What Everyone Really Thinks in Publishing

(This is one of my most favorite blogs. I’m reposting for those that might not had a chance to read it last year.)  In order to gain experience, I think it is important for you to understand the true feelings of a large traditional publisher, a mid-size traditional publisher, a self-publisher, literary agent, bookstore manager, and the eBook craze.  You are invited to the Fictitious Writing Conference! Our panel today includes Mr. Big … [Read more...]

Seven Tips From Experienced Authors

Research

“The greatest rules of dramatic writing are conflict, conflict, conflict.” ~ James Frey Your story should be vivid, theatrical, stirring, gripping, full of tension, shocking, while astonishing the reader. In order for that to occur, you need to start your book with conflict. “Successful authors find ways to build trust with their readers.” ~ Untraditional Publishing You are going to hear more about relationship building with readers. … [Read more...]

Becoming a Rich Author

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Do you understand the difficulty it is for actors to make millions of dollars? How about the difficulty of trying to become an NFL player? A CEO of a Fortune 500 company? Or the difficulty of earning millions as an author? Sure, it will be challenging. That’s why only 2% of authors have comfortable careers and less than 1% are millionaires. Do you want to become part of the elite? Here is your path. I must warn you, it will seem … [Read more...]

Stay Consistent

Calander

If you are seeking traditional publishing, but have not been able to sign with a literary agent or publisher, it can be frustrating. On the other hand, if you went the self-publishing route and sales are not what you expected, it can be equally frustrating. Some other words you may use to describe the process can be annoying, wearisome, even a bit maddening. It’s really a bad news, good news situation. The bad news is that authors usually … [Read more...]

Five Quotes To Help Authors Rise UP!

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“The only thing I was fit for was to be a writer, and this notion rested solely on my suspicion that I would never be fit for real work, and that writing didn’t require any.” ~ Russell Baker “If you write one story, it may be bad; if you write a hundred, you have the odds in your favor.” ~ Edgar Rice Burroughs “Your books should be personalized for your readers.” ~ Untraditional Publishing “Give me a man or woman who has … [Read more...]

Say Goodbye to Marketing, Hello to Fans!

Two Adults Talking

Since most authors are on their own, that means they have to do their own marketing, which can cost plenty of time and money. Marketing plans frequently fail because most authors do not have degrees in business. Besides reading and writing, the next best thing an author loves to do is stay connected with fans. So, you know what? Say goodbye to marketing and hello to your fans! Relationship Marketing is a way to connect with your target … [Read more...]

Successful Authors With Every New Sunrise

Sunrise

If every sunrise were the same, then we would only look once. But as we know, the appearance of the sunrise changes daily. Authors that can appreciate the ever-changing world will view each day as a chance for new opportunities.  Success is defined as, “A favorable outcome, based on the accomplishments of service.” An author is defined as, “An originator of ideas.” So what is a successful author? “An originator of ideas, based … [Read more...]

Be in a Position to Succeed

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Authors that place themselves in a position to succeed will increase their odds over authors that measure success by the amount of books they sell. Here is an example of what I mean. Let’s say there is a room with a thousand literary agents, publishers, and readers. On the outside of that room are authors selling books. Another author had been invited, but does not have a table for this event to sell books. Instead, the author is simply … [Read more...]

Patience vs Confidence

When an experienced author is asked to give advice, usually the first thing they say is, “Every author needs patience.” Although I believe patience is extremely important, I sometimes feel that authors should switch to “Confidence Mode.” Here’s why…  ~ Patience can certainly give you the endurance to last many years without success, but confidence is the belief that you will indeed become successful.  ~ Patient authors can … [Read more...]

Blinded By Passion

You wrote a book. Finished it. And will try to sell that book. You are enthusiastic. Excited. Pumped UP. A big smile is plastered on your face. You are thrilled with the possibilities of your book. Then something happens. Either you begin to receive rejection letters, or book sales are much lower than expected. You try to stay determined and continue the tough fight. In fact, you become obsessed at getting your book into the hands of the … [Read more...]