn this week's episode, you'll learnHow to search Reedsy to find experienced professionals who specialize in your genreHow Reedsy vets the professionals in their marketplaceHow Reedsy makes money and saves you money at the same timeListen in to discover how Reedsy can help indie and traditional authors create beautiful, compelling, and marketable books, and find all the related links in the blog version.Support the show

Have you ever started writing a story, and the words rush onto the page. But then you start worrying that your writing or your ideas aren't good enough.You start rewriting chapters over and over again. You can't shake that voice in the back of your head that says you're doing this wrong. Something isn't right, but you can't pinpoint what that is. Or worse—you scrap the whole project and give up. In today's episode, Erin shares how finding the right editor can help you avoid or blow through all of that confusion and doubt. You'll also learn the major differences between development editors, inline editors, and proofreaders. Erin also shares when beta readers fall into the picture and what type of feedback to watch out for. You'll also get the answers to what these editors do, when's the right time to use their services, how much they cost, and what you should look for in order to find a quality editor. So stay tuned to find out which editor you might need right now and how you can find your right editor.Editing w/ Parents Who Write: Ready to stop circling around your manuscript? As an experienced professional editor, I can help you finish your book with confidence and direction. Learn more by visiting ParentsWhoWrite.com/editing, and book a free 30-minute call with me to discuss what's right for you. Connect with Parents Who Write: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parentswhowrite Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentswhowrite Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/parentswhowrite  Book a free 30-minute consultation call to learn about my editing services: https://calendly.com/parentswhowrite/30min-meeting Resources discussed during the show: Reedsy.com Ready to stop circling around your manuscript? As an experienced professional editor, I can help you finish your book with confidence and direction. Learn more by visiting ParentsWhoWrite.com/editing, and book a free 30-minute call with me to discuss what's right for you.

Amazon Product descriptions have changed in a pretty big way. Email marketing is experiencing a huge shake-up with massive changes coming through Google and Yahoo. And, GetCovers shows you how to spot AI-generated images through seven unique ways. All that and more in the self-publishing news this week! Subscribe to The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com Join Channel Memberships - https://DaleLinks.com/Memberships Join Me on Discord - https://DaleLinks.com/Discord  Sources: Audiobooks Are Booming. Spotify Wants in on the Action. - https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/29/books/spotify-audiobooks.html How to Сheck if the Stock Image Is AI-generated: 7 Workable Ways - https://getcovers.com/blog/how-to-detect-ai-generated-images/ Streetlib Community - https://community.streetlib.com/ ProWritingAid presents: Romance Writers' Week 2024 - https://DaleLinks.com/Romance (affiliate link) BookMarCon - https://bookbrush.com/bookmarcon/ Author Interview with Dale L. Roberts - https://youtu.be/tQLu9_H-OUo?si=bk8nKAspgUBGKgS8  Credit:  The Hot Sheet - https://hotsheetpub.com  CraveBooks - https://cravebooks.com Reedsy - https://reedsy.com PublishDrive - https://DaleLinks.com/PublishDrive (referral link) Streetlib - https://streetlib.com Apple Books for Authors - https://authors.apple.com/  Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts

Authors Joy E. Rancatore and Mea Smith encourage creatives to play this holiday season and jumpstart their creativity with prompts. In this episode of QWERTY Writing Life, they give five types of prompts for creatives and then share examples from their lives of how each can be used. Check out the links referenced in the show: Blog Battle: https://bbprompt.com/ Tales of the Faerie Shepherds (stories by Joy, many inspired by Blog Battle prompts): https://joyerancatore.com/my-writings/tales-of-the-faerie-shepherds/ Reedsy has a weekly writing prompt contest you can have fun with: https://blog.reedsy.com/creative-writing-prompts/contests/ FOR A BONUS PROMPT AND IMPROMPTU EXAMPLES OF HOW IT'S USED BY BOTH JOY AND MEA: Subscribe to the QWERTY's monthly newsletter (be sure to click the box next to “opt in to receive news and updates” and check your spam for the confirmation email): https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/z9f1z5 Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qwertywritinglife Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/qwertywritinglife/ Intro music created and performed by Brent Smith. Continue this week's chat via email at qwertywritinglife [at] gmail [dot] com. For more information about the QWERTYs, the show and their writing craft book series, head over to https://qwertywritinglife.com. Subscribe in your favorite podcast portal. Or, if you'd rather see their grinning faces, ring the bell on their YouTube channel. Please share our podcast with your friends, too! For more about Mea and her writing, visit storyswell.net. Joy and her details can be found at joyerancatore.com.

