Fully Booked: The Hidden Gems Author Podcast: Recent Episodes
Craig Tuch
Author Craig Tuch has written a large number of books under a variety of pseudonyms, which have collectively sold hundreds of thousands of copies and had close to 100 million page reads. In 2016, he started HiddenGemsBooks.com as a way to help new and established self-published authors navigate the complex and often-changing world of self-publishing.
Since then, Hidden Gems has become well known and respected for helping thousands of authors market their books more effectively and sell more copies through a variety of services, free tools, and a weekly blog.
Roland Hulme’s 15+ years as an advertising executive in New York and London gave him an advantage when he turned his hand to writing, because no matter how good your stories are, you can’t sell any copies of a book that no one knows about. His targeted ads have led to his novels being bought and enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of readers.
If you’re interested in ways to improve as a writer, or in learning about new or better ways to market, advertise and sell your books, then join Craig and Roland every Thursday as they talk with each other and their guests about a wide range of topics relevant to self-publishing and writing.
Marketing a book is one thing, but building an author career is something else entirely. This week on Fully Booked, Craig and Roland sit down with publishing professional and author brand strategist Jessica Sorentino to explore why the most successful authors focus on building and maintaining relationships with their readers that start long before launch and continue between every release. Today's readers are buying you as an author just as much as your book, which is why your marketing should focus on building trust and recognition over time, not simply promoting whatever your latest project happens to be.
To help with that, Jessica shares actionable strategies for creating a memorable brand, avoiding the biggest mistakes she sees writers make on social media, and turning the overwhelming chore of marketing into an opportunity to create genuine connections with readers. Along the way, the discussion also explores immersive book promotion, how to measure what actually works, and why your email list should be your biggest marketing priority. Consistent visibility that extends far beyond release day is the key to long term success, and this episode will leave you with a fresh perspective on what it really takes to build an author career that lasts.
Jessica Sorentino
https://jessicasorentino.com/
Hidden Gems
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Children's books may look simple on the surface, but creating one that resonates with young readers takes far more than a good idea. This week on Fully Booked, educator and children's author Bridget Gengler explains why writing for children requires purpose, empathy, and a deep understanding of what young readers truly need. She argues that writing for young minds is about more than entertaining or teaching in the moment, but about inspiring a lifelong love of reading.
Drawing on more than 30 years in the classroom, Bridget shares how she uses her students as beta readers, what their reactions have taught her about refining a story, and why the strongest children's books balance meaningful messages with engaging storytelling. From collaborating with illustrators to learning how young readers interact with every page, today's conversation is packed with practical insights for authors hoping to connect more deeply with young minds and keep them coming back for more.
Bridget Gengler
https://bridgetgengler.com/
Hidden Gems
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Social media can feel like one more thing on an author's endless to do list, but what if it could become one of your most effective marketing tools? This week, social media strategist Karlyn Ankrom joins us to explain how authors can stop chasing algorithms and start building genuine connections that turn casual followers into loyal readers. From choosing the right platform to creating content that keeps working long after launch day, she shares practical strategies any author can put into action.
Today's conversation explores why relationship building matters more than going viral, how to create engaging content without spending hours online, and simple techniques like documenting your writing journey, repurposing your existing work, and using "one page, one line, one post" to generate an endless stream of ideas. Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, this conversation is packed with realistic advice to help you grow your audience, keep readers engaged, and make social media feel a little less overwhelming.
Karlyn Ankrom
https://ohsnapsocial.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, Roland and Craig are joined by Ralph R. “Rick” Steinke, a 28 year U.S. Army veteran, West Point graduate, former Defense Attaché to France, and author of the Major Jake Forina thriller series. Rick shares how a career spent commanding troops, working with NATO, leading counterterrorism efforts, and building international partnerships has shaped the stories he writes today. From deadly virus outbreaks to the Russia Ukraine conflict, he explains how real world experience helps him create fast paced thrillers that feel both authentic and cinematic.
The conversation also explores Rick's approach to the writing process, including what he learned from James Patterson, Dan Brown, and Ken Follett, why he combines planning with discovery as he writes, and how short chapters and strong cliffhangers keep readers turning the page. Rick also shares insights from his writing journey, including how he balances realism with entertainment and the realities of publishing on Amazon. Whether you're writing your own thriller or simply enjoy stories inspired by today's global events, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.
Ralph R. “Rick” Steinke
https://ricksteinke.com/
Hidden Gems
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Blending genres is one thing, but making readers believe they belong together is something else entirely. And when you're combining supernatural elements with crime fiction, there are even more considerations. This week's guest, Caryn McCann, explains how mythology can deepen a mystery by raising the stakes, shaping character motivations, and driving the narrative, but if the supernatural becomes the solution to the mystery, readers can feel cheated. Caryn shares how she carefully combined Chinese mythology with crime fiction while keeping every investigation grounded in evidence, logic, and procedural credibility.
That commitment to authenticity didn't just strengthen the stories. It also gave Caryn unexpected marketing advantages, opening the door to creative partnerships and helping her reach readers in ways traditional advertising couldn't. Her experience is a reminder that the qualities that make your book different can also become your greatest marketing asset.
Caryn McCann
https://carynmccann.com/
Hidden Gems
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Every author is looking for the next marketing strategy that will help their book break through the noise. This week's guest, JD Barker, believes that instead of copying what successful authors are already doing, the real opportunity lies in finding the ideas nobody else has thought of yet. That unconventional mindset has helped him build an international bestselling career, launching books in unexpected ways and creating publicity that readers and the media can't ignore.
This week's conversation isn't about running better ads or tweaking your Amazon keywords, but rather approaching book promotion from an entirely different perspective. Through a variety of real-world examples, JD explains why authors should think of themselves as a brand, challenge conventional publishing wisdom, and constantly look for opportunities to stand apart from the crowd. If you're struggling to get your books noticed in today's increasingly crowded marketplace, this episode may change the way you think about marketing your next release.
J.D. Barker
https://jdbarker.com/
Hidden Gems
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What makes a memoir different from an autobiography, and why do some personal stories resonate so deeply with readers? This week on Fully Booked, Craig and Roland sit down with memoir coach Ally Berthiaume to explore the power of personal storytelling. From uncovering the deeper meaning behind life's defining moments to understanding why memoirs so often focus on resilience, adversity, and growth, Ally explains what separates a memoir from a simple retelling of events.
As a memoir coach, Ally understands both the practical and emotional realities of writing about your own life and shares her insights on navigating difficult memories, overcoming emotional roadblocks, and balancing honesty with the challenges of writing about the real people who are part of our stories. Whether you're considering telling your own story or simply curious about the memoir genre, this conversation highlights why memoirs matter and how they create meaningful connections between writers and readers.
Ally Berthiaume
https://thewriteplacerighttime.com/
Hidden Gems
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When writing historical fiction, research can be challenging enough. But what happens when some of the most important details simply don't exist? In this week's episode of Fully Booked, bestselling author Randy Overbeck returns to discuss the unique process of filling in the gaps, as he did while writing his latest novel, which centers on a Revolutionary War spy whose true identity remains one of history's enduring mysteries.
Drawing on years of research experience, Randy shares his typical process of uncovering elusive details by digging into primary source documents, following unexpected trails through archives and historical records, and piecing together clues from related events and stories. Along the way, he reveals some of the surprising discoveries he made about the American Revolution and explains how authors can blend fact and fiction while still remaining true to the spirit of the historical record. Whether you're writing historical fiction, researching nonfiction, or simply looking for ways to make your stories feel richer and more authentic, this episode offers plenty of practical insights for your writing journey.
Randy Overbeck
https://www.authorrandyoverbeck.com/
Hidden Gems
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How do you turn real life into fiction when the truth is actually harder to believe than anything you could invent?
This week we explore exactly that question with guest Sandy Malone, whose Caribbean wedding planning business provided an endless stream of unforgettable stories that eventually became both a reality television show and the inspiration for her novels. From real life bridezillas and wedding disasters to couples so outrageous that their stories had to be split across multiple fictional characters to seem believable, Sandy shares how lived experiences can be transformed into compelling fiction.
Along the way, we discuss the balance between authenticity and storytelling, including when to create composite characters, when to simplify real events, and why preserving emotional truth often matters more than preserving every fact. Sandy offers a fascinating look at the challenges of adapting real life for the page while keeping stories engaging, relatable, and believable. For authors looking to draw inspiration from their own experiences, this episode is packed with practical insights, humor, and hard-earned wisdom.
Sandy Malone
https://sandymalone.com
Hidden Gems
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Where is the line between true crime and crime fiction? What can fiction reveal that the facts alone cannot? This week on Fully Booked, Craig and Roland speak with crime novelist and former barrister Simon Michael about drawing inspiration from real criminal cases and why the most compelling stories often emerge not from what happened, but from understanding the people behind the events.
Drawing on nearly four decades in the courtroom, Simon shares stories from some of Britain's most intriguing criminal cases and explains why, despite having such remarkable source material, he chooses to fictionalize these events rather than simply recount them. Along the way, he offers valuable insight into authenticity, research, character development, and the unique ability of fiction to illuminate aspects of a story that the historical record can only hint at.
Simon Michael
https://www.suchangauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we speak with author Su Chang about the personal and political risks of telling stories that challenge official history. Writing under a pen name and appearing masked to protect both herself and her family, Su discusses how fiction can preserve truths that institutions often try to reshape or erase entirely.
Our discussion explores the realities of publishing politically sensitive work in today’s world, from self-censorship and historical memory to the emotional weight of writing about real trauma while protecting the people closest to you. As modern media, technology, and political influence continue to shape public understanding of history and truth, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at storytelling in the modern age, and the courage and responsibility some authors carry when fiction intersects with reality.
Su Chang
https://www.suchangauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, Craig and Roland sit down with debut novelist Marc S. Perlman to explore how setting can become far more than a backdrop. Inspired by a real journey through an ancient forest on the border of Poland and Belarus, Marc discusses how the eerie landscape at the center of his thriller evolved into a living presence within the story itself. From hidden dangers in the woods to the tension of crossing political borders, the conversation dives into the power of atmosphere and the role setting plays in shaping suspense, emotion, and character.
Marc explains how he used weather, isolation, borders, and the smallest sensory details to transform the emotional tone of his scenes, and how those elements can make a setting come alive on the page. The discussion explores why forests have traditionally carried an ominous presence throughout storytelling history, and more broadly how real world locations can inspire richer fiction. While a gripping plot and compelling characters may hook a reader, it is often atmosphere that keeps them turning pages long into the night.
Marc Perlman
https://marcsperlman.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, returning guest Jennifer Lieberman joins us for a fascinating conversation about playwriting, theater production, and what authors can learn from writing for the stage. From the differences between novels, screenplays, and plays to the realities of development readings, audience feedback, and workshop productions, Jennifer breaks down why theater remains one of the most collaborative and demanding storytelling mediums there is.
Whether you're writing something from scratch or adapting an existing story for the stage, building a playwriting career is often a long game rather than a path to overnight success. Jennifer shares hard-earned insight into what it really takes to bring an idea from concept to performance, drawing on her experiences in stand-up comedy, television development, and Broadway workshops. Whether you're a novelist, playwright, or screenwriter, this discussion is packed with lessons about persistence, audience connection, creative evolution, and the courage to keep creating before anyone else believes in the vision.
Jennifer Lieberman
https://www.makeyourownbreak.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are joined by author, speaker, and radio host Grace Sammon to discuss the emotional responsibility that comes with writing stories rooted in difficult truths. Drawing from her experience writing both fiction and non-fiction, Grace shares how she approaches themes like trauma, abuse, and identity in a way that keeps readers engaged and supported, while still maintaining the authenticity needed to deliver a meaningful message.
As she explains, authors can balance honesty with care in a variety of ways, from using beta readers to navigate sensitive material to understanding how genre expectations shape reader reactions. The discussion also explores writing flawed characters, the role of truth in storytelling, and how authors can guide readers through heavy emotional moments without overwhelming them. For writers tackling complex subject matter, this episode offers both practical insight and a thoughtful perspective on how to write difficult material without losing your reader.
Grace Sammon
https://www.gracesammon.net/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with Patty McGee to rethink a fundamental yet often intimidating aspect of writing. While many authors see grammar as a strict set of rules to follow, Patty invites us to view it as an art form, something fluid, expressive, and deeply connected to a writer’s voice. By shifting this perspective, grammar becomes less of a constraint and more of a creative tool for clarity and connection, easing the anxiety so many writers feel around it.
Patty builds on this idea by exploring how grammar shifts depending on audience and context, and why intentional choices should matter more than rigid correctness. She emphasizes that mastery of language is not about memorizing rules, but about developing a sense of rhythm, meaning, and impact on the reader. For authors seeking to balance technical precision with an authentic voice, today's conversation is a helpful reminder that grammar can be more than just structure, but expression as well.
Patty McGee
https://pattymcgee.org/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with veteran author Matt Hughes to explore what it really means to build a sustainable writing career beyond the glare of bestseller lists. Drawing on decades of experience across genres, markets, and industries, Matt shares how his unconventional path from crime fiction to science fiction and fantasy led to a deeply rewarding creative life. His experience demonstrates how craft, persistence, and adaptability can shape a lasting career in publishing.
Today’s discussion challenges common assumptions about success, which doesn't always require an author to become a household name. Modern publishing allows for multiple income opportunities for writers looking to make a living on their own terms, from magazine publishing and newsletters to Patreon support and building direct relationships with readers. It is not about chasing trends or mass appeal, but about understanding your voice, your audience, and committing to the long game of storytelling.
Matt Hughes
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B000APWEIQ
Hidden Gems
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Marketing a cross-genre book can be challenging, but usually there’s at least some overlap between audiences. Romantic fantasy readers, for example, know exactly what they’re getting. But what happens when your book sits between two completely different markets? That’s the challenge facing this week’s guest, Charles E. Wallace Jr., whose story-driven book has the potential to appeal both to true crime readers and to those looking for practical guidance on protecting elderly parents from financial exploitation. Attempting to target two very different groups at once can dilute your core message, forcing tough decisions about positioning, audience focus, and how to present your book to the world.
In today’s episode, Charles walks us through what he’s learned from navigating that challenge, as we discuss how to identify your primary audience, when to split your marketing versus unify it, and how to avoid getting lost between categories. At the same time, the conversation is driven by the gripping real-life story that led to the book in the first place. As compelling as that story is, it reinforces an important lesson: Even the strongest narrative won’t sell itself without a clear strategy behind it. So for authors working on unconventional or hard-to-categorize books, success comes down to clarity, focus, and making intentional marketing decisions from the start.
Charles E. Wallace Jr.
https://thecaregiversgame.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we’re joined by true crime author and radio host Alan R. Warren for a fascinating discussion on the genre of true crime, and why he believes the most compelling stories are those told through the lens of their time. With nearly 40 books to his name, Alan shares how his work goes far beyond recounting events, focusing instead on the historical, cultural, and social forces that shape both the crime and the people involved. By placing context at the center of every story, his approach reframes true crime as something deeper than a simple sequence of events.
Alan takes us through his process for building these narratives, showing how immersive research and firsthand interviews allow him to recreate the mindset of an era so readers can understand how people thought and behaved at the time. That perspective not only adds depth and authenticity, but often reveals how certain crimes were even possible in the first place. The result is a body of work that continues to resonate with readers, and a compelling reminder that the most powerful true crime stories are not just about what happened, but why they could only have happened when they did.
Alan R. Warren
https://www.alanrwarren.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland speak with prolific children’s author Molly Arbuthnott about what it really takes to move from an initial idea to a growing catalog of published work. From making the decision to pursue writing full time to developing stories and themes that connect with young readers, today's conversation explores both the creative and practical sides of writing for children.
The discussion also goes beyond the page, as Molly shares insights into working with illustrators, navigating self-publishing and traditional routes, and balancing creative passion with the business realities of marketing in a competitive space. For practical advice and an honest look at what it takes to build a sustainable career in children’s books, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Molly Arbuthnott
https://www.mollyarbuthnott.co.uk/about/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, we’re joined by author and book coach Jen Braaksma, who shares her journey from teacher to full-time writing coach, and how that path shaped the way she helps writers bring their stories to life. With experience working with over a hundred authors while also publishing her own novels, Jen offers insight into what a book coach actually does and the role guidance can play when a manuscript isn’t quite coming together.
Jen shares a fascinating case where she was asked to help shape and finish a manuscript written by an author who had passed away, forcing her to find the story’s voice and connective thread without being able to speak to its creator. Using that experience as a lens, the conversation expands into the broader challenges writers face, from identifying what a story is really about maintaining consistency, structure, and momentum through revisions. It’s a thoughtful look at how raw ideas become cohesive books, and what it takes to turn a draft into something that truly works.
Jen Braaksma
https://www.jenbraaksma.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are joined by science fiction author Evan Kidwell for a conversation about why power-driven social hierarchies remain such a compelling force in YA fiction. Using the caste system and bloodline structure from his own debut novel as a starting point, Evan explains how stories built around rank, exclusion, and emerging power speak directly to the adolescent experience.
The episode also explores the emotional pull of underdog stories, the role of flawed, hierarchical societies in fiction, and the challenges around building complex fantasy worlds shaped by power, status, loyalty, and survival. Together, these storytelling elements help explain some of YA’s most enduring hooks, and why readers keep returning to them not only in their teens, but as adults as well.
Evan Kidwell
https://www.timeaousspark.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, we welcome back returning guest Clay Vermulm to explore what truly makes horror work. Is it simply monsters, gore, and jump scares, or something far deeper? From grief and catastrophic loss to the power of isolation, our discussion takes us through the core emotional elements that allow great horror to connect with readers. By personifying these universal fears as supernatural forces, horror writers give shape to the emotions we often struggle to confront in real life.
