Writing Fresh and Believable Fiction with ITW Interim Executive Director, KJ Howe
International thriller author KJ Howe has mastered the art of writing fresh and believable fiction. Armed with an extensive knowledge of her subject matter and a commitment to shedding light on underrepresented character traits, she is able to write novels that feel impressively accurate and relatable. KJ is well known for her Freedom Broker series, which follows the elite hostage negotiator Thea Paris as she takes on the world’s most dangerous kidnapping cases. She is also the Interim Executive Director of the International Thriller Writers organization and has previously been the Executive Director of ThrillerFest. Howe’s most recent publication, Skyjack, is available now.
From KJHowe.com:
While honing her fiction skills, KJ worked as a medical, health, and fitness writer. She then became involved with the International Thriller Writers as the Executive Director of ThrillerFest, the organization’s annual conference held every July in New York City. In preparation for writing THE FREEDOM BROKER series, which focuses on elite kidnap negotiator Thea Paris, KJ spent extensive time researching the dark world of kidnapping. She has interviewed former hostages, negotiators, hostage reintegration experts, special forces operatives, and K&R insurance executives.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to write something fresh and novel
- The importance of accuracy and believability
- Why you need to learn from authors in other genres
- How to work out plot issues
- How to craft relatable characters
- Why non-fiction elements are still important in when writing fiction
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
The Career Author Summit 2021 – https://thecareerauthor.com/summit2021/
KJ Howe – http://www.kjhowe.com/
The Freedom Broker by KJ Howe – https://books2read.com/TheFreedomBroker
Skyjack by KJ Howe – https://books2read.com/Skyjack
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Unlocking the Authorpreneurial Mindset with Jim Kukral of Unskippable
Jim Kukral is no stranger to the authorpreneurial mindset. For decades, he repeatedly struggled to create a stand-out book or brand, and the pressure to become a self-sustaining writer only increased when children and a mortgage were thrown into the mix. Regardless, through his unerring drive and determination for success, he eventually found the foothold he deserved. Jim is a non-fiction author, entrepreneur, and online marketing expert. He is well-known for his inspirational life guide, Your Journey To Becoming Unskippable, and for his talent as a keynote speaker. Kukral’s latest publication, The Unskippable Handbook For Dealing with Jerks, Idiots, and Terrible People, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
Jim Kukral delivers insightful and entertaining content to growth-oriented organizations on attention-getting marketing, creative branding and understanding how customers think, react and most importantly, buy. With a passion for speaking and teaching, Jim travels around the world to teach brands and business owners on how they can apply his UNSKIPPABLE method to their marketing and brand mission to generate positive ROI-based outcomes and purposely attract lifetime customers.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- What sparks a mindset shift
- How to get out of a dark period
- How to take the first step into self-employement
- The importance of creating a brand
- How to write to market
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
The Career Author Summit 2021 – https://thecareerauthor.com/summit2021/
Jim Kukral – https://www.jimkukral.com/
Your Journey to Becoming Unskippable by Jim Kukral – https://books2read.com/BecomingUnskippable
The Unskippable Handbook For Dealing with Jerks, Idiots, and Terrible People by Jim Kukral – https://books2read.com/UnskippableHandbook
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Optimizing and Automating Amazon Ads with Dierk Demers of Prestozon
Dierk Demers knows the secrets to optimizing and automating Amazon ads using Prestozon. By developing a software to automatically schedule and create ads, provide useful analytics, and update keywords in real-time, he has helped authors around the world successfully capture new readers while leaving the stress of manual advertising behind. Dierk has thrived in the e-commerce industry for years, managing information and designing software for various companies. To learn more about Demers and Prestozon, visit prestozon.com.