When I was a baby newspaper reporter, one of my editors, Grady Holloway, used to call me over to his desk. A lot. I loved Grady. He had this great, grizzly beard before it was cool, wore a dirty hat, had been married to an ambassador's daughter, rode horses, drove cab in Colorado when all the beat poets and journalists were out there, and liked noir mysteries. But whenever he pulled me over to his big metal desk in the newsroom, I knew that I was about to get advised. “Cici,” he'd say with this perfect, gruff whiskey voice, “you're a great writer, but have you ever thought about . . .” And then he'd tell me something I hadn't thought about. Passive verbs. Starting sentences strong with the important stuff first. The dreaded -ing -Ings are addictive like all sexy grammatical elements are. They might not be as addictive as the debonair em-dash (—) or the lovely ellipses (…) or the goddess we know as the parenthetical ( ), but they are pretty close. When you put -ing at the end of a verb that verb becomes progressive. You feel like the verb is happening right now in the present even if your tense is the past. Like this . . . She was running, breathing hard and fast, shallow breaths that couldn't quite make it all the way into her lungs. Running so that he wouldn't catch up. And the ground was breaking beneath her, dead people's hands reaching through the woods' surface, fingers trying to clutch her sneakers, her ankles, even the laces. Anything. Scary, right? Or, um . . . kind of? Now let's see that without the -ings on there. She ran, her breath hard and fast, shallow breaths that couldn't quite make it all the way into her lungs. She ran so that he wouldn't catch up. And the ground broke beneath her. Dead people's hands reached through the woods' surface. Fingers tried to clutch her sneakers, her ankles, even the laces. Anything. Wait. They both kind of work, don't they? Absolutely. Sometimes you want to use those -ings for impact. But just like the em-dash, ellipses, and parenthetical statements, there can be too much of a good thing. Crying because of the creepy man racing after her for five terrifying minutes, Carrie raced through the woods trying to get away and breathing out heavily even as horrifying zombie hands reached through the dirt and pine needles, hoping to grasp her shoes and bringing her down beneath the surface with them. You can see the difference now right? We have present participles, adjectives, progressive verbs and even a gerund. Those -ings are doing a lot of work here and there's just too darn many of them. And what happens in that passage? The reader starts to get bored. It doesn't feel fluid. The mind sort of numbs from all those -ings. And the bleed into each other, blending. Yes, yes, I know! Blending has an -ing. Now, let me try to do it without -ings. She cried. She ran through the woods, each breath a prayer, an intake of hope as her feet raced across the pine needles. He was close. Too close. The thud of his footsteps pounded after her. The dirt trembled but not from her. Hands. Dead, decayed hands somehow broke through the hard ground. One poked up just as her sneaker hit the ground. It reached for her. Missed. Another tried. Another. Different again, right? Same scene. No -ings. It's pretty cool when you can see the difference of tone and feel that happen just by playing with one tiny element of the language. DOG TIP FOR LIFE Notice things. Don't drop the goods when you're running away. PLACE TO SUBMIT Rejoinder. The Archival is Political special issue. Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, comics, cross-genre, drama, graphic narratives, interviews, art, photography. No fee. Deadline: December 15, 2023. Ploughshares. Regular Reading Period. Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, translations. $3 fee (free for subscribers). Deadline: January 15, 2024. Burnside Review Press. Book Contest. Poetry. $25 fee. Prize: $1,000, book publication, 10 author copies. Deadline: December 31, 2023. COOL WRITING EXERCISE This one is from Reedsy, Play a game of Truth and Dare with your characters Most of us remember “truth or dare” from childhood sleepovers. Some would bravely declare “DARE!” and wait for the inevitably embarrassing challenge. Others would hazard a “truth…?” and wait nervously in their sleeping bags while the challenger mulled over which deeply provoking and juicy question to ask. To dive deeper into your character's emotional depths, ask a round of questions — both probing and seemingly innocuous alike. (Hey, you never know when your character's favorite choice of ice cream topping might come in handy!) We recommend downloading our free character profile template — with the help of this worksheet, you'll be raring to go. BEST RANDOM THOUGHT EVER Well, it's just that . . . This is the best song ever. SHOUT OUT! The music we've clipped and shortened in this podcast is awesome and is made available through the Creative Commons License. Here's a link to that and the artist's website. Who is this artist and what is this song? It's “Summer Spliff” by Broke For Free. WE HAVE EXTRA CONTENT ALL ABOUT LIVING HAPPY OVER HERE! It's pretty awesome. We have a podcast, LOVING THE STRANGE, which we stream biweekly live on Carrie's Facebook and Twitter and YouTube on Fridays. Her Facebook and Twitter handles are all carriejonesbooks or carriejonesbook. But she also has extra cool content focused on writing tips here. Carrie is reading one of her raw poems every once in awhile on CARRIE DOES POEMS. And there you go! Whew! That's a lot!

Stu Grant has been working in the publishing industry for over 8 years- largely with the team at Self Publishing Formula and is currently the highest rated Author Website designer on Reedsy (maybe even the world!) with his company Digital Authors Toolkit. Curious about what makes an author website world class? Tune in to find out.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Spotify is rolling out even more changes to the audiobook distribution service, Findaway Voices. The Marketplace is going away after a short run on Findaway Voices, Spotify Premium might not be what audiobook rights holders want, and more. Also, Reedsy shares the difference a professional cover design can make in your book sales. And, Kobo Writing Life updated their Kobo Plus reports and analytics. All that and more in the self-publishing news! Join Channel Memberships - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl9CjdZQtzufqgYx0CidSbA/join Join my community at: Discord - http://dalelinks.com/discord Sources: Dibbly Create - https://DaleLinks.com/DibblyCreate (affiliate link) Holiday Ordering Deadlines - https://mail.barnesandnoble.com/H/2/v60000018b41022003a1e7f46e96c660a0/87ce7d25-327d-4d48-9056-715e3f72bb9c/HTML  IngramSpark Recommended Order Dates - https://www.ingramspark.com/%F0%9F%93%A6act-fast-recommended-order-dates-and-book-nominations LaterPress - https://www.laterpress.com/ There is No Marketing Magic Bullet: Reaching More Readers Podcast, With Dale L. Roberts and Holly Greenland - https://selfpublishingadvice.org/podcast-marketing-magic-bullet/  GetCovers - https://DaleLinks.com/GetCovers - use code TREAT20 (affiliate link) Kobo Plus Data - https://preview.mailerlite.com/a0s2y7l2v8/2332257606858446275/y8b6/  Can a Professional Book Cover Double Your Sales? - https://blog.reedsy.com/guide/book-design/redesign/ The NEW Findaway Voices by Spotify - https://www.findawayvoices.com/dale  Spotify Premium Analytics - https://my.findawayvoices.com/reporting/spotify-premium-analytics  Spotify's new audiobook streaming could have ‘devastating effect', says Society of Authors - https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/oct/11/spotify-audiobook-streaming-devastating-effect-authors No Fakes Act wants to protect actors and singers from unauthorized AI replicas - https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/12/23914915/ai-replicas-likeness-law-no-fakes-copyright Game-Changing Creator Insights for 2024 - https://assets.lulu.com/media/unbounce/lulu-tilt-creator-insights.pdf Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts

