By BookBaby author Scott McCormick Estimated reading time: 12 minutes Have you ever dreamt of crafting your own magical world … one where you can make the impossible possible and bring legendary heroes to life? Writing a fantasy novel offers you that thrilling opportunity, but it can also feel like an overwhelming task. How do you transform your vast ideas into a coherent, engaging story? Where do you start? In this guide, you will learn how to tackle the exciting challenge of writing a fantasy novel by breaking it down into five manageable phases. From planning your world, creating your characters, and crafting your plot all the way to self-publishing your book, these steps will guide you toward completing your own epic tale. Let’s embark on the journey together. Table of Contents: • Phase 1: Planning your fantasy story • Phase 2: Writing your fantasy novel • Phase 3: Overcoming common challenges in fantasy writing • Phase 4: Editing and revising your fantasy book • Phase 5: Publishing your fantasy novel • Conclusion: Start your fantasy writing journey Phase 1: Planning your fantasy story Before you begin writing, you need to have a solid plan. Fantasy novels often have complex worlds, characters, and plots, and getting that set up in the beginning will make the writing process smoother and more enjoyable. Developing your fantasy world Creating a unique, immersive world is one of the most-exciting parts of writing fantasy. This is where you decide what makes your world different from our own and you’ll set the stage for your characters’ adventures. Creating unique settings: When building a fantasy world, start by thinking about its physical environment. What does the landscape look like? Are there enchanted forests, floating islands, or sunless cities? How does the geography influence the way people live? Creating unique cultures: Next, dive into the cultures that inhabit your world. What are their traditions, beliefs, and social structures? For example, you might develop a society where magic is outlawed or a kingdom is ruled by powerful, ancient dragons. These cultural details will give your world depth and make it feel lived-in. Establishing rules of magic and fantasy elements: Magic is a key ingredient in many fantasy novels, but it must be handled carefully. The rules and limitations of magic in your world are essential to maintain consistency and avoid turning it into a convenient plot device. Think about the source of magic — can everyone access it, or is it restricted to a select few? What are the consequences of using magic? Establishing clear rules for your magic system, along with unique fantasy elements such as mythical creatures or ancient prophecies, will ensure that your world feels authentic and coherent. Crafting memorable characters Your characters are the heart of your story. They need to feel real and relatable, even if they’re battling monsters or casting spells. Strong character development will keep your readers emotionally invested in their journey. Building compelling protagonists: Start with your protagonist: Who are they, and what do they want? A compelling protagonist has both strengths and flaws, making them relatable and human. Whether they are a noble knight or a reluctant hero, their internal struggles should be as engaging as the external conflicts they face. Building compelling antagonists: Just as important is your antagonist. A well-crafted villain isn’t evil for the sake of being evil — they should have motivations that readers can understand, even if they don’t agree with them. A layered antagonist will challenge your protagonist in meaningful ways and add tension to the story. Developing character arcs and backstories: Readers want to see how your characters change through the course of your story. This is called character arc, and it gives your story gravitas. A strong character arc shows how your protagonist grows in response to the challenges they face. Whether they start as a timid apprentice and end as a fearless leader or overcome a personal flaw, this growth should feel earned. Establish backstories: Backstories are also critical in shaping who your characters are. What past experiences drive their motivations? Consider how these backstories can be revealed gradually throughout the plot, adding depth and intrigue. Plotting your story A gripping plot will keep your readers on the edge of their seats. While fantasy novels can have complex, multi-layered stories, it’s important to create a clear roadmap from beginning to end. Outline the major plot points: Start by outlining the key events that will drive your story forward. What is the inciting incident that sets your protagonist on their journey? What are the major conflicts and turning points they will encounter? How can you raise the stakes to keep your story interesting? Knowing these pivotal moments will give you a framework to build upon as you write. Balancing subplots and main plot: In addition to the main plot, fantasy novels often feature subplots that add depth to the story. These might involve secondary characters, political intrigue, or personal challenges your protagonist must face. It’s important to ensure that subplots complement the main narrative rather than distract from it. Ideally, they should intersect with the main plot to heighten the stakes. Create a satisfying conclusion: Your story should resolve all the plot threads and you should also wrap up all your character arcs. Did your protagonist achieve their goal? Did they grow as a person? The answer to either or both of these questions can be no — just make sure the end result is satisfying. Phase 2: Writing your fantasy novel Once you’ve planned out your world, characters, and plot, it’s time to put pen to paper. Writing your fantasy novel is about bringing your ideas to life in a way that captivates your readers. Setting the scene Fantasy novels require rich descriptions that transport readers into another world. Your goal is to create a vivid mental picture without overwhelming them with excessive detail. Descriptive writing techniques: Use all five senses to describe your settings. What does your character see,

By BookBaby author Chris Huff Estimated reading time: 9 minutes Brainstorming ideas for a fantasy novel can really stimulate your imagination. A society of singing spoons declares war on other flatware! Or perhaps Mr. Bubble, cartoon spokesperson, travels back in time to Rome to unseat Caesar. But unlimited possibilities can also freeze the brain, so don’t worry if you’re feeling stuck! Here are a few ideas to spark creativity and your own ideas for a fantasy story. Some examples used are from TV/movies and other genres, but don’t let that throw you — it’s all storytelling. Part of what makes fantasy such an exciting genre is the ability to draw from many sources, the only limit being your own imagination. Table of Contents: • Classic fantasy tropes reimagined • Innovative world-building concepts • Fresh takes on fantasy creatures • Unconventional character archetypes • Intriguing plot devices • Fresh story themes • Finding inspiration for your fantasy story • Crafting unique fantasy worlds • Developing compelling characters • Plotting engaging storylines • Using writing prompts and exercises Classic fantasy tropes reimagined The reluctant hero The reluctant hero is a common trope featuring an every-person placed by circumstance into an extraordinary situation. This differs from an “antihero” in that reluctant heroes usually end up being real heroes. Famous examples include Bilbo Baggins and Luke Skywalker. When reimagining this well-used trope, consider the character’s motivations as a place where you can add your own touch. The more complex the motivations are, the more realistic your reluctant hero may seem. The hidden kingdom The trope of the hidden kingdom, a secret realm existing in parallel to the real world with its own magical rules, can be a great starting point when thinking of ideas for a fantasy novel. Examples include Harry Potter discovering the world of wizards and Sarah in Labyrinth wishing her baby half-brother to be taken by goblins only to find out goblins are actually real. The prophecy A prediction that drives the plot, the prophecy trope involves a chosen one like Paul Atreides in Dune or a fated event like Game Of Thrones’ “Winter is coming.” The malleability of prophecy means that it’s a good way to avoid clichés, even if the trope itself is common. What if the prophecy is actually wrong? There are many ways the prophecy device can engender ideas for a fantasy story. Innovative world-building concepts Floating islands Welcome to the world of the Jetsons, known as Cloud City in the Star Wars universe. Finding land too dreary for a setting? Put your action in the skies on floating islands, connected by portals, bridges, or aircrafts. Why did the people move off the ground in the first place? Many intriguing questions arise. Parallel worlds Whether it’s a neighbor planet like Vulcan (Star Trek) or a separate dimension like the Hell Dimension (Buffyverse), you’ll find many ideas for a fantasy novel in the intersection of planes of existence. Are the worlds cooperating or in conflict? How do you travel between them? Do the inhabitants of elsewhere look like us? Maybe it’s a mirror of our own reality like DC’s Bizarro World. Living cities What if the cities in your universe were actually alive? The buildings could communicate and even move around. This idea can be applied to anything that’s not, as in the TV show Farscape where a living spacecraft had complex emotions and actually gave birth. Fresh takes on fantasy creatures Shape shifters Going as far back in history as any trope, shapeshifting is a helpful device because a true shape shifter can turn into anything. Some shape shifters are static, like werewolves and vampires, but the transformation can still be used to dramatic effect. What if a shape shifter gets stuck and can’t change back? What if their powers are accidentally bestowed on someone else, someone not prepared? Sentient Plants “Feed me, Seymour,” says the Venus flytrap of Little Shop of Horrors. When seeking ideas for a fantasy novel, consider flora with intelligence and/or magical abilities. There are even recent scientific studies showing that plants may have consciousness. While fantasy is not sci-fi in that there are no requirements of scientific accuracy, one could use this information as a starting point to imagine what could happen. Elementals An elemental is a mythical being that corresponds to one of the classical elements: earth, water, air, and fire. They have been popular in literature since Paracelsus wrote about them in the 1500s. Used by everyone from Shakespeare to Stan Lee, elementals can add a familiar element to your book. Possibly the elemental is unhappy with their powers and would rather be human? Maybe they are too human and shunned by other elementals? However you approach it, dipping your toe in the elemental pool is bound to give you some ideas for a fantasy story. Unconventional character archetypes The reluctant villain For some villains, their evil actions have complex motivations and they flinch at the evil they seemingly “have” to do. Gaius Baltar in Battlestar Galactica and Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter are two examples. Giving your villain an origin story that even allows the reader to sympathize with them can go a long way into making your antagonists three-dimensional. The cursed hero Back to werewolves! A hero living under a bad sign or curse comes with a built-in dramatic arc: introduction (full moon), conflict (inner and outer), and method of resolution (silver bullet). Plenty of ideas for a fantasy novel in this trope! The outcast Outcasts in literature are on the fringe either by choice or by societal decree (punishment). Often they hold secret knowledge or power — “help me Obi-Wan Kenobi, you’re my only hope!” A common trope in Westerns, the outcast can be an antihero but does not have to be. Having an outcast wander into your story or be sought out will always add an air of mystery to the proceedings. Intriguing plot devices Time loops “Ok campers, rise and shine, and don’t forget