Clay also shares practical insight for authors looking to craft their own unsettling fiction. He explains why character development is the foundation of fear, how real stakes elevate tension, and why every on page death must feel earned. By grounding terror in authentic human experience, writers can create stories that linger with readers long after the final terrifying chapter. Whether you're already writing horror or simply want to better understand its enduring appeal, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the psychology and craft behind fiction that truly frightens.
Clay Vermulm
https://www.clayvermulmfiction.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week, Fully Booked welcomes back author Randi-Lee Bowslaugh for a thoughtful conversation about second editions and what it really means to revisit a published book. While the lifeblood of a sustained writing career often lies in sequels and new releases, there are compelling strategic and creative reasons to update and republish an older work. From expanding content and incorporating new research to strengthening earlier writing, adjusting pricing, and rethinking marketing, this discussion explores the practical and emotional considerations behind giving a book a second life.
Drawing from her own experience preparing a significantly expanded edition of her nonfiction work on grief and addiction, Randi-Lee shares how time, therapy, and deeper research reshaped her perspective and strengthened the book’s impact. She also outlines why fiction authors might consider releasing second editions, anniversary editions, or special releases of their own. If you have ever wondered whether to revise, relaunch, or simply move on to the next manuscript, this episode offers clear insight into making that decision without alienating your readers.
Randi-Lee Bowslaugh
https://www.rbwriting.ca/
Hidden Gems
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Bestselling science fiction author Rick Partlow joins Fully Booked to discuss one of the most elusive skills in publishing: sustained productivity. With nearly 90 novels written since 2011 and an average output of 3,000 words a day, Rick explains how disciplined routines, detailed outlining, and long-term series planning have enabled him to build expansive fictional universes without losing momentum. From the early days of KDP, when 99 cent pricing helped him find his first wave of readers, to building a sustainable publishing career, this episode explores what it truly takes to turn writing into a lasting profession.
Rick walks us through the practical mechanics behind his success, including why he transitioned from discovery writing to deep structural outlining, how tools like NotebookLM help him maintain continuity across dozens of books, and why partnering with specialist publishers transformed his business. He also shares candid insights on discipline, avoiding burnout, alternating series to stay creatively sharp, and making the mindset shift from hobbyist to professional. For authors seeking greater output without sacrificing story quality, this conversation offers a clear and actionable path forward.
Rick Partlow
https://rickpartlow.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with debut author Ben Leman to discuss the long and often humbling road from idea to finished novel. What began as a deeply personal promise to a friend evolved into years of research, multiple full rewrites, and a deliberate commitment to getting the story right before sharing it with readers. Ben walks us through the realities of drafting, scrapping, rebuilding, and learning how to step back from your own work with enough objectivity to truly improve it.
While the historical backdrop of his novel presented unique challenges, the lessons Ben shares apply to authors in any genre. Drawing on his business background, he approached writing and publishing with a strategic mindset, from working with early readers and editors to developing a targeted marketing plan and retaining control of his rights. His insights on discipline, daily habits, focus, and treating authorship as a professional endeavor offer practical guidance for anyone serious about building a sustainable writing career.
Ben Leman
https://www.benlemanauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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Credibility and authenticity are two of the qualities that make crime thrillers work, but without insider knowledge they can be difficult to achieve. In this episode of Fully Booked, former detective Peter J. Charles joins Craig and Roland to break down what authenticity really means in crime fiction, and why the details readers cannot always articulate are often the ones that make a story feel true. Drawing on decades of real experience, Peter explains how surveillance, interview technique, and informant work are commonly misrepresented, and how small but critical choices can separate a convincing procedural from one that simply feels wrong.
Peter also shares how he translated his real-world background into a practical approach to craft. After publishing his first novel, he began studying story structure, refining his prose, and using modern tools to strengthen his writing. The result is a body of work that moves confidently beyond his law enforcement and intelligence career into accomplished crime and thriller fiction. For authors writing stories that rely on police work or intelligence, this conversation offers clear, practical takeaways to help make scenes sharper, procedures believable, and narratives more authoritative.
Peter J Charles
https://www.peterjcharles.co.uk/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, science fiction author Pat Daily shares the story behind his break from traditional publishing and the hard-earned lessons that led him to take full ownership of his work. From slow production timelines to editorial mishandling and rigid contracts, Pat walks through the key decisions that led him to buy back the rights to his debut novel and transition to self-publishing.
While going independent brought greater creative control and stronger reader engagement, it also came with new challenges such as sourcing the right editorial support, managing marketing, and treating writing like a business. Pat’s experience with traditional publishing wasn’t entirely negative, and reflecting on those trade-offs has him thoughtfully considering whether it might be worth revisiting in the future. Today’s discussion offers a grounded look at what it means to take control of your writing career and why, for some authors, handing back a bit of that control may still have its place.
Pat Daily
https://thepatdaily.com/
Hidden Gems
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As AI continues to reshape the publishing landscape, authors are being pulled into a complex debate around data, rights, and compensation. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, we’re joined by publishing veteran Julie Trelstad to explore how writers can protect and profit from their work in an increasingly AI-integrated world. Julie introduces Amlet, a forward-looking rights registry designed to help authors retain control over how their content is used in training and generating AI tools, and discusses the growing movement toward standardized digital identifiers across the industry.
From understanding what current and future AI models are really looking for to navigating the legal gray areas of past data scraping, this conversation offers a fascinating and compelling look at what’s next for digital rights management. We also examine how the publishing industry is experimenting with new licensing models and why authors must begin thinking beyond traditional copyright. If you're wondering how to futureproof your work or strategically engage with the rise of AI, this episode is essential listening.
Julie Trelstad
https://amlet.ai/
Hidden Gems
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https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore one of the most critical decisions in the publishing process: how to choose the right editor for your book. Developmental editor and book coach Sue Toth joins us to explain the different types of editing, how they compare to coaching, when and why professional support is worth the investment, and how to prepare your manuscript before handing it off.
Specializing in series editing, Sue offers insight into the unique challenges series present, from tracking character arcs to maintaining continuity across multiple books. She shares practical strategies like starting a series bible early and ensuring your editor has access to it. As she explains, choosing an editor isn't just about skill, but also about compatibility. A strong author-editor relationship can make all the difference in shaping your story into the best version of itself. Whether you're writing your debut novel or managing a multi-book arc, this episode is packed with valuable advice for every stage of the process.
Sue Toth
https://suetoth.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, author Tricia Copeland joins Craig and Roland for an in-depth look at fantasy world-building and character-driven storytelling. Tricia shares how her initial story idea evolved into a four-book series of interconnected realms, and how that experience ultimately propelled her into the realm of YA fantasy. From hybrid vampire-witches navigating identity to anxiety-stricken fairy queens thrust into leadership, Tricia’s characters are as layered as the richly imagined worlds they inhabit.
By walking us through her creative process, Tricia reveals how she builds immersive fantasy realms around the emotional arcs of her characters. Rather than beginning with a map or magic system, she starts with internal conflict and personal stakes, allowing the world to take shape in response. Drawing from real-life experience and relatable struggles, she shows how moral complexity can be woven into speculative fiction through characters who break societal rules or challenge tradition. Whether you're blending genres or managing the continuity of a multi-series universe, today’s episode offers valuable insight into crafting fantasy that feels both imaginative and deeply human.
Tricia Copeland
www.triciacopeland.com
Hidden Gems
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Marketing can be one of the most daunting challenges for authors, especially those who would rather be writing than promoting. In this episode of Fully Booked, we speak with Kae Wagner, founder of the Bold Authors Network, about how writers can shift from dreading marketing to embracing it as an essential part of being a self-publisher. Drawing from decades of marketing experience and her own journey as a writer, Kae shares modern, practical strategies for building visibility, engaging readers, and laying the groundwork for long-term success.
From mindset shifts to metadata, Kae explains how authors can approach marketing without compromising their creative identity. She discusses why series are powerful, how AI is changing book discovery, and why often-overlooked tools like press releases are worth revisiting. Whether you're a debut author or looking to expand your reach, this conversation delivers clear, actionable advice to help you connect your books with the readers who are looking for them.
Kae Wagner
https://kaewagner.simplero.com/page/592727-bold-authors-network
Hidden Gems
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In this special year-end roundup, Craig and Roland look back at some of the biggest developments and trends that shaped the self-publishing world in 2025. It was a year defined by the continuing rise of AI, but in some ways, it also sparked a renewed push for authors to make stronger connections with their audiences. Not only do the hosts recap key moments and movements from the past year, but they also offer insights into what the future might hold for the author community.
From the growing acceptance of AI tools (despite ongoing legal challenges), to the increasing accessibility of audiobook production, the landscape for indie authors is evolving rapidly. Craig and Roland explore how genre shifts like the surge in romantasy are opening new paths for creative experimentation, and why more authors are turning to direct sales and special print editions to deepen reader engagement. With 2026 now underway, authors can stay ahead of the curve by not only understanding where self-publishing currently stands, but where it may be headed next.
Hidden Gems
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What does it take to turn a passion for writing into a sustainable, income-generating career? In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with Maria Secoy, founder of All Write and an experienced book coach, who shares a clear and practical path for writers ready to take control of the business side of publishing. From managing production costs to building a publishing schedule that works with Amazon’s algorithm, she offers a grounded approach to balancing creativity with strategy.
Drawing on her background in education and research, Maria outlines her four-stage model of author development and explains how to align writing goals with long-term growth. In addition, she breaks down key financial concepts, including return on ad spend and series readthrough value, giving authors a framework for making data-informed decisions while staying connected to the heart of their work. Regardless of where you are in your publishing career, today's insights will help you move forward with confidence and a clear path to success.
Maria Secoy
www.allwritewell.com
Hidden Gems
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What if the book you’re writing isn’t really the product you’re selling? In today's episode of Fully Booked, publishing strategist Michael R. Drew takes us through the deeper business logic behind nonfiction publishing. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience and over 130 bestsellers, Michael explains why the most successful nonfiction authors begin not with the book itself, but by first defining the outcome they want it to achieve. From there, they determine how to measure success, create a strategy to support that goal, and finally use the book as one of the tactics to help fulfill it. In this way, the book becomes a powerful tool to grow a platform, drive business objectives, and establish lasting thought leadership.
Michael also shares how nonfiction authors can market their books ethically and effectively by focusing on long-term relationships rather than quick wins. Through real-world examples, he illustrates how clarity of purpose and consistent audience engagement can make a book far more impactful. That's why for many non-fiction authors, their book is not the end goal, but simply a tool to elevate the real product — their platform, expertise, and the value they bring to their audience.
Michael R. Drew
https://promoteabook.com/
Hidden Gems
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Although some view symbolism as something readers discover after the fact, many authors use it deliberately from the very beginning as a tool to add cohesion and depth to their stories. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, visual artist and fantasy author Riley S. Quinn shares how authors can build symbolism into the foundation of their creative process. By doing so, she argues, writers can create more immersive, emotionally resonant narratives that remain thematically focused from start to finish.
Riley draws on her background in animation and storyboarding to show how symbolic elements can shape every layer of a story, from character development to the world they inhabit. By pulling from personal experiences and details from everyday life, authors can create symbols that add emotional weight and thematic cohesion. Even the setting becomes part of this symbolic framework, offering opportunities for deeper connection through intentional design. When every element in a story has purpose, the world, characters, and narrative begin to feel inseparable and part of a single, unified vision.
Riley S. Quinn
https://www.rileyquinnart.com/
Hidden Gems
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What makes a short story scary? In today's episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with short fiction author Monte Crabbs, whose stories blend horror, mystery, and a touch of dark humor. Drawing from his background as a school librarian and longtime horror fan, Monte shares how everyday anxieties and personal experiences can be transformed into chilling stories that linger with readers. He explains why horror, when done right, connects on a deep psychological level and how, when presented in fiction, it can even offer readers a “safe scare.”
Our discussion explores the craft of writing creepiness into ordinary moments, building tension with brevity, and striking the right balance between scares and levity. Monte also offers insight into the role of endings in short horror, what makes a satisfying psychological twist, and how paying attention to the world around you can spark unforgettable ideas. Whether you’re a horror author or simply interested in adding a bit of eeriness to your own writing, this conversation is full of practical takeaways and creative inspiration.
Monte Crabbs
https://www.montecrabbs.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we’re exploring the world of book coaching with Liisa Kovala, a certified book coach and former educator who brings deep insight into how authors can benefit from guided support throughout their writing journey. From idea development to drafting, from pitching to prepping, Liisa shares the practical, emotional, and professional value that coaching can offer writers at any stage of their careers.
Alongside the many benefits of hiring a coach, we also discuss the rigorous training behind certification, the evolving nature of the writer–coach relationship, and the realities aspiring authors face in today’s publishing landscape. Liisa also shares her views on the importance of feedback, the pitfalls of unstructured critique groups, and how small-group programs can be a game-changer for productivity and confidence. If you’ve been considering ways to move your book forward, this episode offers an in-depth look at the tools, mindset, and support systems a skilled book coach can provide.
Liisa Kovala
https://www.liisakovalabookcoach.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we speak with Tyler Wagner, founder of Authors Unite, about what it really takes to turn a book into a bestseller. Wagner walks us through the systems and strategies he uses to help thousands of authors hit major bestseller lists on Amazon, USA Today, and more. He explains how these campaigns can deliver a return on investment by elevating a book’s visibility and positioning the author as a trusted expert. For this reason, he primarily works with non-fiction clients such as entrepreneurs and business leaders who are looking to use their books to build personal brands and generate leads for other services.
While Wagner’s core expertise centers on non-fiction, the conversation also touches on how fiction authors can adapt aspects of these strategies to build momentum across their own catalogs. He shares insights on what it takes to get a book on major lists like Amazon and USA Today, how packaging and positioning play a critical role, and why even fiction authors need to think in terms of long-term audience building. For any author curious about how bestseller campaigns work and who they work for best, this episode offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at the business of book promotion.
Authors Unite
https://authorsunite.com/
Hidden Gems
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For the 200th episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland go solo to reflect on how much the self-publishing world has evolved since the podcast first launched almost four years ago. This milestone discussion explores the industry’s biggest shifts, from the rise of direct sales and the decline of platform dependence to the growing need for authentic reader relationships. It’s a wide-ranging, state-of-the-industry conversation rooted in insight from past episodes and the hard-earned perspective of two hosts who have seen it all.
Whether you're launching your first book or working to stay ahead of changing algorithms and business models, this episode distills key takeaways from hundreds of conversations with bestselling authors, experts, and innovators. From TikTok to Substack, short fiction to sales funnels, and scams to success stories, revisit the trends that matter and the lessons worth remembering in this candid and comprehensive look at where the indie author world stands today and where it may be headed next.
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore the fascinating frontier where science fact meets science fiction. Our guest is debut author Nicholas Keating Casbarro, whose background in medical devices and deep-dive research habits have fueled the creation of a richly detailed hard sci-fi series set 700 years in the future. From warp bubbles to quantum entanglement, Casbarro explains how he grounds speculative technologies in plausible science while keeping the narrative accessible and immersive.
He shares how world-building begins with asking the right questions about planetary ecology, authoritarian governments, and underground digital networks, and why anchoring every element in scientific theory lends authenticity. Because whether you're writing about the ethical implications of emerging tech or attempting to craft a believable future without losing the human thread, writing hard sci-fi requires a careful balance between rigorous science and storytelling craft.
Nicholas Keating Casbarro
https://vitaleriumseries.com/
Hidden Gems
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Although short fiction often gets overshadowed in today’s market-driven publishing landscape, for many writers it’s where the most vital work begins. That’s why, in this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we examine both the creative and commercial realities of writing short stories. Our guest is author Chris Kauzlarich, a hobbyist turned published writer who uses short fiction to build both his craft and his audience. From initial inspiration to final revision, Chris shares insights into the short story writing process, and why this form remains meaningful, even in a publishing world dominated by novels.
But this conversation doesn’t shy away from the hard truths, as Chris opens up about the challenges of making short stories viable. From limited publication outlets and shrinking markets to the frustrations of pricing, visibility, and discoverability. Still, the episode is filled with practical strategies for using short fiction to grow your readership, test novel-worthy ideas, and stay creatively sharp. For a grounded, honest look at what short stories can—and can’t—do for your career, this episode is a must-listen.
Chris Kauzlarich
https://www.chriskauzlarich.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we’re joined by Aaron Calafato, creator of the acclaimed podcast "7 Minute Stories", which has reached over 30 million listeners. A master of short-form storytelling, Aaron shares how he builds powerful connections with his audience through a personal process he calls “story catching.” By drawing meaning from everyday experiences and telling them with clarity and heart, he has carved out a unique space in the storytelling landscape.
In this fascinating conversation, Aaron takes Craig and Roland through the principles that make a story truly resonate. He explores how trust, authenticity, and vulnerability play a vital role in shaping stories that stick with listeners. Whether you're an author, a podcaster, or a creative of any kind, this episode offers practical insight into telling stories that engage deeply and keep your audience coming back.
Aaron Calafato
https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/
Hidden Gems
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What does it take to go from decades in biopharmaceuticals to publishing a time-travel mystery novel? In today’s episode of Fully Booked, debut author Mark Wilson shares how he applied his scientific mindset to the unpredictable world of fiction writing. From mapping out timelines on graph paper to learning key storytelling principles through trial and error, Mark walks us through the unexpected but rewarding journey that led to his first published book.