This episode is sponsored by Reedsy.Today we are discussing world building in fiction with  Emma Jackson, author of the Best Selling A MISTLETOE MIRACLE. Emma is also a host on the SFFRomCast, a podcast dedicated to celebrating fantasy and sci-fi romance. Her latest book, WITCH YOU WEREN'T HERE, a witchy romcom full of misbehaving magic, brother's best friend angst, and only one bed shenanigans, is available now, just in time for Halloween.If you want to keep the book chat going, join my new Book Club on Facebook, which welcomes fans of all genres.Empowered Author Marketing ShowCheck out the Empowered Author Book Marketing & Publicity Show, taking place online from November 3-5. You can get 10% off tickets with my affiliate link here.More about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Next course starts on September 18.Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

Join co-hosts Adrian M. Gibson and M.J. Kuhn as they delve into a mini-masterclass on Plotting 101 with author Greta Kelly. During the episode, Greta plots out the essentials for outlining a novel, including what plotting and outlining are, how it can help stimulate your creativity and focus, evolving plotting processes, planning character and story arcs, tools/methods/software for plotting, going from outline to first draft to edits, helpful writing resources and more. NOTE: This is part two of a two-part chat with Greta. Click here to check out part one. RESOURCES MENTIONED: - Wonderbook by Jeff VanderMeer: https://amzn.to/3tBteg1 - Steering the Craft by Ursula K. Le Guin: https://amzn.to/3tHfyjO - The Kick-Ass Writer by Chuck Wendig: https://amzn.to/3FqFQcI - https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/ - Chuck Wendig's Terrible Minds blog: https://terribleminds.com/ - https://thewritelife.com/ - Susan Dennard's blog: https://susandennard.com/for-writers/ - Query Shark: https://queryshark.blogspot.com/ - Reedsy (editors, designers and marketers): https://reedsy.com/ SUPPORT THE SHOW: - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (for exclusive bonus episodes, author readings, book giveaways and more) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch shop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (for a selection of tees, tote bags, mugs, notebooks and more) - Subscribe to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FanFiAddict YouTube channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, where this and every other episode of the show is available in full video - Rate and review SFF Addicts on your platform of choice, and share us with your friends EMAIL US WITH YOUR QUESTIONS & COMMENTS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠sffaddictspod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ABOUT OUR GUEST: Greta Kelly is the author of the upcoming The Queen of Days, as well as the Warrior Witch Duology (The Frozen Crown and The Seventh Queen). Find Greta on ⁠Twitter⁠, ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠her personal website⁠⁠⁠⁠.  ABOUT OUR HOSTS: Adrian M. Gibson is a podcaster, writer and illustrator, and is currently working on his debut novel. Find Adrian on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠his personal website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. M.J. Kuhn is the author of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Among Thieves⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, her debut novel, and its sequel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thick as Thieves⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Find M.J. on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠her personal website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. FOLLOW SFF ADDICTS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FanFiAddict Book Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC: Intro: "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Into The Grid⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠" by MellauSFX Outro: “⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Galactic Synthwave⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠” by Divion --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sff-addicts/message

This episode is sponsored by Reedsy.It's Friday and we've got an extra special quiz for you about Love Stories. Our quizmaster today is Beth O'Leary, writer of five best-selling romcoms, including The Wake Up Call. Let us know how you did! The best way to do that is to join my new Book Club on Facebook, which welcomes fans of all genres.More about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

So far we've talked (and written) twice about character misbeliefs. Then we took a baby break because we're like that, but we're back on it now, my friends. Those earlier posts are linked below. First off to recap, the big lie or character misbelief in your story is what motivates them or causes them to act in a certain way. If your character grows in a positive way, during the story, they usually realize by the end that the lie was a big ole lie and not a glorious simple truth and voila—life is better. Your lie has to move the plot forward and it has to relate to your story's theme. According to LitCharts, theme is just “a universal idea, lesson, or message explored throughout a work of literature.” So a character lie is something like “MIGHT MAKES RIGHT” because your character believes this with all their mighty heart. The theme might be love is more powerful than might. Often, the theme disproves the lie, right? Cool. Now, when you're building characters for your novel and building the plot around them, you want to use that theme and that lie to make your story resonate, to make your readers or audience feel for the characters involved and root for them to stop lying to themselves and get some wisdom (in the form of the story's theme). So basically, you find the theme and the opposite (kind of tweaked) is usually the character's misbelief. So, here's how it goes, step by step for those of you who like steps: Figure out the theme. Think of what's the opposite of the truth of that theme (the lie). Think about why your main character believes this hideous lie. Write a little scene about it. Call it backstory. Think deeply about whether it actually needs to be in the story AS SCENE or if it can be sprinkled in. Think about other moments that made your poor honey of character believe this BS. Think about how believing this lie has totally messed up your character's life right now in the story. Figure out if your main does something that they think sparks joy because of this BS lie but they are totally wrong? How does your character go after a goal that deals with the lie or the theme? This is the plot of your book. Cool, right? DOG TIP FOR LIFE Every once in awhile reassess the things you believe about yourself and the world. Are they really true? Why do you even believe them? What's the theme of your life? It sounds like we've had some Mary Jane, but seriously, as Kira Newman at the Greater Good asks, “If your life were a movie, where would the plot be headed right now? “You may not be immortalized in film anytime soon, but your life is still a story. According to psychologists, we all have an internalized narrative that explains how we became the person we are today and where we are headed tomorrow. Like any Hollywood blockbuster, this narrative has settings, scenes, a plot, characters, and themes.” WRITING TIP OF THE POD A lot of books are flat not because they aren't clever or the plot doesn't have cool things. They are flat because the characters are. The characters are often flat because there's no big lie that's part of their motivation. PLACE TO SUBMIT Exploration and Recovery: Mental Illness and The Awakenings Review Year-round “The Awakenings Review is an award-winning literary magazine committed to publishing poetry, short stories, nonfiction, and photography by writers, poets, and artists who write from experience with mental illness: either in themselves, family members, or friends. Located in the Chicago area but international in scope, our print publication is one of the nation's leading journals of this genre. By its nature, mental illness is a troubling, distressing, and painful experience. At The Awakenings Review we love to get works of renewal and healing, a positive outcome to your suffering and distress. We are currently accepting submissions for our Spring 2024 issue. Please read our submission guidelines at www.AwakeningsProject.org.” RANDOM EXERCISE FOR THEME Over on the Reedsy blog, there is a post about finding your novel's theme. You can read it in full over there, but we're going to encapsulate it here: Write nouns that deal with your novel. Hobbits. Friendship. Powerful ring. Hot elves. Pick one to be your center noun. Power. Make a thematic statement with that theme. Absolute power corrupts absolutely. THOSE LINKS I WAS TALKING ABOUT Write Better NowNeither of Us are Lookers, Seventh Grade Insults and Character Misbeliefs Carrie Jones · Sep 28 Read full story Write Better NowYOUR BIG LIE OR CHARACTER'S MISBELIEF Carrie Jones · Sep 21 We're doing a hybrid writing tip and podcast this week. All the important stuff is written down here. All the fun stuff and Shaun aka The Talent is in the podcast where we talk about this important writing stuff and other things. So, let's get started. Read full story MORE LINKS TO HELP YOU OUT Poop there it is SHOUT OUT! The music we've clipped and shortened in this podcast is awesome and is made available through the Creative Commons License. Here's a link to that and the artist's website. Who is this artist and what is this song? It's “Summer Spliff” by Broke For Free. WE HAVE EXTRA CONTENT ALL ABOUT LIVING HAPPY OVER HERE! It's pretty awesome. We have a podcast, LOVING THE STRANGE, which we stream biweekly live on Carrie's Facebook and Twitter and YouTube on Fridays. Her Facebook and Twitter handles are all carriejonesbooks or carriejonesbook. But she also has extra cool content focused on writing tips here. Carrie is reading one of her raw poems every once in awhile on CARRIE DOES POEMS. And there you go! Whew! That's a lot! Share Living Happy and Write Better Now! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This episode is sponsored by Reedsy.Excellent writing advice with writer Beth O'Leary, Sunday Times Bestselling author of The Wake Up Call. If you want to keep the book chat going, join my new Book Club on Facebook, which welcomes fans of all genres.Empowered Author Marketing ShowCheck out the Empowered Author Book Marketing & Publicity Show, taking place online from November 3-5. You can get 10% off tickets with my affiliate link here.More about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Next course starts on September 18.Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