How can you write a book proposal that will make a publisher want to buy your book? How can you write a successful non-fiction book that both interests you and attracts a lot of readers? How can you improve your communication in person and online? Charles Duhigg gives his thoughts. In the intro, HarperCollins CEO Brian Murray on audiobooks and AI [TechCrunch]; OpenAI’s 12 days including Sora and o1; Google Notebook LM expansion; How Creatives Might Survive and Thrive in a Post-Productivity World [Monica Leonelle]. Plus, How to Write Non-Fiction, Second Edition. Today’s show is sponsored by Draft2Digital, self-publishing with support, where you can get free formatting, free distribution to multiple stores, and a host of other benefits. Just go to www.draft2digital.com to get started. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn  Charles Duhigg is a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, a reporter at The New Yorker Magazine, and a multi-award-winning author whose book, The Power of Habit, spent three years on the New York Times list. His latest New York Times bestselling book is Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below.  Show Notes How the writing process differs between books and magazines Balancing what readers want to read and what you want to write Research that comes before and after a book proposal Tips for conducting successful research interviews The process of organizing research for a nonfiction book Improving the art of written communication Dealing with the fear of miscommunication and judgement The importance of connection in communication You can find Charles at CharlesDuhigg.com. Transcript of Interview with Charles Duhigg Joanna: Charles Duhigg is a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist, a reporter at The New Yorker Magazine, and a multi-award-winning author whose book, The Power of Habit, spent three years on the New York Times list. His latest New York Times bestselling book is Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Welcome to the show, Charles. Charles: Thank you for having me. This is such a treat. Joanna: I’m excited to talk to you. So first up— Why did you get into writing books when journalism has clearly been such a success for you? Charles: Well, it actually started when my wife was pregnant with our first child, and we didn’t have any money, and so I thought, okay, I’ll go write a book. Maybe that’ll give me enough money so that maybe we can find a decent place to live. My first book was The Power of Habit, about the science of habit formation, and it really came out of my own problems and questions. I wanted to figure out how to improve my habits, how to be able to lose weight and exercise more easily. The process of writing a book, I found, is such a total joy and also overwhelmingly hard. You get to get so deep into the material, you get to understand what’s going on. Not only what experts are telling you and what stories you ought to tell, but also you get to think about the ideas in really profound ways. So that just kind of became an addiction for me. I’ve really enjoyed writing books. Even though if you asked me in the middle of them, I would tell you it’s the worst thing I’ve ever done in my entire life. Joanna: Well, yes, all of us listening understand that. It is interesting because, I mean, there’s a lot of comparisons to your journalism. You interview a lot of people, and you include a lot of that. How is the process of these longer form books different to your journalism pieces? Charles: So it’s a little akin to writing magazine pieces, because oftentimes for the magazine piece, I’ll write 8,000 to 12,000 words, and each chapter of a book is about 7,500 to 9,500 words. So it’s not that far off. The difference is that when I’m writing a magazine piece, I can just write a magazine piece about whatever the topic is. I can write about AI, or I can write about politics. With a book, you’re writing the equivalent of, let’s say, eight to ten magazine pieces, but there has to be something that ties them together. There has to be an overarching argument or an overarching idea that every chapter reflects in a different way, and finding that idea can take a long time. The two hardest parts, I think, of writing a book are, first of all, deciding what topic to write on. Oftentimes, it takes me a year or two to really figure out a topic that I think is going to be interesting and that I think readers are going to think of as interesting. Then it oftentimes takes another year or six months to figure out what the overarching argument is. Oftentimes it’s not obvious from the reporting what that connective tissue is, but it’s my job to find it. Joanna: That’s really interesting that it takes you a year or two to figure out what you want to write. You mentioned there what you’re interested in, but also want the what the readers want. So what is that process? Because this is something we all struggle with. I write fiction as well, and much of my audience do. How do you find where those two things — what you want, and what the readers want — interconnect? Charles: I think a big part of it is you just have to indulge things and then be prepared for them not to be successes. So take Supercommunicators, my most recent book, which is about the science of communication. It originally started with me trying to figure out why some people were better listeners than others. I thought it was a book about listening, but the thing is, that as I talked about it with my editor

How can you build a scalable business around non-fiction books? How can you turn a book into multiple streams of income? How can you delegate in order to scale? Michael Bungay Stanier shares his thoughts. In the intro, Bookfunnel’s Universal Book Links, and How to Write Non-Fiction Second Edition; ALCS survey results of writers on AI, remuneration, transparency and choice; AI Translation is the Game-Changer’s Game-Changer [The New Publishing Standard] This podcast is sponsored by Kobo Writing Life, which helps authors self-publish and reach readers in global markets through the Kobo eco-system. You can also subscribe to the Kobo Writing Life podcast for interviews with successful indie authors. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn  Michael Bungay Stanier is the bestselling author of five books, with a million copies sold, including The Coaching Habit, How to Begin, and How to Work with (Almost) Anyone. He’s also the founder of training and development company Box of Crayons, a podcaster, speaker, and coach. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below.  Show Notes Michael’s publishing journey and why he likes the control of hybrid publishing Creating a business ecosystem beyond the book — multiple streams of income Tips for successfully delegating in your author business and improving professional relationships The challenges of creating a premium print journal How journaling can help you figure out what you really want You can find Michael at MBS.works or BoxofCrayons.com. You can get the journal at DoSomethingJournal.com. Transript of Interview with Michael Bungay Stanier Joanna: Michael Bungay Stanier is the bestselling author of five books, with a million copies sold, including The Coaching Habit, How to Begin, and How to Work with (Almost) Anyone. He’s also the founder of training and development company Box of Crayons, a podcaster, speaker, and coach. Welcome to the show, Michael. Michael: Jo, I’m so happy to be here. It was earlier this year that you and I were hanging out in a field together, and this is warmer and less damp, amongst other things. Joanna: Yes, indeed. We were at The DO Lectures in Wales, which we’re going to come back to. First up— Tell us a bit more about you and how you got into writing and publishing. Michael: Well, the seed was planted by having a grandmother who was a writer. So my dad’s mum lived in Oxford, England, and she wrote columns for the local newspaper, kind of gossip columns. Her pen name was Culex, which is Latin for mosquito, which I love. She also wrote kids’ books, and memoirs, and plays, and radio scripts. She was a really prolific writer. So I think that was probably the early seed, along with my dad being a great storyteller. He would tell stories at night of Sir Michael. I was meeting Sir Nigel, Sir Angus, my two brothers, and we’d head off and have adventures. So this idea of loving stories and loving writing, I think was planted pretty early on. I found in university and in my first careers after university, I would inevitably end up writing the newsletter. In university, I was part of the law newspaper and the English department newspaper. Writing and writing and writing has just been part of the practice for a long time. Which, as you know, is all part of putting in your 10,000 hours, finding your voice, learning how to write a sentence. Starting off copying other people’s styles and then trying to find your own style emerging from that. The first time an actual book idea showed up in my head, and this turned into an actual book that I published called Get Unstuck & Get Going. I had this idea that I thought about coaching, which was a profession I just started in. I was like, you know, there’s a way of doing this that can be more efficient than actually having a coach. I had this idea of like the kids’ flip books, where you have like a ballerina’s head and a scuba diver’s body and a soccer player’s legs, and you kind of combine them into these kind of different combinations. I had this idea that you could create a book with different questions. So you’d bring a problem to the book, and you’d open it and randomly generate some questions, and voila, you’d have a self-directed coaching practice. So I had this idea, and wrote some stuff up, and went and made some prototypes. Then I honestly just couldn’t figure out how to publish it because no publisher wanted this, and self-publishing felt impossible. So I kind of put it in a drawer, until my cousin Robert went, “You know that book you were telling me about, this kind of self-coaching book? I noticed you’re not doing it, and I was telling my boss about it, and he thought he his company could do it.” I was like, “Wait, no, what? Ah!” So that was kind of the catalyst to me getting a first book published. After that —  I just realized that writing books and producing books and getting them out in the world is one of the best expressions of the way I try and serve the world. Joanna: I love that, and it’s a really interesting story. Just give us a sense of the timeline because you said there that self-publishing would be difficult. I mean, self-publishing that kind of book would be difficult. You’ve got five books now with, I presume, different publishers or self-publishing. Tell us a bit about that publishing journey and the timeline. Michael: So, let’s see. Get Unstuck & Get Going would have been around about 2006, so before Amazon and others kind of made self-publishing a regular book normal. Then I self-published another book called Find Your Great Work, and did a print run of like a couple of thousand copies. I was super excited

