Laina Turner's Blog, page 26
March 15, 2017
10 Ways to Promote Your Novel
Writing a book is the easy part. Selling it….now that is MUCH harder. There are so many books out there in the marketplace that us indie authors have to constantly work hard.
And I mean freakin hard.
Marketing isn’t easy.
Especially when you don’t have millions to throw into your marketing plan.
Don’t think that traditionally published authors do either.
Unless you’re Stephen King or someone of his caliber, publishing houses give very few resources to mid-list authors. The majority of marketing falls squarely on their shoulders.
There is no get rich quick scheme for us authors. No magic way to sell books by the millions. I sure wish there were.
So what are some of the things you can do to promote your books? Besides, keep writing new ones?
Have a website.
In this day and age, you must have a website.
I would like to add you must have a good website. I don’t mean a $10,000 dollar design with amazing glamor shots of you all over it. But intuitive navigation, responsiveness for mobile, and be customer-centric.
Facebook for you and your book.
I think it’s safe to assume that in this day and age most of us have a personal Facebook profile.
You should also have a Facebook page for your writing if you don’t already. For the main reason that it gives you a little bit of separation between your personal life and business.
Your Facebook page is the opportunity for you to engage your readers. Let them in to see your personality, your process, even a little insider information on your books.
Facebook ads are also a good way to get more exposure.
Other social sites. Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, the list is endless.
I don’t recommend you get on every platform at once and try to promote your book and engage your audience but pick a couple you’re most comfortable with to start.
The reason I separated Facebook from the rest is most of us use Facebook for personal reasons, and it’s always good to start with what you’re most familiar with.
Kindle boards and Nook Boards.
These 2 sites have been around forever. They aren’t pretty and frankly can be difficult to use.
However, there is still a treasure trove of information on there, connections you can make, and free promotional opportunities within the threads.
Every little bit helps.
I want to know about upcoming courses for authors! 
Start your journey today!
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There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.
First Name Email Address We use this field to detect spam bots. If you fill this in, you will be marked as a spammer. I want to know! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form { /* divider image */ background: #fff url(data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQADAIABAMzMzP///yH/C1hNUCBEYXRhWE1QPD94cGFja2V0IGJlZ2luPSLvu78iIGlkPSJXNU0wTXBDZWhpSHpyZVN6TlRjemtjOWQiPz4gPHg6eG1wbWV0YSB4bWxuczp4PSJhZG9iZTpuczptZXRhLyIgeDp4bXB0az0iQWRvYmUgWE1QIENvcmUgNS41LWMwMTQgNzkuMTUxNDgxLCAyMDEzLzAzLzEzLTEyOjA5OjE1ICAgICAgICAiPiA8cmRmOlJERiB4bWxuczpyZGY9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzE5OTkvMDIvMjItcmRmLXN5bnRheC1ucyMiPiA8cmRmOkRlc2NyaXB0aW9uIHJkZjphYm91dD0iIiB4bWxuczp4bXA9Imh0dHA6Ly9ucy5hZG9iZS5jb20veGFwLzEuMC8iIHhtbG5zOnhtcE1NPSJodHRwOi8vbnMuYWRvYmUuY29tL3hhcC8xLjAvbW0vIiB4bWxuczpzdFJlZj0iaHR0cDovL25zLmFkb2JlLmNvbS94YXAvMS4wL3NUeXBlL1Jlc291cmNlUmVmIyIgeG1wOkNyZWF0b3JUb29sPSJBZG9iZSBQaG90b3Nob3AgQ0MgKE1hY2ludG9zaCkiIHhtcE1NOkluc3RhbmNlSUQ9InhtcC5paWQ6MUQ5NjM5RjgxQUVEMTFFNEJBQTdGNTQwMjc5MTZDOTciIHhtcE1NOkRvY3VtZW50SUQ9InhtcC5kaWQ6MUQ5NjM5RjkxQUVEMTFFNEJBQTdGNTQwMjc5MTZDOTciPiA8eG1wTU06RGVyaXZlZEZyb20gc3RSZWY6aW5zdGFuY2VJRD0ieG1wLmlpZDoxRDk2MzlGNjFBRUQxMUU0QkFBN0Y1NDAyNzkxNkM5NyIgc3RSZWY6ZG9jdW1lbnRJRD0ieG1wLmRpZDoxRDk2MzlGNzFBRUQxMUU0QkFBN0Y1NDAyNzkxNkM5NyIvPiA8L3JkZjpEZXNjcmlwdGlvbj4gPC9yZGY6UkRGPiA8L3g6eG1wbWV0YT4gPD94cGFja2V0IGVuZD0iciI/PgH//v38+/r5+Pf29fTz8vHw7+7t7Ovq6ejn5uXk4+Lh4N/e3dzb2tnY19bV1NPS0dDPzs3My8rJyMfGxcTDwsHAv769vLu6ubi3trW0s7KxsK+urayrqqmop6alpKOioaCfnp2cm5qZmJeWlZSTkpGQj46NjIuKiYiHhoWEg4KBgH9+fXx7enl4d3Z1dHNycXBvbm1sa2ppaGdmZWRjYmFgX15dXFtaWVhXVlVUU1JRUE9OTUxLSklIR0ZFRENCQUA/Pj08Ozo5ODc2NTQzMjEwLy4tLCsqKSgnJiUkIyIhIB8eHRwbGhkYFxYVFBMSERAPDg0MCwoJCAcGBQQDAgEAACH5BAEAAAEALAAAAAABAAMAAAICRFIAOw==) repeat-y center top; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border-top: solid 20px #3071b0; border-top-color: #fdf2f4; border-bottom: solid 10px #3d3d3d; border-bottom-color: #989192; -webkit-box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px rgba(0,0,0,.3); -moz-box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px rgba(0,0,0,.3); box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px rgba(0,0,0,.3); clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } #ck_subscribe_form { clear: both; } /* Element Queries — uses JS */ .ck_form_content, .ck_form_fields { width: 50%; float: left; padding: 5%; } .ck_form.ck_horizontal { } .ck_form_content { border-bottom: none; } .ck_form.ck_vertical { background: #fff; } .ck_vertical .ck_form_content, .ck_vertical .ck_form_fields { padding: 10%; width: 100%; float: none; } .ck_vertical .ck_form_content { border-bottom: 1px dotted #aaa; overflow: hidden; } /* Trigger the vertical layout with media queries as well */ @media all and (max-width: 499px) { .ck_form { background: #fff; } .ck_form_content, .ck_form_fields { padding: 10%; width: 100%; float: none; } .ck_form_content { border-bottom: 1px dotted #aaa; } } /* Content */ .ck_form_content h3 { margin: 0px 0px 15px; font-size: 24px; padding: 0px; } .ck_form_content p { font-size: 14px; } .ck_image { float: left; margin-right: 5px; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_label { font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; } .ck_form input[type="text"], .ck_form input[type="email"] { font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 4px; -webkit-border-radius: 4px; border-radius: 4px; /* border radius */ background-color: #f8f7f7; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_checkbox { padding: 10px 0px 10px 20px; display: block; clear: both; } .ck_checkbox input.optIn { margin-left: -20px; margin-top: 0; } .ck_form .ck_opt_in_prompt { margin-left: 4px; } .ck_form .ck_opt_in_prompt p { display: inline; } .ck_form .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 10px 0px 0px; padding: 10px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #cacaca; -moz-border-radius: 4px; -webkit-border-radius: 4px; border-radius: 4px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; } .ck_form .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 5px 0px; display: block; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by { display: block; color: #aaa; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by:hover { display: block; color: #444; } .ck_converted_content { display: none; padding: 5%; background: #fff; }
Grassroots local in-person marketing.