This episode is sponsored by Reedsy.In today's quiz, author and best-selling ghostwriter Tom Bromley tests our knowledge of ghostwritten books. I managed to dredge my memory for some of those answers!  A thoroughly enjoyable quiz and I got 6/10. Let us know how you did! The best way to do that is to join my new Book Club on Facebook, which welcomes fans of all genres. Tom's ContactsWebsite: https://www.tombromley.co.uk/Instagram: @tombromleyesqEmpowered Author Marketing ShowCheck out the Empowered Author Book Marketing & Publicity Show, taking place online from November 3-5. You can get 10% off tickets with my affiliate link here.More about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

This episode is sponsored by Reedsy.Today, I'm excited to be chatting with Tom Bromley, who has basically done every job in publishing and is now the Head of Learning for Reedsy. Tom's been working in publishing for 25 years, starting off as a bookseller in Waterstones. Then he went to work at Little Brown as a copywriter. From there he went on to be a commissioning editor, editorial director, creative writing instructor and ghostwriter, which is what we are going to be speaking with Tom about today. Tom's ContactsWebsite: https://www.tombromley.co.uk/Instagram: @tombromleyesqEmpowered Author Marketing ShowCheck out the Empowered Author Book Marketing & Publicity Show, taking place online from November 3-5. You can get 10% off tickets with my affiliate link here.More about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

This episode is sponsored by Reedsy.A follow-up chat with author David Bickford, former Under Secretary of State and Legal Director to the British Intelligence Agencies, MI5 & MI6. His spy thriller book, Katya, is available now (audio as well) and his second book, The Informer, will be out on December 1.David's social mediaInstagramEmpowered Author Marketing ShowCheck out the Empowered Author Book Marketing & Publicity Show, taking place online from November 3-5. You can get 10% off tickets with my affiliate link here.More about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Next course starts on September 18.Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

Don't participate half-heartedly or use work that you have not yet edited or assume that there is a less talented writing pool participating in the contest. You should prepare for the competition assuming everyone else is taking the process just as seriously as you are. - Ran Walker The post S46 Bonus – About Writing Contests with Rebecca van Laer of Reedsy appeared first on Writing Roots.

This episode is sponsored by Reedsy. Anita Chapman is a self-published author. Her first book, The Venice Secret, came out in March 2023, and in its first six months reached number one in four Amazon UK Kindle charts, including Historical Fiction, and made it into the top one hundred in the overall Amazon UK Kindle chart. It's also had 2.5 million Kindle Unlimited page reads and reached almost 2000 ratings/reviews during that time.Website and social media links:Website: https://anitachapman.com (also found at https://neetsmarketing.com).Twitter: @neetschapman Facebook Page: Anita Chapman Author Instagram: @neetschapman TikTok: @neetschapman Empowered Author Marketing ShowCheck out the Empowered Author Book Marketing & Publicity Show, taking place online from November 3-5. You can get 10% off tickets with my affiliate link here.More about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Next course starts on September 18.Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

Which formatting software works best for the self-published author? Today's guest and Linda cover free and for-purchase options.Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I'm your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I'm so glad you're listening in. During this episode, you'll learn the Publishing Success Skills for the Indie Author part 2. My industry expert is…Sara Turnquist.  Sara is a coffee-loving, word-slinging, clean Historical Romance author of over 20 published books. She loves those odd little tidbits of history that are stranger than fiction. That's what inspires her. And a good love story. She lives happily with her Prince Charming and their gaggle of minions. Today, we cover both free and for-purchase formatting software options for Indie authors.D2D, Reedsy, Scrivener, Atticus, and Vellum software choices. Udemy CoursesLINKSSara TurnquistKentucky Christian Writers ConferenceSara Turnquist's Formatting Options Giveaway Kentucky Conference YouTubeChristian Editors NetworkA Convenient Risk99 Designs for Web DesignSara's Books, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, FacebookSara Turnquist on TwitterEnjoy our content? Support this podcast.About your host - Linda GoldfarbLinda is a multi-published, award-winning author, audiobook narrator, international speaker, and board-certified Christian life coach. Linda and her hubby, Sam, experience a new adventure every day with four adult children and many grandchildren. She loves sipping frothed coffee with friends and traveling with Sam.Visit Your Best Writing Life website.Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing LifeAbout your host - Linda GoldfarbAwarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Bing-Worthy Podcast