How can we write from the perspective of others while still respecting different cultures? How can a children’s book author make money from bulk sales? How is self-publishing in South Africa different? With Ashling McCarthy. In the intro, Spotify for Authors and Katie Cross on self-narration and email marketing; How do I know when to leave my publisher? [Katy Loftus]; and Claude Styles. Today’s show is sponsored by FindawayVoices by Spotify, the platform for independent authors who want to unlock the world’s largest audiobook platforms. Take your audiobook everywhere to earn everywhere with Findaway Voices by Spotify. Go to findawayvoices.com/penn to publish your next audiobook project. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn  Ashling McCarthy is a South African author and artist, as well as an anthropologist, graphic designer, and non-profit founder. Her latest book is Down at Jika Jika Tavern, in The Poacher’s Moon Crime Series. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below.  Show Notes How Ashling’s background in anthropology helps in writing books How research can help us write from other perspectives The importance of empathy when writing “the other” Debunking South African stereotypes and tips for visitors The book ecosystem in South Africa Difficulties of selling direct in different countries Marketing your book to schools and creating teaching opportunities Find out more about Ashling at AshlingMcCarthy.co.za. Transcript of Interview with Ashling McCarthy Joanna: Ashling McCarthy is a South African author and artist, as well as an anthropologist, graphic designer, and non-profit founder. Her latest book is Down at Jika Jika Tavern, in The Poacher’s Moon Crime Series. So welcome to the show, Ashling. Ashling: Hi, Joanna. Thanks so much. I’m really looking forward to it. Joanna: Yes, great. So first up— Tell us a bit more about you and how you got into writing and publishing. Ashling: Well, writing and publishing has come quite late to me. It wasn’t something that I’d ever actually intended on doing. I started off as a graphic designer in South Africa and did a bit of work in the UK, then came home when I was completely homesick. I got into a really interesting craft development program for people who had a three-year qualification in design, and we would be working with women who lived in rural communities in an area called KwaZulu-Natal, where I live. As long as you had a three-year design qualification, they’d match you up with women in rural areas who were very skilled at craft. The idea was that then we would work together to match those skills to create high-end product. So it was really that experience that allowed me to see South Africa in a very different light, and I went on to become an anthropologist and a nonprofit founder. So that took a good probably 15 years of my life and writing a book kind of came out of running the nonprofit. We’re an education nonprofit, and we work with rural schools. So children who go to really poorly resourced schools in rural communities in in South Africa. I wanted to write a book for the young women in our communities who didn’t have any examples of themselves in books. We would get lots of donations from overseas companies for books, but there was nothing that reflected their lives, their experiences. So I thought, oh, maybe I’ll start to write a book that kind of reflects that. So Down at Jika Jika Tavern is actually the first book in The Poacher’s Moon Crime Series. I, last year, published the second book, The Leopard in the Lala. How that came about, in terms of writing a crime series versus an educational kid’s book, was that my family was very involved in a game farm with wildlife. Just one day I was thinking about the fact that so many people who live on the outskirts of these game farms have no access to them. So the only chance of them seeing a rhino or an elephant or any other kind of game is from the other side of the fence, and I kind of wondered what that would feel like. So I started to write a story that would bring that to light. It was during our time on the game farm it was the height of rhino poaching, and we had six rhinos poached over a period of time. I really started to get a feel for what the book would be about because there were so many interesting incidences that took place. So for example, a traditional healer was arrested on the neighboring game farm for being involved in rhino poaching. I wanted to understand better, why would somebody who effectively has a calling to do good, why would they be involved in such a heinous crime? We just had so many little interesting things happen that I was able to then weave these real life stories into fiction to better understand why people become involved in rhino poaching and wildlife crime. Joanna: Yes, because being an anthropologist, I mean, obviously that means you’re interested in people and what different people do. Talk about what the job of an anthropologist is and how much you use from your career in the books. What are some of the interesting anthropological things you weave in? I mean, you mentioned the traditional healer. Like, what are the other things? Ashling: So I must say, anthropology plays a really big part in my writing. I studied Anthro, got a master’s degree in HIV/AIDS and orphan care, and really it was looking at what kind of cultural practices lead to people becoming infected and affected by HIV. It was really those experiences of understanding how culture can have such a huge impact on the way people respond to certain things. So now in my books, I mean, obviously, as a South African, we have 11, in

By BookBaby author Brian Jud Many poets believe selling their poetry is as hard as, well … selling poetry. But if you look beyond the bookstore, you can find many sales opportunities. This article provides ideas and examples of potential segments that could be lucrative for you. This information is meant to get you started and give poets some hope that their craft can be profitable. Table of Contents: • Target readers • Where will you sell it? Explore options: • How will you promote it? Discover the ways. Target readers A basic tenet for selling anything is to first know your target market. No one can market to everybody, so consider the 5Ws to describe people who could buy your poetry: Who is the typical reader you had in mind? Where do they shop? When do they buy poetry? What do they buy? Why do they buy? Figuring this out can also help in your product development. For example, if you are writing poetry for seniors, you might consider publishing a large-print version. Write a one-sentence description of your content and how your target readers will benefit from it. Use this sentence as a format: My poetry helps__________ who want ________ get_________. For example, your sentence could be, “My poetry helps children who want to be entertained have more fun from having their parents read to them.” If seniors are a target segment, your sentence could be, “My poetry helps older adults who want to enjoy their golden years by reading and discussing enjoyable poetry in groups of friends.” Given your descriptions above, what specific things must you do to reach your objectives? It is helpful to group these activities under two major topics: 1) where you will sell it, and 2) how you will promote it. The sections below include examples to help you get started. Your own actions will vary according to your content and target readers. Where will you sell it? Explore options: Now that you know where your readers shop, that is where you want to have your poetry for sale. Examples of retail outlets for poetry could include chain bookstores (religious or otherwise) that sell poetry. Do your readers travel? If so, seek distribution through airport stores for a relaxing read mid-flight. Do they shop in supermarkets? Then have your books there. The same concept applies to discount stores, gift shops, and parks. Examples of non-retail opportunities include schools, associations, and libraries. These prospects require direct selling since there are no distribution partners (except for libraries) that sell books to non-retail buyers. The Academy of American Poets provides several unique opportunities and benefits for businesses and corporations. Weddings, christenings, and retirements are historically good markets for poetry. Conduct an Internet search to find people who plan these events and contact them to use your poetry as a premium or to resell it. For example, the Association of Wedding Planners lists its members, and you can offer to customize poetry for their clients. Sell your poems to greeting card companies. Many companies that will pay you to write for their greeting cards. Join an association to network with other poets, speak at their conferences and peruse their list of resources. Examples include the Alberta Cowboy Poetry Association and the National Association for Poetry Therapy. Several U.S. states also have their own poetry associations. What other organizations could use your poetry to help it members or use as a fundraiser? Members of the National Institute of Relationship Enhancement and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy might use your poetry as a membership premium or to resell to members. Discover the library dedicated exclusively to poetry: the Poetry Foundation Library. See all their ways to advertise poetry, as well as podcasts, awards, events, exhibitions, grants and much more. How will you promote it? Discover the ways. There are many public-relations activities that can reach people in your target markets as frequently and inexpensively as possible. Most media exposure is free, so you can get maximum coverage on a limited budget. Write a one-page press release, focusing on what makes you and your poetry unique, enjoyable, relaxing, and/or important. Begin it with a simple statement or question (your hook) that will get the attention of the reader. Your hook is the key concept that makes you or your poetry unique and beneficial to your audience. Write letters to the editor or submit informative articles to magazines or newsletters. Which newspapers does your target buyer read? Could they review your poetry, write about it, or publish your articles about writing poetry? Which magazines could review or write about your book? Where you could you send articles? Branch out! Who could review your book? How about American Poetry Review, Critical Poetry Review Magazine, and/or Poetry International? Get in touch with them. Which competitions would be right for your poetry? Look into opportunities for poetry contests in your state here. Contact appropriate retail outlets tell them you are willing to conduct an in-store event or poetry reading. Embrace social media. Create an author page on Facebook where you can highlight your current and future work. Also, set up an account on X to build your image as an expert, or on LinkedIn to network with like-minded people and prospects. Jacqueline Suskin, a poet writing in Readers Digest says, “For the past four years I’ve performed a public project that consists of exchanging on-demand poetry composed for a donation.” There are endless ways to market your self-published poetry to the world. It does take time, thought, and creativity to get the word out, but the results will be worth it in the long run. Consider this article a starting point as you continue to brainstorm on where and how to market your poetry. Search for options that pertain to your specific genre of poetry and you will soon learn that rhyme does pay. And if you need help getting the word out through book advertising, printed books, and more,

By BookBaby author Chris Huff Estimated reading time: 7 minutes If your readers have made it to the end of your nonfiction book, you must have done something right! But how do you keep them satisfied and coming back for the next book? One key lies in having a compelling and well-thought-out conclusion. A strong conclusion will drive home your main message, present a tidy summary of your points, and tell the readers specifically what they should be taking away from your thesis and presentation. Here are three suggestions for how to end a nonfiction book to give your readers the best experience possible. Table of Contents: • Crafting a strong conclusion • Encouraging reader action • Planning the final chapter • Maintaining the book’s tone and style • Ready to publish your nonfiction book? Crafting a strong conclusion Importance of revisiting main ideas When learning how to end a nonfiction book, one important way to reinforce your message is by revisiting the main themes you’ve been reiterating throughout. According to research, people tend to forget three out of four things they learn if they have no reinforcement. As you outline your nonfiction book, plan a strong conclusion. Your job in your conclusion is to repeat and reinforce! Don’t just retype your introduction word-for-word, however; using different language to restate your main message and secondary themes. You can also add in details not shared in the introduction that were shared in the chapters between. Hammering away at your main points in your conclusion will ultimately make your book more memorable. Offering unique insight or takeaways The repetition of the main themes will lead them to remember your message — but what will that message be? Cassandra Sterling from the Writers’ Cooperative says, “Readers are selfish. They only read something if they think they’ll get something out of it.” Keeping this in mind, it’s crucial to be 110% clear about what you want readers to take away from your book — a new viewpoint on their lives, a plan for change, more insight into a current problem, or something similar. The message should be specific and unique to you and your story or the subject of your book if it’s a more global subject and less personal. Whichever it is, tell readers what you’ve learned and what you want them to have learned in your conclusion. Being concise and clear will go a long way in connecting to them! Leaving a lasting impact Ultimately, your impact on readers will be determined by how much you can connect your message to their needs and the problems they need to solve. There’s no hucksterism involved here; slick sales talk and a flashy image might sell one book, but to inspire people to change their lives, transform their ways of thinking, and purchase all the products and books from your sales funnel, your message will need to be authentic, need-focused, and problem-solving. Like any one-on-one sale, it’s not the actual sale that matters ultimately — it’s the relationship. Cultivate trust with your readers by driving your message home in a well-written conclusion which ties the book together in a neat package and delivers it to them in digestible form. Encouraging reader action Call to action (CTA) The call to action (CTA) is the first thing you’d like the reader to do after finishing and putting the book down, and it’s an important part in the process of knowing how to end a nonfiction book. This is not the time for a sales pitch! You have spent the entire book earning the trust of your readers, so now is not the time to blow it with the literary equivalent of clickbait. Assume readers have enough intelligence to form their own opinion about whether to explore your work further. The CTA should be something they can do to improve their own lives and apply what they’ve learned from your book. Highlight actions they can take to integrate the lessons of the book into those lives. If the topic of your book does lend itself to direct the readers to a landing page on a website, make sure the information provided on the website is new information and not a regurgitation of all the info in the book, and especially in your conclusion. However, make it something that is additive and not crucial, as you don’t want readers thinking: “Why isn’t this in in the book?” Deliver authentic value and you will build a real audience; this means focusing on helping people over the short-term gains of selling something. Remember: it’s all about the relationship! Resources and further reading In the 1947 movie Miracle on 34th St., the Macy’s Santa (secretly the real Santa Claus) sent customers to other stores, including the top competitor of Macy’s — Gimbels — to make sure children got exactly what they wanted for Christmas. This is a great example of the spirit of reader encouragement that will help build your audience. Direct them to resources and other books on similar topics that will help them achieve their ultimate goals. Some authors may have a workbook that accompanies their book; promoting this here is fine, but keeping the focus on what can help the reader most is the top priority. You might want to add these resources as a list after the text of the conclusion, or, if you have brief commentary, they can be discussed as part of the concluding chapter or paragraphs. Personal reflection and author’s note While adding brand new information is not the right way to end a nonfiction book, it is a good practice to tell new anecdotes or add new personal reflection at the end. If you can tie this into repetition of your main themes and points, so much the better! Additional personal connection will help make the end of your book memorable; people remember stories longer than facts. An author’s note thanking everybody who made your book possible is a nice touch at