From LinkedIn.com:
As the Head of Ad Strategy and Partner Support at Prestozon, I help Amazon Advertising Account Managers of all experience levels get the most out of their PPC budgets. I have been designing unique e-commerce strategies across multiple industries for almost a decade and I use that experience to help design curated PPC initiatives using one of the most sophisticated advertising management tools on the market.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why Amazon ads are so tough to maintain
- How Prestozon’s algorithms function
- How Prestozon introduces brand-new authors to advertising
- The importance of balancing automated ads with manual ads
- How authors can help improve Prestozon
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Dierk Demers – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dierk-demers-09308b52/
Prestozon free 30-day trial – https://app.prestozon.com/sign-up?via=j
Dten Zoom Device – https://dten.com/
The Career Author Summit 2021 – https://thecareerauthor.com/summit2021/
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
The Science of Pen Names with Riley Sager
Riley Sager understands the importance of a good pen name. By using a pseudonym to detach himself from his early writing career, bypass editing bias, and increase reader relatability, he quickly found success as a reborn author. Riley is renowned for his international bestseller, Final Girls, an unsettling thriller that won the attention of Stephen King. His other bestsellers include Lock Every Door and The Last Time I Lied, the latter of which has a film in the works. Sager’s latest publication, Home Before Dark, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
Riley Sager is the pseudonym of a former journalist, editor and graphic designer. Now a full-time author, Riley’s first thriller, FINAL GIRLS, became a national and international bestseller and was called “the first great thriller of 2017” by Stephen King. Translation rights have been sold in more than two dozen countries. His second book, THE LAST TIME I LIED, was a New York Times bestseller. His latest novel, LOCK EVERY DOOR, was an instant New York Times, Publishers Weekly and USA Today bestseller. A television adaptation is being developed by Paramount TV and Anonymous Content. A native of Pennsylvania, Riley now lives in Princeton, New Jersey. When he’s not working on his next novel, he enjoys reading, cooking and going to the movies as much as possible. His favorite film is “Rear Window.” Or maybe “Jaws.” But probably, if he’s being honest, “Mary Poppins.”
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How Riley chose his pen name
- What Stephen King said about Final Girls
- Why gender-neutral names can be more marketable
- The importance of avoiding editing bias
- Tips for outlining a complex story
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Riley Sager – https://www.rileysagerbooks.com/
Final Girls by Riley Sager – https://books2read.com/FinalGirls
The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager – https://books2read.com/TheLastTimeILied
Home Before Dark by Riley Sager – https://books2read.com/HomeBeforeDark
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Useful Marketing and Writing Techniques with Mark Dawson
Mark Dawson has developed many useful marketing and writing techniques for aspiring or developed authors. Through keeping his writing time structured and making the effort to understand Amazon’s advertising platform, he quickly found success as a self-published writer. Mark is well-known for his bestselling John Milton series, which follows the chilling encounters of a hired gun, with over a million copies sold. He is also the mastermind behind the esteemed Self Publishing Formula, where he educates authors around the world about writing and marketing through podcast episodes, blog posts, and online courses. His next publication and newest addition to the John Milton series, Killa City, will be available this fall.
From Amazon.com:
Mark Dawson has worked as a lawyer and in the London film industry. His first books, The Art of Falling Apart and Subpoena Colada, have been published in multiple languages. He is currently writing three series. The John Milton series features a disgruntled assassin who aims to help people make amends for the things that he has done. The Beatrix Rose series features the headlong fight for justice of a wronged mother–who happens to be an assassin–against the six names on her Kill List. Soho Noir is set in the West End of London between 1940 and 1970. The first book in the series, The Black Mile, deals with the (real-life but little-known) serial killer who operated in the area during the Blitz. The Imposter traces the journey of a criminal family through the period; it has been compared to The Sopranos in austerity London. Mark lives in Wiltshire with his family.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How and where to write effectively
- Tips for optimizing a website
- How to market to bookstores as a self-published author
- The importance of Amazon advertising
- Tips for scheduling an author’s work day
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Consequences of Rock Podcast – https://consequencesofrock.com/
Mark Dawson – https://markjdawson.com/
Killa City by Mark Dawson – https://books2read.com/Killa-City
The Cleaner (John Milton Book 1) by Mark Dawson – https://books2read.com/The-Cleaner
Mark Dawson’s Self Publishing Formula – https://selfpublishingformula.com/
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Dreaming and Writing with the President of the H.W.A., John Palisano
John Palisano is a master of using dreams to write. Ever since his childhood, he has struggled with frequent and vivid nightmares. However, by preserving his dreams through notes or sketches, John incorporates their wacky contents into his scenes and plot points to create thrilling and unique stories. Palisano is an accomplished horror author and president of the Horror Writers Association. He was awarded the Bram Stoker Award in 2016 and is well known for Nerves and Dust of the Dead, two sci-fi horror novels with unique twists. His latest publication, All That Withers, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