This episode is sponsored by REEDSY.Kate Sawyer, author of The Stranding and This Family, shares her top writing advice for authors. Find Kate on Instagram: @MsKateSawyerKate Sawyer websiteMore about our sponsorsReedsy is a publishing eco-system for writers at any stage in their publishing journey. We provide a wealth of free educational resources, encourage writers to build a creative habit with our short story contest, and offer a high-quality marketplace to find the perfect publishing professional. We're here to support aspiring authors every step of the way as they fulfil their publishing dreams.Check out their new HOW TO WRITE A NOVEL course with author and bestselling ghostwriter, Tom Bromley. Next course starts on September 18.Instagram: @reedsy_HQTwitter: @ReedsyHQYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpo0MkTAyEl73PmIVs8CQvQ Keep in touchOrder Chasing the Light, Julia's sequel to Shooters, here.I love our listeners, and I want to hear from you. Please leave a review on one of my podcast platforms and chat with me on social media:Twitter: @twolitchicksInstagram: @two_lit_chicksTikTok: @two_lit_chicksEmail: hello@twolitchicks.orgThank you so much for listening.Two Lit Chicks Podcast is recorded and produced by Your Voice HereFor a free 30-minute consultation with Jeremy about podcasting get in touch with the code TLCLOVE.Support the show

Mark interviews Ricardo Fayet of Reedsy about their new online course on How to Write a Novel. Prior to the interview, Mark shares and reflects on a brief industry update related to Amazon's recent AI-related change, comments from recent episodes, and word about this episode's sponsor. Reedsy contains an online listing of vetted professionals from across the industry, including editors, cover designers, and marketing experts. Get $20 off hiring a pro through Reedsy using Mark's Reedsy affiliate link. In the interview, Mark and Ricardo talk about: Ricardo's persona and image being directly attached to Reedsy When Reedsy started and what the main idea behind it was, and the value proposition to authors How only 3 to 5% of the professionals who apply to be on Reedsy actually make it through The Reedsy online writing tool that you can use to write and export professional looking ePub and print-ready PDF files Some of the future development plans for the Reedsy writing platform, including collaboration with an editor Ricardo's HOW TO MARKET A BOOK, which is free in eBook edition The 2nd book he wrote and released in Jan 2023 called AMAZON ADS FOR AUTHORS which is the 2nd book in the Reedsy Guides series Some of the reasoning behind why one of the books is free in eBook and the other has a retail price associated with it (hint: it's a marketing tip) Important marketing information that Ricardo would want authors to know The new Reedsy course that runs 3 months and helps authors work through the first draft of their novel The various ongoing cohorts for the course, including one that opens in Sept and another that starts Oct 30th, to co-incide with NaNoWriMo, then the next that'll start in January 2024 The term "Reedsian" which is used to denote Reedsy employees Tom Bromley, the instructor they hired to teach the How to Write a Novel course The intial launch price for the course, which is $1000 - and that it'll be going up shortly after the September launch Ricardo's previous attempts to try to write a novel and how this course might be one that he himself can benefit from Some of the things that surprised Ricardo about Reedsy since it's launch nearly 10 years ago How to find Reedsy and Ricardo What Ricardo is looking forward to about the future of our industry And more...   After the interview Mark reflects the overall supportive nature of the publishing industry   Links of Interest: Reedsy Reedsy's How to Market a Book Online Course Subscriptions for Authors Episode 018 - Finding The Right Professional with Ricardo from Reedsy Episode 006 - What's Wrong with Indie Publishing (Mark's "10-year-olds playing soccer" analogy) Mark's Wide for the Win Update Page YouTube Video: OH NO! Is Amazon Anti AI? Buy Mark a Coffee Patreon for Stark Reflections Best Book Ever Podcast Lovers Moon Podcast The Relaxed Author Buy eBook Direct Buy Audiobook Direct Publishing Pitfalls for Authors An Author's Guide to Working with Libraries & Bookstores Wide for the Win Mark's Canadian Werewolf Books This Time Around (Short Story) A Canadian Werewolf in New York Stowe Away (Novella) Fear and Longing in Los Angeles Fright Nights, Big City Lover's Moon Hex and the City The Canadian Mounted: A Trivia Guide to Planes, Trains and Automobiles Yippee Ki-Yay Motherf*cker: A Trivia Guide to Die Hard   Ricardo Fayet is one of the four founders of Reedsy, a marketplace connecting authors to the world's top publishing talent--from editors to cover designers, book marketers, or literary translators. He's the author of two books on marketing for authors, and a regular presenter at several prestigious writers' conferences: NINC, 20BooksVegas, and The Self Publishing Show Live, among others.   The introductory, end, and bumper music for this podcast (“Laser Groove”) was composed and produced by Kevin MacLeod of www.incompetech.com and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, we simplify the sometimes complicated landscape of book editing, clarifying the various editing stages. From developmental editing that shapes the overarching structure to line editing that refines prose to copyediting that makes sure grammar and syntax are correct, you'll discover the important roles each phase plays in refining a manuscript's clarity and impact.You'll also hear my tips for creating an effective editor-author partnership (not to mention how and where to find a great editor to begin with!).   RESOURCES MENTIONEDJoanna Hardis's new book: Just Do Nothing: A Paradoxical Guide to Getting Out of Your WayBlog post: What a Good Book Editor REALLY DoesSource for book editors: Reedsy.comSource for book editors: Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA)Blog post on average editing rates(Another) blog post on average editing rates ELIZABETH'S EDITING OPENINGSI continue to be incredibly passionate about partnering with authors as their editor, and I accept new editing clients as my schedule permits. I typically work on fiction (rom-com, women's fiction, contemporary romance), entrepreneurship, self-help, memoir, and business. To discuss available openings, please email me at elizabeth@elizabethlyons.com. To see a sample of the books I've edited and learn more about my process and rates, click here. Thanks so much for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!To see all the ways we can work together to get your book written, published, and launched, visit publishaprofitablebook.com/work-with-elizabeth