Even in a virtual business, nothing can beat good old fashioned getting out and meeting people.
Contact places that make sense to host a book signing or author event. A coffee shop or a wine bar.
It doesn’t have to be a big grand thing.
Often small businesses are happy to work with someone wanting to set up a small table and showcase some books and advertise where they will be as it has the potential to bring more people into the store.
Libraries offer readings.
In the electronic age, I think libraries are so overlooked and under appreciated. When I was a kid going to the library was such a treat. Today with the ability to use an app to rent ebooks from the library and never even go in the whole experience is being missed. Libraries love to have authors come in and hold talks, interact with patrons, and generally just support the love of literature.
Book clubs.
This is another group who love to have authors come talk to them and speak. Readers find authors fascinating.
Even if you’ve only written one book. You have a talent.
A talent that many people wish they had but don’t so they view you as special. Being able to meet readers and talk to them will give you the opportunity to not only make the connection with them but the people who they might tell.
You know word of mouth travels fast.
Community events.
There are 2 types of community I’m talking about here. The community you live in and the virtual community.
The community you live in can be another overlooked venue. Just because you sell ebooks doesn’t mean everything you do needs to be virtual. That’s a misconception many authors I work with have.
Just because your book lives online doesn’t mean you can’t have flyers or postcards made up that will promote your book. You can have coupon codes to offer a discount or free, swag to give you.
All sorts of things to build awareness.
Contests.
Everyone loves a contest. It’s a great way to build buzz and excitement around your book.
It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
A free book or a $5 gift card to Amazon. It’s usually the thought of winning something that really counts.
I often ask other authors to include their books with mine to give out in a gift basket.
It’s a win – win as it gets all of us exposure.
Book reviews.
Book reviews are one of the most important elements to selling.
It’s natural for people to be more willing to lay down their cold hard cash if they see other people have enjoyed the book. There’s less of a risk factor.
Be proactive and ask for reviews. Offer free copies in exchange for HONEST reviews.
So yes, you must be willing to put yourself out there and take the chance the person you asked won’t like your book, but I will add that most people whom you ask to review if they don’t like it will usually not post rather than posting a negative.
And let’s face it you are going to get bad reviews. It sucks but learn from it and move forward.
Bonus**Create videos.
Video has overtaken the world (and it did kill the radio star).
Want to make mac & cheese? Check out YouTube.
Want to perform brain surgery? Check out YouTube.
Book trailers are not very effective in my opinion but video of you talking about your book, about your process, and stuff like that are.
The 11 ideas I listed is just the tip of the iceberg.
Marketing may seem like a daunting task, but there are countless ways to get your book out there. Many for little to no cost.
You need to figure out what works for you, your author platform, and your book.
Marketing isn’t a one size fits all.
The post 10 Ways to Promote Your Novel appeared first on Laina Turner.
10 Ways to Promote Your Novel?
Writing a book is the easy part. Selling it….now that is MUCH harder. There are so many books out there in the marketplace that us indie authors have to constantly work hard.
And I mean freakin hard.
Marketing isn’t easy.
Especially when you don’t have millions to throw into your marketing plan.
Don’t think that traditionally published authors do either.
Unless you’re Stephen King or someone of his caliber, publishing houses give very few resources to mid-list authors. The majority of marketing falls squarely on their shoulders.
There is no get rich quick scheme for us authors. No magic way to sell books by the millions. I sure wish there were.
So what are some of the things you can do to promote your books? Besides, keep writing new ones?
Have a website.
In this day and age, you must have a website.
I would like to add you must have a good website. I don’t mean a $10,000 dollar design with amazing glamor shots of you all over it. But intuitive navigation, responsiveness for mobile, and be customer-centric.
Facebook for you and your book.
I think it’s safe to assume that in this day and age most of us have a personal Facebook profile.
You should also have a Facebook page for your writing if you don’t already. For the main reason that it gives you a little bit of separation between your personal life and business.
Your Facebook page is the opportunity for you to engage your readers. Let them in to see your personality, your process, even a little insider information on your books.
Facebook ads are also a good way to get more exposure.
Other social sites. Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, the list is endless.
I don’t recommend you get on every platform at once and try to promote your book and engage your audience but pick a couple you’re most comfortable with to start.