Bram Stoker Award® winner John Palisano’s short fiction has appeared in many places. Check out: Dark Discoveries, Horror Library, Darkness On The Edge, Lovecraft eZine, Phobophobias, Terror Tales, Harvest Hill, Halloween Spirits, Chiral Mad, Midnight Walk, Halloween Tales, and many other publications… John’s had a colorful history. He began writing at an early age, with his first publications in college fanzines and newspapers at Emerson in Boston. He’s worked for over a decade in Hollywood for people like Ridley Scott and Marcus Nispel. He’s recently been working as a ghost-screenwriter and has seen much success with over two dozen short story sales and his novels and short fiction continue gaining critical and reader acclaim.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to effectively record dreams
- How to employ dreams in your writing
- How to write while on-the-go
- The importance of knowing your characters
- The rise of elevated horror
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
John Palisano – https://johnpalisano.wordpress.com/
All That Withers by John Palisano – https://books2read.com/AllThatWithers
Nerves by John Palisano – https://books2read.com/Nerves
Dust of the Dead by John Palisano – https://books2read.com/DustoftheDead
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Marketing on Amazon with Dave Chesson
Through dissecting the website’s algorithms, understanding the relationship between keywords and sales, and applying an entrepreneurial mindset, master coder Dave Chesson has gained a solid understanding of how to market a book on Amazon. Chesson is the mastermind behind Kindlepreneur, an online blog and podcast that shares his extensive marketing knowledge with authors around the world. He is also the creator of Rocket, a self-publishing software that provides authors with useful analytics and keyword suggestions for their books. Links to Kindlepreneur and Rocket can be found below.
From Kindlepreneur.com:
When I’m not lightsaber dueling with little Jedi, or sipping tea with princesses, I’m testing new book marketing tactics, and helping authors improve their book sales. I’m also the creator of Publisher Rocket, a software that helps authors see what’s really going on in the Kindle marketing, and thus pick better keywords and categories to help them sell more books. I’ve worked with multiple New York Times bestselling authors like Ted Dekker and the marketing team behind L.Ron Hubbard, as well as top writers like Pat Flynn and Jeff Goins. To help all writers learn the art of book marketing, I created Kindlepreneur as a free source for authors with the sole goal of giving you everything you need to take action, and see results.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why Amazon ads require effort to maintain
- Why keywords matter
- When to use a subtitle
- How to understand the buyer’s process
- The importance of making consistent sales over time
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Dave Chesson – https://kindlepreneur.com/who-is-dave-chesson/
Kindlepreneur – https://kindlepreneur.com/
Rocket – https://publisherrocket.com/
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
The Secrets to Writing Nonfiction with Honorée Corder
Honorée Corder is a master of nonfiction writing who has shown that, through structuring writing time, conducting in-person research, gaining experience co-writing and managing projects, and making connections across different industries, writing in the genre can serve as a profitable and sustainable career choice. Corder is an established author with over fifty books released and over four million sales worldwide. She is most known for her Miracle Morning and Successful Single Mom series, which discuss proper morning routines and give advice to struggling single moms. Her most recent publication, You MUST Write a Book, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
Honorée Corder is the author of dozens of books including Stop Trying So F*cking Hard, You Must Write a Book, The Prosperous Writer’s, Like a Boss, and Successful Single Mom series, Vision to Reality, Business Dating, and more. She is Hal Elrod’s business partner and co-creator of The Miracle Morning book series. Her You Must Write a Book LIVE Coaching Course is a fan favorite. She does all sorts of other magical things, and her badassery is legendary. Find out more about her at http://www.HonoreeCorder.com.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why to structure writing time
- Why writer’s block doesn’t exist
- How nonfiction supplements speaking careers, etc.
- Why setting a word goal is distracting
- The importance of mastering a craft
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Honorée Corder – https://honoreecorder.com/
The Miracle Morning for Teachers by Hal Elrod and Honorée Corder – https://books2read.com/MiracleMorning
The Successful Single Mom Series by Honorée Corder – https://books2read.com/SuccessfulSingleMom
You MUST Write a Book by Hal Elrod and Honorée Corder – https://books2read.com/YouMustWrite
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Finding Time to Write with Tim Ryan
Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan has proven that, no matter how hectic life can get, anyone can find time to write. As a hard-working, travel-inclined politician and father of three, his schedule is always full. However, by taking short writing retreats and working out a chapter or two over the course of three or four days, he has managed to publish two books and has plans for a third one. Congressman Ryan has served in the House of Representatives for seventeen years and, while he certainly has a love for politics, Healing America and The Real Food Revolution shine light on two of his personal interests: meditation and healthy eating. When he is not working or writing, Tim spends time with his family at their home in Howland, Ohio.