A recounting of the terror filled moments hunted by... something in the dark woods. A story created at the prompt provided by Reedsy.com "Start your story with an unusual sound being heard" https://blog.reedsy.com/short-story/6g70s7/

"I'm the other kind of writer. I don't write every day. I don't have set hours that I write (and I know I should). But I get there eventually...I want it to be an enjoyable process." --Heidi Eliason Have you ever felt suffocated by your routine and responsibilities, or just longed for some adventure? Heidi Eliason did, so at the age of 45 she quit her job, sold her house, bought a motorhome, and embarked on a five-year road trip with her dog, Rylie. It was a journey that transformed her life. Through memoir, she recounts the challenges of managing the Green Monster--her motorhome--traveling in Mexico, and getting derailed by Mr. Wrong. She learned--sometimes the hard way--that chasing the corporate ladder and storybook romance was not always a sure route to happiness. She struggled with insecurities, faced her fears, and dug her way out of depression. Today I talk with Heidi about her process to write the story of this journey. She hopes that her book, Confessions of a Middle-Aged Runaway, may help others to find the courage to jump off the hamster wheel of the conventional dream and make a transformative journey of their own. And perhaps you will be inspired, by our conversation today, to write about YOUR journey! Here are a couple of resources she mentioned in today's interview: Reedsy.com Ebooklaunch.com IngramSpark.com Draft2Digital.com You can find her book ⁠here ⁠and ⁠here ⁠and on her website ⁠here⁠. You can check out Heidi's writing editing services here. She belongs to The California Writer's Club and the Nonfiction Authors Association. She mentioned several books that she found inspiring. They were... On Writing by Stephen King The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr Big Magic by Melissa Gilbert Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg⁠, and The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan: The Professional Guide to Profitable Self-Publishing by Stephanie Chandler Watch our conversation at ⁠https://youtu.be/bxm0xx2v3vA Get free monthly writing prompts and more information about our Sidetracked Legacies membership ⁠⁠at ⁠https://sidetrackedsisters.com/⁠ Check out LisaHoffmanCoaching ⁠⁠at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lisahoffmancoaching/⁠ ⁠#overcomingwritersblock⁠ ⁠#writersblock⁠ ⁠#blankpage⁠ ⁠#SidetrackedSisters⁠ ⁠#SidetrackedLegacies⁠ ⁠#legacybuilding⁠ ⁠#LisaHoffmanCoaching⁠ 

"If you have an idea, you should run with it. That idea was given to you for a reason, and you...YOU are the person who is supposed to take that idea and make something out of it." -- Melanie Gareau Today I talk with Melanie Gareau. She is a parent, educator, and author who lost a student to suicide and the experience shattered her heart. As a form of self-therapy, she turned to writing. This writing in turn developed into a resource for teenagers and young adults--WHY ME? What now? Melanie knew that kids don't want or need to be told what to do or what to think. There are enough people trying to do that already. Instead, she wants to empower teens to talk, ask for help, find support, and do what feels right for them. Her book is a resource with stories and practical advice to empower readers. The struggle is real, but it is possible to meet life's challenges and come out the other side stronger and more resilient. Here are a couple of resources she mentioned in today's interview: Reedsy.com Bigmoosepublishing.com You can find her book here and here and on her website here. She is also on social media on Facebook and Instagram. Watch our conversation at https://youtu.be/Dgfsaw_3zGo Get free monthly writing prompts and more information about our Sidetracked Legacies membership ⁠⁠at https://sidetrackedsisters.com/ Check out LisaHoffmanCoaching ⁠⁠at https://www.instagram.com/lisahoffmancoaching/ #overcomingwritersblock #writersblock #blankpage #SidetrackedSisters #SidetrackedLegacies #legacybuilding #LisaHoffmanCoaching #melaniegareau #whymewhatnow

My guest this episode is Ricardo Fayet, a cofounder of Reedsy, a marketplace connecting authors to editors, cover designers, book marketers, translators, and other professionals. Also, full disclosure, I am also a developmental editor for Reedsy. As for Ricardo, when he's not coming up with new and expanded services for Reedsy, he's writing books on an important part of the publishing ecosystem: marketing. ALLi's Inspirational Indie Author Podcast stream is sponsored by Kobo Writing Life, a global, independent ebook and audiobook publishing platform that empowers authors with a quick and easy publishing process and unique promotional opportunities. To reach a wide readership, create your account today! Thank you, Kobo, for your support of this podcast. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of 2,000+ blog posts, and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. We invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally, if you haven't already. You can do that at allianceindependentauthors.org. About the Host Howard Lovy has been a journalist for more than 35 years, and now amplifies the voices of independent author-publishers and works with authors as a developmental editor. Find Howard at howardlovy.com, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Marketer and Reedsy Co-founder Ricardo Fayet on the essential elements of marketing your book, the importance of knowing your target audience and how to utilise different platforms to find your readers.  This interview was recorded in 2021.*ABOUT RICARDO FAYETRicardo Fayet is one of the co-founders of Reedsy, a marketplace connecting authors to the world's top publishing talent--from editors to cover designers, book marketers, or literary translators. He oversees the marketing for all Reedsy products--Marketplace, Book Editor, Learning, Discovery--and is a big SEO and Facebook advertising enthusiast. He is the author of How to Market Your Book where he has distilled lessons learned from helping thousands of writersHis weekly book marketing newsletter is read by over 150k writers.*RESOURCESFollow Ricardo Fayet:Twitter: @RicardoFayetOther links mentioned:LJ RossJoanna PennPublisher RocketFree BooksyBookbub*For show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.comFor free writing sessions, join free Writers' Hours: writershour.com*FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS' SALONTwitter: twitter.com/​​WritersSalonInstagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalonFacebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalonIf you're enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!