The reason I separated Facebook from the rest is most of us use Facebook for personal reasons, and it’s always good to start with what you’re most familiar with.
Kindle boards and Nook Boards.
These 2 sites have been around forever. They aren’t pretty and frankly can be difficult to use.
However, there is still a treasure trove of information on there, connections you can make, and free promotional opportunities within the threads.
Every little bit helps.
I want to know about upcoming courses for authors!
Start your journey today!
Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.
There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.
First Name Email Address We use this field to detect spam bots. If you fill this in, you will be marked as a spammer. I want to know! Powered by ConvertKit /* Layout */ .ck_form { /* divider image */ background: #fff url(data:image/gif;base64,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) repeat-y center top; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5em; overflow: hidden; color: #666; font-size: 16px; border-top: solid 20px #3071b0; border-top-color: #fdf2f4; border-bottom: solid 10px #3d3d3d; border-bottom-color: #989192; -webkit-box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px rgba(0,0,0,.3); -moz-box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px rgba(0,0,0,.3); box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px rgba(0,0,0,.3); clear: both; margin: 20px 0px; } .ck_form, .ck_form * { -webkit-box-sizing: border-box; -moz-box-sizing: border-box; box-sizing: border-box; } #ck_subscribe_form { clear: both; } /* Element Queries — uses JS */ .ck_form_content, .ck_form_fields { width: 50%; float: left; padding: 5%; } .ck_form.ck_horizontal { } .ck_form_content { border-bottom: none; } .ck_form.ck_vertical { background: #fff; } .ck_vertical .ck_form_content, .ck_vertical .ck_form_fields { padding: 10%; width: 100%; float: none; } .ck_vertical .ck_form_content { border-bottom: 1px dotted #aaa; overflow: hidden; } /* Trigger the vertical layout with media queries as well */ @media all and (max-width: 499px) { .ck_form { background: #fff; } .ck_form_content, .ck_form_fields { padding: 10%; width: 100%; float: none; } .ck_form_content { border-bottom: 1px dotted #aaa; } } /* Content */ .ck_form_content h3 { margin: 0px 0px 15px; font-size: 24px; padding: 0px; } .ck_form_content p { font-size: 14px; } .ck_image { float: left; margin-right: 5px; } /* Form fields */ .ck_errorArea { display: none; } #ck_success_msg { padding: 10px 10px 0px; border: solid 1px #ddd; background: #eee; } .ck_label { font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; } .ck_form input[type="text"], .ck_form input[type="email"] { font-size: 14px; padding: 10px 8px; width: 100%; border: 1px solid #d6d6d6; /* stroke */ -moz-border-radius: 4px; -webkit-border-radius: 4px; border-radius: 4px; /* border radius */ background-color: #f8f7f7; /* layer fill content */ margin-bottom: 5px; height: auto; } .ck_form input[type="text"]:focus, .ck_form input[type="email"]:focus { outline: none; border-color: #aaa; } .ck_checkbox { padding: 10px 0px 10px 20px; display: block; clear: both; } .ck_checkbox input.optIn { margin-left: -20px; margin-top: 0; } .ck_form .ck_opt_in_prompt { margin-left: 4px; } .ck_form .ck_opt_in_prompt p { display: inline; } .ck_form .ck_subscribe_button { width: 100%; color: #fff; margin: 10px 0px 0px; padding: 10px 0px; font-size: 18px; background: #cacaca; -moz-border-radius: 4px; -webkit-border-radius: 4px; border-radius: 4px; /* border radius */ cursor: pointer; border: none; text-shadow: none; } .ck_form .ck_guarantee { color: #626262; font-size: 12px; text-align: center; padding: 5px 0px; display: block; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by { display: block; color: #aaa; } .ck_form .ck_powered_by:hover { display: block; color: #444; } .ck_converted_content { display: none; padding: 5%; background: #fff; }
Grassroots local in-person marketing.
Even in a virtual business, nothing can beat good old fashioned getting out and meeting people.
Contact places that make sense to host a book signing or author event. A coffee shop or a wine bar.
It doesn’t have to be a big grand thing.
Often small businesses are happy to work with someone wanting to set up a small table and showcase some books and advertise where they will be as it has the potential to bring more people into the store.
Libraries offer readings.
In the electronic age, I think libraries are so overlooked and under appreciated. When I was a kid going to the library was such a treat. Today with the ability to use an app to rent ebooks from the library and never even go in the whole experience is being missed. Libraries love to have authors come in and hold talks, interact with patrons, and generally just support the love of literature.
Book clubs.
This is another group who love to have authors come talk to them and speak. Readers find authors fascinating.
Even if you’ve only written one book. You have a talent.
A talent that many people wish they had but don’t so they view you as special. Being able to meet readers and talk to them will give you the opportunity to not only make the connection with them but the people who they might tell.
You know word of mouth travels fast.
Community events.
There are 2 types of community I’m talking about here. The community you live in and the virtual community.
The community you live in can be another overlooked venue. Just because you sell ebooks doesn’t mean everything you do needs to be virtual. That’s a misconception many authors I work with have.
Just because your book lives online doesn’t mean you can’t have flyers or postcards made up that will promote your book. You can have coupon codes to offer a discount or free, swag to give you.
All sorts of things to build awareness.
Contests.
Everyone loves a contest. It’s a great way to build buzz and excitement around your book.
It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
A free book or a $5 gift card to Amazon. It’s usually the thought of winning something that really counts.
I often ask other authors to include their books with mine to give out in a gift basket.
It’s a win – win as it gets all of us exposure.
Book reviews.
Book reviews are one of the most important elements to selling.
It’s natural for people to be more willing to lay down their cold hard cash if they see other people have enjoyed the book. There’s less of a risk factor.
Be proactive and ask for reviews. Offer free copies in exchange for HONEST reviews.
So yes, you must be willing to put yourself out there and take the chance the person you asked won’t like your book, but I will add that most people whom you ask to review if they don’t like it will usually not post rather than posting a negative.