While balancing a full-time job, Mark tackled the challenges of character development, world-building, and narrative pacing, only to be faced with how to get it all published. By staying open to feedback and taking a methodical approach to the entire writing process, he refined his novel and partnered with a hybrid publisher to bring it to market. This episode offers an inspiring look at how persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to take creative risks can launch a new author’s path.
Mark J. Wilson
https://www.markjwilson.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, we speak with a young adult dystopian author whose years of humanitarian work across conflict zones have given her fiction an uncommon depth. Drawing on firsthand experience in Afghanistan, Colombia, and Sierra Leone, CC Robinson explains how real-life crises shaped her understanding of survival, resilience, and human connection, and how these insights now fuel her gripping post-apocalyptic stories. From clean water to cross-cultural grief, the real priorities behind individual motivations can differ wildly depending on background, and weaving those motivations into a narrative can lead to richer, more realistic characters and interactions.
The discussion also highlights the challenges and responsibilities of writing outside one’s own experience, particularly when developing characters from diverse cultural, racial, and social backgrounds. CC shares her intensive research process, including in-depth interviews, primary-source reading, and collaboration with sensitivity readers, all aimed at ensuring each voice is distinct and grounded in truth. For writers exploring how shared human experiences can bridge cultural divides or looking to craft fiction that reflects today’s complex world, this conversation offers valuable insight into how to do so with care and authenticity.
CC Robinson
https://ccrobinsonauthor.com/hiddengems
Hidden Gems
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When self-published authors invest in outside help, the goal is to amplify their work, not end up worse off than when they started. Yet that is sometimes the unfortunate reality, especially when authors don't do enough due diligence before handing over their hard-earned money. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, author Aspry Jones shares a candid account of how he fell victim to a publicist who overpromised, underdelivered, and ultimately left him without access to his own social media accounts to repair the damage. From losing money and control to seeing key book spoilers posted online, Aspry walks us through a cautionary tale that every author should hear before signing a contract.
While our recent podcast episodes have spotlighted experienced publicists who deliver real value, this conversation reveals what can happen when authors put their trust in the wrong hands. Aspry’s experience underscores the importance of referrals, clear expectations, and maintaining ownership of your author platform. By sharing the hard lessons he learned, and how he ultimately turned things around, he hopes to help fellow authors avoid the same costly mistakes.
Aspry Jones
https://aspryjones.com/
Hidden Gems
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Publicity is one of the most misunderstood parts of an author’s career, and in this episode of Fully Booked, we break down what it really involves. Publicist and author Terena Bell joins Craig and Roland to explain how writers can approach publicity with clear goals, whether the aim is to sell more copies, reach new readers, or secure recognition in libraries and the media.
From podcasts and library pushes to finding unexpected outlets beyond the book world, the discussion explores practical strategies authors can use to draw attention to their books. While Terena shares insight into how effective publicists can support authors, she also warns against common traps such as cookie-cutter campaigns and costly hourly billing models. Packed with tips and real-world examples, this episode offers a focused guide to making publicity serve your goals, whether by hiring an expert or putting the strategies into practice yourself.
Terena Bell
https://terenabell.com/bookpr/
Hidden Gems
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When mass market publishing first started, short and sweet “dime novels” were all the rage. Over the decades, books have fattened up considerably, with some of the most popular modern fiction weighing in at nearly 800 pages (I’m looking at you, A Court of Silver Flames!)
In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland welcome returning guest Terrance Layhew back to the podcast to discuss whether it’s time to embrace a return to shorter fiction, such as his recent award-winning novella Unwanted Passenger.
In terms of printing costs, purchase price, and even just the time you have to invest reading shorter fiction, there’s a lot to like about the format of classic, pocket-sized paperbacks - and in this lively discussion, Terrance, Craig, and Roland ponder whether smaller books might be the next big thing in publishing.
Terrance Layhew
https://terrancelayhew.com/
Hidden Gems
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For aspiring authors navigating the world of self-publishing, the path to success is lined with potential missteps. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, publishing consultant and seasoned author Michelle Hill joins Craig and Roland to break down the most common mistakes that can derail new writers. Drawing from her journey as a “recovering ghostwriter” and her extensive experience guiding nonfiction authors, Michelle shares practical insights for those looking to produce polished, professional books that stand out in today’s competitive market.
The discussion covers essential topics including professional editing, cover design, and how to avoid predatory publishing services, while also exploring the importance of creative vision, effective collaboration, and staying involved throughout the publishing process. For writers ready to take their craft seriously, Michelle’s advice offers a roadmap for avoiding costly errors and building a strong foundation for long-term success.
Michelle Hill
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCL4CN5V
Hidden Gems
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This week, Fully Booked turns the conversation to the complex and often misunderstood world of dark romance and the anti-heroes that readers obsess over. Actor, coach, and author M.C. Paas joins Craig and Roland to explore the emotional depth and psychological nuance behind stories of morally gray characters, dangerous obsessions, and high-stakes relationships. Drawing on her upbringing in post-Soviet Estonia, M.C. reveals how personal history and deep emotional awareness shape her writing, and why dark romance offers a safe space to explore the forbidden.
The discussion examines the ethics of writing taboo characters, the central role of consent in fiction, and the enduring appeal of protagonists who might be irredeemable in real life. M.C. explains how fantasy provides freedom rather than endorsement, and how these stories can bring catharsis, solidarity, and even healing. Whether you’re looking to craft your own unforgettable anti-heroes or curious about what makes them so irresistible to readers, this episode offers an unflinching look at why darkness can tell the most powerful love stories.
M.C. Paas
https://mcpaaswrites.com/
Hidden Gems
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What happens when a celebrated magazine editor and ghostwriter faces the collapse of traditional publishing? For Peter Moore, it sparked a creative reinvention. In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore how Peter used Substack to rebuild his career on his own terms, transforming a period of professional uncertainty into a thriving platform where he writes, illustrates, and connects directly with thousands of readers. He shares how the platform became more than just a newsletter, evolving into a community, a launchpad, and a sustainable creative outlet for his humorous and insightful work.
Whether you’re new to Substack or already experimenting with it, this discussion will give you a variety of practical ideas for using the platform to gain more control over your audience and writing. Among other things, Peter breaks down strategies for growing your subscriber base, the importance of defining a clear creative niche, and why reader feedback now matters to him more than ever. If you’ve been on the fence about Substack, this episode offers a compelling case for why it could be a game-changer for your self-publishing career.
Peter Moore
https://petermoore.substack.com/
Hidden Gems
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Publishing a paperback book through Amazon KDP can seem straightforward, but producing a professional, print-ready title involves a lot of behind-the-scenes work. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, author Michael Pickard joins Craig and Roland to break down the KDP paperback process. From formatting your manuscript and solving layout challenges to working with cover designers and preparing final files for upload, Mike shares the key steps many first-time authors overlook.
With more than a dozen titles to his name, Mike offers practical advice drawn from years of self-publishing experience and from guiding other authors through the process. He explains how to avoid costly formatting mistakes, manage ISBN decisions, and ensure that your book meets professional standards before it goes live. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from proofing, coordinating with designers, and navigating KDP’s print-on-demand limitations. For anyone beginning their print book journey, this conversation delivers a clear and realistic guide to creating a high-quality paperback without traditional publishing support.
Michael Pickard
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B000APFNIO
Hidden Gems
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This week, Craig and Roland welcome Joseph Darlington to the Fully Booked podcast. One of the best-known figures in the James Bond fandom, Joseph is the author of a successful 2015 non-fiction book called Being James Bond, which was written to help make the skills and experiences of the world’s most famous superspy accessible to everybody.
But after ten years in print, it was time for an update—and in this episode, Joseph explains the thinking and process behind updating and expanding his 2015 book into a dynamic new second edition; incorporating additional segments, making important revisions, and leveraging his now-larger social media footprint to reach an even larger global audience of James Bond fans.
If you’re a veteran of the self-publishing industry and want to breath new life into some of your older titles, you’ll find this episode a really useful perspective on how to improve, expand, and recapture the excitement that inspired you to write those books in the first place.
Joseph Darlington
https://www.beingjamesbond.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we talk with veteran writer and speaker Jason Brick about what it means to take writing seriously as a profession. With countless books and articles to his name, Jason shares the personal journey that took him from martial arts studio owner to full-time author. He discusses the habits that helped him build a lasting career and explains why resilience, not perfection, is often the key to long-term success.
Jason also offers his perspective on topics like writer’s block, career longevity and marketing for authors. He explores how mindset shapes creative output, how setting small daily goals can lead to major progress, and why understanding the business side of writing is essential. Whether you're writing part-time or aiming to become a more consistent and productive author, this episode offers clear and practical advice for building a sustainable writing life.
Jason Brick
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jason-Brick/author/B00H4INFBM
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we examine the challenging and often invisible world of screenwriting with writer and director Alex R. Johnson. From his early roots in documentary production to his transition into feature filmmaking and studio work, Johnson shares the gritty realities behind a writing career that can generate income without ever producing a final product for audiences to see. He sheds light on the paradox of sustaining a career in an industry where outcomes are often unpredictable, the economics of the Hollywood system, and the emotional toll of investing time and talent into stories that disappear into development limbo.
In a candid and revealing conversation, Johnson traces his path from indie success to selling scripts to major studios, only to watch them stall for reasons beyond his control. He breaks down the economics of spec scripts, the process and financial implications of rewrites, and shares hard-won advice on how to engage with studio notes without compromising your voice. For any author interested in the business and craft of screenwriting, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the industry's complexities and what it takes to survive and stay creative within it.
Alex R. Johnson
https://haciendafilmsinc.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, fiction author and marketing veteran Kae Wagner joins us to share how indie authors can approach publishing with a more strategic mindset. Drawing from her success with the Frankie Girl series, Kae explains how treating fiction as both art and product can lead to stronger sales, deeper reader engagement, and long-term growth.
She offers a wealth of practical insights that many fiction authors overlook, from building series with intention to understanding reader psychology and leveraging tools that drive real results. This conversation is packed with inventive and actionable marketing strategies that go far beyond the basics. If you're ready to take your writing career to the next level, this episode delivers the guidance to get you there.
Kae Wagner
https://www.kaewagner.com/
The Bold Author's Network
https://www.BoldAuthorsNetwork.com
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, we're exploring how adding historical context into storytelling can enrich fiction across all genres. Joining the discussion is skilled historical novelist and former archaeologist N.L. Holmes, who shares insights on how incorporating history into your writing can deepen narratives, foster empathy, and illuminate meaningful parallels between past events and modern experiences.
N.L. Holmes also highlights the practical benefits of using historical research as a versatile tool, no matter your genre. From crafting compelling plots to forming stronger emotional connections with readers, she explains how historical elements can elevate storytelling and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary issues.
N. L. Holmes
https://www.nlholmes.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we explore the lighter side of science fiction with guest Ray Tabler, an engineer-turned-author who believes the future doesn't have to be bleak to be compelling. In a genre often dominated by dystopias and dark futures, Ray offers an alternative approach rooted in humor, optimism, and human complexity. He shares how a love of history, a dash of engineering know-how, and a well-timed bout of insomnia have all shaped his storytelling lens.
Ray argues that writing hopeful visions of the future can be more challenging than crafting dystopias, but he believes it is far more important to tell science fiction stories that inspire rather than alarm. He also shares insights on the benefits of discovery writing, the value of weaving humor into speculative settings, and why believable, engaging characters are just as crucial as imaginative world-building. Today's episode makes a compelling case for giving positive futures a larger place in the genre and offers practical techniques for writers looking to bring that vision to life.
Ray Tabler
https://raytabler.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore the art of crafting unforgettable characters with award-winning author, playwright, and clinical psychologist Patricia Black-Gould. Drawing on her rich background in theater and psychology, Patricia shares how deep character work and improvisational techniques from the stage can empower writers to create emotionally resonant, distinctive personalities on the page. From building psychological backstories to infusing dialogue with nuance, she discusses strategies to help writers workshop even minor characters into memorable figures.
The conversation also touches on essential storytelling elements like pacing, dialogue, and scene construction, all of which support a strong cast of characters. From background roles to the story’s lead, Patricia’s advice can be applied across your manuscript. More dynamic characterization not only elevates your narrative but creates lasting impact, helping to build a loyal readership that comes back for every book.
Pat Black-Gould
https://www.patblackgould.com/
Hidden Gems
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On today's episode of Fully Booked, returning guest KimBoo York guides Craig and Roland through the rich and vibrant world of fanfiction. Having recently published a book on the subject, KimBoo is uniquely suited to unpack what fanfiction is, how it’s written, and why so many writers find it a rewarding creative outlet. From the early days of Sherlock Holmes pastiches to today’s thriving online fandoms on platforms like AO3, she explores the genre’s evolution, terminology, and community-driven roots.
The conversation explores why fanfiction resonates so strongly with both writers and readers, how it fosters community, and what it offers in terms of honing voice and craft. Because fanfiction involves writing in someone else’s universe, the discussion also touches on legal considerations and how some writers have transitioned their works into original, publishable fiction. Whether you’re a longtime fan or simply fanfiction-curious, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the form’s creative power and lasting appeal.
KimBoo York
https://houseofyork.info/
Hidden Gems
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In this eye-opening episode of Fully Booked, returning guest Ariel Anderssen shares her firsthand account of the collapse of Unbound Publishing. After successfully crowdfunding her debut memoir through the hybrid publisher, Ariel soon encountered missed royalty payments, a lack of transparency around sales data, and growing frustration. It was only through threatened legal action that she recovered her earnings, leading her to realize the company had far deeper issues. Sensing trouble ahead, she reclaimed her book rights and exited just days before Unbound collapsed, a move that spared her the worst of the fallout experienced by more than 300 affected authors.
Ariel’s story is a powerful case study in how easily authors can be taken advantage of, even by seemingly reputable publishers. Her experience underscores the importance of understanding your rights, recognizing red flags early, and maintaining control over your work. The wider failures at Unbound — and the emotional and financial toll on its authors — offer a cautionary reminder of why transparency and accountability matter in every stage of a publishing career.
Ariel Anderssen
https://www.arielanderssenauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we’re exploring the essential role that community plays in a writer’s journey, particularly in genres that thrive on collaboration and shared passion. Our guest is Clay Vermulm, a dark fiction author and podcaster who shares how he transitioned from a background in wrestling and film to a full-time writing career, and how creative communities helped guide and sustain that path. Clay is not only an active participant in writing communities of all kinds, but also a committed builder who works to ensure these spaces continue to grow, thrive, and support new voices.
Clay makes a compelling case for why writers should actively engage with others, whether through local workshops, genre conventions, online spaces, or small presses. He speaks candidly about the power of showing up, volunteering, and contributing authentically to communities that align with your creative goals. From resurrecting a horror writing contest to helping lead regional and national groups, his story shows how investing in community builds opportunity and fosters long-term sustainability in a writing career. Above all, this episode is a powerful reminder that no writer succeeds alone.
Clay Vermulm
https://linktr.ee/clayvermulm
Hidden Gems
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How do you write fiction that readers can truly see? In today's episode of Fully Booked, we speak with author Gary Smith about crafting vivid, immersive stories by drawing on real-life experience, strong character instincts, and a deep sense of place. From his free-flowing, scene-by-scene writing method to his use of real locations and photography, Gary shows how authenticity and visual clarity work together to bring stories to life.
We also explore how short fiction demands a sharper, more immediate visual style, and how translating a book into another language can unintentionally blur the imagery and nuance of the original. Throughout our discussion, Gary offers insight into writing believable dialogue, grounding stories in real settings, and the importance of trusting your own creative voice. Writers looking to make their fiction more vivid and emotionally resonant will find plenty of practical inspiration in this conversation.
Gary Smith
https://garysmithauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, we talk with Dr. Ravi Iyer, a physician, TEDx speaker, and nonfiction author who knows how to turn big concepts into books that truly connect. Dr. Ravi shares how writing a book is a lot like giving a great talk. It’s all about knowing your message, understanding your audience, and delivering your ideas with clarity and emotion. Drawing on insights from cognitive science, he explains how nonfiction writers can stay focused, write with purpose, and build real trust with their readers.
We also dive into how to build a consistent writing habit, how to shape your ideas into a strong structure, and why storytelling can be just as powerful in nonfiction as it is in fiction. Dr. Ravi’s advice is packed with value for anyone looking to establish credibility, grow their career, and create lasting impact. If you’re a nonfiction author looking to deepen your influence and connect with readers on a more emotional level, this episode offers the tools and insights to help you stand out in your field.
Dr. Ravi R. Iyer
https://www.driyer.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week, Craig and Roland welcome Lauren Carter Reilly to the podcast—a trailblazing author who’s rewriting the rules of self-publishing by steering clear of Amazon entirely when it comes to finding readers for her Gothic horror series The Wonderful Lady B and her upcoming romantic comedy In This Fair Chase.
Lauren’s writing career has roots in her background as a classically trained actress, a background she used to captivate an audience of 142,000 TikTok followers with witty, shocking, and engaging video shorts that featured many of the characters she’d later go on to write about in her books. This audience gave her the leverage to skip the hamster wheel of Amazon publishing entirely, empowering her to sell books directly to readers instead, through both her website and local independent bookstores.
Driven by a commitment to creative freedom and ethical publishing in a world that often pushes authors toward corporate platforms, Lauren’s journey is a powerful example of how authors can build a brand on their own terms, market their books organically, and navigate the challenges of writing across genres.
Lauren Carter Reilly
https://www.glamourpossum.com/
Hidden Gems
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What does it take to write a full-length novel every week for months on end? In this episode of Fully Booked, we talk with author Alison McBain about her ambitious goal to write 52 books in a year, and how her first attempt led to 34 completed novels in 34 weeks, spanning a wide range of genres. While she didn’t hit her full target, writing over a million words in a focused sprint gave her the tools and confidence to try again, this time with even more insight and strategy.