I've collaborated with Reedsy on a few learning resources over the years, including a course and webinar, always working with Martin Cavannagh, Head of Content. He does a fantastic job running their content and has been successful positioning the company at the top of search results, helping drive a steady stream of leads to the marketplace. So when he agreed to come on the podcast to share some BTS on how he runs content strategy and execution for Reedsy, as well as tips for authors, I knew this episode would be packed with value. In this episode, we discuss: Martin's journey to publishing and work as the Head of Content His advice for creating content people are searching for—and how to show up in the top three of search results How to build a content ecosystem if you're just starting out or grow an empire if you have support His thoughts on publishing pathways and how to ensure you're working with real pros Whether you're dreaming of writing your book or marketing a recent release, don't miss this thoughtful, fun, and informative conversation. Learn more about Reedsy: Three-month online course from idea to draft for novel: reedsy.com/learning Learn more about Reedsy and check out my profile Twitter Instagram Learn more about my Idea-to-Draft Accelerator and Author Mentorship program here. Follow me on: Instagram @stacyennis Facebook @stacyenniscreative LinkedIn Youtube @stacyennisauthor To submit a question, email hello@stacyennis.com or visit www.stacyennis.com/contact and fill out the form on the page.

Today's guest on the Writer's Parachute, Guiding Author and Writer dreams to a perfect landing®...is: Author/Writer, Puppet Builder, Debra ClewerBe sure to follow the Writer's Parachute on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @WriterParachutehttps://linktr.ee/writerparachuteBio:Wife, mother, grandmother, & great-grandmother of 2. Debra re-married after her first husband John died in 2016. A volunteer working with children in various capacities since 1986, including 3 years at a local primary (elementary) school from 2017-2019. She has self-published 3 Middle-Grade novels between 2017-2019, plus 3 short stories published in children's anthologies in 2019 & 2021; with some short adult stories published on Reedsy.com . Debra's latest title is a Juvenile Fiction Chapter Book, a fun story involving a Persian cat detective, and a nefarious gang of rats. It's a bit of a spy-detective spoof for children aged 7-11 years. Debra became interested in writing for children after observing how many struggled with their reading and comprehension in the classroom. Her aim is to encourage and inspire kids to read and imagine. Debra Clewer lives in the Southern Australian state of Tasmania.

Stuart Grant isn't just a key member of the SPS team – he's also the highest rated web designer on Reedsy.

The KDP price change hit a few hot buttons among authors using the Amazon platform, but what should authors do? Also, the Director of IngramSpark issues a statement about recent changes on their platform and how it benefits authors. Also, Lulu rolled out new binding types for their 5x8 print books. And, so much more in the self-publishing news! Join Channel Memberships - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl9CjdZQtzufqgYx0CidSbA/join Join my community at: Discord - http://dalelinks.com/discord Sources: GetCovers Giveaway - https://DaleLinks.com/GetCoversGiveaway Printing cost changes FAQ - https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/GPGVYM9KWTYLD2GD?ref_=pe_3052080_716951770#newcosts  Inkers Con - https://www.inkerscon.com/ The Book Marketing Mindset with Sue Campbell - https://www.youtube.com/live/LsjYn7Xxcgg?feature=share Are you looking to optimize your wide digital sales? - https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/speaker-series Reedsy - https://reedsy.com Lulu new binding types for 5x8 - https://www.lulu.com/products StoryOrigin - https://DaleLinks.com/StoryOrigin A Note from the Director of IngramSpark: No More Book Setup Fees - https://www.ingramspark.com/blog/a-note-from-the-director-of-ingramspark-no-more-book-setup-fees The Spark Tour 2023 - https://www.ingramspark.com/tour Kindle Vella Bonus Pool - https://www.kdpcommunity.com/s/question/0D58V00007ecjaBSAQ/kindle-vella-april-bonus-announcement?language=en_US&topicId=0TO2T000000MFRiWAO My Spring Store - https://selfpubwithdale.creator-spring.com/. Use coupon code YTShopping25 for 25% off for a limited time. Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to building and growing this channel. Thanks in advance for understanding! - Dale L. Roberts

Is your dialogue falling flat? Do your characters talk a lot, but not say anything worth listening to? In this episode, Jen and Tina discuss some of the pitfalls of writing dialogue and offer suggestions on how to improve your characters' conversations.Reedsy article on dialogue: https://blog.reedsy.com/guide/how-to-...30 Days of Writing Sprint Prompts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MGR7431Our new Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/liste...Visit our website: https://christianindiewriters.net/Learn more about the hosts...Jamie: https://writingshorts.net/Jenifer: https://jenifercarlltong.com/Tina: https://christinacattane.com/Rhonda: http://ddbouman.com

Reedsy is on a mission to help authors and publishers create beautiful books. Today we'll chat with co-founder Ricardo Fayet to learn how Reedsy's marketplace--its publishing ecosystem--connects indie authors to the world's top publishing talent.//Draft2Digital is where you start your Indie Author Career//  Looking for your path to self-publishing success? Draft2Digital is the leading ebook publisher and distributor worldwide. We'll convert your manuscript, distribute it online, and support you the whole way—and we won't charge you a dime.  We take a small percentage of the royalties for each sale you make through us, so we only make money when you make money. That's the best kind of business plan.  • Get started now: https://draft2digital.com/• Learn the ins, the outs, and the all-arounds of indie publishing from the industry experts on the D2D Blog: https://Draft2Digital.com/blog  • Promote your books with our Universal Book Links from Books2Read: https://books2read.com  Make sure you bookmark https://D2DLive.com for links to live events, and to catch back episodes of the Self Publishing Insiders Podcast.

Reedsy co-founder Ricardo Fayet delivers useful tips for running effective Amazon Ad campaigns.