And let’s face it you are going to get bad reviews. It sucks but learn from it and move forward.
Bonus**Create videos.
Video has overtaken the world (and it did kill the radio star).
Want to make mac & cheese? Check out YouTube.
Want to perform brain surgery? Check out YouTube.
Book trailers are not very effective in my opinion but video of you talking about your book, about your process, and stuff like that are.
The 11 ideas I listed is just the tip of the iceberg.
Marketing may seem like a daunting task, but there are countless ways to get your book out there. Many for little to no cost.
You need to figure out what works for you, your author platform, and your book.
Marketing isn’t a one size fits all.
The post 10 Ways to Promote Your Novel? appeared first on Laina Turner.
March 13, 2017
12 Steps to Take Before Self Publishing
You’re ready to self publish your book, but you’re not sure your book is ready.
The problem is you’re not exactly sure HOW to determine if it’s ready or not for publishing.
Don’t worry. It’s not an easy question to answer. Partly, because it’s not the same for everyone and also because it’s hard calling your baby ugly.
You work so hard on something the last ting you want to do is think it STILL needs more work.
But you’ll thank yourself in the end for taking the time to go that extra mile and make sure your book is absolutely awesome!
The following are the tips I seem to most often tell new authors:
1. Read everything you can get your hands on and do your research on trends in writing, books, and anything authorpreneur related.
Writers MUST read. Books, magazines, pamphlets at the doctor’s office (ok maybe not that). All joking aside, don’t limit yourself to only reading the genre you write in.
Broaden your horizons.
There is so much to learn from authors in other genres and even if a particular style is not normally your thing you can appreciate it as an artist.
Research and understand the style you plan to publish in. If you want to make a living writing romance, then you need to know as much as you can about it. What readers are looking for, what the trends are, and what other authors are doing.
Ideally, this should be done BEFORE you’re ready to publish to make sure you are laser focused on the right market but if not. It’s never too late.
2. Write a great book. This kind of goes without saying, since no one sets out to write crap, but I feel compelled to say it anyway. You don’t want to rush the process.
It can be hard making yourself go back and edit over and over and over until your book is ready but long term it will hurt you if you rush. You don’t want people to pass up your next book because the first one wasn’t ready and wasn’t what the readers were expecting.
On the flip side, I do want to mention don’t wait until you feel your book is perfect to put it out there because chances are you will never feel your book is 100% perfect. Perfect, true perfection, is hard to come by. Just take the time to make sure it’s as close to perfect as possible.
3. Have your book professionally edited. If I were going to stand on my soap box and preach something, this would be it.
I won’t lie editing is expensive. It will be the aspect of publishing you spend the most money on but the one where you don’t want to cut corners.
Nothing can ruin a great book faster than misspelled words or inconsistencies in the plot.
Have your book edited for both content and grammar. This will add a lot of time to the process, but you must build it into your production schedule.
Trust me. It will be well worth it.
4. Build your author platform. Many authors make the mistake of waiting until their book is finished to start building their author platform.
You want to start this process as soon as you start your book. Or even sooner. The author platform is about getting you, the author noticed. It’s visibility of what you have to offer to your readers.
Find people who read your genre and start engaging them so when your book comes out they are on board to purchase it. You can blog, build your email list, send out newsletters.
Anything that will keep you in front of your readers.
5. Promote, promote, promote. If people don’t know about your book, then they can’t buy it. In my experience, this seems to be the #1 struggle of new, and long time, authors.
It’s not easy for everyone to do the shameless self-promotion that goes along with any artist trying to sell their products.
And by promote, promote, promote, I don’t mean blatant BUY MY BOOK marking. But create awareness.
I want to know about upcoming courses for authors!
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6. Have realistic expectations. There is nothing more frustrating than waking up the first morning after publishing your book and thinking you sold a million copies to find out you sold 1.
And that was to your mom.
Selling books is a slow process that will gain momentum every week you work at it. Stick with it and you will see the fruits of your labor.
7. Have other people read your book besides your editors. You want to get a readers perspective. What may make complete sense to you may not resonate with a reader.
Over the years I’ve been fortunate enough to get a team of Beta Readers. People who like my books enough that in return for a free copy are willing to read the book before publishing to give me feedback.
Now, this can also be a double-edged sword. You can’t please everyone, and sometimes too much feedback is stressful.
Be prepared to take the feedback with a grain of salt and don’t try to jump through hoops to make every change someone recommends. Especially since some will conflict.
8. Make sure your book is properly formatted for the platforms you are putting it on. Most platforms now have the ability to format your book from a Word doc to an ePub, Mobi, or whatever the platform requires.
However, I do NOT recommend this.
As awesome as Microsoft Word is, your book will lose some formatting in the conversion process. Turning it into a PDF before uploading it is marginally better, but you can still have some major issues.
Out of all the costs associated with publishing your book, formatting is one of the less expensive ones. So my recommendation is don’t skimp on this step.
9. Have an outstanding title. First impression not only counts with your cover art but your title. Those are the 2 things that are going to reach out and GRAB someone.
Compel them to read the back blurb which will then entice them to buy.
Come up with a few different ones. This could be a great way to get readers engaged. Let them vote on it. See what kind of feedback you get.
10. Be professional. Most of the things I’ve talked about in this post all relate to this one. Be professional. I recently read a blog post that said it wasn’t about traditional publishing versus self-publishing anymore but professional publishing versus nonprofessional.
I loved how he worded it because I truly agree. Self-publishing has gotten a bad rap BECAUSE of all the sloppy, unprofessional work that’s been put out there.
I know I’ve put books out there that weren’t all that professional as I was starting my journey. I didn’t know better but I learned.
Often the hard way.
Being a successful author is a learning process. But the goal should be to get better every time you publish.
11. What are the goals for your book? Your end game, the time you have and want to invest in this, the plans you have for your writing career all play a part of figuring out what you want from each book you publish.
Of course, you want the obvious. To sell books.