Sustaining that pace takes more than motivation. It can only be done through careful planning, which is why Alison walks us through the preparation that made it all possible. From outlining and character work to managing daily word counts and genre shifts, she shares how long-term planning, disciplined workflows, and the support of writing communities helped her stay on track. Whether you're looking to write faster, take on an ambitious challenge of your own, or simply build a more efficient creative process, Alison’s experience offers practical takeaways for writers at any stage.
Alison McBain
https://www.alisonmcbain.com/
Hidden Gems
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On this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore the idea of writing with intentional ambiguity, a technique that involves leaving certain details unsaid to encourage deeper reader engagement. By strategically withholding information, authors allow readers to draw their own conclusions, imagine unwritten backstories, and interpret character motivations in different ways. Swedish author Karl Hörnell joins Craig and Roland to discuss how this approach can preserve narrative momentum and create a more immersive experience. While ambiguity has value across genres, it is especially powerful in science fiction, where over-explaining can quickly date a story or limit the reader's imagination.
Karl shares his experience writing a novel set in a world populated by AI characters. Each of these characters is inspired by well-known fictional robots, but they are never named outright, and recognizing their origins is not essential to understanding the plot. This leaves the door open for every reader to enjoy the story, while offering added depth for those who pick up on the subtle references. The conversation explores how ambiguity can keep readers engaged without overwhelming them with detail, offering practical insights into how authors can say just enough and let the rest unfold in the reader's mind.
Karl Hörnell
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXYM4DPJ
Hidden Gems
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After a decade of running an ARC service, we’re very familiar with getting reviews and how important they are to making your book stand out from the crowd. But attracting attention is just one way that reviews can help drive sales. This week, Fully Booked is joined by Roxanne Burkey and Charles Breakfield, co-authors who have built an entire strategy around using reader feedback to amplify their books’ visibility and build stronger connections with their audience. From extracting standout quotes to publicly thanking reviewers, they reveal how thoughtful review management can become a powerful marketing tool.
Breakfield and Burkey explain how authors can leverage both positive and critical feedback to grow their platforms, the importance of expanding visibility across multiple sites and formats, and how creatively repurposing reader comments can drive buzz and loyalty. Whether you’re sitting on a backlog of reviews or just starting out, today’s conversation offers plenty of unique ideas and actionable tips for making the most of the feedback readers are giving your work.
Breakfield and Burkey
https://enigmabookseries.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we’re joined by romance author Elle Christopher, whose debut novel is rooted in profound personal loss and emotional transformation. After the sudden death of her husband, Elle turned to writing as a coping mechanism for both herself and her five children. What started as a private act of healing eventually evolved into an immersive love story that has already struck a chord with early readers.
Drawing from her background in corporate marketing, Elle shares how she applied those skills to the steep learning curve of self-publishing. From navigating beta reader feedback and laying the foundation for a personal brand, to finding authentic ways to connect with readers in a crowded market, Elle discusses her experience as a first-time author. With no formal writing background, she dove into research and quickly discovered that sincerity and authenticity can be some of the most powerful tools in reaching an audience.
Elle Christopher
https://ellechristopher.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today’s episode of Fully Booked, we’re exploring how to build momentum in your fiction and make sure readers have a hard time putting your book down. Author and workshop leader Natasha Blandford, who writes as N.L. Blandford, joins Craig and Roland to discuss how to write compelling hooks and cliffhangers that keep readers engaged from the first page to the last. Drawing on her experience writing dark psychological thrillers and leading community workshops, Blandford shares her techniques on how to open strong, end stronger, and maintain narrative tension throughout your story.
As Natasha explains, elements like genre, pacing, and point of view all shape how (and when) hooks and cliffhangers should be used. From opening lines that spark instant intrigue to chapter endings that demand “just one more page,” she offers a wide range of strategies to keep your readers captivated. Whether you're a plotter, a discovery writer (pantser), or somewhere in between, this conversation is packed with insights to help craft stories that leave readers always wanting more.
N.L. Blandford
https://www.nlblandford.com/
Hidden Gems
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You don’t have to be a comedian to bring humor into your writing, and just because your book isn’t a comedy doesn’t mean it can’t benefit from a few well-placed laughs. As veteran comedian, keynote speaker, and author Jan McInnis explains in this week’s episode of Fully Booked, humor is a powerful way to connect with your audience and make your message more memorable. Together, we explore what makes humor such an effective storytelling tool—and how any author can inject it into their writing, regardless of genre.
Drawing on her decades-long career in stand-up, radio, and corporate comedy, Jan shares practical advice on writing humor with purpose. From key rules of comedy and spotting humor in everyday situations to avoiding clichés and refining punchlines, her tips are useful for any author—whether or not they think of themselves as funny. For those looking beyond just adding a bit of levity, Jan also discusses professional opportunities in comedy writing, from radio to greeting cards. Whether you're looking to enrich your stories with humor or explore comedy as a career path, this discussion is full of insight and entertaining anecdotes to help you get started.
Jan McInnis
https://theworklady.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we’re joined by military thriller author and former U.S. Air Force special agent Derrick M. Jackson to discuss how real-life experiences can be used to shape compelling fiction. Rather than writing a memoir about his time in the military, Derrick crafted a high-stakes thriller infused with emotional authenticity pulled directly from the most intense moments of his career.
By drawing not just on the events themselves, but on his personal reactions to them, Derrick created flawed, relatable characters who stand apart from the superhuman archetypes often found in the genre. In this episode, he shares insights on everything from turning real people into fictional characters and writing emotionally resonant scenes, to navigating the approval process required to include military experiences in a novel. Packed with thoughtful advice and practical takeaways, this conversation offers valuable guidance for any author looking to blend real-life material into fiction that feels both grounded and compelling.
Derrick Jackson
https://www.amazon.com/SHADOW-ONE-DERRICK-JACKSON-ebook/dp/B0DFVNN3GD
Hidden Gems
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This week, we’re welcoming back a familiar face in both the self-publishing world and on this podcast. Dave Chesson, the creative force behind industry-leading tools like Publisher Rocket, returns to discuss one of his other major successes—Atticus. After more than two years on the market and continuous user-driven improvements, Atticus has steadily evolved and built a large, dedicated following. By blending the best features of writing, editing, collaboration, and formatting tools, it delivers unparalleled functionality for a one-time price that includes all future upgrades.
Dave leads us deep into the core of Atticus's capabilities, from real-time collaboration and customizable permissions for editors and beta readers, to cloud-based security and intuitive drag-and-drop formatting. With each update, Atticus moves closer to his broader vision of a comprehensive book management system—designed not only for authors, but also for the publishing team they work with. If you're ready to simplify your workflow and move away from juggling a costly suite of tools, this episode offers valuable insight into how Atticus can save you time and money by replacing them all with a single, streamlined solution.
Dave Chesson and Atticus
https://www.atticus.io/
Hidden Gems
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Besides a great book, what is it that makes readers remember you and keep coming back for more? According to award-winning brand strategist and personal brand navigator Lauren Clemett, an author’s success is directly tied to their branding. With years of experience helping authors amplify their visibility worldwide, Lauren reveals how the science of neurobranding shapes the way readers connect with your books—and why identifying your target reader is the key to knowing not just what to say, but where to say it.
Today’s discussion goes beyond theory, as Lauren offers practical, concrete tips for any author, regardless of genre or publishing experience. From building a recognizable identity around your message to leveraging micro-influencers and word-of-mouth marketing, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and no-nonsense advice that will help you raise awareness of your author brand and provide a clear path to amplifying your author profile.
Lauren Clemett
https://theaudaciousagency.com/
Hidden Gems
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One of the most crucial aspects of writing is understanding your audience so that the stories you tell truly resonate. In today’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore this concept with author and speaker Randi-Lee Bowslaugh, who connects with her readers by sharing her personal experiences with mental health and autism. By blending storytelling with an engaging, accessible style, Randi ensures her books reach the people who need them most, offering a sense of companionship to those facing similar struggles.
For Randi, authenticity is key—her conversational approach fosters a deeper connection with readers than a more formal, textbook-style format would. She also incorporates practical elements, such as worksheets, to blend emotional resonance with actionable support. Beyond writing, she shares insights into marketing strategies that emphasize personal connections, including the power of podcasts and word of mouth to reach the right audience. Whether you’re crafting memoir, self-help, or even fiction, this episode explores how writing with purpose, honesty, and a clear understanding of your audience can leave a lasting impact.
Randi-Lee Bowslaugh
https://www.rbwriting.ca/
Hidden Gems
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Writing a book is one thing—getting it published and into readers’ hands is another challenge entirely. For first-time authors, the process can feel overwhelming, but today’s guest, business consultant and author Jennifer Musser, shares a strategy to make it manageable. By breaking the writing and publishing process into smaller components—outlining, drafting, cover design, formatting, marketing, and more—Jennifer explains how authors can stay organized and on track rather than feeling lost in the many moving parts of self-publishing.
Her methodical approach offers a roadmap for moving forward with confidence, especially for authors who feel stuck when faced with too many tasks between them and a finished book. In addition to her step-by-step strategy, Jennifer also shares insights and actionable advice on striking a balance between creative expression and market expectations, ensuring your book not only stands out but also connects with the right audience. By applying a project management mindset, she shows how writers can tackle the publishing process with clarity and structure—turning an overwhelming task into a series of achievable steps.
Jennifer Musser
https://jlmaconsulting.com/
Hidden Gems
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From visiting unfamiliar locations to speaking directly with locals, nothing beats experiencing key elements of your story firsthand. When possible, this kind of immersive research can make the difference between a good book and one that truly transports readers. In today’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland sit down with award-winning author Dr. Randy Overbeck to explore how direct, on-the-ground research enhances storytelling. Overbeck, a former educator turned award-winning mystery author, shares how traveling to real settings, consulting experts, and even participating in activities like sailing or dune buggy rides has helped him craft compelling, authentic narratives.
As Overbeck explains, firsthand research does more than just help set the scene—it strengthens character development, enriches historical details, and adds depth to complex social themes. He has spent years refining his approach by connecting with local experts, securing permissions for real-world references, and weaving his findings into gripping mysteries. But not every detail can be uncovered in person, and even Overbeck relies on traditional research methods to fill in the gaps. By blending fieldwork with more conventional research, authors can create immersive, believable stories—whether they can visit their book’s setting or not.
Dr. Randy Overbeck
https://www.authorrandyoverbeck.com/
Hidden Gems
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Can writing a book transform your career? In this episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with author and technologist R.D.D. Smith to explore how professionals can use writing as a powerful tool to build credibility and open new opportunities. Drawing from personal experience, Roger shares how writing books helped him gain industry recognition, secure career-changing roles, and even land a prestigious CTO position.
No matter your industry, Roger’s actionable strategies will help you identify your specific niche, overcome imposter syndrome, and turn your unique expertise into impactful books. Whether you're a part-time writer with a full-time job or a professional looking to stand out in your field, this discussion is packed with inspiration and practical advice on using the written word to stand out from your peers and boost your career.
R.D.D. Smith
https://rddsmith.com/
Hidden Gems
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Conflict drives every great story, but what truly makes a hero compelling? And why are villains often the most captivating characters on the page? In today’s episode of Fully Booked, we delve into the intricate "hero-villain dance" with novelist and former educator Lori Paul Johnson. By exploring the moral complexity of antagonists and the archetypal struggles of heroes, Lori breaks down storytelling techniques that keep readers hooked—revealing how a well-crafted villain doesn’t just oppose the hero but elevates the entire narrative.
Using a variety of vivid examples, Lori illustrates how heroes are forged in the fire of conflict—whether facing a formidable enemy, an unforgiving environment, or their own inner demons. But storytelling is rarely as simple as good versus evil. By embracing moral ambiguity and crafting anti-heroes, authors can create relatable and multifaceted villains who are as compelling as the protagonists they challenge. So whether you’re writing thrillers, mysteries, or character-driven dramas, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you create dynamic, page-turning conflict between richly developed characters—both "good" and "bad."
Lori Pollard-Johnson
https://www.sistersincrime.org/
Hidden Gems
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While some self-published authors are keen to embrace tools that leverage artificial intelligence, others continue to have concerns about AI erasing the importance of a writer’s work, and degrading the publishing industry as a whole - concerns addressed by this week’s guest, Dan Curran.
Dan is the co-founder of Chapters.io, a company that provides a structured approach to content creation by capturing an authors' ideas through recorded interviews, using cutting-edge AI to organize, structure, and refine their words, and finally using a human editor to bring it all together. This innovative process aims to remove the stress and barriers that prevent many experts and thought leaders from writing their first book, while still ensuring their authenticity remains intact.
Today's discussion also spans the broader publishing landscape and how, as today's AI agents become more sophisticated, authors have access to an assortment of powerful tools that can be used to streamline everything from manuscript development to marketing strategies. Dan also shares his insights into why holding onto your intellectual property is crucial, and the variety of ways they can lead to revenue streams beyond simple books sales. Whether you're an AI skeptic or enthusiast, this episode is full of ideas of how AI can be used to enhance, rather than diminish, the role of human creativity in publishing.
Dan Curran
https://www.chapters.io/
Hidden Gems
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On this week's episode, Craig and Roland are joined by thriller author John Bukowski, who asks the provocative question: “What if…?”
John argues that posing the question of “What if…?” is one of the best ways to come up with ideas and concepts guaranteed to hook new readers. It’s the question which inspired the first of his novels, the provocative Project Suicide, and it was the compelling answer he came up with which led to the book being snatched up by an eager publisher.
Whether it’s introducing conflicting new characters, shattering the status quo with unexpected events, or presenting protagonists with seemingly impossible choices to make, the answer to your own “What if…?” could be just the thing to elevate your writing to the next level, and make your book stand out amid the competition.
John Bukowski
www.thrillerjohnb.net
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are joined by author and journalist Renee Garrison, the former president of the Florida Authors and Publishers Association and a passionate advocate for entering your books into some of the many award competitions held across America each year. Renee argues that winning or being nominated for a book award can provide invaluable credibility to your writing, inspire many new readers to take a chance on your work, and deliver powerful free publicity that can help your books stand out among the millions of new titles being published each year.
Renee offers practical advice on identifying legitimate awards, understanding the submission process, and strategically incorporating awards into your marketing plan. From cost-saving tips during the application process, to leveraging the power of networking to amplify your reach, Renee demonstrates how seeking literary recognition through book award competitions should be a key part of every author’s publishing strategy.
Renee Garrison
https://www.reneegarrison.com/
Hidden Gems
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Much of the conventional wisdom we discuss on this podcast around writing and publishing applies best to books that follow traditional formats and genres. But what happens when your story demands a new and unique format or perspective? And how do you market a book when your audience doesn't fit neatly into easily targeted categories or genres? These are the challenges faced by today’s guest, author H.H. Rune, whose one-of-a-kind book series is as innovative as it is compelling.
From the spark of her original idea to the obstacles she encountered in writing, publishing, and marketing her work, H.H. shares an inspiring journey full of tips for authors pursuing their own unconventional paths. While some of her inventive strategies might not work for all types of books, they still illustrate how thinking outside the box is just as important for marketing and publishing as it is for storytelling. For anyone crafting a unique story, this episode is a reminder to embrace the creative challenge of bringing your work to the right audience in a way only you can.
H.H. Rune
https://hhrune.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode, we explore the power of networking and publicity with Dr. Richard Kaye, a renowned expert in helping authors stand out in today’s competitive market. Dr. Kaye offers invaluable insights on leveraging media coverage, crafting compelling pitches, and why networking with peers is an essential step towards building your author brand. In an attempt to get their name noticed, many authors stick to social media posts, paid ads, or their websites, but our guest offers numerous tips and strategies on how to aim higher, such as getting featured on radio shows, podcasts, or in print media.
Dr. Kaye also sheds light on common misconceptions around self-promotion, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and persistence in gaining visibility. For introverted authors, he shares alternative approaches like leveraging peer groups for networking, writing articles to expand your reach, and fostering meaningful connections. With anecdotes from his own career and real-world success stories, this discussion is filled with actionable advice for anyone looking to grow their audience and make their mark as an author.
Dr. Richard Kaye
https://www.richardkaye.com/
Hidden Gems
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Many self-published authors treat paperbacks and hardcovers as an afterthought, assuming they’re too hard to sell or less lucrative than eBooks. This week's guest, author Kevin G. Chapman, challenges that notion by sharing how indie authors can effectively market and sell their physical books. From leveraging platforms like IngramSpark to building relationships with bookstores and libraries, Kevin outlines the strategies he uses to get paperbacks and hardcovers into readers' hands and unlock new revenue streams.
Kevin also shares his experience in producing and marketing audiobooks, an ever-expanding market with unique opportunities for indie authors. By utilizing platforms like BookFunnel and Gumroad, he demonstrates how to maintain greater control, boost profits, and broaden your reach. So if you’re ready to expand your publishing strategy beyond eBooks and tap into the often overlooked potential of both physical and audiobooks, this episode offers the insights and inspiration you've been waiting for.
Kevin G. Chapman
https://kevingchapman.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode, Craig and Roland unveil all the details about Hidden Gems' newest initiative, the Self-Pub Growth Hub. Launching in January 2025, this innovative service is designed to support authors on their self-publishing journey through regular video meetings focused on key topics. They explain how the program works, outline the three specialized groups available—Advertising & Marketing, General Self-Publishing Tips, and AI for Authors—and share everything you need to know about these dynamic and collaborative sessions.