How can you manage the competing priorities of an author career? How can you deal with the demons we all have to wrestle with along the way? Tiffany Yates Martin talks about the role of intuition in decision-making, the challenges of feedback and rejection, and the importance of reclaiming creativity during difficult times. In the intro, Amazon Music Unlimited will now include a free audiobook a month [The Verge]; When to pivot or quit [Self-Publishing Advice]; Thoughts on sunk cost fallacy, and how do you know when things are ending? Are they spiraling up, or down?, Quit: The Power of Knowing When To Walk Away by Annie Duke. Plus, HarperCollins AI licensing deal [The Verge; The Authors Guild]; and Seahenge is out everywhere, as well as at my store, JFPennBooks.com. Today’s show is sponsored by Draft2Digital, self-publishing with support, where you can get free formatting, free distribution to multiple stores, and a host of other benefits. Just go to www.draft2digital.com to get started. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn  Tiffany Yates Martin is an editor, speaker, and teacher with over 30 years in the publishing industry. She writes contemporary women’s fiction as Phoebe Fox, and her latest non-fiction book is The Intuitive Author: How to Grow & Sustain a Happier Writing Career. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below.  Show Notes Overcoming the “writer demons” Setting priorities to help manage overwhelm Honing into your intuition in relation to your author career Distinguishing intuition from hype or peer pressure Defining goals that are within your control Staying resilient when dealing with feedback and rejection Reclaiming your creative spark in difficult times You can find Tiffany Yates Martin at FoxPrintEditorial.com. Transcript of Interview with Tiffany Yates Martin Joanna: Tiffany Yates Martin is an editor, speaker, and teacher with over 30 years in the publishing industry. She writes contemporary women’s fiction as Phoebe Fox, and her latest non-fiction book is The Intuitive Author: How to Grow & Sustain a Happier Writing Career. So welcome back to the show, Tiffany. Tiffany: Thanks for having me again, Joanna. Joanna: So we talked about your background when you were last on the show in April 2022, so today we’re going to jump straight into the book. Why did you write this book? What problems did you see in the author community that led you to want to write about happiness and sustainability? Tiffany: I know, it’s kind of a departure for me. I’ve spent all these years as an editor working on hard skills, craft skills, and teaching about that. Then I was actually in the middle of writing what was to have been the follow up book to my first, Intuitive Editing, which was a deep dive into character development. I just kept writing and thinking and talking about these other ideas because I was hearing from a lot of authors that they were feeling overwhelmed by all the changes and the constantly evolving publishing environment. I think it’s a fortunate time to be an author because I think we have the opportunity to have more control and autonomy over our careers. We have more avenues than ever before. Publishing has become democratized, but that also brings with it a lot of overwhelm. I was hearing a lot of discouragement, so I started in my blog, where I used to focus a lot on hard skills, I started writing more about this stuff. I just wanted to try to help authors based on what I was hearing and seeing, and they got huge response. So the character book just kept balking at me, and I finally realized that one of the things I kept talking about in my blog posts was to pay attention to your motivation, to what you want out of your career. That’s the part that we really have control over, is what our day to day life looks like as authors. So I decided to follow my own advice and turn my attentions to the book that really wanted to be written right now, that I felt like authors probably need more than ever. Joanna: I think that’s so important, as much as I’m sure your character book will be amazing if you do do it. I think this is something I felt very much last year, which is the more prescriptive—you call it hard skills there—the prescriptive, “do this, do that.” I mean character development, there’s a lot of books on that. Your take would have been different.  Also similar, my last nonfiction book, Writing the Shadow, it’s like the personal stuff, the mindset stuff, the lifestyle stuff, all of that actually is something that AI and the machines can’t share. I mean, they can share it, but it’s not their experience, whereas it is actually our experience. So I agree, I think that’s so important. Just on that overwhelm and the changes that are going on, what are some of the things that people are saying to you? Because I think that will resonate with people listening as well. Tiffany: I was startled by how many—particularly in traditional publishing—how many authors were feeling discouraged by what seems to be trends in the industry. I’m a fan of any kind of publishing path that fits an author, so I’m not slamming on traditional publishing, but advances do seem to be going down, in general. There is a fascination with the debut author. So if you’re not that shiny new thing, I think that it feels as if traditional publishing doesn’t help an author build a following and a career over the span of their career in a way that it used to focus on. So it’s like, come on, make a big splash with your book, or else they’re moving on without you. As a result of that, a lot of authors—I just talked to one yesterday—are being

By BookBaby author BookBaby When you stop and think about it, books are actually pretty amazing. We have knowledge, emotion, imagination and creativity all condensed in a portable, easy-to-carry and (hopefully) compact guide. With self-publishing opportunities and Print On Demand services turning more and more people into published authors, though, standing out on bookshelves just got a lot more challenging. That’s where custom book sleeves or dust jackets come in. Custom book sleeves (also known as dust jackets) not only protect your book, but also give it a high-class, premium look that sets it apart from the competition. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why you’ll want to make custom book sleeves a part of your book design and how to get started. Table of Contents: • Why add a custom book sleeve? • Using your custom book sleeve as a marketing tool • Getting started with your own custom book sleeve Why add a custom book sleeve? Custom book sleeves have the potential to be an author’s “secret sauce.” Given that traditional marketing channels, like email, can quickly become saturated, authors naturally want a unique way to stand out. The custom book sleeve is a surprisingly interesting and highly effective marketing tool that lets them do just that. Ordinarily, book sleeves were solely an extra layer of protection. We know you love your books and take good care of them, but also that life happens. Custom book sleeves help guard against ordinary wear and tear affecting the book. At the same time, here we have a fascinating canvas that’s wide open and ripe for opportunity. Vibrant illustrations, insightful designs, boundless creativity … the custom book sleeve can be as attractive as the book itself! Using your custom book sleeve as a marketing tool So how can you market your book with a custom book sleeve or dust jacket? First, think of it as an extension of your book cover. Oftentimes, authors tailor limited-edition sleeves with the launch of their book. A sleeve is an additional layer that tells the reader: “this book is something special.” Even for self-published authors, custom book sleeves can become collector’s items. It’s a great way to build up your fandom and stand out on bookshelves. Remember, people aren’t just buying a book: They’re buying your vision, your inspiration and your creativity. Here are several other ways you can put custom book sleeves to work as your 24/7 marketing vehicle: Create an immersive reading experience Imagine a reader opening your book to find not just the printed words, but a beautiful, aesthetically matching design. A custom designed book sleeve creates the kind of immersive reading experience that readers can’t get enough of. A custom book sleeve is, in a sense, like an extension of the book itself. Build brand awareness and loyalty As a self-published author, it’s crucial that you build up your author brand. A custom book sleeve gives you the chance to create a unifying identity around your book or series. By using similar brand colors, fonts, symbols, or design styles, you start to create a look that readers will come to know you by. Plus, limited-edition book sleeves for book launches or other special events have the potential to become collector’s items in and of themselves. This kind of unique offer creates a sense of excitement and urgency. Readers want to grab a copy of a limited-edition item, all while building buzz around the book launch itself. Boost social media engagement Custom book sleeves are incredibly shareable on Instagram, Facebook, and specialized book communities like Bookstagram and BookTok. Authors can encourage readers to share photos of their books in the custom sleeves, creating user-generated content that works like word-of-mouth marketing. Encourage pre-orders Custom book sleeves are a great pre-order bonus or a reward for early purchasers. Many authors use this strategy to give readers an extra exclusive perk. With a limited-edition custom sleeve, the book then becomes more than just a purchase — it becomes part of a shared experience with other readers. This strategy works great to boost pre-order numbers, which in turn increases rankings on platforms like Amazon. Done right, it may even catapult you onto the coveted bestseller list! Cross-promotional options Custom book sleeves open up great opportunities for cross-promotion with other businesses as well. Imagine collaborating with book subscription boxes or marketing your book on social media. How many people would showcase a fantasy novel designed to look like a witch’s grimoire or a mystery novel designed to look like a detective’s notebook? Creating community Readers love to feel like they’re a part of something bigger. Custom book sleeves give them that shared experience, making them feel more connected with the author. When they see other readers posting about their matching book sleeves or showing off the book at events, it creates a sense of belonging and loyalty. You can even create custom book sleeves for members of your book street team, supporters, or other special groups. Turn your readers into brand ambassadors! Getting started with your own custom book sleeve If you’re ready to take the next steps in getting your own custom book sleeve, it has never been easier thanks to BookBaby! Custom book sleeves or dust jackets are so much more than accessories. They’re a dynamic marketing tool that can build on the reader experience and create a stronger, closer-knit community. It’s also a great way to build a brand and something you’ll definitely want to make a part of your marketing strategy. From book printing to design and marketing, BookBaby is your one-stop book printing and promotion hub. Let our professional graphic designers, printers, and marketing experts guide you as you take your first or next steps in the journey to becoming a self-published author. Download our free guides for authors today to learn more about all of the ways we can work together. There’s never been a better time to publish and launch your book than right now —