But how many you sell will be a result of how much time and effort you can put into the marketing. And we are all at different stages in our career.
No matter what your goal is. Big or small embrace it and be proud of it.
12. Your back matter. After the title and your awesome cover catch the readers eye, they will read the blurb. At least that’s the hope.
The few paragraphs summing up what your book is all about needs to be enticing so it will ensure the reader MUST buy your book because they just have to find out whats going to happen next.
This could be a list of 112 things to do before you self-publish, but I need to stop at some point.
Mistakes happen.
Your self publishing journey will be frustrating at times, and you may want to quit. In fact, I’m sure you’ll want to quit. I know I have a million times. But then I rally and get back in the game because it’s worth it.
So GO! Get writing!
The post 12 Steps to Take Before Self Publishing appeared first on Laina Turner.
February 20, 2017
15 Editing Tips for the Indie Author
I’m a writer. I like to write. In fact, I love to write. I love, love, love the making up stories aspect of being a writer. I do NOT, however, enjoy the mechanics of writing.
The grammar and sentence structure part. And frankly, since spell check became a thing, I can’t spell to save my life either.
More than even not enjoying it. I suck at it. Interesting, since I have 3 advanced degrees and teach at the college level.
I CAN write good (haha that’s a joke), but I have to be extra attentive to catch my own mistakes and then sometimes even then I don’t. Attention to detail is not one of my strengths.
You see I have some bad habits. I totally blame this on the fact that my mother was an English teacher. Why is it her fault you’re wondering?
Because she constantly corrected me when I was little and I found it so annoying I intentionally tried to fail English when I got to high school.
What can I say? I was a rebellious thing. Though the joke is on me. For as much as I did not want to be like my mother, I am a writer and teacher. Exactly what she was. Funny how that happened.
Editing is a tedious process, but it’s a necessary evil for a writer. Both content editing to catch story irregularities and line editing to catch the mechanical errors.
Below are the most common self-editing tips that I tell the writers I work with. I also tell them to have their work professional published. I run my work through 2, sometimes 3 editors, and STILL there are mistakes.
Like I said. It’s not an easy process.
Don’t depend solely on spell check. Spell check is an awesome tool, but it’s not entirely accurate. It doesn’t understand homonyms and words that are close in spelling but have many different meanings. Such as Bob and boob.That’s a real mistake. I’ve seen it.
Grammar check is also a tool not to be entirely dependent on. However, with that said I have settings that catch some of my bad habits (like passive voice and not using contractions, academic holdovers) and force me to fix.
I also use the website Grammarly which has been a tremendous help to me but again know that these tools aren’t substitutes for a professional editor.
Don’t have a false sense of how awesome you are at catching your own mistakes. You might think you’re an amazing editor, but you want to be careful. You might be good at editing others work but are you that good at your own?It’s good to have an independent editor, just sayin.
Don’t use big words. I know you’re smart. You know you’re smart. Your reader doesn’t care. Unless of course, you’re writing a book about astro physics or brain surgery. And if that’s your plan you’re reading the wrong blog.If it’s a mystery novel you’re writing your reader wants to be entertained not stuck looking up every other word to find out what it means.
Don’t use needless words. This one can be a challenge because, on one hand, you want to be descriptive, but you don’t want to go on and on so long that the reader forgets what you were talking about in the first place.Let the reader make up some of the details themselves.
Slow down on the adverbs. We all have our issues. Mine in the novelist realm is my overuse of adverbs (my issues in non-writing areas would be too many to list and not the best topic for this particular post).Adverbs tend to weaken your writing. The telling instead of the showing creeps in, and that’s not what you want.Adverbs are for the lazy writer as my editor tells me after she’s crossed out a hundred of them.
I’m sure thinking all the while I cared more about re-watching all seasons of Grey’s Anatomy than to proofread my book.
Redundancy. This is also an easy mistake to make. It’s an easy trap to fall into because we forgot we already wrote it’s an easy trap to fall into (see what I’m doing here). Or maybe what we wrote is such a fantastic line we want to use it again. In either case, don’t.
Avoid crutch words. When speaking these are words that give us a pause without staying silent. The most common crutch words are: actually, obviously, literally, basically, and like. Top Secrets to Making a Living as an Author
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Also look at how often you use just, very, and that. When I wrote my dissertation, the first thing my editor made me do was to go back through my document and find and delete THEM ALL. I was freaked out.
Until I did what she asked and re-read my work and realized she was right. Taking out those words didn’t hurt at all and in fact tightened up the sentences.
Show don’t tell. Your reader needs to be engaged. This is why showing them what’s going on so they can be an interested observer is much more important than telling them.It can be tempting to put in the flowery language when writing dialogue because you think it is necessary to convey the proper feeling. But if you SHOW versus TELL it’s not necessary.
“But I don’t want to,” Clarissa said with a hard tone.
Or
Clarissa’s mouth set in a grim line, “but I don’t want to.”
In the first sentence I am telling the reader what is going on, but in the second I am letting them figure it out by the movement of Clarissa’s mouth. They can imagine how she is feeling.
Don’t be impatient. Too often a book gets published before it’s ready and the very simple reason is the author was so excited to publish that book that she skimped on the editing.It’s also the most costly aspect so double the reason to skimp on it. But I would tell anyone that it’s the most important place to spend money. The readability can make or break your book sales.
Keep dialogue tags simple and don’t overuse them. Your reader isn’t dumb. If you have a stream of dialogue going, you don’t always need to put who said it. It can be more detracting than helpful.“I think it’s the blue house,” Adam said.
“Are you sure it’s not the red one,” said Billy.
“No. I’m sure it’s the blue,” Adam said.
“I don’t agree. I think you’re wrong,” Billy said. “What do you think, Pam?”
“I think Adam is right,” Pam replied.
This example is a little over the top and annoying, but you see my point. Much better to have it go something like this:
“I think it’s the blue house,” Adam said.
“Are you sure it’s not the red one,” said Billy.