Being an independent author can often feel isolating, as Craig and Roland both know, having often emphasized how much their own careers have benefited from learning alongside their peers. Navigating the industry alone can be both daunting and limiting, but these groups are designed to help keep you on track through expert-led discussions that encourage collaboration and sharing among members. This format allows authors to network with their peers, explore the latest industry trends, tools, and strategies, ask pressing questions, and thrive within a supportive and engaged community.
Join the Self-Pub Growth Hub today!
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/self-pub-growth-hub/
Hidden Gems
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On this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are joined by writer and filmmaker Mark Edlitz, whose career as a television and film writer led him to write a series of books about movies and superheroes that have attracted international attention.
Mark discusses his path from filmmaking to the written word, including making the shift from traditional publishing to self-publishing. He also outlines the unique challenges presented when writing non-fiction books about intellectual property and popular franchises, but balances that by exploring the ways pop culture writing can connect authors with a unique audience of superfans that can amplify the impact of their work.
Mark Edlitz
http://www.markedlitz.com/
Hidden Gems
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If you haven’t yet established your presence as an author in a way that brings your audience to your book, it’s time to focus on meeting readers where they already are. That’s exactly what Military Academy author Karl Smith has done. Drawing on his digital media expertise and personal experiences, Karl shares how creating multi-platform content and engaging with existing communities transformed his ability to connect with readers. From blogging about the Naval and Air Force Academies to hosting playlists and podcasts, Karl reveals how these creative strategies helped him find his people and bring them to his work.
As Karl explains, engaging with readers where they already gather and adding value to their community—rather than simply promoting your book—creates authentic, lasting connections. In his experience, this approach is a powerful long-term strategy that can even outperform traditional advertising in terms of building a loyal fanbase. For authors aiming to build and strengthen meaningful, organic relationships with their readers, the insights Karl shares in today’s episode are truly invaluable.
Karl Smith
https://karlsmithconnect.com
Hidden Gems
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Joining us on this episode of Fully Booked is Keith Riegert, CEO of Ulysses Press and Perfect Bound, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on the publishing industry. Ulysses Press is already harnessing AI to analyze large volumes of data, enabling them to identify emerging market trends before they become mainstream. Combined with the AI led productivity gains achieved through streamlining book production and marketing processes, Ulysses Press has been able to enhance their profitability while still remaining adaptable to new opportunities.
By treating AI as an intelligent assistant, Keith explains how traditional publishers, authors, and self-publishers can simplify their workflows without compromising their creativity or ethics. He also offers a fascinating glimpse into emerging AI tools and platforms designed to help authors manage and build upon their creative work. For anyone curious about the future of books and publishing, Keith provides valuable insights and tips on how AI can make your job more efficient and innovative.
Ulysses Press
https://ulyssespress.com/
Hidden Gems
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Over the past few months, Craig and Roland have been mentoring author Michelle Hazen to improve the sales of one of her rockstar romance series of novels. Despite not releasing any new books in the series, Michelle achieved a tenfold increase in sales by the end of the mentorship. Through the mentorship, she made data-driven changes to her advertising strategy and Amazon product pages to help reach new readers—such as optimizing her covers, writing new blurbs, and adding A+ content. Through her journey she also gained a greater mastery over the intricacies of Facebook advertising and how to make it more effective.
In this episode of Fully Booked, Michelle looks back across the mentorship and shares the remarkable results of her shift in strategies—breaking down the things she’d learned that made the biggest impact. From decoding metrics like CTR, CPC, and conversion rates to knowing when and how to change your pricing and product pages, Michelle’s story demonstrates how the support and coaching of subject-matter experts like Craig and Roland can empower authors to take more control over their self-publishing career and achieve sustainable growth.
Michelle Hazen
https://michellehazenbooks.com/
Hidden Gems
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Audiobooks are more than just a narrated version of a book—they are a performance brought to life through a complex mix of technical expertise and creative artistry. In this week’s episode, Craig and Roland are joined by author, artist, and activist Franke James, who shares her firsthand experience of transforming her award-winning book into an audiobook that has gone on to win numerous accolades of its own.
From casting professional voice actors to tackling the challenges of studio recording, Franke details out everything she did right—and wrong—throughout the process. Whether it’s overcoming unexpected technical hurdles or discovering the importance of hiring the right talent, this conversation is packed with invaluable advice for any author considering turning their own story into an immersive auditory experience.
Franke James
https://freeingteresa.com/listen/
Hidden Gems
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Whether you're aiming to land a traditional publisher, attract a literary agent, or promote your self-published book, knowing how to effectively pitch yourself and your work can be the difference between obscurity and a thriving writing career. Today’s guest, author and speaker David Stanley, shares invaluable insights on what makes a pitch stand out, from highlighting what’s unique about your book to crafting hooks that capture attention and curiosity.
But drafting the perfect pitch is only the beginning. David explains how authors need to maximize their personal networks and social media presence to truly get the word out. Most importantly, he encourages listeners not to fear the rejections that are part of the journey, as setbacks in this industry are essential stepping stones toward success. Whether you're pitching to the media, building connections with readers, or trying to stand out in a crowded market, this episode offers essential guidance to make your book shine.
David Stanley
http://dstanley.substack.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, we explore the impact of book endorsements and recommendations with author, speaker, and educator Ben Cooper. Ben, who has successfully attracted notable names to endorse his own work, walks us through his journey and offers practical steps for securing endorsements that elevate an author’s credibility and visibility. For indie authors especially, recommendations can be game-changing—more than just a marketing strategy, they’re a powerful way to build trust and connection with readers.
Ben’s approach, outlined in his “BRASH” method, provides a step-by-step guide for tackling the endorsement process with boldness and purpose. From identifying influential endorsers to making authentic connections with those aligned with your book’s message, Ben’s insights are invaluable for any author ready to take their work to the next level. Even if you’ve never pursued an endorsement before, Ben’s detailed blueprint will make the process feel achievable and might just give you the confidence to give it a try.
Ben Cooper
https://www.facebook.com/groups/288469048346429
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode, Craig and Roland take on a topic essential for any indie author aiming for success: the importance of treating self-publishing as a business. To help with this discussion, they’re joined by romance author and podcaster Gigi Meier, who shares her insights on balancing the creative and business demands of self-publishing. Together, they discuss why authors need more than just storytelling skills to succeed—they also need a strategic mindset, effective marketing, and a solid plan to reach and retain readers.
Gigi highlights the importance of reader engagement, branding, and thoughtful time management, providing a roadmap for long-term success. She also shares practical tips on everything from establishing a productive writing routine to managing social media and building a direct sales funnel. For any author still wrestling with the logistics of self-publishing, this episode is packed with actionable advice on running your business without sacrificing creativity and growth.
GiGi Meier
www.gigimeier.com
Hidden Gems
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Inspired by a recent move from Taylor Swift to snub traditional publishers for her forthcoming Eras Tour book, hosts Craig and Roland discuss whether or not self-publishing has gone mainstream. Swift isn't the only high-profile figure to embrace self-publishing, and with each big name that moves away from the big 5, the power dynamic increasingly shifts to self-publishing. Retailers are becoming more open to selling self-published books, Kickstarter campaigns are finding greater success, and new distribution channels and marketing tools are starting to service the community as a whole.
While big stars like Swift have built-in fan bases that assure a successful book launch, their choice to self-publish adds legitimacy to the model that helps to open new doors for the rest of us, allowing for greater creative control and higher revenue potential. Whereas self-publishing used to be a secondary option, it is starting to emerge as the true future of publishing itself.
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode, we explore some essential strategies for boosting your visibility as an author, focusing on the role of author websites, SEO, and a range of marketing techniques. Our guest, Jennifer Vance, marketing director of Books Forward, shares her expertise on how authors can make the most of their online presence. While many authors understand the need for a website, not all are using them to effectively drive traffic, attract new readers, and increase overall visibility. Even a well-designed site can be limited if it’s not easily discoverable.
Jennifer breaks down SEO (Search Engine Optimization), a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of online marketing, explaining how even a basic understanding can mean the difference between a thriving website and one that fades into obscurity. But she also stresses that having a strong website is just one piece of the puzzle. Diversifying your marketing approach—whether through social media, collaborations, or targeted ads—is key to building your author brand and ensuring long-term success.
Jenn Vance
https://booksforward.com/
Hidden Gems
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Today, we’re exploring the world of true crime, a popular genre that delves into real criminal events, the people involved, and the impact on those around them. Our guest, author Pepper Anne, was drawn to true crime through a personal connection, and has since become well versed in turning these complex stories into gripping narratives.
Pepper walks us through the research required of writing true crime, from digging through court records and interviewing victims to working closely with law enforcement. Keeping readers hooked can be challenging, especially when dealing with popular cases that readers may already be familiar with, so it is important to introduce new facts and explore unreported angles. But doing all this can sometimes be dangerous, and there is often a fine balance between presenting new information and respecting the ethical issues that come from dealing with real people and actual events. So if you've ever wondered what it takes to write a compelling true crime story, this episode is a must-listen.
Pepper Anne
https://www.pepperanneauthor.com
Hidden Gems
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With Halloween just around the corner, there's no better time to explore the art of crafting the perfect spooky story. To help with that, Craig and Roland sit down with Beth Castrodale, an experienced author who specializes in writing eerie and atmospheric novels. According to Beth, creating a truly haunting tale comes down to managing the delicate balance between psychological tension, unsettling settings, and building empathy for your characters—even the villains!
Adding that spine-tingling feeling to your horrors requires learning how to pace your stories properly and understanding how small, subtle details can amplify suspense. From creating otherworldly environments to developing rich, relatable characters, this episode touches on the many ways authors of spooky tales can draw their readers in—only to keep them up at night.
Beth Castrodale
https://www.bethcastrodale.com/
Hidden Gems
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Once in a while, hosts Craig and Roland comb through the latest happenings in the ever-evolving world of self-publishing. In this episode, they’re joined by author, self-publishing expert, and well-known YouTube star Dale L. Roberts for a roundtable discussion. Dale, always on top of the hottest trends affecting authors, brings fresh insights to the conversation, leading to a lively discussion on the rise of AI in publishing, maximizing engagement through targeted content creation, and recent issues surrounding KDP blocking books.
The episode doesn’t shy away from big questions, such as how AI is reshaping the writing world and what that means for authors moving forward. Drawing on a recent Draft2Digital AI survey, the conversation explores the controversial role AI plays in writing, the debate over selling access to author works for AI training, and the potential implications for future publishing models. Whether you’re for or against AI, this episode offers a balanced look at both sides of the debate, providing you with valuable insights to make informed decisions about using AI in your own career.
Dale L. Roberts
https://selfpublishingwithdale.com/
Draft2Digital 2024 AI Training Survey Results
https://www.draft2digital.com/blog/2024-ai-training-survey-results/
Hidden Gems
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Well-written stories are driven by the choices characters make, and understanding why the characters made those choices is crucial if you want them to seem believable and authentic. That’s where psychology can come in.
In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, journalist and High Fantasy author Steffanie Costigan joins Craig and Roland to discuss how she uses elements from the classic Myers-Briggs Type Indicator when she develops her characters, because she believes it offers a powerful guide into how each of them might think, act, and interact with each other.
Inspired by the work of Carl Jung, this personality index ranks traits like extraversion, empathy, intuition, and perception and then assigns one of 16 personality types to the result - mapping out characteristics that particular type of person is best known for. Steffanie explores how assigning these personality types has helped her gain a deeper understanding of her characters, and made them more compelling and engaging for the readers of her work.
Steffanie Costigan
https://landofthedragon.ca/about/
Hidden Gems
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You might have heard influential figures in self-publishing declare that Direct Sales are “the next big trend” - but is selling your ebooks directly to your readers really a better option than using a tried-and-tested platform like Amazon?
Today, Craig and Roland sit down to discuss exactly that, using Roland’s months of experience selling his books directly to provide a real-life example. They discuss the challenges of setting up an effective sales funnel, how much technical knowledge you’ll require, the difficulty of turning a profit, and they weigh the pros and cons against more traditional self-publishing options like Amazon.
One thing’s for sure: Direct sales isn’t for everybody. However, you’ll be in a good position to consider that option after listening to this discussion, and have a good place to start planning out your own direct sales system.
Roland Hulme
https://www.youtube.com/c/RolandHulme
Hidden Gems
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It’s tough enough to find a traditional publisher for your first book, but even tougher when that book is about a controversial topic. Yet, when today’s guest Ariel Anderssen decided to publish a memoir about her career as a submissive BDSM model, she topped from the bottom and refused to take “no” for an answer. The result of those efforts, her book “Playing to Lose,” is available now.
Ariel’s unique publishing journey is the subject of today’s discussion. She shares with Craig and Roland the challenges of finding a publisher when one of the core topics of her memoir was so scandalous, and how she leveraged her existing following to help crowdfund the book through a non-traditional indie publishing house.
Ariel’s story is one of tenacity and unbound thinking, and delivers much that aspiring authors can learn or find inspiration from.
Ariel Anderssen
https://www.arielanderssenauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are exploring the concept of the "zero draft," a powerful tool for writers at any stage of their manuscript. Guest Cara Stevens, an experienced editor, book coach, and writer, explains how the zero draft differs from other drafts and why it's an essential part of the writing process. Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, the zero draft helps you clarify your story, providing a scaffold that supports the development of your narrative without the pressure of crafting a perfect first draft.
Cara shares practical insights on how to approach a zero draft, emphasizing its role as a private, author-focused draft where you tell yourself the story. This process allows writers to uncover connections, themes, and story elements that might not emerge in a more formal draft. If you've ever felt stuck in the "messy middle" of your manuscript or found yourself endlessly editing without making progress, today's discussion is for you.
Cara Stevens
https://carajstevens.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are joined by Emmy Award-winning screenwriter Zack Morrison for a hard look at the challenges of breaking into the television industry and the unconventional path he's taken in trying to sell his own comedy pilot. Despite his impressive credentials, including work on shows like SNL and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Zack reveals that in today’s market, even the most talented writers need more than just a great script to succeed. He discusses the importance of initiative and creativity in transforming an idea from paper to screen, and how essential it is to go beyond traditional methods.
Zack shares his unique journey, illustrating how success often requires creating your own opportunities rather than waiting for the industry to come to you. He’s not just theorizing—Zack put his filmmaking skills to the test by independently shooting the pilot for his script, and he offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at how he made it happen. Through engaging anecdotes and actionable advice, Zack underscores the importance of adaptability and creativity in standing out from the crowd, ultimately encouraging listeners to take control of their creative destinies.
Zack Morrison
https://www.zackmorrison.com/
Hidden Gems
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Even though he didn’t start publishing until he was in his sixties, travel writer Emil Rem has always set his own definition of success when it comes to his writing - and in this week’s episode of Fully Booked, he sits down with Craig and Roland to discuss the five essential attributes he believes are critical for writers hoping to share his satisfaction at engaging with readers and sharing his stories with the world.
Using examples drawn from his own globe-trotting history, Emil outlines core concepts like relentless self-belief, unwavering tenacity in your work ethic, finding a way to discriminate between useful and un-useful feedback, methods for finding your own unique voice in your writing, and one of the biggest factors of all - a willingness to take risks. This episode will be a breath of fresh air for authors struggling to get out of their own way and move the needle in their self-publishing career.
Emil Rem
https://emilrem.ca/
Hidden Gems
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What turns a description into a story? For most writers, the answer is structure - the timeless, immutable formula of storytelling that originated when our ancestors told tales around the campfire, yet continues today in Hollywood blockbusters and best-selling books.
Entertainment journalist and comic book writer Christian Angeles knows all about story structure. In fact, he’s even started a company called Monomythic which aims to help preserve the foundational elements of storytelling even as artists and creators explore telling their tales through new mediums and technologies.
In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Christian joins Craig and Roland to discuss the fundamental importance of a well-structured story, and how studying the craft of storytelling can’t help but turn you into a better writer. If you’ve been searching for a missing element in your works-in-progress, this might be just the episode to tune into.
Christian Angeles
https://linktr.ee/xn_angeles
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland examine the dynamic world of storytelling with author and screenwriter Sheri Langer. Renowned for her versatility across various mediums, Sheri shares her experience in crafting stories not only as novels and screenplays but also as TV pilots, audiobooks, and more. She discusses the unique challenges and considerations of making a story successful across these different formats, highlighting the importance of staying true to the original creative vision while meeting the demands of each medium.
Sheri reflects on how her childhood fascination with TV and movies shaped her narrative style and discusses the challenges and rewards of writing across multiple formats. Through use of examples, she describes various ways of adapting a single story to different mediums, such as adding more dialogue for TV or movies and incorporating more description for novelization. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, Sheri's experiences provide valuable insights into the versatility and art of storytelling.
Sheri Langer
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560386807917
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland explore how publishing can provide an author with more than just readers and royalties. Special guest Ali Horriyat joins them to talk about Compassiviste, a groundbreaking non-profit organization he created that’s dedicated to driving social change by providing a platform for authors, artists, and other creative activists to share their work.
Ali’s own story is pretty remarkable. After a highly successful career in finance, Ali left it all behind to focus on bringing more compassion into the world, combining activism and the arts to inspire meaningful change through Compassiviste. Now, the unique publishing platform he created empowers authors and other creators whose voice has traditionally been suppressed by mainstream publishing platforms.
Ali believes that books and other forms of art have always had a powerful impact on social movements, and that it’s essential to ensure everyone has an equal chance to tell their story and highlight their cause. So, if you believe the world needs more compassion and should focus less on profits and more on building a better, more sustainable future, be sure to tune in.
