Member Blog

Reader reviews are crucial if you are a self-published author, as positive feedback can ultimately shape your book’s success and allow you to build your reputation. While several platforms make it easier than ever to engage with people and amplify your reach, a stream of public, negative reviews can also hinder you. The question of whether to respond to reviews is not a straightforward one, which is why it’s essential to set clear engagement boundaries for yourself and others.

The Pros and Cons of Responding to Reader Reviews

Replying to reader reviews can be a paradoxical situation for self-published authors. […]

Sometimes authors spend so much time writing their books that they forget about the other side of the coin. As the great Stephen King once said, good writers need to do two things: read a lot and write a lot. Don’t get so lost in the second half that you neglect the first! While it might seem like a simple pastime, reading is one of the best things you can do to improve your writing. Here’s the top 5 reasons authors absolutely must read in their genre (and sometimes outside it!) if they want to create the best novel […]

As a self-published author, completing a project is exciting. The world can read the book that you poured your heart into, but do you know who your readers are? Understanding your audience is essential to selling your work.

Readers are more likely to engage with you when your marketing resonates with them. They may also share your most recent release with others. Shape your promotional strategies for your target reader, and your voice will reach the right people. Here is how to define your audience and engage them.

Identify Your Reader Persona

Identifying your target audience is the first step. […]

Whether you’re a full-time author or you juggle a day job and write in your spare time, creating a consistent writing schedule is challenging. Independent authors may not have the traditional deadlines or editor hovering over them waiting for their latest masterpiece. You must become your own accountability partner and establish regular writing times.

Establishing time frames may be the most powerful tool in your writing box, but it must include more than time spent typing. Committing time to focus, creative input, brainstorming, writing, and editing all contribute toward an excellent end product.

The Psychology Behind Resolutions and Setting Routines

For independently published authors, writing a well-received book is about more than the story. As an indie author, you’re responsible for everything from commissioning a cover to formatting your book. The font you choose for the text inside and out has to be readable and fit within the margins and gutter. Professional-looking typesetting can make your book stand out and enhance the story.

When you’re just getting started, figuring out what font to use, its size, and how it translates for digital books and hard copies can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, knowing a few basics can drive your success.

How to

Have you ever picked up a book and found yourself unable to put it down? Or maybe you’ve started reading something that felt like slogging through mud? The difference usually comes down to pacing.

Pacing is the rhythm and speed at which you tell your story. It’s what keeps readers turning pages at midnight or what makes them abandon your book after chapter two. Good pacing feels natural and keeps readers emotionally invested from the first page to the last.

Hook Readers Right Away

As a new writer, you could make the mistake of starting your story too slow, by […]

As a self-published author, worrying about accidentally copying someone else’s creative work is natural. You are not alone in this fear, and it is a smart instinct to be cautious. However, taking inspiration is natural and necessary for your growth as a writer. Every great story draws from the author’s emotions and the creative works they admire — the key is to handle that process ethically.

Instead of mimicking plots, characters, or exact phrasing, focus on how a piece makes you feel or the broader theme it explores. Then, channel those insights through your voice and perspective. When you approach […]

In the competitive world of self-publishing, success hinges on writing talent and the strength of your professional network. Building meaningful connections can open doors to endorsements, collaborative opportunities, and valuable industry insights. Whether you’re launching your first book or expanding your brand, strategic networking can significantly impact your growth and visibility.

The Strategic Value of Networking

Professional networking offers self-published authors a vital path to sustainable success. The benefits go far beyond casual conversation — they shape your career trajectory. Here are some of the top advantages authors can gain by building strong professional relationships.

Secure Endorsements That Build Credibility