“No. I’m sure it’s the blue.”
“I don’t agree. I think you’re wrong. What do you think, Pam?”
“I think Adam is right.”
Short, simple, and too the point. Your reader will get it.
Walk away. The absolute best tip I can give you is to walk away. When you’ve been working on your novel for months, a year, a decade you have the words burned into your brain. So it is easy to skip right over the errors.Take a step back and go work on something else and then come back to it and read it over again. You’ll be amazed at what you catch.
Edit from a hard copy. I know this might seem old school but nothing beats good old fashioned paper and pen. Especially, if that pen is green which I believe is the magic color of editing (purple is 2nd runner-up).Printing out a 50k word book takes a lot of paper, I get that. But it’s a lot easier to catch mistakes. At least it is in my opinion.
Don’t treat your reader as if they are stupid. This tip is a sister to the show versus tell. Yes, you do want to be descriptive. Set the scene, let readers know what’s happening.You don’t want to spoon feed them every little tidbit. It’s not necessary. Plus, half the fun for a reader is filling in the blanks with your own imagination.
Read it out loud. This is the best advice my middle school self ever received. It’s tedious, and it’s not that much fun, but it works.
Measure twice cut once. I’m sure you’ve all heard that saying. And while I know cliches tend to get overused I like this one.It reminds me to pay attention to detail. To be patient and methodical. Things I’m not normally.
Editing takes a lot of time, but it’s an element of book publishing that you want to dedicate your time and resources too to create the best book possible.
The post 15 Editing Tips for the Indie Author appeared first on Laina Turner.
February 16, 2017
Get One Step Closer to Self Publishing your book
You’re ready to conquer your fear, take the plunge, and begin your career as an indie author.
Publishing a book is your dream, and you’re ready to pursue it.
That’s AWESOME! I am so proud of you. You’re going to be so happy you decided to do this.
Join my webinar Tuesday, February 21st at 8 pm EST so I can help you!
Top Secrets to Making a Living as an Author
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But I didn’t do it for years.
Fear stopped me from pursuing my dream for the longest time. Fear of the unknown. I was afraid I didn’t have what publishers were looking for. That my ideas were stupid and my books boring. So I kept those dreams to myself. But I never stopped thinking about it.
Then ebooks came along, and the publishing landscape changed. Don’t get me wrong, I still had a lot of fear, but the process of publishing seemed more manageable, more doable. Plus, I was at a point in my life where I was willing to take a risk. Put myself out there and be ok even if I failed. So I decided to go for it. And I’m so glad I did.
I’m living my dream with no regrets.
10 years later and while I still haven’t figured this industry out, it changes too fast for that, I know a lot about the writing and publishing process, and I know even more about what not to do.
I want to share what I’ve learned that’s made me successful (and all my mistakes) with you. To aid you on your journey of your dream of publishing your book and building a sustaining business as an author.
Join me next Tuesday, February 21st 8 pm for a 1-hour webinar to discuss my top tips to help you be successful publishing your book.
During this hour we will discuss:
The importance of writing what sells
Why you must build a platform
The business behind the book
Building a tribe
Plus there will be time for Q & A. If you have questions you want to ask now to make sure they’re answered, please email me at laina@lainaturner.com.
Hope to see you there getting ready to live your dream!
The post Get One Step Closer to Self Publishing your book appeared first on Laina Turner.
February 9, 2017
Weekend traffic Jam Link Up party #83
TRAFFIC JAM WEEKEND LINKY PARTY #83!
Show us your old posts and more on Traffic Jam Weekend!
Come on in to link up, share, and learn something with us.
#trafficjamweekend
For any newcomers to Traffic Jam Weekend, this weekly linky party is all about linking up your old posts so you can get some new comments and traffic.
To the frequent TJW visitors, thanks for always linking up.
The bloggers bringing this fabulous party to you:
Kimberly from Being A Wordsmith | Facebook (site) | Facebook (book series) | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+
Laina from LainaTurner.com | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+
Gail from Frugal Family Adventures | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+
Natasha from Epic Mommy Adventures | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram
Evelyn from Eclectic Evelyn | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+ | YouTube | Tumblr
Reuven from Marriage-Reset | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Google+ | LinkedIn
These are the featured posts from Traffic Jam Weekend #82…
Laina chose Sweetheart Raspberry Scones Recipe by Glue Sticks. “Raspberry and scones….what a great combo.”
Gail chose How to Save Money on Electric Bill by Quirky Inspired. “Good tips to share with others.”
Kimberly chose Beginners Guide to the Super Bowl by I Am Zoe Watson. “Very informative post for those not-in-the-know about football…like me! Doesn’t matter that I’ve watched thousands of games over the years with my Daddy, Hubby, etc. I never had a real interest, so the plays don’t make sense. This post gave me a leg up.”
E velyn chose 14 Things I’d Rather Do Than Watch the Super Bowl by WebMDiva. “So funny and so true for those of us not into spending an entire day watching overpaid millionaires chase a ball.”
The post with the most views was Life Grinch by Daily Dump.
Thank you guys for sharing! Your posts have been pinned to the Traffic Jam Weekend Linky Party Pinterest board. Please grab a special Traffic Jam Weekend featured button below to display on your blog.
Just a few rules for the party…
Grab a Traffic Jam Weekend button below for your site
Link up as many of your old posts as you like below
Take some time and visit the other posts
Create some traffic jam for the hosts of this party
Share this party on social media with the hashtag #trafficjamweekend
Follow Being A Wordsmith’s board Traffic Jam Weekend Linky Party on Pinterest.*Disclaimer: Adding your link to this linky party gives permission to Being A Wordsmith and co-hosts to share your posts and pictures via social media with a link back to the original source. It also gives Being A Wordsmith and co-hosts permission to contact you via e-mail or social media for networking purposes.
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An InLinkz Link-up
The post Weekend traffic Jam Link Up party #83 appeared first on Laina Turner.