How can you write memoir with deep sensory detail? How does terroir in wine equate to the writer’s voice? How can you manage your online presence while still protecting yourself from the haters? Multi-award-winning wine writer Natalie MacLean shares her tips. In the intro, initial thoughts on Author Nation 2024, photos from Death Valley @jfpennauthor, Folk horror on The Nightmare Engine Podcast, Walking the Camino de Santiago on the Action Packed Travel Podcast; Introversion and writing the shadow on The Quiet and Strong Podcast. Today’s show is sponsored by FindawayVoices by Spotify, the platform for independent authors who want to unlock the world’s largest audiobook platforms. Take your audiobook everywhere to earn everywhere with Findaway Voices by Spotify. Go to findawayvoices.com/penn to publish your next audiobook project. This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn  Natalie MacLean is a multi-award-winning wine writer, named World’s Best Drinks Writer at The World Food Media Awards, as well as a sommelier, TV wine expert, and host of The Unreserved Wine Talk Podcast. She’s also the bestselling author of multiple nonfiction books on wine, including Unquenchable, named as one of Amazon’s best books of the year. Her latest book is Wine Witch on Fire: Rising from the Ashes of Divorce, Defamation, and Drinking Too Much. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below.  Show Notes Challenges of writing memoir compared to journalistic writing Using memoir to tell your Truth Tips for sensory writing from a ‘super taster’ What is terroir and how to use it in your writing Maintaining boundaries while still marketing your author brand Dealing with crisis management and managing your mental health How to reach and engage with book clubs Connecting multiple streams of income Utilising podcasting for book marketing in your author business You can find Natalie at NatalieMaclean.com. Transcript of Interview with Natalie Maclean Joanna: Natalie MacLean is a multi-award-winning wine writer, named World’s Best Drinks Writer at The World Food Media Awards, as well as a sommelier, TV wine expert, and host of The Unreserved Wine Talk Podcast. She’s also the bestselling author of multiple nonfiction books on wine, including Unquenchable, named as one of Amazon’s best books of the year. Her latest book is Wine Witch on Fire: Rising from the Ashes of Divorce, Defamation, and Drinking Too Much. So welcome to the show, Natalie. Natalie: It is so good to be back here with you. We’ve had an initial chat on my podcast [about biodynamic wine and Blood Vintage], but I am so looking forward to this, Jo. Joanna: Oh, yes. So first up, just— Tell us a bit more about you and how you got into writing and publishing. Natalie: Sure. So my career path was probably like a lot of folks. I didn’t plan to be a writer. I didn’t have the confidence to be a writer. I was brought up by a single mom, single parent mom. She was a school teacher, so she really pounded it into me, make sure you get an education that will get you a job. So I wanted to study English, but no, no. So it was PR and an MBA, and right into the workforce in high tech marketing. Along the way, I was working for a super computer company that was based in Mountain View, California. I’m Canadian, and I still live here, but the head office was down where the campus of Google now is. So I started arranging all of my meetings there when I had to go on Fridays so I could stay over the weekend and drive up to Napa and Sonoma. While I didn’t have time to learn golf or pottery or anything else, I was dining out a lot with clients or whatever. So I really grew to love wine. So that sparked my interest in wine. Then while I was off on maternity leave, I thought, well, I have to keep my brain active somehow. I had taken a sommelier course just for fun because that’s what type As do. It was a good thing I wasn’t taking golf lessons because, you know, long iron clubs and type A, that’s just not a good combination. So wine worked. So while I was off on maternity leave, I pitched the editor of a local food magazine because I noticed they had all these gorgeous recipes, but no wine content. I knew just enough about wine to be a little dangerous. She said, yes, okay, have you published before? I said yes, praying that she would not ask me to send samples because all I had was my high school newspaper. So she gave me a chance. The first article or column was “How to Find Wine Food Pairings on the Internet.” That was the headline back then, it’s gotten much more specific since. That led to a regular column, which gave me the confidence just to cold call other editors. Then I started landing columns in some of our national newspapers here in Canada and magazines. I didn’t know anybody. I was a nobody from nowhere who made a career out of nothing. I loved it so much that by the time my maternity leave was over, which is generous here in Canada, was almost a year, I decided not to go back. I had found something that really sparked a passion. Wine gave me the confidence to write. I had a hook. Otherwise I would have never thought someone’s going to pay me to write. Also, I could be home with my son. So it just all worked, and that’s kind of how it came together. Joanna: Just on that, should we just be clear that you were not swigging bottles of wine during your maternity! Natalie: Yes. No need to call child services. Mommy doesn’t drink while she’s pregnant. I had finished the sommelier course while I

By BookBaby author Scott McCormick Estimated reading time: 9 minutes Publishing a business book is a significant step for any entrepreneur, executive, or thought leader looking to share their expertise and influence their industry. When it comes to publishing, authors have two primary routes: traditional publishing and self-publishing. Traditional publishing involves selling your publishing rights to a large company, while self-publishing allows authors to publish their work independently. Each option has its own set of advantages and challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between traditional publishing and self-publishing and look at how to choose the best self-publishing partner for your business book. Understanding these options is crucial to making informed decisions that align with your goals, resources, and vision for your book. Table of Contents: • Exploring self-publishing for business books • Traditional business book publishing • Key considerations for authors • Conclusion Exploring self-publishing for business books In recent years, self-publishing has emerged as a powerful option for business authors. Unlike traditional publishing, where the author submits their manuscript to a publisher and hopes for acceptance, self-publishing is available to all authors, and it gives them full control over the production and distribution of their book. This model has grown in popularity, particularly among business authors, because it allows for greater creative freedom and the ability to reach niche markets more effectively. The self-publishing process and timeline The self-publishing process is often more streamlined and faster than traditional publishing. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved: Manuscript completion: The first step is, of course, finishing your manuscript. Start by writing a compelling business book that shares your specialized knowledge. Feedback. Once your manuscript is finished, it’s a good idea to hire beta readers to get feedback. Try to get at least five readers so you’ll be able to spot trends and therefore know where your manuscript needs the most help. Editing. After you have incorporated those changes and completed your final draft, you need to hire an editor. A skilled editor can refine your manuscript, ensuring clarity, coherence, and correctness. Do not skimp on this step! The good news is the pros at BookBaby offers affordable book editing services. Formatting and eBook conversion: Once your manuscript is polished, the next steps involve formatting the book for print and digital formats. This is a crucial step because the design impacts the book’s marketability. To ensure your book will look perfect as a printed book or eBook, hire a pro. Design: Your book cover is your single most important form of marketing and advertising. Do not leave this to an amateur. Hire a professional book cover designer. Distribution: After formatting, you need to set up distribution channels. This includes choosing bookstores like Amazon, Apple Books, and other pleaces where your book will be available. If you choose to distribute your book with BookBaby, your book will be available in over 60 stores around the world. Printing: It used to be hard for indie authors to distribute their printed books. Now, thanks to print-on-demand, it’s as easy as pie. Marketing and launch: Finally, you’ll market your book to your target audience. This involves everything from social media promotion to email marketing and networking. This entire process can take as little as a few months, giving authors the ability to publish quickly and efficiently. Pros of self-publishing Self-publishing offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for business authors. Higher royalties: One of the most-significant benefits of self-publishing is the potential for higher royalties. While traditional publishers might offer a royalty rate of 10-15%, self-published authors can retain up to 85% of their book’s sales, depending on the platform. Complete creative control: Authors maintain complete control over the content, cover design, and overall presentation of their books. This is particularly important for business authors who want to ensure that their books align with their brand and message. Faster publication: Traditional publishing can take years from manuscript submission to book release. In contrast, self-publishing allows authors to set their own timelines and bring their books to market much more quickly. Direct marketing to niche audiences: Self-publishing allows authors to market their books directly to specific audiences. This can be especially beneficial for business authors who have a clear target market in mind. How BookBaby offers additional support While self-publishing offers many benefits, it also comes with challenges, particularly in areas like marketing and distribution. This is where a company like BookBaby can be invaluable. BookBaby provides comprehensive support throughout the self-publishing process. From professional editing and cover design to distribution and marketing, BookBaby helps authors navigate the complexities of self-publishing. This support can make the difference between a book that gets lost in the crowd and one that reaches its intended audience. Learn more about BookBaby’s comprehensive publishing services here. Traditional business book publishing Traditional publishing has long been the gold standard for business authors. Major publishing houses have established processes and networks that can give books wide exposure and a certain level of prestige. However, the landscape of traditional publishing has changed significantly in recent years, with increased competition and new challenges for authors. Process and timeline The traditional publishing process is much more involved and time-consuming than self-publishing. Here’s a general outline: Proposal submission: The first step is to submit your book proposal to agents or publishers. Unfortunately, traditional publishing is highly competitive and, therefore, out of reach for most authors — even those authors who have unique and powerful contributions to make in the world of business publishing. Contract negotiation: If a publisher is interested, they’ll offer a contract. This process can take months and involves negotiations over rights, royalties, and other terms. Publishing contracts are complex, and you will definitely want to hire an entertainment lawyer who specializes in business publishing. Writing, editing, and revisions: Once the contract is signed, the author will then begin to write their manuscript. Once finished, they will submit it to their editor. Typically, the editor and author will

