Every writer faces similar questions when revising their words: How much revision does this need? How much time am I willing to put into it? When is the piece “good enough”? Can I hand it off to someone else to edit, clean up, and take care of? You only know when you’ve done enough if […]
A Subscription Marketing Manifesto
Effective marketing in the Subscription Economy requires a shift in mindset. Make the commitment to do things differently. I have a subscription or membership component to my business, even if the subscription isn’t part of the actual revenue model. I recognize that relationships are the most important competitive differentiator my business can have. I’m building […]
The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan [A Book Review]
Short Version The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan by Stephanie Chandler and Karl W. Palachuk is a comprehensive guide to publishing a nonfiction book, filled with great advice for indie authors. This is now my go-to book to recommend to new and aspiring nonfiction authors. Long version When I decided to self-publish my first book in […]
Using ProWritingAid [A Software Review]
ProWritingAid Review: Short Version ProWritingAid bills itself as “a grammar guru, style editor, and writing mentor in one package.” Although it lacks the intelligence of a human editor, it’s darned good at finding weak spots and opportunities to strengthen your writing. It can certainly help you polish your prose. Long Version Software is a mixed blessing […]
Review of Sandra Beckwith’s Book Marketing 101 Course
Short Version Sandra Beckwith’s Book Marketing 101 for Nonfiction course is a valuable survey of marketing techniques, anchored by a strong marketing plan. Its advice applies to both traditionally published and indie authors. (Fiction writers should examine the companion course, Book Marketing 101 for Fiction.) Long Version In a college curriculum, classes numbered 101 are […]
Grit for Writers by Tamar Sloan [A Book Review]
Short Version Grit for Writers by Tamar Sloan is a guide to cultivating your most important attribute as a writer: grit. If you find yourself discouraged, flagging, or in doubt, you’ll find support and solid advice here. Long Version Success in writing is a long game. It takes time to build the skills, bulk up […]