February 8, 2017
10 Tips on Building a Sustainable Writing Business
I have yet to meet a writer who didn’t want build a sustainable writing business (unless they already were) but many writers don’t think it’s possible. Including myself from time to time.
I have doubts every week. It’s normal.
Since 2nd grade, I knew I wanted a writing career. But it took me 30 years to start the path to that dream. Because I, like many of you, didn’t feel it was possible and was quite skilled at coming up with a million reasons to support that impossible theory.
Then starting in 2007 the ebook became a force to be reckoned with and publishing as we knew it changed becoming much more possible. Today, 10 years later (wow, I’ve been doing this a long time), it’s not as easy as it once was because there are so many other people chasing their dreams of being writers.
But it’s not impossible. You CAN build a sustainable business as an author.
When you are thinking about HOW you might accomplish this goal keep these 10 things in mind:
Never stop writing. This should really be 1 through 10. The more you write, the better you get, the more books you put out, and the more people have the chance to buy your work. Write consistently, so it’s a habit. You are a writer after all. So WRITE!
Have a holistic approach to your indie author business. You can’t just focus on just the writing or just the marketing. Working on what you like while ignoring what you don’t. You need to invest your time in ALL aspects of running your empire. It’s the hardest part about being an entrepreneur. Keeping all your balls in the air.
Don’t waste your time on things you’re not good at. This can be a hard one for a couple reasons. Us entrepreneurs tend to be type A’s and that can often translate into control freak. You don’t want to give up any part of your baby to someone else which is completely understandable. Money also is a factor. When it’s a bootstrapping effort to get the business going there isn’t a lot of extra money and thinking about paying out when not much (if anything) is coming in, is scary.
But keep in mind that TIME is MONEY. If you spend time on things you aren’t good at and therefore they take 10 times longer, you’re really spending more than if you paid someone good at it to do it. You need to look at the return on investment (ROI). If your time is better spent elsewhere…then maybe spend it there.
I like to say, “do what you do best and outsource the rest.”
Find your tribe. Writing is a solitary business. You’re a solopreneur. If you don’t seek out people to surround yourself with who understand what you’re trying to accomplish it can get very lonely. And you might start talking to yourself which my daughter says I do all the time. I didn’t believe her until she pointed it out to me in the middle of a good conversation I was having. Hand gestures and all. She’s now worried about my sanity, but that’s an entirely different blog post.
When you feel like you’re working in a vacuum, it can lead to frustration when you hit an obstacle and don’t have anyone to talk to. That’s not a good work environment.
Be consistent. I’ve talked a lot about Steven Pressfield and his quote on how a professional shows up every day. I say it all the time because I don’t feel I could say it enough. Sometimes I have to say it every day to remind myself. When I wake up and check my blog stats, and my book sales, and I didn’t hit the numbers I felt I should, I sometimes feel like giving up. Which makes me want to watch Netflix and eat. Not keep working. But I can’t let that self-defeating behavior get to me. Because if I allow myself a pity party one day turns into two and then three and all of a sudden a week has gone by, and I haven’t done a damn thing. Then I get even more depressed over what a failure I am.
If you work toward your goal every day, you can take pride in that. In the steps, you’re taking every day to realize your dream.
Take time off. Yes, I know I just told you that to be a professional you need to work consistently, but you also need time to rest and recharge your batteries. There is a difference between taking the time to rejuvenate your mind and body versus taking time off to feel sorry for yourself and binge watch TV.
It can be hard for entrepreneurs to find that balance. We think we have to work 24/7 and while it’s true, we don’t work a traditional 40 hour week with lunch breaks and a 5 pm quitting time (but really does anyone these days) there has to be boundaries or burn out will be inevitable.
Invest in yourself. Always be learning. There are many different creative and business elements that will be part of your indie authorpreneur life. There will always be new things that will come up all the time that you didn’t expect. It seems to happen almost daily especially in the area of social media. Three new social media platforms probably popped up since I started writing this post.
Now I say this with caution because it’s also very easy to get all excited about every single new thing that comes up and you go down the rabbit hole for hours and get nothing important done. Busy doesn’t always equal productive so chose your activities wisely. I would recommend setting aside time each week for professional development. Then as you come across things you want to look into you can write it down for that scheduled time.
Have a vision/mission statement. If you read this blog at all you probably know preach having tangible goals and a plan to achieve them if you want to make any progress. You also want to have a clear vision and mission. I spent 3 hours last weekend re-writing my mission statement. The mission of “A Writing Lifestyle” is to provide education, encouragement, and inspiration to women on their writing journey. Now you might be thinking 3 hours on one sentence. Really? Isn’t THAT a waste of time? Especially, if you’re a company of 1. Who even cares?Not at all because what I was able to accomplish in that 3 hours was to create a very impactful, one sentence statement that completely embodies what I want to accomplish from my blog writing. I am now working on doing the same thing with my fiction writing mission statement.
I was so excited when I finally hit on the perfect words to convey my feeling that it pumped me up. It motivated me to work harder. I sold myself on the mission of what I want to do. That is what made the investment of time worth it.
Work your plan. The best plan in the world will fail if you don’t execute it. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve written out a healthy eating and workout plan for the week just to crack open a bottle of wine on the first night and it all goes down the tubes. Same with your writing plan. You actually have to follow it.
I realize that not all indie authors like to have a set schedule, but you need to have at least an idea of when you’re going to do your work and stick to it. Or I promise you, you won’t see the results you want.
Treat your business like a business. You’ve got to walk the talk. The proof is in your actions and then your results. All businesses take time to grow, and most fail in the first 5 years. This industry is no exception. Probably even has a higher failure rate. I don’t want to look up the statistic and get us all depressed, so I won’t, but it’s not an easy business to start or sustain. But it can be done, and it is worth it. Believe in you and your writing business. You got this!
Now start writing!!
The post 10 Tips on Building a Sustainable Writing Business appeared first on Laina Turner.
February 7, 2017
Totally Terrific Tuesday Link Up #119
Happy February everyone! It’s been sunny and a tiny bit warm here the last few days and I LOVE IT! Spring is in the air!