By BookBaby author BookBaby Estimated reading time: 5 minutes Looking for a way to make your hardcover book stand out? A custom dust jacket could be the answer! Much more than just a protective layer for your book, a custom dust jacket offers you the opportunity to promote your book and reach new customers. Although they say that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, people absolutely do, and your custom dust jacket may be the perfect way to get your book noticed. In this resource guide, we’ll take a closer look at what dust jackets are, why you’ll want to have one, and how to get started with a uniquely designed custom dust jacket of your own. Table of Contents: • What is a custom dust jacket? • Why use a custom dust jacket? • What makes up a custom dust jacket? • Printing options for a custom dust jacket • Is a custom dust jacket right for you? • How to get a custom dust jacket for your hardcover book What is a custom dust jacket? A custom dust jacket adds professional appeal to a hardcover book. Readers, fans of the genre, and collectors alike all love a dust jacket, as they’re fantastic ways to get your hardcover book into the hands of more readers. Besides adding a protective layer to keep your book shielded from dust and scratches, a custom dust jacket also showcases artwork and additional details about your book. Why use a custom dust jacket? Beyond protecting your hardback book from wear and tear, a custom dust jacket gives you multiple ways to promote yourself as an author, and your book to would-be readers. Here are a few of the many benefits of choosing a custom dust jacket: Stand out on a crowded shelf Put a professionally designed dust jacket on a plain hardcover book, and it’s like a complete metamorphosis has taken place. Suddenly, that plain old hardback has a new, creative style that gets attention and helps your book stand out on a crowded shelf. Better marketability A custom dust jacket is your opportunity to market yourself! Include endorsements, reviews, summaries, your website, author bio, and much more. It’s your marketing canvas, but it’s up to you to make the most of it. Unique branding Your dust jacket is a great branding opportunity. You can boost your author brand and create a cohesive look for a series of hardback books, or brand yourself as a recognized authority in your field. Dust jacket designs can all be aligned to fit the same look and style so that over time, people will come to recognize your books by their unique look and feel. Additional content While you can’t directly include information into the hardback book itself, the custom dust jacket is another story. Include exclusive content, additional graphics or insights, a link to your website, and much more. All of this added information could be the reason a prospective reader chooses your book over others, so make it count! What makes up a custom dust jacket? A dust jacket gives you ample opportunities to align your creative vision with the contents of your book. Just like a regular book cover, a dust jacket is made up of several different parts. Front cover This part usually includes the title and subtitle (if any). You might also include a unique illustration or photo that captures the theme of your book and hints at what’s inside. Back cover The back cover often has a brief overview of the book, some critical reviews, and a small photo of the author. Spine The spine is just large enough to include the book title and author name so that it can be read from a fully stacked bookshelf. Inside flaps This is where the magic happens. The inside flaps are wide open for you to add anything you like, such as an author bio, a synopsis, or even a call-to-action to join your website, Facebook group, or other program. Printing options for a custom dust jacket Custom dust jackets have a variety of printing options at their disposal. For example, they can be printed in many different types of paper, including glossy and matte finishes. You can also add additional options like embossing, spot UV, and foil stamping to give your book a luxurious and classy look. First-edition collectors often look for these enhanced features when adding a book to their collection! Is a custom dust jacket right for you? Custom dust jackets are great for first editions, limited print runs, or special releases of your book. They’re also ideal if you want to re-release an existing title without changing the interior layout, but still want to refresh the look of your book. If your book is being displayed at an event or bookstore, a custom dust jacket is a great way to make it stand out and create a positive first impression with your potential readers. How to get a custom dust jacket for your hardcover book Ready to get started with your own custom hardback book cover? There’s no better way to get started than through BookBaby. Our diligent custom dust jacket design process is made to help you bring your creativity to life. You’re in complete control of every aspect of your dust jacket’s design, from choosing the perfect font to zeroing in on the right image that perfectly showcases what you want to share. Our team of experienced graphic designers are dedicated to working with you every step of the way to deliver a polished and perfectly printed cover. The best part is, dust jacket design is just the beginning! We also offer a range of book cover design services to help make publishing your book easier than ever. Even if you’ve already published your hardcover book, our book marketing services can help get your book into the hands of more readers through social media promotion, online marketing, your own custom author page, and much

Tell us about yourself. Hunting for Greatness is an Indigenous-inspired business where anyone can learn, ask questions, discuss, and get valuable content about being able to get out to enjoy the outdoors! Founded in 2021 by Pat Gatz, Hunting for Greatness has become a trusted resource for life-long knowledge from seasoned professionals, expert advice, experiences, and victories to inspire and help others grow on their hunting journey. As the traditions of hunting teeter on the bridge of extinction, Hunting for Greatness seeks to breathe new life into the sport to usher in a new hunting era rooted in tradition, heritage, and culture. Pat Gatz is a First Nation Algonquin Native passionate about contributing to the hunting community to ensure that every North American has the knowledge and confidence they need to become a proficient, safe hunter and live off the land like we were meant to be! “ HUNT TO LIVE, LIVE TO HUNT!” PAT GATZ – A.K.A. LITTLE EAGLE Globe Amazon Goodreads-g Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin Pinterest Youtube Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? “The Simple Hunting Guide: Beginners Quick Start Into The Sport With Ease – Tracking, Scouting, And Survival Skills” by Pat Gatz is a comprehensive hunting guide designed for beginners. This book covers essential hunter education, including how to acquire a hunting license, basic gear and survival equipment, and an overview of hunting weapons. It offers step-by-step instructions for small game hunting, along with tips and techniques. The guide aims to teach patience, respect, ethics, confidence, responsibility, and emotional control through hunting. It’s suitable for those new to hunting, providing a thorough foundation in the skills necessary for success in the wilderness. For more details, you can view the book on Amazon: The Simple Hunting Guide. Do you have any unusual writing habits? No What is the best advice you have ever been given? THIS IS HUNTING! This is HUNTING! It will break you! Days may stretch into months, even years, without a glimpse of life or the echoing shot of a huntress/hunter’s aim. Choosing to let animals pass, with the aspiration that others will do the same, nurturing their growth and managing lands. The huntress/hunter’s journey entails both successful hits and inevitable misses. This is HUNTING! You will see garbage in the bush and do not think twice to clean up after those who disrespect nature. You may wound something one day, and it will break your heart! You will be taking a life to provide food to your family. Hunting adds depth to the profound experiences encountered in the pursuit of sustenance. This is HUNTING! It will teach you life lessons. You will learn patience. One more minute can make all the difference in the world! You will learn determination…the weather changes anyway, the wind changes direction, and you still persevere long hours of punishment! You will learn patience and determination. This is HUNTING! It will inspire you to Hunt for greatness! You will see wildlife in its natural habitat, and your heart will swell. The beauty of dawn will humble you. You will learn the feeling of being the prey and also the predator! You will see things from a different perspective. You will communicate with other living creatures. This is HUNTING! It will make you vulnerable. You will make mistakes just learn from them. You will face your worst enemy………YOURSELF! You will have to walk through the dark, blinded by total darkness and navigate by listening to every sound! This is HUNTING! You will find your true self! You will learn patience, passion, strength, and courage! Discover independence, determination, heartache, empathy, silence, and peace! All living things are connected! This is HUNTING! You will be faced with ignorance from the activist’s viewpoint that labels hunting as evil because we prefer to ethically hunt and harvest our food for our families instead of paying someone to raise it and kill it unethically for them, which, in their minds, is acceptable! This is HUNTING! It is where you will learn the most valuable lessons about life. It is where you will make your best memories. It is where you will find life’s true meaning. It is where you will lose and find your soul. This is what hunting means to me! Chief Little Eagle First Nation Algonquin Native is proud of my Indigenous heritage and culture! Live the only way, the right way, THE NATIVE WAYS! “ HUNT TO LIVE, LIVE TO HUNT!” Chief Pat Gatz A.K.A. Little Eagle Do you have any advice for new authors? Never give up! Share with the world you view! Live life to the fullest, and life is short so do everything healthy for the soul for the time you have! What has inspired you and your writing style? I want to spread my native heritage & culture to the world to show you all who we are! What are you working on now? I am working on a childrens book called,” Dreamy the Dream Warrior and Monz the Moose with my 9 year old daughter. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? Online social platforms through posts & videos. What’s next for you as a writer? Keep writting! Nothing more! How well do you work under pressure? GREAT!!