From Amazon.com:
Tim Ryan was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002, at the age of 29, and is currently serving in his fifth term representing Ohio’s 17th Congressional District. He maintains a strong commitment to the economic and social well-being of his constituents in northeast Ohio. He serves as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, as well as its Subcommittees on Readiness and on Emerging Threats and Capabilities. He also serves as a member of the House Budget Committee and co-chairman of the Congressional Manufacturing Caucus.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- The importance of health and wellness
- The negative impacts of stress and poor diets
- How Ryan discovered meditation
- How to schedule a personal writing retreat
- How to document ideas during non-writing time
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Tim Ryan – https://timryan.house.gov/
Healing America by Tim Ryan – https://books2read.com/HealingAmerica
The Real Food Revolution by Tim Ryan – https://books2read.com/RealFoodRev
Supercharge Your Scene – http://superchargeyourscene.com
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Maximizing Your Reach as an Indie Author with Lindsay Buroker
Lindsay Buroker knows how to maximize her reach as an indie author. By writing under multiple pen names across multiple genres, following a rapid release model to generate interest, and running a podcast to help uphold her brand, she continues to expand her audience and influence across the writing landscape. Buroker is a full-time independent author who focuses primarily on the genres of science fiction and fantasy. Among her impressive number of successful series are Death Before Dragons, Dragon Blood, and Star Kingdom. She is also known for co-hosting Six Figure Authors, a podcast dedicated to providing writers with tactical knowledge to help improve their careers. Lindsay’s latest release, Elven Doom, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
Lindsay is a full-time independent fantasy and science fiction author who loves travel, hiking, tennis, and vizslas. She’s written over sixty novels, appeared on the USA Today bestseller list, and has been twice nominated for a Goodreads Readers’ Choice Award. She grew up in the Seattle area but has itchy feet and moves every couple of years. She’s currently living in Bend, Oregon, and working on the next book.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to utilize the rapid release model
- When to commit to a genre
- When to use a pen name
- How to approach cowriting
- How to structure a day of writing
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Lindsay Buroker – https://lindsayburoker.com/
Elven Doom by Lindsay Buroker – https://books2read.com/ElvenDoom
Six Figure Authors Podcast – https://6figureauthors.com/
Supercharge Your Scene – http://superchargeyourscene.com
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Write What You Know with James Blatch
First-time author James Blatch is already a perfect example of the “write what you know” mentality. While drafting his debut novel, The Last Flight, he has employed his genuine love of aircraft and his father’s personal experiences as a pilot to create both a story that feels authentically him and a brand that will undoubtedly lead him to success. Blatch is currently a director of the Self Publishing Formula, an online course for aspiring authors. He also co-hosts the SPF Podcast with Mark Dawson. James’ debut novel will be available this year.
From JamesBlatch.com:
James Blatch is a former BBC Defence Reporter and a former BBFC Film Examiner. He reported for the BBC on the UK military from, among other places, HMS Invincible (Operation Desert Fox build up), Kuwait (Ali Al Salem allied air base), the Arctic Circle as well as covering the UK air offensive during the Kosovo Conflict in 1999… Blatch is a director of the Self Publishing Formula Limited, an online course provider for independent authors. He co-hosts the weekly SPF Podcast.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to write authentically
- The importance of branding
- Why to have several people edit a draft
- How to bring in extra revenue as a podcaster
- How the industry is shifting from traditional to indie publishing
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
James Blatch – https://www.jamesblatch.com/
The Last Flight by James Blatch – https://www.jamesblatch.com/books
Supercharge Your Scene – http://superchargeyourscene.com
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Using StoryOrigin to Grow Your Platform with Evan Gow
Entrepreneur Evan Gow is the mastermind behind StoryOrigin. Fueled by a love of technology and writing, he created an all-in-one platform for authors to connect, team up for group promos, build and swap mailing lists, upload reader magnets, and more. With the unique opportunities StoryOrigin provides, Evan has helped thousands of authors get discovered, build communities, and become successful. StoryOrigin is currently in open beta and can be used for free at storyoriginapp.com.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why you need to use StoryOrigin
- How to build a writing community
- The importance of mailing swaps
- The importance of a reader magnet
- How to send out review copies
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Evan Gow – https://www.linkedin.com/in/evangow/
StoryOrigin – https://storyoriginapp.com/
Supercharge Your Scene – http://superchargeyourscene.com
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Pushing Your Writing Limits with Jon Land
Jon Land has been pushing his writing limits for years. By forcing himself to take ownership of his work, refusing to write what he knows, and giving every project his all, he has greatly expanded his writing skill set and has overcome the uncertainties of being an author to find success. Land is a bestselling author of over 50 books. He is most known for his Caitlin Strong series and for recently overtaking the Murder, She Wrote series, both of which have become iconic in the mystery-thriller genre. His most recent addition to the Murder, She Wrote series, The Murder of Twelve, will be available later this month.