I’m excited to bring you the amazing posts that people loved last week and I hope you’ll add your best posts in this week!
Until next week…..
Stop by and see what your hosts have been doing and give these ladies a warm welcome!
Facebook // Instagram // Pinterest // Twitter
Facebook // Pinterest // Twitter // Instagram // Google+
Instagram // Pinterest // Facebook // Twitter
Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // Pinterest
Pinterest // Instagram // Facebook // Google+
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This party has been growing and growing and it is getting harder and harder to pick features! I am so grateful for all of you talented folks for hanging out and linking up!! Have fun! Don’t forget to stop by the Pinterest boards and take a moment to pin a few and help spread the holiday joy by supporting your fellow blogging buddies!
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Party Rules
NOTICE: Please try not to link the same content two weeks in a row. If you didn’t do anything new last week, try linking up some older content. This helps you in the long run..if you linked up the same thing 2-3 weeks in a row people won’t click on it a second time, so increase your chances of being picked for most clicked by linking up new content every week 
February 3, 2017
Weddings & Weapons – Presley Thurman mystery #12
Finally, it’s here! Presley Thurman book #12. The one that took me over a year to write.
Whew!
Actually, it was here on January 24th but I’ve been so busy I didn’t even have a chance to promote it. I’ll be honest. I was so happy to finally be done with it that was enough of a celebration for me. I needed a break.
I needed a break.
This book is the first I released since fall of 2015 which is unusual for me. It wasn’t my plan, but I had so much going on, and something had to take a back seat. Unfortunately, it was my writing.
I wanted to push through, but I had to be honest with myself and take the time I needed for other things going on so I could better focus on my writing when the time was right.
I’m glad I did. I finished it out strong and am re-energized for this year and all the great things to come.
The next Presley book, lucky #13 called Liars & Lawyers, will be out in the fall and will connect with my Athena Parks series. This series I pulled off sale about a year ago to rewrite. The first one, Athena’s Holiday, will be out in spring and book #2, Athena’s Law in fall (maybe summer).
As some of you may know in my other life (my non-writing life), I am a college professor and instructional designer. I’ve finally got up the courage to create some writing courses of my own to help others who want to pursue their dream of being an author, and the first one launches March 13th!
I am SUPER EXCITED and somewhat kicking myself in the pants. What the hell took me so long to do for myself something I love and get paid a pretty decent amount to do for universities?
You know we are sometimes our own worst critics.
Oh well. Better late than never right.
Anyways….I hope you enjoy this book. You can get a sample chapter by signing up below or buy the book on Amazon for $.99. Soon to be on all platforms.
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Presley heads to Wisconsin for a much-needed vacation. Taking a walk on the beach to enjoy the beautiful sunset she sees a piece of driftwood. Only upon further investigation, it’s not driftwood. It’s a dead body.
Trying to put it out of her mind she goes to an engagement party thrown by the neighbors she’d met on the beach but another dead body that night tells her that this sleepy town isn’t as appears.
What is going on and can she find out before anyone else turns up dead?
The post Weddings & Weapons – Presley Thurman mystery #12 appeared first on Laina Turner.
February 2, 2017
Weekend traffic Jam Link Up party #82
TRAFFIC JAM WEEKEND LINKY PARTY #82!
Show us your old posts and more on Traffic Jam Weekend!
Come on in to link up, share, and learn something with us.
#trafficjamweekend
For any newcomers to Traffic Jam Weekend, this weekly linky party is all about linking up your old posts so you can get some new comments and traffic.
To the frequent TJW visitors, thanks for always linking up.
The bloggers bringing this fabulous party to you:
Kimberly from Being A Wordsmith | Facebook (site) | Facebook (book series) | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+
Laina from LainaTurner.com | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+
Gail from Frugal Family Adventures | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+
Natasha from Epic Mommy Adventures | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram
Evelyn from Eclectic Evelyn | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+ | YouTube | Tumblr
Reuven from Marriage-Reset | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Google+ | LinkedIn
These are the featured posts from Traffic Jam Weekend #81…
Mari chose How I Learned to Overcome Fear Working in Juneau, Alaska by Holly Bunker. “I thought Holly’s share was very inspiring.”
Laina chose Spending Quality Time Together by our very own Marriage-Reset. “So true yet so hard to accomplish at times.”
Gail chose Grow Your Blog-How to Use Twitter Analytics by Sew Travel Inspired. “This was very informative and I will have to look at Twitter more closely for the future.”
Kimberly chose You’re Gonna Miss This, You’re Gonna Want This Back, a contributing post to Parent.co from Barrie Bismark (Daily Dump). “I have been trying to consciously live in the moment lately with The Deuce. He will be 10 years old soon and I can’t believe how fast time has gone by. One day, he will be too old to crawl in the bed with me, sit on my lap and wrap his arms around me, or ask me to retrieve something from the top shelf. This post makes you remember to savor those moments.”
Evelyn also chose this post as her favorite.
The post with the most views was The Anti-P.T.O Mom by WebMDiva.
Thank you guys for sharing! Your posts have been pinned to the Traffic Jam Weekend Linky Party Pinterest board. Please grab a special Traffic Jam Weekend featured button below to display on your blog.
Just a few rules for the party…
Grab a Traffic Jam Weekend button below for your site
Link up as many of your old posts as you like below
Take some time and visit the other posts
Create some traffic jam for the hosts of this party
Share this party on social media with the hashtag #trafficjamweekend
Follow Being A Wordsmith’s board Traffic Jam Weekend Linky Party on Pinterest.*Disclaimer: Adding your link to this linky party gives permission to Being A Wordsmith and co-hosts to share your posts and pictures via social media with a link back to the original source. It also gives Being A Wordsmith and co-hosts permission to contact you via e-mail or social media for networking purposes.
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An InLinkz Link-up
The post Weekend traffic Jam Link Up party #82 appeared first on Laina Turner.