Tell us about yourself. I’m from the UK but I have lived in Greece most of my life. I’m an award-winning author with 14 fiction titles. I write in most genres. I’m also an award-winning filmmaker, my documentary and short films have won several awards at international film festivals. I’m a podcaster, radio host, I have a YouTubeShow and I’m a booktuber. Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in the midlands in the UK. It wasn’t a very pleasant place to grow up. It was a rough area and I would be beaten up and picked on at school. Yeah, not a great childhood, but writing helped take me away from that unsettling reality and to step into someone else’s shoes for a while. I used writing, as a way for me to escape. Do you have any unusual writing habits? I don’t plot. When I start writing a book, the full story ( well the first draft) is all in my head, world-building, names, plot. There are certain places where I need to make notes so I have a record that will then stop any inconsistencies. Oh, and I’m old-fashioned I use a pad and pen, before typing anything up onto the computer. What is the best advice you have ever been given? “You’ll never make it as an author.” from my English teacher in my high school. So I proved to her and all the doubters that they were wrong! Do you have any advice for new authors? Don’t rush into publishing your book. To do it correctly to give the book the best chance of it selling, you have to spend money. Writing the book is the easy part. But it costs money to hire a professional editor, formatted and cover designer and if you haven’t got the money then wait. Don’t ask your neightbour or sister to look through your MS to find mistakes. Make sure your book is polished and ready before even thinking about publishing it. And also make sure you have a marketing plan put in place at least 2 months before you publish. What has inspired you and your writing style? S.E.Hinton was the reason I became an author. I fell in love with her rebel/gang books and her easy-to-read style of writing. Rock music always inspires me no matter what genre of fiction I’m working on. It could be a fantasy, thriller, or even erotica, and rock music will inspire me while I write. Over the years my writing has definitely changed style. I’m writing more dark fiction, but that doesn’t mean say I couldn’t write a lighthearted YA again. What are you working on now? I have a new imprint for my OUTLAW collection which is 4 books to do with outlaw motorcycle clubs, my last release, Broken Chains, which is a mafia thriller is also under the new imprint. Dirty Streets Press. All the OUTLAW series have new coves and I’m currently working on book one In Times of Violence, as when I first wrote and published the book I did as a YA MC gang/romance. The other three books are 18+. So In Times of Violence adult edition, should have been written and out years ago. As well as getting those books ready. I’m working with another author on a sci-fi dystopian trilogy called Toxic. We’ve just signed a contract for all six books as she is keeping her editions nice, whereas mine are naughty. So we give the reader the choice of which book they want to read. Book one is ready but will now be picked apart by the publisher’s editors and we have 1st draft of book 2 completed as well. They are completely the same book, plot storyline but mine is erotica and my writing partner has her door shut. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? Cross promotions through the newsletters I send out. I always get sales from them. How it works is I promote someone else’s book who writes in the same genre as me, and as I write in most genres, I can have my newsletter with one to two genres featuring that month. So the author’s book I’m promoting goes into my newsletter and my book goes into her newsletter. Say share had 4000 subscribers and I have the same. That’s a possible 4000 people to learn about me, see my book cover, blurb, and hopefully click that link. It works the same way for the other author’s book in my newsletter. Now imagine if I did that with 5 books. That’s a lot of new readers, seeing my book for the first time. What’s next for you as a writer? I have so much to currently work on and more ideas for new books keep filling my mind, so I’m going to keep going for a while yet. I hope the publisher can find the readers for Toxic as the trilogy need to go viral as it’s a unique niche. How well do you work under pressure? I have so much to currently work on and more ideas for new books keep filling my mind, so I’m going to keep going for a while yet. I hope the publisher can find the readers for Toxic as the trilogy need to go viral as it’s a unique niche. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile Bookbub.com GoodRead Facebook Youtube Twitter Linkedin

Tell us about yourself. I am a single mom in my forties. I published my first book at thirty-six and since then I’ve written ten other novels. Although I started out with a traditional publisher I was dissatisfied with their handling of my book and my accounts and as soon as I could, I opted out. I have been self-publishing ever since. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and it definitely suits me better. Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in Nairobi Kenya. When I started writing, I wanted to write the opposite of “African writing”. I felt that that wasn’t my story. I grew up reading Anne Rice and I wanted to write fantasy. It never occurred to me that I could write African fantasy and so I ended up writing about New Orleans and the various supernatural things that might dwell there. I included myself as an African in the tale of the ancestors of my protagonist. I love that story and I think I wrote it well, but my ambitions have now changed and I wish to write fantasy from an African perspective. Do you have any unusual writing habits? I’m a pantser. Sometimes I don’t know what the next word is, until I write it. What is the best advice you have ever been given? The only thing you need to be a writer, is to keep writing. Diana Gabaldon told me that. Do you have any advice for new authors? Yes. Don’t try to be someone else, write like them or use their habits. find out who you are, write your story, your way. What has inspired you and your writing style? Anne Rice was a big inspiration as were JK Rowling and Diana Gabaldon. between them, they taught me to write fantasy, to write love and to weave a story together. they were my writing school. What are you working on now? the fifth installment of the child of destiny series and a new fantasy novela based on my great grandmother. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? social media. I like to look out for opportunity. If someone is looking for a book, and one of mine might fit, I recommend it. What’s next for you as a writer? More writing How well do you work under pressure? Very well actually. Better than if I have no pressure. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile smashworld.com GoodRead Facebook Instagram Twitter

Tell us about yourself. I am a Writer, Publisher, Blogger, Retired Cardiologist, & Bible Expositor. I am an Author of 28 books. My Portfolio of books are, Memoirs of Doctor, Daily devotion Gospel of Mark, Expository Preaching, Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, Daily Devotion Gospel of John Volumes 1, 2, 3, 4, & 1 to 4, Galatians, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, & Jude, Romans, Hebrews, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians & Philemon, Pastoral Epistles, Prison Epistles,1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, General Epistle, How I publish 22 books in a pandemic, Abcs to Amazon Self Publishing, Acts volume 1, Acts volume 2, Acts volume 1 & 2, and the gospel according to Luke. I am a retired medical doctor and cardiologist by training. A near-death experience in 2019 resulted in early retirement which jump-started my writing career, and the publication of 28 books. Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in a small village called Tanjong Malim in Malaysia. No one influenced my writing. I did not grow up in a family of writers. However, I love reading and writing during my school and university days. I was not a serious writer before 2019. All I wrote then were articles for medical journals and magazines. As providence would have it, I had a nasty accident in 2019 which left me tetraplegic and bedridden. After surgery, rehabilitation, and much reflection, I woke up with a new vision. I took up writing during retirement and pandemic for self-enrichment, to leave a legacy, and to pass time. I started to write my memoirs and have not looked back ever since. Do you have any unusual writing habits? Yes, I’m a pantser. Sometimes I don’t know what the next word is until I write it. I sometimes wake up early in the morning to write a few pages before snoozing off again. Sometimes, when I started to write, I finds it hard to stop. What is the best advice you have ever been given? The best advice given to me is to be persistent, consistent, authentic, and to find my voice. To start something new is always harder in the beginning but it will become easier as time goes by. There is always a learning curve that you have to overcome. Rome is not built in one day. Do not procrastinate. Time and season wait for no one and cannot be redeemed. Do you have any advice for new authors? If you put your heart and soul into writing you will be able to do it. Nothing is impossible. The word impossible says I am possible. Do not give up. Learn new skills. Go the extra mile. Learn the ropes of the trade. Listen to your heart. Convert your thoughts into ink and paper. Write on subjects that you are familiar with and things that interest you, ie profession, hobbies, passion, etc. Think out of the box, be creative, ask questions, and answer your questions. Many stories are created by asking and answering your questions. What has inspired you and your writing style? I am currently working on a Christian non-fiction book which is about 80 percent complete. What are you working on now? I have five chapters of a new novel written but can’t get into the 6th chapter. dont know when I’ll finish. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? I promote my work on my website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Amazon.com, goodreads.com authorsbook.online, bookshelfs.com, bookois.com, oltobooks.com, bookshutter.com etc. What’s next for you as a writer? I will just concentrate and continue what I am doing. I will continue to explore new avenues to market my books to a wider audience. How well do you work under pressure? Writing can be very stressful. When I am too stressed, I will go for a long walk. Sometimes, I will take off for several days to read other people’s books to unwind, refresh, recharge, and reenergised. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile BookShelfs.com GoodRead Facebook Instagram Twitter

Tell us about yourself. Biography Vincent Panettiere was not born in a trunk at the Princess Theatre in Pocatello, Idaho, but in Brooklyn, NY. He graduated from St. John’s University and went to graduate school at Boston University. After college he became a sports writer for the wire service United Press International (UPI) and later wrote for the Boston Herald, a major daily newspaper in that city before Rupert Murdochized it. After holding executive positions at Westinghouse Broadcasting, CBS and Xerox he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career as a screen writer. One script was optioned by Twentieth Century Fox but not produced. Three other projects were optioned by now defunct production companies and also not produced. He became a licensed and bonded literary agent representing writers and directors in television and films. He made deals for writers and directors on TV series (Xena, The Untouchables, Babylon 5 etc.); two independent features were produced; numerous indie/MOW film scripts were sold as well. He also had a client’s book published and another client’s play produced. During the same time, Panettiere was certified by the Major League Baseball Players Association to serve as an agent for major league and professional baseball players. Clients he represented played in the major leagues for the Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals. Objecting to the standard means of financing independent films, Panettiere sought non-traditional funding for his writer/director clients. His journey through the murky world of cyberspace was chronicled in his book The Internet Financing Illusion published in 2007. There is more information about the book on his website http://www.vincentpanettiere.com. Panettiere has published four novels in both paperback and ebook format. They are: A Woman to Blame, These Thy Gifts, The Scopas Factor and the Music of Women. Panettiere has completed his latest novel Shared Sorrows published in 2021. He continues to live in Los Angeles, but has had dinner in Pocatello, Idaho. Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens New York. Can’t recall anything specific influencing my writing. Though, Shared Sorrows is set in New York City and New Jersey. Do you have any unusual writing habits? No is the short answer. The long answer is vulgar. I’ll go with No unusual writing habits What is the best advice you have ever been given? None that means anything. Do you have any advice for new authors? If you are a writer – write; dont talk about writing; just do it. What has inspired you and your writing style? My father inspired and encouraged me to write when I was in high school. I dont know if I have a writing style as for me it all flows from instinct. What are you working on now? I have five chapters of a new novel written but can’t get into the 6th chapter. dont know when I’ll finish. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? Whatever sells. What’s next for you as a writer? The “next” is always another chapter and another book How well do you work under pressure? I work at my own pace. Am determined to finish. In away that is the pressure I create. As I’ve published several books, I guess I work well under pressure. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile Book Bub GoodRead Facebook Twitter Linkedin