From Amazon.com:
Since his first book was published in 1983, Jon Land has written twenty-eight novels, seventeen of which have appeared on national bestseller lists. He began writing technothrillers before Tom Clancy put them in vogue, and his strong prose, easy characterization, and commitment to technical accuracy have made him a pillar of the genre.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why to have fun while writing
- Why to say yes to everything
- The importance of writing organizations to early authors
- Why all authors should be able to give an elevator pitch
- The importance of staying ambitious
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Jon Land – https://www.jonlandbooks.com/
The Murder of Twelve by Jon Land – https://www.amazon.com/Murder-She-Wrote-Twelve-Book-ebook/dp/B07X6S13Z5/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=murder%2C+she+wrote&qid=1589650774&s=digital-text&sr=1-1
Strong from the Heart by Jon Land – https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Heart-Caitlin-Novel-Novels-ebook/dp/B07WPNFP54/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Supercharge Your Scene – http://superchargeyourscene.com
Secret Powers of the Author Mastermind: How to Transform from Struggling Writer to Career Author – https://books2read.com/authormastermind
Co-writing a Book Mini Course with Joanna Penn – https://creative-penn-courses.teachable.com/p/co-writing-a-book
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Educating Authors with Bryan Cohen
Bryan Cohen is well-trained in the art of educating authors. With his forward-focused approach to teaching and emphasis on keeping students motivated, he has helped thousands of new authors understand the ins and outs of writing. In addition to teaching, Cohen has published a series of novels and dozens of writing guides. His most popular book, How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis, contains the secrets to attracting new readers and making a book sound good. His latest offering, “Amazon Ad School,” is available below.
From Amazon.com:
Bryan Cohen is an author, a podcaster, and a coach. He’s published over 40 books, which have been downloaded over half a million times. His books include How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis and five novels in The Viral Superhero Series. He’s the co-host of The Sell More Books Show and the head writer at Best Page Forward, a book description writing service.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why successful people aren’t necessarily good teachers
- Why self-paced courses don’t work
- The importance of a feedback loop
- Why most writers have multiple revenue streams
- When to write for an audience vs. for yourself
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Bryan Cohen – http://bryancohen.com/
Amazon Ad Challenge (July 2020) – https://bryancohen.lpages.co/amazon-ad-profit-challenge-landing-july-2020/
How to Write a Sizzling Synopsis by Bryan Cohen – https://www.amazon.com/Write-Sizzling-Synopsis-Step-Step-ebook/dp/B01HYBWOF6/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Amazon Ad School – https://selling-for-authors.teachable.com/p/amazon-ads-made-easy
Secret Powers of the Author Mastermind: How to Transform from Struggling Writer to Career Author – https://books2read.com/authormastermind
Co-writing a Book Mini Course with Joanna Penn – https://creative-penn-courses.teachable.com/p/co-writing-a-book
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
The Business of Writing with Scott Nicholson
International bestselling author Scott Nicholson knows a thing or two about the business of writing. With experience in both the traditional and independent publishing worlds as well as the overseas market, he is able to make his already thrilling reads even more appealing by clever use of advertising and market knowledge. Nicholson has written over a hundred thrillers and short stories and has sold millions of copies worldwide. He is most known for his Sheriff Littlefield series, centered around the chilling mystery of a haunted Appalachian church. Scott’s latest addition to the series, McFall, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
I’ve written more than 30 novels, about 80 short stories, four children’s books, some comic books, screenplays, and a couple of non-fiction books, as well as five collaborations with J.R. Rain. Many of my tales are based on supernatural legends from the Southern Appalachian Mountains, and I also write mystery and suspense thrillers that are most often compared to the work of Stephen King and Dean Koontz. I’ve branched into dark science fiction with my After, Next, and MIM*X series.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to step into the self-publishing world
- How to build a sustainable career as an author
- How to advertise to foreign markets
- The philosophy behind paid advertising
- The importance of a newsletter or mailing list
- The importance of retaining uniqueness