Ali Horriyat
https://compassiviste.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are joined by returning guest Dave Chesson from Kindlepreneur to discuss the latest update to one of the most powerful tools for self-published authors: Publisher Rocket. The recently released Version 2.0 of this tool is designed to revolutionize your Amazon advertising strategy by optimizing your book's relevancy and helping you properly categorize it.
Dave explains how Publisher Rocket's new Amazon ads functionality allows authors to see their book through Amazon's eyes. With this enhanced visibility, the tool provides invaluable insights into the keywords, phrases, and categories that Amazon associates with a book—whether yours or that of your competitors. Along with plenty of practical tips on using Rocket to create more effective ads, lower costs, and increase impressions, Dave also shares details on additional exciting features that will soon be added to the tool.
Whether you're a seasoned self-published author or just starting out, Dave's essential advice on maximizing Publisher Rocket to navigate the complexities of Amazon’s book ranking system and supercharge your Amazon ads is not to be missed.
Dave's free AMS (Amazon Ads) Course
https://hiddengems--rocket.thrivecart.com/publisher-rocket/5da9eae7a2e46/
Publisher Rocket
https://hiddengems--rocket.thrivecart.com/publisher-rocket/
On this week's episode of Fully Booked, we're focusing on overcoming the hurdles often faced by aspiring authors. Author and family mediator Rosemary Gattuso shares her journey of writing and self-publishing her self-help book, "It's Not You, It's Me: A Chronic Overthinker's Guide to Self-Reflection." Rosemary's path to self-publishing offers a unique perspective on how overthinking can impede the writing process. However, her background and experience enabled her to develop strategies for pushing past these mental roadblocks.
The challenges Rosemary faced with traditional and assisted self-publishing highlight the importance of connecting with industry professionals and leveraging available resources to make informed decisions about your publishing path. After finding empowerment in self-publishing, Rosemary identified key overthinking tendencies and ways to stay productive, which she shares with us as both a cautionary tale and a source of inspiration for other authors looking to take control of their publishing destiny.
Rosemary Gattuso
https://www.rosemarygattuso.com/
Hidden Gems
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When writing a fantasy novel, one of the most daunting tasks is creating the world in which your story takes place. Fantasy world-building isn't just about imagining new physical geography; it also involves developing magic and belief systems, culture, general mood and atmosphere, and the power structure of your society. Getting these complex and intricate details right leads to a captivating and credible fantasy world, which is why we've invited author and editor Judy Ellis to guide us through it all.
Judy, who also writes as J.H. Ellis, brings a wealth of experience not only as a YA fantasy author but also as the creator of an online course on world-building. In today's episode, Judy takes us through all the factors mentioned above, along with practical advice on maintaining the integrity of the world’s rules and advice on using tools to track details and avoid common pitfalls.
If you've been holding off on writing that fantasy epic because you feel overwhelmed, the valuable tips and insights from Judy will have you mastering the art of fantasy world-building in no time!
Judy Ellis
https://daybreaklit.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are discussing the different ways that authors can infuse genuine romance and emotional realism into their stories. Both hosts are romance novelists themselves, but are lucky enough to be joined by Caroline McIntosh for this episode - who is not just an accomplished romance author, but also a writing coach who excels at helping other authors bring compelling and heartfelt relationships alive on the pages of their stories.
Caroline shares her journey from writing YA and fantasy to discovering her passion for romance novels. She emphasizes the importance of structure and emotional depth in writing about love and relationships, and also goes through a variety of essential key elements for writing a successful book. These include the “meet cute” first meeting, the hero’s grand romantic gestures, the all-important happy ending, and the significance of small, intimate moments that leverage the power of slowing things down to build genuine connections between characters.
Caroline's practical advice offers writers of all genres insight into how they can incorporate believable love stories into their work, making both their characters and the relationships they have authentic and unforgettable.
Caroline McIntosh
https://www.carolinemcintoshbooks.com/
Hidden Gems
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It’s rhyme-time in this week's episode of Fully Booked, as Craig and Roland explore the enduring power of poetry even in today's fast-paced digital world. Their guide through the evocative world of rhythm and flow is Viral Gor, spoken word performer and author of "Poetry is Motion: Mind, Body, and Soul."
Virus the Poet shares his insights on how poetry remains a vital form of expression and connection in the modern age, even as social media and technology increasingly dominate our lives. He argues that poetry continues to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotions in our rapidly changing world through its ability to resonate with a diverse audience and adapt to contemporary platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Virus also argues for the therapeutic benefits of poetry, emphasizing how it serves as a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional healing for both creators and consumers. So whether you're new to the genre, or have been waxing poetic for years, this discussion on the techniques and timelessness of poetry has something for everyone.
Virus the Poet
https://virusthepoet.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, we delve into the world of memoirs, exploring why we write and read them, along with the techniques involved in researching, structuring, and crafting these personal narratives. Our guide for this journey is Becky Ellis, author of a captivating memoir that intertwines her childhood experiences with her father's service in World War II. Becky's extensive background in publishing, combined with her own writing experience, provides valuable insights into how memoirs can deeply resonate with readers by capturing the intricacies of personal and family histories and skillfully balancing truth with storytelling.
As Becky shares her memoir writing journey, she highlights the emotional challenges and transformative power of recounting one's life story. These feelings are common among memoir authors, as they arise from the deep authenticity required during the meticulous process of distilling vast life experiences into a coherent narrative. Through practical advice for aspiring memoirists, including tips on scene setting, handling backstory, and the psychological excavation necessary to create a genuine and compelling memoir, Becky provides a rich perspective on the art of memoir writing, valuable to anyone interested in this type of personal storytelling.
Becky Ellis
https://beckyellis.net/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, we dive into the fascinating world of discovery writing, featuring returning guest KimBoo York. KimBoo, an accomplished author, librarian, technology historian, and former IT project manager, brings a unique perspective to the art of "pantsing" — writing without an extensive outline. In fact, she's written a book on the subject: "By the Seat of Your Pants: Secrets of Discovery Writing." Today, KimBoo takes us through the contrasts and overlaps between plotting and discovery writing, highlighting the freedom and creativity that come with embracing a more spontaneous approach to storytelling.
There are a variety of techniques and mindset shifts necessary for successful discovery writing, such as relying more heavily on intuition or embracing the concept of reverse outlining, but KimBoo provides some intriguing exercises that can help writers develop these and other discovery writing skills. So whether you're a seasoned plotter looking to incorporate more spontaneity into your process or just curious about the world of pantsing and discovery writing in general, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to enhance your writing journey.
KimBoo York
https://houseofyork.info/
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland dive into a crucial, but often overlooked aspect of author success: defining your target market. Joined by seasoned publisher and author Ann Aubitz, they explore the significance of understanding who your readers are, why it's essential to know your audience before you even start writing, and how this knowledge can shape both your writing and marketing process.
Much like advertisers invest heavily in understanding their target market, authors need to be keenly aware of who they are writing for so that they can adjust their marketing strategies to reach the right readers and create a deeper connection to them. For authors seeking ways to better target and engage with their market, the insights and ideas discussed in this episode are invaluable.
Ann Aubitz
https://www.kirkhousepublishers.com/about
Hidden Gems
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This week on Fully Booked, we delve into the process of writing comics and graphic novels with accomplished comic writer and publisher, Adam Wilson. What began as a fun hobby of creating mini comics during his college years evolved into a full-time passion and business when Adam co-founded Read Furiously, a company specializing in various forms of illustrated narratives.
Authors new to this medium will discover both similarities and differences between scripting comics and writing traditional novels, alongside unique challenges such as collaborating closely with artists to bring their stories to life while ensuring those artists are fairly compensated. Adam provides practical advice on these topics, and many others, while also highlighting a variety of useful industry resources. With Adam's invaluable insights into navigating the various forms of visual storytelling, this episode is essential for anyone looking to embark on a career in the world of comics and graphic novels.
Read Furiously
https://readfuriously.com/
Hidden Gems
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What’s a self-published author’s most valuable asset? Their writing experience? Their marketing expertise? Their ability to create vivid and engaging characters? All of those attributes are undeniably important - but former Air Force fighter pilot and USA Today bestselling author Steve Pieper argues that the most important asset an author has at their disposal comes from within - their mindset.
It’s mindset that has set Steve up as a pioneer in direct sales of his self-published books, and seen him lead dozens of other authors to similar success. He argues that mindset values such as grit, determination, self-awareness, and self-belief play a pivotal role in a self-published author’s eventual success - and in this week’s episode of Fully Booked, he provides Craig and Roland with some actionable techniques that authors can use to help cultivate their own winning mindset.
Steve Pieper
https://app.stevepieper.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, we explore the complicated issues around Intellectual Property (IP) laws as they collide with the advancing frontiers of artificial intelligence. Join us as seasoned IP attorney Peter Nieves walks us through the often misunderstood realm of copyright law, fair use, and the contentious landscape of AI-related legal battles. With a background rich in handling patents, trademarks, and copyrights, Peter brings a wealth of knowledge that enables him to clearly explain the technicalities and potential legal ramifications of using AI as a writing or publishing assistant in terms everyone can understand.
Our discussion covers a wide variety of related topics such as the misuse of the fair use doctrine, the nuances of parody in legal contexts, and the pivotal lawsuits shaping the future of intellectual property in the AI arena. Peter's insights are particularly timely, given the high-profile AI-related cases currently progressing through the court system, which involve complexities surrounding digital content creation. So if you're an author looking to use artificial intelligence to help with your process, this episode will equip you with the essential knowledge needed to understand the evolving landscape of IP law in the age of AI.
Peter Nieves
https://nievesip.com/peter-nieves/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, we're diving into the future of writing by taking a look at Sudowrite, an AI-powered tool designed to transform the writing process. In the past few years, Sudowrite has grown from a small experimental tool into a revolutionary writing assistant, expanding in capabilities as the dynamic needs of modern authors change and evolve. To walk us through all that it can do, we're joined by one of its co-founders, James Yu.
James not only takes us through specifics of how Sudowrite aids authors now, such as through detailed AI brainstorming and sophisticated outlining tools, but gives us some insight into what sorts of enhancements are coming up next. We also discuss Sudowrite's credit system and how it allows writers to select from a variety of AI models to best suit their project’s needs.
Regardless of whether Sudowrite is right for you, this discussion will demonstrate how the efficiency and creativity of AI can be harnessed to aid in the writing process, while still maintaining your unique voice.
Sudowrite
https://www.sudowrite.com/
Hidden Gems
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Have you ever considered what truly defines you beyond the highlights of your resume? This week on Fully Booked, we engage in an enlightening conversation with author and columnist Brent Olson, who regularly challenges authors to strip back the layers of accolades and academics and instead focus on the raw and personal experiences that shape their essence.
Brent's own eclectic array of life experiences reads like a series of classic one-liner Chuck Norris jokes, such as "Of the ten most dangerous jobs in America I’ve dabbled in six." While most of us lead more mundane lives, we still harbor a treasure trove of defining moments waiting to be unearthed. These experiences, once recognized, serve as the bedrock for crafting stories that resonate deeply and authentically with our audience.
As Brent explains, the trick is simply learning how to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Through the power of introspection and narrative, the tales most personal to you can become the ones that echo in the hearts and minds of readers everywhere, turning your own life into a legacy of adventure.
Brent Olson
https://www.brentolson.online/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore the concept of diversifying your income stream beyond traditional book sales with our guest, Kendra Q. Drawing on her background in HR consulting and her transition to authorship and speaking engagements, Kendra guides us through the maze of opportunities available for authors eager to transform their literary passion into multiple profitable ventures.
An alternative to juggling a traditional job with writing on the side is for authors to bolster their income through avenues such as speaking engagements, workshops, or personalized consulting services. By leveraging their unique areas of expertise in a variety of ways, authors not only have an opportunity to enhance their financial stability but may find a broader audience for their writing. So if you're looking to expand your horizons and discover new ways to thrive in the competitive world of self-publishing, Kendra's tips can provide ideas and inspiration for monetizing your talents in ways you may never have imagined.
Kendra Q
https://kendraqdodd.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, we dive deep into the human mind for a unique psychological spin on character development. Caroline Dunford, novelist, lecturer and forensic psychologist, takes us through the profound impact of using psychological principles to shape memorable and multi-dimensional characters. As the author of over 20 mystery novels and an expert in the psychological underpinnings of criminal behavior, Caroline provides a fascinating exploration of how an understanding of forensic psychology enriches the depth and authenticity of fictional characters.
Her expertise offers a roadmap for authors seeking to elevate their characters through balancing both their strengths and vulnerabilities, building rich backstories that explain current behavior, and using empathy to bring readers closer to not only our heroes, but our darkest villains as well. Applying an understanding of the human psyche to your characters will help humanize them, burning them into the minds of your readers and keeping them alive long after they've read your final page.
Caroline Dunford
https://caroline-dunford.squarespace.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week's episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with Jeanne Blasberg for an enthralling discussion on the transformative art of re-envisioning classic narratives for the contemporary reader. Blasberg is known for transforming age-old tales into contemporary narratives, such as in her novel "Daughter of Promise"—a modern retelling of a biblical tale. Through adapting and reimagining the classics, authors can refresh such stories to better reflect current societal norms and values.
As Blasberg explains, it is possible to reshape familiar plots with sensitivity and creativity, ensuring they resonate powerfully with today's audiences while still preserving the essence of the original. Many classic stories maintain their relevance through the ages but often get forgotten, lost, or discounted due to cultural shifts. Modern retellings can add layered dimensions that build upon these timeless tales, creating new narratives that maintain the original themes while broadening their appeal to a contemporary audience.
Jeanne Blasberg
https://jeanneblasberg.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we delve into the murky waters of the publishing industry with a special focus on predatory publishing practices. Our conversation with Walter Broach, a spiritual and metaphysical author with a wealth of experience and insights, sheds light on a variety of traps that both emerging and established authors should be wary of. In attempt to help others avoid his mistakes, Walter shares his personal journey of navigating his way through a variety of questionable paid services that promised much more than they delivered.
Walter's candid recounting serves as a cautionary tale, but also moves on to discuss the more viable self-publishing alternatives available to authors. It is an important reminder about how much misleading information is out there, and how not all authors are aware that they can do almost everything needed to publish their book completely for free. It's simply a matter of doing your due diligence and spending time in the writing community where many of the answers are freely available, with your peers often happy to help point you in the right direction.
Walter Broach
https://aboutspiritualenergy.com/
Hidden Gems
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Collaborative writing can take many forms, and in this week's episode, we delve into the story of two authors who have defied the physical distance between them to co-author and self-publish an impressive array of novels. With a blend of romantic suspense, comedy, and second-chance romance, Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson have leveraged their distinct strengths and modern communication tools to become a cross-state writing powerhouse.
Unique challenges are inherent in any writing partnership, but when these obstacles are seen as opportunities, they can enhance the creative process. Blending the spontaneous instincts of Judi's 'pantser' mentality with Charlene's more structured 'plotter' foresight, the sisters have developed a collaborative strategy that has flourished over a decade of publishing success.
To them, the essence of a fruitful writing partnership is in finding a balance in temperaments, honoring mutual creative freedom, and allowing your work process to evolve over time. Judi and Charlene are an inspiring model for collaboration that's both relatable and attainable, whether you're seasoned in co-writing or just starting out, and regardless of whether your writing partner is a family member or just a friend.
Charlene Tess & Judi Thompson
https://sisterswritingcrime.blogspot.com/
Hidden Gems
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On this week's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland welcome Jennifer Lewy to the podcast. Jennifer, a seasoned author with considerable AI experience, shares her insights and experiences on the many innovative ways authors can take advantage of Artificial Intelligence tools in their self-publishing career, while at the same time staying aware of the potential pitfalls and problems this new technology might pose in the future.
Drawing on her extensive background in the tech industry, Jennifer provides a distinctive perspective on the role of AI in the writing and publishing process, with first-hand knowledge on a variety of tools such as Sudowrite and Novelcrafter. She advocates for the use of AI not as a replacement, but as a means of amplifying creativity, overcoming obstacles, and expanding reach. Whether you are already incorporating AI into your writing regimen or are simply intrigued by its prospective impact, today's discussion sheds light on the many ways authors can take advantage of everything AI has to offer.
Jennifer Lewy
https://jenniferlewy.com/
Hidden Gems
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While many people complain that podcasting has become an oversaturated industry, there are millions of daily listeners who’d say something different. Podcasting still offers a powerful platform for those with specific and niche interests to build an audience, and getting featured on those podcasts is a wonderful opportunity for authors to reach new readers.
But how does one get started making guest appearances on podcasts? That’s a question that Craig and Roland posed to this week’s guest, “THE Podcast Matchmaker” Michelle Glogovac.
Michelle specializes in connecting authors with podcasts, and in this week’s episode of Fully Booked, she explains how that process works, offers advice on how to market yourself as an attractive podcast guest, and talks about the value of leveraging this popular form of entertainment. If you’re looking to expand your readership organically, you’re going to find this episode really valuable.
Michelle Glogovac
https://michelleglogovac.com/
https://themlgcollective.com/
Hidden Gems
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The term “Space Lawyer” might sound like something out of science fiction, but that’s the real life career of attorney Laura Montgomery, whose practice “Ground Based Space Matters” specializes in regulatory space law and Outer Space Treaties.
All of which provides ample inspiration for Laura’s other specialization - writing and self-publishing science fiction! Her knowledge of space, and the laws that govern it (or lack of them,) have enabled her to create incredible fictional universes rooted in believable science, set both in the near future and eons ahead of us.
In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Laura talks to Craig and Roland about how to approach building a believable science fiction universe - and how to introduce it as the backdrop for your stories without giving readers a daunting exposition dump to plough through.