Tell us about yourself. A Clearwater, Florida native and graduate of Clearwater High School Dale graduated from Georgia Tech (BS) in 1962, Emory University (MBA) in 1965 and was awarded the DBA from Florida State University in 1973. Currently Dale is Professor Emeritus in Finance and Economics at the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Dale has published numerous scholarly research papers and three books: The Economics of Crime and Law Enforcement (1972-1990), Death on Demand (1984-2005) and The Ninth Passage (2019) Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in North Carolina and was raised by a single mother that sacrificed all for a better future for me. These hard work ethics and sacrifices showed me what it took to be a real man and never give up on ones self. Do you have any unusual writing habits? My words come from my personal experience, so emotion drives the pen. What is the best advice you have ever been given? “Choose one thing in life, and do it very, very, well” Do you have any advice for new authors? always overfill your cup, this way everyone sees that you always give 110% What has inspired you and your writing style? The family nucleus must be fixed What are you working on now? I am currently working on the continuation of Clifford’s War. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? Word of mouth is best. You can promote everywhere but if no one talks about it, no one cares. What’s next for you as a writer? more public speaking and helping with ending the recidivism rate How well do you work under pressure? I’m a Captain that fly’s Jets for a living. pressure is my Co-pilot. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile Marquis Who’s Who GoodRead Facebook Twitter Youtube

Tell us about yourself. 48 Year old father of two Married to Ericka Nickole Smith, Corporate Jet pilot, author, Public speaker, mentor, and entrepreneur. Owner of a aviation company, currently producing a film from my first book “Falling from the sky” in Tampa FL. CEO of Wills Way Foundation a Florida NFP that raises money for the homeless and and battered women and children. Love giving my time to help others find their success within themselves and growing that potential to accomplish their goals. Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in North Carolina and was raised by a single mother that sacrificed all for a better future for me. These hard work ethics and sacrifices showed me what it took to be a real man and never give up on ones self. Do you have any unusual writing habits? My words come from my personal experience, so emotion drives the pen. What is the best advice you have ever been given? “Choose one thing in life, and do it very, very, well” Do you have any advice for new authors? always overfill your cup, this way everyone sees that you always give 110% What has inspired you and your writing style? The family nucleus must be fixed What are you working on now? I am currently working on the continuation of Clifford’s War. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? Word of mouth is best. You can promote everywhere but if no one talks about it, no one cares. What’s next for you as a writer? more public speaking and helping with ending the recidivism rate How well do you work under pressure? I’m a Captain that fly’s Jets for a living. pressure is my Co-pilot. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile Bookbub GoodRead Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin

Tell us about yourself. J. Denison Reed, born in New Jersey, currently lives in Virginia with his wife, children and their cats, Spencer and Guster. Ever since he was a child, he enjoyed creating short stories and poems. He joined the Army after graduating high school which started his career as a Network Engineer. With story-telling always on his mind, J. Denison would write very short and creative, two paragraph stories or short poems in station logs, work logs and trouble tickets purely for others amusement. In addition to writing, J. Denison enjoys other creative outlets like photography and making candles. He even co-owns a small candle company with his wife. (Profile Photography credit: Jennifer James) Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in a small town in New Jersey outside of Philadelphia, PA. I don’t feel like my hometown had any barring , specifically, to my writing style. I have always enjoyed story telling and creative writing. Do you have any unusual writing habits? I sometimes like to act out some of the action I write. I also will hold a conversation with myself to see if the dialog sounds good. What is the best advice you have ever been given? Your real writing does not start until you start your re-writes. This is where the creativity begins. Do you have any advice for new authors? Do not give up on your story. Even if it takes ten years to finish, your story will be forever. What has inspired you and your writing style? My inspiration comes from my desire to tell a good story. My favorite kind of reads are those that are quick and absorb you. Most comments about my writing style are about how quick it is. If you blink you will miss something. I don’t like getting bored with a story and I don’t want my readers to either. Every detail matters. What are you working on now? I am currently working on the continuation of Clifford’s War. What is your favorite method for promoting your work? Word of mouth is best. You can promote everywhere but if no one talks about it, no one cares. What’s next for you as a writer? more public speaking and helping with ending the recidivism rate​ How well do you work under pressure? From the Military to working as a telecom engineer, I feel like I was built to work under pressure. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile Bookbub Good Read Facebook Twitter Instagram

Tell us about yourself. Local Artist, freelance: writer, author, speaker. passion for nature and science. a different vision of the future. Our kids are our future-must encourage them to learn about our small blue planet we call earth! Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? Although one outgrown kid size vessel they will never forget the adventures they have when they were younger. When imagination of a great adventure happens, hearts and mind grows into adulthood. Jimmy Huey, narration & vantage point brings the reader to a past time innocents, childhood was simpler. Being the older brother and Tim his younger brother meet & befriending an alien being. By accident discover the time-travel vessel. And the pressure of growing to adulthood, the secrets made as kids will changed growing up on a small vineyard ranch. Experiences are priceless on a ranch. The Whirlwind Man is an adventure. Giving the reader an inside look were it all began, loaded with family, brother & sister relationships. friendship with an alien and what to be learned, inspiring use to communicate even without using words but mental images. Hopefully this fiction will lead to new inventions, hopes, and inspire the next generation of new fiction writer & ideas. Do you have any unusual writing habits? I write something daily, usually early AM, But Idea come to me at different times of the Day, its important to write them down then, so I always carry a pen & a pad with me. What is the best advice you have ever been given? Try to pick something, experience present or past you are familiar with then pull it apart looking at different vantage points. Do you have any advice for new authors? Save your money because the writing world has many people & company out there wanting to get as much money as possible. I did not want to have any errors in my first book of the series, hired 5 different editors, some book editing companies, one after the other each edited the book, each did not know who or even if it was edited before. Each said, it finished ” Ready to Publish!” My next paid, review came back worse than I would have imagine-not recommending purchase or read? when each of the five reviewed the review they used their own words to say it was my fault? Because I did not pick the right editing? It needed structural editing first!, Once again off to two more professional editing companies and so, now after 7 professional editing its was ready to be published! and it’s Published! What has inspired you and your writing style? I am not sure? Perhaps from the authors I have read before and liked, Isaac Asimov, he wrote many different books over 400 fiction & non-fiction books. What are you working on now? I am finishing up on the present The Whirl Wind Man series , book 2, 3, 4 and 5. My non-fiction book The “History of the Ladybug” a new Book giving the reader methodical, logical, organized-giving, orderly and systematic view on Paleontologists-Entomologists newfound “Archaeladybug ”it’s taken from the author’s personal perspective on how he got involved in and became the Ladybug expert online. Recently John Travolta wife died from Breast Cancer. History of the Ladybug was written to help stop the high Occurrences of Breast Cancer for women, but because of not being able to get the word out to large crowds more women will die.” What is your favorite method for promoting your work? I do seminars yearly called, “The History of the Ladybug” & go to Home & Garden Shows. Have online website-https://www.thebestladybughouse.com , https://www.thewhirlwindman.com What’s next for you as a writer? I would like to get into mysteries, adventure stories. How well do you work under pressure? I can work under pressure but prefer to work at a much slower pace. Author’s Website/Blog Amazon Profile Bookbub Good read Profile Pretty Hot Facebook Twitter Linkedin Youtube

Unveiling DaVinci Resolve Studio Mastering the Craft: Unveiling DaVinci Resolve Studio In the realm of video editing, color grading, and audio post-production, DaVinci Resolve Studio reigns supreme. This powerful software transcends the boundaries of a simple editing program, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for professional content creators. This article delves into the world of DaVinci Resolve Studio, exploring its capabilities, highlighting its benefits, and equipping you with the knowledge to unleash its full potential. A Fusion of Expertise DaVinci Resolve Studio shatters the limitations of traditional video editing software. It seamlessly integrates editing, color correction, visual effects (VFX), motion graphics, and audio post-production within a single, user-friendly interface. This unified approach eliminates the need to switch between disparate programs, streamlining your workflow and fostering creative collaboration. Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I grew up in Texas. My father, Mickey Herskowitz is a best-selling author of biographies with over sixty books to his credit. He was the biggest influence on my writing. Do you have any unusual writing habits? Is procrastination a habit? What is the best advice you have ever been given? Two come to mind… “the best idea you have is the one you’re working on right now.” and in comedy “If it doesn’t sound funny make it look funny.” Do you have any advice for new authors? Yes, focus on the process and not the result. You cannot control reviews or sales, but you can control what you right. Stick to your vision, your voice and make that the best it can be.   What has inspired you and your writing style? I am a fan of many styles, but particularly of Stephen King. What are you working on now? I am currently writing book two of the Laura Drummond Mystery Series What is your favorite method for promoting your work? I am still figuring that out, but at the moment I am putting a bit of energy into Tiktok   What’s next for you as a writer? As someone who is primarily a screenwriter, I am actively working to produce and direct several of my scripts. How well do you work under pressure? I could write a screenplay on a deadline in a war zone. I have the ability to zone out all distractions and focus on the page… when I can focus on the page.   Author’s Website/Blog   Amazon Profile   Bookbub   Good read Profile   Barnes and Nobel Facebook Twitter Linkedin