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Scott Nicholson – http://www.authorscottnicholson.com/
McFall by Scott Nicholson – https://books2read.com/McFall
The Red Church by Scott Nicholson – https://books2read.com/RedChurch
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Mastering the Creative Process with David Baldacci
David Baldacci has mastered the creative process. By employing what he knows about plausible plot lines, character development, and field research, he can bring his ideas together into books that feel amazingly believable. Baldacci is a bestselling author who has sold more than 130 million books worldwide. He is most known for his political thriller, Absolute Power, which follows the captivating tale of a murder in the White House. David’s most recent publication, Walk the Wire, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
David published his first novel, ABSOLUTE POWER, in 1996. A feature film followed, with Clint Eastwood as its director and star. In total, David has published 37 novels for adults; all have been national and international bestsellers and several have been adapted for film and television. His novels have been translated into more than 45 languages and sold in more than 80 countries, with over 130 million worldwide sales. David has also published six novels for younger readers.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to develop a character throughout a series
- The importance of constructive criticism
- How to distill research into a story
- How to use the Writer’s Prism
- The difference between probability and plausibility
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
David Baldacci – https://www.davidbaldacci.com/
Walk the Wire by David Baldacci – https://books2read.com/WalkTheWire
Absolute Power by David Baldacci – https://books2read.com/AbsolutePower
David Baldacci’s MasterClass – https://www.masterclass.com/classes/david-baldacci-teaches-mystery-and-thriller-writing
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Beating Resistance with Steven Pressfield and Shawn Coyne
Steven Pressfield and Shawn Coyne are strong believers in beating resistance and chasing crazy ideas. Whether it involves writing about something completely foreign to you or something too edgy for commercial readers, both agree that sticking with your most outlandish ideas will lead to better, more fulfilling writing. Pressfield and Coyne are both masterful bestselling authors. Pressfield is most-known for The Legend of Bagger Vance, a compelling sports mystery that was adapted into a film featuring Will Smith and Matt Damon. Coyne is most-known for Story Grid, a revolutionary editing tool and writing group that has helped writers around the world produce better content.
From Amazon.com:
Steven Pressfield is the author of The Legend of Bagger Vance, Gates of Fire, Tides of War, Last of the Amazons, Virtues of War, The Afghan Campaign, Killing Rommel, The Profession, The Lion’s Gate, The War of Art, Turning Pro, Do the Work, The Warrior Ethos, The Authentic Swing, An American Jew, Nobody Wants to Read Your Sh*t, The Knowledge, and The Artist’s Journey.
From StoryGrid.com:
I (Shawn Coyne) have been in the publishing industry for thirty years now, twenty-five of which were spent working as an editor at the Big Five publishing houses, as an independent publisher, as a literary agent both at a major Hollywood talent agency and as the head of Genre Management Inc. In early 2015, I published The Story Grid: What Good Editors Know, and later that year I started the Story Grid Podcast with writer, and book marketing expert, Tim Grahl. The rest is history. We now have 45 Certified Story Grid Editors, 3 podcasts, a blog rich with story resources, a suite of courses and a community that continues to grow.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to determine if an idea is crazy
- Why to pick the idea you’re most afraid of
- How to make difficult creative decisions
- The importance of a day-by-day approach to projects
- How to accept failure
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Steven Pressfield – https://stevenpressfield.com/
Black Irish Books – https://blackirishbooks.com/jabs/
The Legend of Bagger Vance by Steven Pressfield – https://books2read.com/BaggerVance
Shawn Coyne – https://storygrid.com/about/
The Story Grid: What Good Editors Know by Shawn Coyne – https://books2read.com/SG
The Story Grid Guild – https://storygrid.com/guild
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Transitioning Between Careers with Romona Robinson
Romona Robinson knows a thing or two about successfully transitioning between careers. After working as one of Cleveland’s most respected news anchors for over thirty years, she took a leap of faith when she left her job to write full-time. Backed by passion, hard work, and smart marketing, Romona was able to publish two successful books in her first two years of writing and continues to inspire women and men everywhere to find their purpose. Her latest publication, Your Voice is Your Power, is available now.
