Lately I’ve been doing some spring cleaning, going through closets and the garage to get rid of stuff I’ve been storing for years and clearly don’t need. I discovered that I have stuff going back to the 1960s, plus lots and lots of books. I knew I had a lot of books, but I discovered … Continue reading Author Interview—Lynn-Steven Johanson
Author Interview—Janet Finsilver
The rain has finally disappeared here in Northern California, at least for now, and summer weather has arrived. Wildflowers are blooming, and I’m so happy to see the sun and dollops of color all over the place. I love color! If you love Mendocino, California—or dogs—you’ll want to check out my interview this week with … Continue reading Author Interview—Janet Finsilver
Author Interview–Michael Nelson
One of the best things about being a writer is getting to know other writers. It’s so nice to meet other authors that have had similar struggles and successes, and learn about their unique path to writing and publishing. That’s why I’m so excited to announce my new author interview series! Watch or follow my … Continue reading Author Interview–Michael Nelson
What Inquiring Author Minds Want To Know About Book Publishing
I’m two weeks post-shoulder surgery and happy to report I’m driving! I was cleared for driving at my last medical appointment, and that does make things a bit easier for Dan, my hubby. I’m still wearing the sling, but I’m able to do more myself and I’m celebrating my progress. I was able to drive … Continue reading What Inquiring Author Minds Want To Know About Book Publishing
Is This What Writer’s Block Looks Like?
Let's see, sit down at my laptop and work on my book/marketing/website/other writing task, or play with Bodie? I think I have a new definition for writer's block, and his name is Bodie. Sometimes I would much rather toss a ball or go for a walk with Bodie than put my butt in the chair … Continue reading Is This What Writer’s Block Looks Like?
My Mistakes – So Far
Writing and publishing a book is an incredible learning experience. It’s exciting, confounding, and sometimes downright scary—especially if you’re putting your life on display in a memoir. In other words, there are plenty of mistakes to be made. I thought it might be helpful to those coming down the same path to share mine—so far. … Continue reading My Mistakes – So Far
Back Cover Blurb
When publishing a book, careful thought must be put into the back cover blurb. That's the marketing copy that will make people want to read your book. For eBooks there is no back cover so the blurb will be the description that is posted online to entice readers, but for printed paperback books, the … Continue reading Back Cover Blurb
Survived the Red Pen!
I'm still standing! As I wrote in my last blog post, I sent my manuscript off to an editor for a modified copyedit, which included feedback on the pacing of the book, whether any sections should be cut, or if there were any obvious aspects of the story that just didn’t work. I’m happy to … Continue reading Survived the Red Pen!
Decisions, Decisions
One of the toughest decisions a writer has to make is whether to try to get a traditional publisher, or go the self-publishing route. Both have their drawbacks. Getting a traditional publisher almost always requires getting an agent, first. Then the agent tries to find a publisher. It also usually means the author gives up … Continue reading Decisions, Decisions
How Many Drafts?
Many new writers ask, "How many drafts does it take to write a good book that is ready for publication?" The frustrating answer is, "As many drafts as it takes to write a good book ready for publication." Some writers can create beautiful, publication-ready prose right out of the gate that only requires minor tweaking … Continue reading How Many Drafts?
Heidi Eliason 