If you’re a science fiction or speculative fiction author, there’s a lot to learn from this discussion - mostly about writing, but also about the practice of “space law” itself!
Laura Montgomery
https://groundbasedspacematters.com
Hidden Gems
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On today's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland explore the portrayal of disabilities in literature, with a focus on the often misunderstood realm of invisible disabilities. Invisible disabilities refer to conditions that aren't obvious when simply looking at a person, yet still deeply affect the lives of individuals that have them. To help them navigate these tricky waters, they’re joined by author Michael Coolwood, who shares his personal journey of writing with and about his own disabilities.
Michael explains the intricate balance authors must strike between authenticity and the expectations of a market that may not fully grasp the realities of mental and neurological diversity. Invisible disabilities in particular are often uniquely experienced by the individuals they touch, challenging the cookie-cutter perceptions that often pervade popular fiction. Michael takes us through various approaches to handling these challenges, along with the potential pitfalls of each. While self-publishing offers the chance for a more authentic portrayal of the disabled experience, it must be handled with care to achieve a balance between genuine representation and commercial success.
Michael Coolwood
https://coolwoodbooks.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland are joined by indie filmmaker and writer Andrew Schrader to explore the nuances of igniting and sustaining the creative spark. The source of creative inspiration is as individual to every writer as a fingerprint, and leveraging that inspiration often takes a variety of diverse techniques, habits, and intuitive actions that are unique to every author. Andrew explains how he employs an array of motivational tactics and personal rituals to fan the flames of his own creativity, and helps outline how to get started using many of these techniques. From accessing his subconscious to solve creative blocks, maintaining lists of inspiring ideas for freewriting sessions, and the importance of relying on your own intuition, there are so many approaches that authors can pick and choose from to find the ones that work best for them.
Andrew credits literary icon Ray Bradbury for the inspiration behind his disciplined yet fluid daily creative routine, which involves a healthy dose of both reading and writing. This practice not only sharpened his prose, but established a habit that transformed him into a prolific writer, having now published four short story collections of his own. Regardless of one's unique lifestyle or passion, daily routines can be tailored to fit even the busiest of schedules, fostering increased inspiration and creativity—a boon for any author.
Andrew Schrader
https://www.andrewjschrader.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, hosts Craig and Roland delve into the world of story structure with Mel Mattison, author of gripping financial thrillers that he builds using one of the most resilient story frameworks of modern literature - the three-act structure.
Mel leads the discussion through the intricate art of crafting compelling narratives using this structure, dissecting the nuances of plot development, character arcs, and pacing within the context of self-publishing. From laying the groundwork in the setup phase to delivering satisfying resolutions in the final act, this episode offers a comprehensive roadmap for writers seeking to harness the power of the three-act structure in their creative endeavors.
Mel Mattison
https://www.melmattison.com/
Hidden Gems
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As the dust settles on the initial awe and apprehension surrounding artificial intelligence, the discussion now turns to its practical role. But how can authors harness AI to enhance their craft? In today's episode of Fully Booked, we discuss this question with Patrick Greenwood, a writer and seasoned cybersecurity expert with 28 years in the field. Greenwood guides us through the evolution of AI from a simple data processing tool to the more sophisticated chatbots that we're more familiar with today, and outlines how major corporations are using it to shape the future of their industries.
As AI has matured, we've already begun to see a tendency toward over-reliance as organizations rush to outpace competitors, occasionally at the cost of informed decision-making. As a result, Greenwood points to a growing "Crisis of Trust" around AI content creation, with questions arising around the authorship, authenticity and legalities of what is being produced. However, as the technology has become so widely entrenched in our lives, it seems increasingly unlikely that any of these concerns will make it go away. That's why continuing to ignore AI isn't the solution. Instead, authors should take a balanced approach, engaging with it as a collaborative tool or assistant rather than as a substitute to creativity. Not only will this strategy serve to preserve and invigorate their artistry, but it will also enable them to survive and flourish in this new era of digital integration.
Patrick Greenwood
https://cyclewriterllc.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland delve into the detailed process of book editing and revision with special guest S.G. Blaise, a seasoned author with five novels and a decade of storytelling experience behind her.
Blaise helps lead the discussion through some of the essential steps that transform a rough draft into a literary masterpiece, including gathering feedback from beta readers, iterating through revisions and rewrites, and selecting an editor who understands both your genre and your personal writing style.
If the first draft is step one of your publishing journey, and the finished, polished draft your final destination, then the revision process makes up the rest of the way. Blaise offers guidance on interpreting reader feedback, determining the right time to finally stop rewriting, and when to move forward with a professional edit. This final process can improve your story, enhance its finer details, and add a layer of polish that, with the right editor, can elevate a good book into an exceptional one.
SG Blaise
https://sgblaise.com/
Hidden Gems
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In the ever-evolving landscape of self-publishing, the rise of the subscription and serialization model has opened new opportunities for writers and readers alike. This week on Fully Booked, we delve into the intricacies of crafting compelling serialized stories with the insight of Kimboo York, a seasoned author and podcaster with extensive experience in the subject. Her latest book, "Become an Unstoppable Storyteller: How to Craft Compelling Serials," sheds light on the art of creating engaging serialized story arcs that keep readers hooked across multiple installments.
Our conversation explores the merits, challenges, and practicalities of serialized storytelling, along with strategies for maintaining reader interest even in stories that don’t have a definitive final installment in sight. With details on some of the new and exciting platforms that have emerged in this space, along with their compensation models and limitations, this episode is essential listening for any author seeking to take control of their career and connect more directly with their audience through serialization.
Kimboo York
https://houseofyork.info/
Kimboo's Serialization Outline Spreadsheet
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1E6I6Z4TwKgVtUTaid28J2ng_tSxU0HjauV9OievkcTE/edit#gid=0
Hidden Gems
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In today's special episode of Fully Booked, co-hosts Craig and Roland take a moment to step back and reflect on the journey of HiddenGemsBooks, a platform that offers a variety of services and resources for aspiring and established authors alike. They explore everything from the weekly author podcasts and blogs to the suite of practical tools and services designed to assist authors on their publishing journey from manuscript to market.
Craig and Roland share insights from their own writing paths, shedding light on the passions that drive their work before delving into the array of services and tools that Hidden Gems has launched over the past decade. These include tailored one-on-one consultations, professional blurb writing, in-depth beta reading, and the pioneering industry-leading ARC review service. With a significant new update to the ARC service on the horizon, Craig provides a sneak peek at what's to come and discusses how the enhancements were thoughtfully crafted to improve both the author and reader experience, as well as to adapt to the ever-evolving literary landscape.
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, we delve into a topic that often goes unexplored because some find it uncomfortable to think about, but is crucial for any author: estate planning. With the expertise of estate planning attorney Sarah Marie Page, we unravel the intricate web of decisions and legalities surrounding the posthumous future of your literary assets. From understanding the rights of survivorship to the complexities of trusts and probate, this episode lays out the foundational knowledge every author should have to ensure their work is protected and passed on according to their wishes.
As we discuss with Sarah, the details matter as much as the broader strokes in estate planning. Whether it's choosing the right person to manage your publishing empire, knowing how to handle digital assets like KDP accounts and social media, or the importance of having your intentions (and passwords!) clearly documented, we cover it all. We dive into why it's vital to keep your estate plan updated amidst the fast-paced changes of the publishing industry and how to make these critical decisions in a way that honors your legacy and minimizes future burdens on your loved ones. For authors, your words live on; make sure they continue to tell the story you intended.
Sarah Marie Page
https://www.sarahpagestories.com/
Hidden Gems
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Bestselling author Mary Carroll Moore has taught writing throughout the world, but this week she stops by to chat with us about the intricate craft of layering complexity into your scenes. The key to captivating and engaging readers is by transforming ideas into multidimensional experiences. As Mary explains, this can be done in a variety of ways, such as interlacing character arcs, plot twists and setting details together to enrich both your scenes and story as a whole.
Her hybrid approach of writing like a pantser after creating storyboards like a plotter can be useful to authors of either style, and is beneficial for staying on track and keeping consistency within your work. So if you’re looking to enrich your writing with depth and surprise, this episode will provide you with all the tools needed to add dimension and nuance to your creative work.
Mary Carroll Moore
https://www.marycarrollmoore.com/
Hidden Gems
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In the competitive world of self-publishing, it's crucial for authors to embrace the role of entrepreneur, with each book representing a new and unique product. Attention to detail is key, as every aspect of your book must beckon to potential customers—your readers.
Join us on this episode of Fully Booked, where we explore the intricacies of authorship with guest novelist Tyler Snure. Tyler takes us through his concept of the "Reader Roadmap", a strategic guide for understanding the decision-making process of avid readers in search of their next adventure.
While a captivating cover and a compelling blurb are key, it's the initial pages that often seal the deal. The opening lines are often where readers are won or lost. Tyler offers his expert insights on crafting those crucial first pages that ensure readers are not just hooked, but reeled in. Don't miss this exploration of the techniques that transform browsers into buyers, and writers into savvy authorpreneurs.
Tyler Snure
https://www.snurestories.com/
Hidden Gems
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It's been 100 episodes, or almost 2 years since we began this podcast journey and many things have changed. Not only have Roland and I learned a lot, but with the rise of artificial intelligence and everything it threatens to upend, the self-publishing industry is facing some of the biggest changes since it first started.
Today, we're looking back at why we started this podcast to begin with, and whether or not we've met the goals we had for it. We also discuss some of the episodes and guests that have really taught us something and changed the way we work and think about our craft. And then we wrap things up by examining where things are headed in the industry - both now and going forward; especially with AI now touching almost every aspect of the publishing process.
So come have a listen, and join us in celebrating episode 100 of the Fully Booked Podcast!
Hidden Gems
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When it comes to storytelling, fiction novels are usually bursting with boundless creativity, while non-fiction books require more dedicated focus, delving into the heart of real experiences and genuine issues. Even the subject matter and wording are often tailored specifically to the intended audience of a non-fiction book, which is why understanding who you are writing for, and why, is so important in the genre.
In this week's episode of Fully Booked, author Randi-Lee Bowslaugh is here to help unpack the nuances of non-fiction writing - from identifying your core readership to authentically representing true events without losing the narrative's emotional essence. So whether you're carefully plotting or leaving room for organic development, Randi-Lee has advice for all authors aiming to make their mark and be successful in their non-fiction writing.
Randi-Lee Bowslaugh
https://www.rbwriting.ca/
Hidden Gems
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In the heart of every captivating story lies a cast of characters who breathe life into the narrative. To bring them to life, however, it's essential to understand them not only within the pages but also beyond them. An author has to really dive deep into their backgrounds, motivations, and what really makes them tick.
To help guide us through the art of crafting compelling characters, we're joined by Lynne Golodner, a seasoned author, writing coach, and marketing entrepreneur. As Lynne explains, characters are all around us, from family and friends to the strangers we encounter daily. There's no excuse for recycling the same character types in your stories repeatedly. Embracing interesting and distinctive characters paves the way for fresh writing and captivated readers, provided you possess a profound understanding of their motivations and a commitment to preserving their authenticity.
The importance of mastering this skill cannot be overstated because well-crafted characters wield a profound influence not only in fiction but also in non-fiction writing.
Lynne Golodner
https://lynnegolodner.com/
Hidden Gems
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While authors excel at crafting captivating narratives within the pages of their books, these storytelling skills can also be used to build your author brand and enhance the customer experience.
In this episode of Fully Booked, we are joined by Jess Cervellon, VP of Customer Experience at Feastables, a global brand associated with 'Mr. Beast.' From her artistic roots to diverse roles in customer service, Jess brings invaluable insights into the creation of unforgettable customer experiences. She firmly believes that these insights are a goldmine for authors, especially those interested in marketing and enhancing the reader's journey.
Authors, just like any brand, must captivate their audience through storytelling and content creation that extend beyond their books. Whether it's through social media, advertising, podcast appearances, or conferences, successful authors generate content that delivers a lasting brand experience, keeping readers engaged even between book releases.
Jess Cervellon
https://jesscervellon.com/
Hidden Gems
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Many readers would be surprised to know that some of their favorite books were not written by the author plastered across the cover, but by a ghostwriter. Behind the scenes, ghostwriters are hired by authors, publishers, and even entrepreneurs to pen a book in the shadows, with the finished product being published by the client under their own name.
In the years that she's been a ghostwriter, Rhiannon D'Averc has had close to 100 books published, but only a handful under her own name. Rhiannon has become the go-to ghostwriter for a variety of clients, from recognizable authors and publishers to business executives who need a book to drive their speaking engagements. Whether it's fiction or non, Rhiannon writes it all, and her experience has provided her not only with tremendous knowledge of the industry, but with the ability to put quality books together quickly and efficiently.
So whether you're considering the benefits of hiring a ghostwriter for yourself, or intrigued by the prospect of becoming one, this episode is a treasure trove of insights that should not be missed.
Rhiannon D'Averc
https://rhiannondaverc.co.uk/
Hidden Gems
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Every self-published author knows how important reviews are - but there are different types of reviews than just those left by readers. Editorial reviews and review journals are a legacy of traditional publishing, but still incredibly valuable - even to self-published writers. In fact, review journals are unsung heroes in helping authors expand their reach beyond just publishing in the digital realm. In this episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland have invited back a previous guest to help dive deep into the world of review journals such as Booklist, Library Journal, and the School Library Journal - all to demonstrate how useful they can be to an author's career.
Returning guest Dr. Roger Leslie is not only a seasoned author and owner of his publishing company, but someone who also spent eight years as a Booklist reviewer. With this experience, Dr. Leslie provides an exceptional explanation not only of the purpose of review journals but also the steps authors need to take to get featured within them. Doing so can supercharge any author's career by not only helping get their books into libraries, but also by enhancing their editorial credibility (and potentially leading to securing coveted spots in mainstream bookstore chains.)
Dr. Roger Leslie
https://rogerleslie.com/
Hidden Gems
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In the realm of self-publishing, where there's no universal path to success, authors often forge their own routes. The effectiveness of various methods or strategies vary, and authors often choose how to move forward based on their personal interests and skillsets, but it's not always obvious what would work best without a frame of reference.
That's why we find it invaluable to occasionally delve into the personal stories of authors, exploring their choices and motivations as a means of drawing parallels that can be applied to our own circumstances. Today, we sit down with author Sarah Firisen, a self-described "accidental success" in the literary world.
Writing historical mysteries under the pseudonym "Sarah F. Noel," Sarah released her debut book in early 2023 and has already added another two novels to the series, with a fourth on pre-order. Her books have been racking up reviews and shifting copies with very little marketing behind them, which begs the question: Was Sarah's success truly accidental, or did she navigate her unique journey with intuitive brilliance? Join us as we uncover the enigma of Sarah Firisen's unconventional ascent in the world of self-publishing.
Sarah Firisen (writing as Sarah F. Noel)
https://sarahfnoel.com/
Hidden Gems
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As generative AI advances at a breakneck pace, it poses pressing questions and concerns for both authors and artists. With a variety of tools and services available that can generate cover images, advertisements, and even entire written works, the legality of their use is being questioned by several lawsuits.
Join us in this episode of Fully Booked, in which Craig, Roland, and Hidden Gems designer Nate Allison attempt to offer a fair and balanced perspective on these critical issues through discussion and debate. While it might be years before the legal landscape around AI-generated content is finally determined, it is essential for current users of these tools to grapple with the moral and ethical dilemmas that affect both creators and creatives. By understanding the concerns raised by artists and authors, you can make informed decisions about the use and potential risks of generative text and image creation within your own work.
Hidden Gems
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From the intriguing mysteries of Agatha Christie to the heart-pounding thrills of Lee Child's novels, there's no doubt that readers have an insatiable appetite for well-structured, satisfying page-turners. But have you ever wondered what it takes to craft one? That’s the question Craig and Roland pose to this week's guest, award-winning author of over 40 thriller and mystery novels, Raymond Benson.
While Raymond is most renowned for his officially-licensed James Bond continuation novels, he has also earned a well-deserved reputation for crafting beautifully-crafted stories that are not just satisfying but utterly addictive. In today's episode, Raymond shares his invaluable strategies and techniques for planning and executing writing projects efficiently and effectively, ensuring they consistently meet and exceed reader expectations.
For authors who take their writing seriously and want to learn about structure from a respected craftsman, this episode is essential listening.
Raymond Benson
https://raymondbenson.com/
Hidden Gems
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Traditional and independent publishers are continuing to struggle. As a result, more and more previously-published authors are deciding to try self-publishing when they regain the rights to books that had previously been traditionally published.
While this offers authors an opportunity to breathe new life into their old books, it’s not necessarily the most straightforward process to self-publish a book that already exists on Amazon. Many authors have concerns about whether or not they can access previous reviews, how multiple editions of the same book might show up on Amazon, and whether issues will arise with copyright.
Fortunately for those authors, award-winning science fiction and fantasy author Edward Willett has navigated the treacherous process of republishing books many times before - both for his own works, and those of the many authors he works with. In this episode of Fully Booked, Edward explains to Craig and Roland how authors should go about republishing their previously-published books, what things they can leverage from their book’s previous editions on Amazon, and issues to be aware of as they breathe new life into their beloved old work.
Edward Willett
https://edwardwillett.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
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This week, Fully Booked welcomes Travis Cody, a multi-talented author and screenwriter who has not only written bestselling books but has also contributed to the magic of Hollywood. After years of learning the ins and outs of both industries, Travis realized that producing a movie and publishing a book share remarkable similarities, which led him to create his M.O.V.I.E.S process that takes authors through the steps of writing, publishing and ultimately profiting from their books.