Koji rolls out ebook and audiobook sales through their link-in-bio service. Overdrive removes app from Apple and Google stores. Reedsy covers how much it costs to self-publish. And, so much more! Sources: Amazon Exclusivity Clause causing issues for authors who are pirated - https://goodereader.com/blog/electronic-readers/amazon-exclusivity-clause-causing-issues-for-authors-who-are-pirated Scribando - https://scribando.com/ Link-in-bio platform Koji launches new tool to let creators sell e-books - https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/01/link-in-bio-platform-koji-launches-new-e-book-app/  Is Koji free? - https://help.withkoji.com/en/articles/5351333-is-koji-free Overdrive removes their app from Google Play and Apple App Store - https://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/overdrive-removes-their-app-from-google-play-and-apple-app-store IngramSpark - https://www.ingramspark.com (use DALE2023)  The Authors Guild 2023 Survey - https://qualtrics.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3kkZJzXqF9WssAK How Much Does It Cost to Self-Publish a Book in 2023? - https://blog.reedsy.com/guide/cost-to-self-publish-a-book Women are now publishing more books than men—and it's good for business - https://qz.com/women-are-now-publishing-more-books-than-men-and-its-go-1850177492  Barnes & Noble Press Nook Discount - https://mail.barnesandnoble.com/H/2/v600000186c95a17d7ba2ff1f4bbc786c8/9d7e2003-fb10-415b-8774-f434d7d68329/HTML PublishDrive - https://dalelinks.com/publishdrive (referral link) Apple's Romance Starter Kit Sale - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScudL3VkMORRhTjYA6eWDTUTx55LiTdyODMiHj4iBuHmBZO0A/viewform  The Self-Publishing Hub - https://TheSelfPublishingHub.com   Where noted, some outbound links financially benefit the channel through affiliate programs. I only endorse programs, products, or services I use and can stand confidently behind. These links do not affect your purchase price and greatly helps to build and grow this podcast. Thanks in advance for understanding!

After Running with the Devil, ghostwriter Alex Cody Foster explores John McAfee's descent into madness with Foster's latest book, “The Man Who Hacked the World.” As one of the world's most sought after ghostwriters Alex has ghostwritten eight #1 Amazon Bestsellers, wrote for one of the U.K's most successful thriller writers, and worked as John McAfee's ghostwriter for six months, which is profiled in a new Netflix documentary. Foster closely with Gotham Ghostwriters and Reedsy, two of the top ghostwriting agencies in the world. Alex writes from New York City, telling true stories from the heart with an unmatched style and voice. From Amazon.com: Alex Cody Foster is a #1 Amazon bestselling ghostwriter. He's featured in the Netflix documentary, Running With the Devil: The Wild World of John McAfee, and is the founder of Ghostwriting University, an online course that teaches writers how to become ghosts. He lives in New York City. In this episode, you'll discover: How Alex escaped a life on the streets Why studying masterworks can make you a great writer What to do when assignments become dangerous Links: J. D. Barker - http://jdbarker.com/ J. Thorn - https://theauthorlife.com/ Zach Bohannon - https://zachbohannon.com/ Christine Daigle - https://www.christinedaiglebooks.com/ Alex Cody Foster - https://www.alexfosterghostwriter.com/ The Man Who Hacked the World: A Ghostwriter's Descent into Madness with John McAfee - https://books2read.com/manwhohacked Ghostwriting University - https://www.ghostwritinguniversity.com/ Three Story Method: Writing Scenes - https://books2read.com/threestorymethodws Best of BookTook - https://bestofbooktok.com/ Story Rubric - http://storyrubric.com Nonfic Rubric - http://nonficrubric.com Scene Rubric - http://scenerubric.com Proudly sponsored by Kobo Writing Life - https://kobowritinglife.com/ and Atticus - https://www.atticus.io/ and Ghostwriting University - https://www.ghostwritinguniversity.com/ Music by Nicorus - https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep Voice Over by Rick Ganley - http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio - http://www.millpondstudio.com Audio production by Geoff Emberlyn - http://www.emberletter.com/ Website Design by Word & Pixel - http://wordandpixel.com/ Contact - https://writersinkpodcast.com/contact/ *Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/writersink/support

Star Status In a world where personal rating is everything, one man stops caring. Zelda C. Thorne is a British writer of science fiction and fantasy. Find out more at www.zeldacthorne.com This story originally appeared on the Reedsy prompts website. ---- Story Submission ---- Got a short story you'd like to submit? Submission guidelines can be found at http://www.TallTaleTV.com ---- About Tall Tale TV ---- My name is Chris Herron, and I narrate audiobooks. In 2015, poor control of my diabetes left me legally blind for the better part of a year. The doctors predicted an 80% chance I would never see again, but I changed the way I was living and through sheer willpower beat the odds. During this time I couldn't read or write. Two things that I had been turning to for comfort since I was a small child. With the sheer amount of stress I was under, this was devastating. My wife took me by the arm, lead me into the local library, and read out titles of audiobooks to me. I chose the audiobook versions of books I had loved such as the Disc World series, Name of the Wind, Harry Potter, and more. They brought my favorite stories to life in ways I never thought possible and helped me through the darkest time of my life. Once my vision recovered, I maintained a love for audiobooks. I decided I would turn my focus from being a writer to becoming a narrator. I devised Tall Tale TV as a way to help out all the amazing authors in the writing communities I had come to love before my ordeal. I created Tall Tale TV to help aspiring authors by providing them with a promotional audiobook video. A way to showcase their skills with the written word. They say the strongest form of advertisement is word of mouth, so I provide a video to a platform of readers to help get people talking. Help them spread the word. Click the share button and let the world know about this author. ---- legal ---- All images used in this video are either original or Royalty and Attribution free. Most stock images used are provided by http://www.pixabay.com or https://www.canstockphoto.com/. Image attribution will be declared only when required by the copyright owner. All stories on Tall Tale TV have been submitted in accordance with the terms of service provided on http://www.talltaletv.com or obtained with permission by the author. Common Affiliates are: Amazon, Smashwords