From Amazon.com:
Romona Robinson is an eight time Emmy award winning anchor, speaker and author of A Dirt Road to Somewhere and Your Voice is Your Power. She is one of the most respected and admired journalists in northeast Ohio and was inducted into the Press Club of Cleveland’s Journalism Hall of Fame in 2016. She is winner of the prestigious Edward R Murrow Award along with her station, WOIO-TV 19, where she served as primary anchor. She received the 2017 Alpha Woman Award, given to women who exemplify power in their field and uses it to empower women.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How Romona found her passion for writing
- How to start a career as an author
- Why community engagement is important
- The importance of timed advertising
- How to overcome the fear of failure
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Romona Robinson – http://romonarobinson.com/
A Dirt Road to Somewhere by Romona Robinson – https://books2read.com/DirtRoadToSomewhere
Your Voice is Your Power by Romona Robinson – https://books2read.com/YourVoiceIsYourPower
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Author-Agent Relationships with Alec Shane
Alec Shane has been fostering authentic author-agent relationships since 2012. Whether he is mediating disputes between authors and editors or selling books to publishers, Alec and others like him serve as the backbone of the writing industry. During his time at Writers House, Shane has worked with many successful authors and groups, including Mark Stein, Mike Thomas, and the Horror Writers Association. For submissions and queries, Alec can be reached at ashane@writershouse.com.
From ManuscriptWishlist.com:
Alec Shane majored in English at Brown University, a degree he put to immediate use by moving to Los Angeles after graduation to become a professional stunt man. Realizing that he prefers books to breakaway glass, he moved to New York City in 2008 to pursue a career in publishing. Alec quickly found a home at Writers House Literary Agency and is now aggressively building his own list.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How Alec became an agent
- What agents look for in authors
- How to pitch your book to an agency or publisher
- If traditional or independent publishing is right for you
- Why horror is making a resurgence
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
Alec Shane – https://twitter.com/alecdshane
Submissions and Queries – ashane@writershouse.com
Save Indie Bookstores – https://www.saveindiebookstores.com
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.
Captivating Readers with James Rollins
James Rollins has been captivating readers for decades. By running ideas past his critique group, traveling to story locations and speaking to locals, and sticking to a ninety-day research plan, he attains enough knowledge to create settings and storylines that feel authentic. Rollins is well-known for his bestselling Sigma Force series, a thrilling collection of tales following the strange and somewhat otherworldly encounters of an elite covert operations force. His brand-new fantasy series, Moon Fall, will be released next year.
From Amazon.com:
James Rollins is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of international thrillers, translated into more than forty languages, with more than 20 million copies sold. The New York Times says, “Rollins is what you might wind up with if you tossed Michael Crichton and Dan Brown into a particle accelerator together,” and NPR calls his work “Adventurous and enormously engrossing.” Rollins unveils unseen worlds, scientific breakthroughs, and historical secrets–and does it all at breakneck speed and with stunning suspense. A practicing veterinarian, Rollins has pursued scuba, spelunking, and other adventures around the world, and currently lives and writes in Lake Tahoe, Nevada.
Whether you’re traditionally published or indie, writing a good book is only the first step in becoming a successful author. The days of just turning a manuscript into your editor and walking away are gone. If you want to succeed in today’s publishing world, you need to understand every aspect of the business – editing, formatting, marketing, contracts. It all starts with a good book, then the real work begins.
Join international bestselling author J.D. Barker and indie powerhouse, J. Thorn, as they gain unique insight and valuable advice from the most prolific and accomplished authors in the business.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How Rollins structures his research
- Rollins’ story building tools
- The importance of critique groups
- How to employ sympathy builders
- The magic formula to capture a reader
Links:
J. D. Barker – http://jdbarker.com/
J. Thorn – https://theauthorlife.com/
James Rollins – https://jamesrollins.com/
James Rollins’ Tips For Writers: https://jamesrollins.com/about/tips-for-writers/
Sandstorm by James Rollins – https://books2read.com/SandstormJamesRollins
The Last Odyssey by James Rollins – https://amzn.to/2QQjTe6
Music by Nicorus – https://cctrax.com/nicorus/dust-to-dust-ep
Voice Over by Rick Ganley – http://www.nhpr.com and recorded at Mill Pond Studio – http://www.millpondstudio.com
Contact – https://writersinkpodcast.com/dev/contact/
“Muggable” quote by Harley Christensen – https://www.mischievousmalamute.com/
*Full disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links.