In this episode, Travis uncovers the parallels between these two creative realms, and how the concepts of making blockbuster movies can be successfully translated to the world of bestseller book writing. From pre-production through post-production, marketing and merchandising, Travis has some fascinating insights into the cinematic secrets that create the movies we love to watch, and how you can apply those same processes towards unlocking the full potential of your author career.
Travis Cody
https://traviscody.com/
Hidden Gems
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When it comes to life's challenges, there are those that choose to evade them, and those that confront them head on. Today's guest, Andrew McDowell, undoubtedly belongs to the latter category.
Diagnosed at a young age with Asperger's syndrome, Andrew faced significant hurdles in fundamental aspects of writing, from language and reading to deciphering emotional cues. But instead of letting his diagnosis stand in the way of his dream of becoming an author, he turned his focus towards transforming his unique challenges into strengths. With no well-trodden road to follow, Andrew's journey is nothing short of inspirational.
Each step was a lesson learned through trial and error, yet he persisted, refusing to let any obstacle block him for long. Today, Andrew stands as a published author, with his debut YA/Epic Fantasy novel earning fantastic reviews, and the eagerly anticipated second installment nearing publication.
Join us as Andrew takes us through his incredible journey of resilience and triumph, and allow his story to inspire you towards achieving your own goals, no matter how out of reach they may seem.
Andrew McDowell
https://andrewmcdowellauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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In the whirlwind of our busy lives, finding time to write can be a Herculean task. Take today's guest, for example. Aside from navigating the regular chaos of life, Nzondi (aka Ace Antonio Hall) has penned four books, has an alt-rock single playing on the radio, and he's working on writing and recording a full album. He's living proof that commitment and treating your craft like a job can help you unearth those precious pockets of creative time.
In this episode, Nzondi shares his secrets for maintaining productivity, from his inspired approach to conquering writer's block to his philosophy of immersing yourself in books to breathe life into your own stories. Let him describe how the power of repetition and consistency can transform your writing routine, and inspire you to carve out that much-needed writing time from your bustling schedule to revolutionize the way you approach your craft.
Nzondi
https://www.aantoniohall.com/
Hidden Gems
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“Are you ready to get off the Amazon Hamster Wheel?” That’s a question posed by USA Today best-selling author Steve Pieper in this week’s episode of Fully Booked. A former US Air Force fighter pilot, Steve now self-publishes thrillers under the pen name Lars Emmerich. After growing frustrated with the limitations of selling his self-published books on Amazon, Steve leveraged his experience in corporate ecommerce to become a pioneer amid the increasing number of authors who are experimenting with selling their eBooks directly to readers through platforms like Shopify.
While Steve warns Craig and Roland that creating your own digital bookstore is by no means an easy feat, he truly believes it could transform the careers of many self-published authors by allowing them to reach a better audience of potential readers, optimize their sales funnel with valuable digital feedback that Amazon doesn’t provide, and access their royalties in days, rather than months after a sale.
So, if you’ve grown frustrated with Amazon and want an honest and upfront overview of what might be involved in selling directly to your readers, don’t miss this episode! It has the potential to be a game-changer for ambitious authors that want to grow their income and have the time to put in the work.
Steve Pieper
https://app.stevepieper.com/
Hidden Gems
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Writing is normally a solitary pursuit, but if you can find the right partner, it's possible to write as a duo. That's exactly what today's guests have done. Kelly Florence and Meg Hafdahl have written 8 books together since meeting over 20 years ago and becoming best friends. Despite living hours apart, they schedule regular planning sessions together, both virtually and in person, but do their writing separately.
Together, Meg and Kelly discuss the challenges and benefits to writing as a duo, and provide tips for other authors that want to try and make something like this work. If you have an author friend that is on the same wavelength as you and want to give something like this a try, then this is an episode you shouldn't miss!
Kelly and Meg’s website:
www.horrorrewind.com
Hidden Gems
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Success on social media can be a career-changer for some authors, but many writers don't know where to even begin using platforms like Instagram and Facebook to promote their work. That's why Craig and Roland were excited to welcome Caleb Daniels to this week's episode of Fully Booked.
When not working on his own upcoming non-fiction book about the Guns of James Bond, or managing his 21k followers on Instagram, Caleb works professionally as a digital marketer - and in this episode, he explains how combining your passion and authenticity with the methodical process of "social media management" can totally transform the impact of your social media channels, and help introduce a whole new audience to your work.
Caleb Daniels
https://commandobond.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, we're diving deep into the world of writing retreats with special guest Lisa Shaughnessy. Over the last few years, Lisa has spent her time building out a live searchable directory of these retreats, interviewing hosts and getting the details on all of the most creative and unique environments available.
Lisa strongly believes in the transformative benefits of writing retreats, whether it's from the serenity of solo writing time or through the invigorating spark of collective creativity brought about by spending time with other writers. With so many different settings and venues, there is a getaway for every type of author looking to revitalize their writing journey; and Lisa explains to Craig and Roland where a writer can begin their search for the perfect venue.
Lisa Shaughnessy
https://writingretreatdirectory.com/
Hidden Gems
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This week, Fully Booked is diving back into the world of audiobook creation with actress and bestselling author, Jennifer Lieberman.
Many authors choose to hire others to create or narrate their audiobooks, but it is possible to do everything yourself - which is the path that Jennifer chose to follow. It wasn't easy, however. Jennifer had to throw out her entire first recording attempt due to a variety of mistakes and the steep learning curve involved, but the process wasn't a complete waste of time.
Eventually, Jennifer's experience provided her with the knowledge to write and publish her bestseller "Make Your Own Break: How To Record & Publish Your Audiobook in Seven Simple Steps". Join us as Jennifer shares her journey and insights, touching on all seven steps outlined in her book and why each one is important. If you've ever thought about what it takes to produce your own audiobook, Jennifer's advice and tips will set you on the path to success.
Jennifer Lieberman
https://makeyourownbreak.wordpress.com/
Hidden Gems
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https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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In today's episode of Fully Booked, bestselling romance author Leah Busboom shares the intriguing results of a recent writing experiment. Last year, Leah took a chance and penned a novel that defied common tropes and deviated drastically from her usual type of romance. Unfortunately, it turned out to be one of her worst-selling books.
Join us as Leah candidly recounts her daring journey, and how she discovered that simply having proven talent and a devoted fan base doesn't necessarily mean you can throw out genre expectations and norms that readers have come to expect. It's a cautionary tale for other authors contemplating trying something new, but it doesn't have to end the same way. Through her experience, Leah gained invaluable insights into the significance of understanding and meeting reader expectations, and time and self-reflection have provided her with ideas on how the book could have been more successful.
Leah Busboom
https://authorleahbusboom.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland explore the challenges of creating illustrated books with award winning children’s author Terrel Dean - one half of the mother/daughter partnership behind the enchanting children's series "Once Upon a Dance."
Terrel brings her stories to life through the collaboration with illustrators from all corners of the globe, guiding them as they craft mesmerizing covers and interior designs for her movement-inspired tales. From the inception of the series to the challenges of finding the perfect illustrators to work with, Terrel takes us through the entire process of meeting deadlines, navigating differing working and creative styles, and the importance of having clear contracts that cover all aspects of development. She also shares valuable insights into the interpersonal intricacies of working with illustrators, offering tips on finding the right people to work with and managing their production workflow.
For authors looking to start working on illustrated books, this episode will be hugely valuable in helping to understand all that's involved in creating heartwarming illustrated tales filled with creativity and wonder with the fewest number of headaches!
Terrel Dean
https://onceuponadance.com/illustrate
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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Hemingway famously said of writers: “We are all apprentices in a craft where no one ever becomes a master.” This was a philosophy he followed throughout his life - continuing to try and improve his writing even after he’d achieved both fame and fortune. But how can a writer improve their work? And does that improvement add value to a self-published author’s bottom line?
Yes, argues this week’s guest on the Fully Booked podcast. Jane Warren is not just a successful author of YA and children’s fiction, but also an editing professional who shares the belief that writers should strive to continuously improve their craft; and she’s got plenty of ideas on how to do that. Not only did she get her Masters in Fine Arts in Creative Writing, but Jane frequently attends writer workshops, webinars and conferences.
In this discussion, Jane tells Craig and Roland about her own journey towards becoming a better writer, and what benefit authors may find from programs like an MFA, or simply by attending workshops and finding mentors. Either way, there is a lot of value for all authors in studying, learning and continuing to improve on their craft as they move through their career.
Jane Warren
http://www.janewarreneditorial.com/
Hidden Gems
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https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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Crowdfunding isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for authors, but it does offer immense potential for writers looking to provide their readers with special editions, anthologies, and other publishing ventures that require an upfront investment. In this episode of Fully Booked, we dive into how to leverage these aspects of Kickstarter with award-winning author Edward Willett, who successfully funded four story anthologies by using the platform.
With Edward's experience to guide us, we explore the challenges and potential rewards crowdfunding offers authors. It's an insightful discussion that covers a variety of topics including strategies for setting up milestones, guidelines for crafting engaging reward levels, and how to surpass your funding goals. By the end of this episode, you'll be ready to launch a Kickstarter campaign of your own to help bring your next book project to life!
Edward Willett
https://edwardwillett.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
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Ernest Hemingway warned: “Writing, at its best, is a lonely life,” but it doesn’t need to be that way. In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland talk to USA Today bestselling author DC Gomez, who has amplified the impact of her writing career by making a personal connection with her readers - mostly via social media and by making live appearances at conventions and events across the United States.
While that might sound intimidating to a lot of authors, DC Gomez outlines not just the positive effect this has on her book sales, but also how rewarding it is to make real connections with real readers - often in real life. For those of us struggling with imposter syndrome and the desire to feel like a “real” writer, this episode will be deeply inspiring - and might even lead to you considering making a few live appearances yourself.
DC Gomez
https://dcgomez-author.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland dive into the world of comedy writing with veteran British comedy writer and author Myron Edwards. With his vast experience and sharp wit, Myron shares invaluable insights on how to craft humor that leaves readers in stitches and elevates the quality and value of any written work.
Throughout today's discussion, Myron reveals the secrets behind effective comedy writing, offering a treasure trove of practical advice. From sitcoms to stand-up routines, he discusses the nuances of different comedic mediums, exploring how the principles of comedy can be applied to enhance any genre of writing, as well as how comedy affects and resonates with people.
Myron Edwards
https://www.myronedwardsbooks.com/
Hidden Gems
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https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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They often say, "Write what you know," but what happens when our stories demand characters who are vastly different from ourselves? In today's episode of Fully Booked, author Katie Marie joins us to help discuss the challenges of creating diverse characters that push the boundaries of our own experiences.
Katie is the perfect guest for this topic, after defying expectations by crafting a novella featuring an elderly gentleman with dementia, despite being in her 30s when she wrote it. Through that experience she learned about the complexities of writing characters so distinct from ourselves, and she is careful to highlight the crucial role of research, empathy, and humility that should be used in capturing their essence.
Katie offers valuable advice on how authors can authentically portray characters outside their own lived experiences, emphasizing the significance of stepping outside our comfort zones to create rich, diverse narratives. The important thing is to avoid stereotypes, conduct thorough research, and seek input from knowledgeable sources. By doing these things, authors can expand their creative horizons and craft characters that resonate with readers from all walks of life.
Katie Marie
https://www.authorkatiemarie.com/
Hidden Gems
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In previous episodes of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland have spoken with a number of authors about what inspired them to choose one particular path toward publication over another. In today’s episode, they’re joined by Dr. Roger Leslie in taking that discussion further - providing a deep dive into the three main options available: Traditional publishing, self-publishing, and hybrid publishing.
An author himself, and now head of his own hybrid publishing company, Dr. Leslie uses his professional insight to explore the crucial factors that authors should consider when making the decision of who to trust with the publication of their book - such as the apparent credibility and wide reach of traditional publishing, the intimacy and personalized attention offered by smaller presses, or the creative autonomy and professional guidance found in the hybrid approach.
If you’re looking to reach a wider audience with your book, this episode will provide a lot of value - giving you all the insights you need to choose the publishing path that aligns best with your personal goals and aspirations.
Roger Leslie
https://rogerleslie.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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As an author, improv specialist, and founder of Improv-LA, Keith Saltojanes has learned a variety of ways that improv skills can be used to enhance everyday interactions and strengthen your creativity overall. In fact, he even wrote "The Improv Mindset", a book about how improvisation can be used to improve a variety of aspects of your personal and professional life.
Today, Keith sits down with Fully Booked to go through how to incorporate the main principles of improv into your daily life, and how they can be used to stimulate your imagination, ignite the writing process, and even help conquer creative blocks. Prepare to be inspired as we embark on a journey to unlock your creative potential using the dynamic world of improv.
Keith Saltojanes
http://keithsaltojanes.com/
Improv-LA
https://www.improv-la.com/
Hidden Gems
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While the Fully Booked podcast tends to focus on self-publishing, it's far from the only option for writers looking to get their work published. In today's episode, Craig and Roland talk to Michelle Paris, whose debut novel, New Normal, launched last month. Loosely based on Michelle's personal experiences about loss and mid-life dating, New Normal is published by a small, independent publisher. Michelle chose that route after seriously considering self-publishing.
Tune in to discover the journey Michelle went on as she wrote her book and the process that led her to select a small press not only for that first book, but her second novel as well. There's lots of valuable insight into difficult questions authors might not consider before they finish writing their book - like how to target the right audience, get the book polished and ready for publication, and how much responsibility to take on in regards to marketing and publicity. If you've ever considered working with an independent publisher, this episode will deliver a lot of value and help you in your decision-making process.
Michelle Paris
https://michelleparisauthor.com/
Hidden Gems
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https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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Most of us are familiar with Kickstarter, having seen (or helped fund) a variety of cool gadgets and ideas. But what isn't as well-known is the immense potential it holds for authors. That's why we were excited to sit down to chat with Oriana Leckert, Head of Publishing for Kickstarter, to discuss those possibilities.
Oriana joined us to share her valuable insights into how authors can utilize Kickstarter to bring their creative projects to life - including how authors can use it to secure upfront funding for their writing projects, mitigate risk, and embark on innovative endeavors beyond the usual process of a book release.
With over 88,000 publishing projects and $500 million in pledges from nearly 5 million backers, Kickstarter's potential audience is vast and proven. So whether you're a seasoned author or just starting out, we'll take you through the essential information you need to know before you decide if Kickstarter is the right avenue for your next project.
Kickstarter for Authors
https://www.kickstarter.com/publishing
Hidden Gems
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which means there's no better time to discuss the crucial role that reading and writing play in promoting good mental hygiene. Writing benefits us authors in a variety of ways, such as providing a mental workout for the brain, or serving as a cathartic outlet for dealing with personal traumas or toxic personalities in our lives. Meanwhile, well-written fiction can allow readers to more easily identify with our stories, allowing them to take inspiration in the struggles and triumphs of our characters and use them as inspiration in finding a path forward in their own lives.
Today, romance author Amey Zeigler shares her personal experiences of using reading and writing to cope with mental health challenges. As a reader, Amey found that her connection to a novel she read helped her cope with the post-partum depression she was battling, and as an author, she discovered how her writing connected with and lifted the spirits of readers facing their own struggles. As Amey explains, authors that use their life experiences to create more powerful characters and stories can find deeper and more transformative connections to their readers.
Not only could this be therapeutic for both, but often a strong and meaningful connection is all it takes for readers to start recommending your book to everyone they know, which can do far more for sales than any expensive ad campaign you might run.
Amey Zeigler
http://www.ameyzeigler.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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On this special episode of Fully Booked, hosts Craig and Roland have some exciting news to share: we're thrilled to announce that we'll be talking about crowd-funding for authors with one of the team members from Kickstarter in the coming weeks! But before we do, we want to hear from you! Do you have any burning questions about how authors can leverage crowdfunding, or Kickstarter specifically? Send them our way and we'll do our best to include them in the interview.
Plus, we'll be taking a look back at the top 5 most-listened-to episodes of Fully Booked so far this year. From the roadmap for a powerful book launch, to the importance and value of writer’s groups, and AI, we'll discuss what we think made these episodes so popular and why you won't want to miss them!
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
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Just as writing short stories is very different to writing novels, there’s a lot more to selling them as well. Generally, a short story is sold for a fixed amount to a publisher, meaning you don't get ongoing royalties - but if you do things properly, you can have the opportunity to sell that same story to other publishers again and again.
The most important thing is to understand all your rights. That way, you can only sell which rights are strictly necessary to each publisher, while ensuring that at some point most of these rights revert back to you. Multi-award-winning author Douglas Smith is an expert in this subject, having written extensively on how authors can maximize the value of their short story rights. Today, he sits down with Craig and Roland to go through everything you need to know on the subject: From understanding the different markets, to the format you're selling in, to the various dimensions of rights that need to be considered like geography, language and occurrence.
By following Douglas' advice, authors can maximize the reach of their stories as well as their earnings, ensuring that each one has the potential to bring in income for years to come.
Douglas Smith
http://www.smithwriter.com/
Hidden Gems
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In the digital age, writing has become more collaborative than ever - in part thanks to the plethora of online groups and websites that offer support and resources for authors. From general writing help to finding niche communities, these groups can be a game-changer for writers seeking camaraderie and shared knowledge.
In this episode of Fully Booked, New York Times bestselling author Mimi Barbour shares the story of creating a private author group which has helped many writers build their careers. Mimi discusses how her group got started, the impact it has had on her and other members, and the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into running it. From managing social media and writing blogs, to organizing box sets and maintaining a group mailing list, the collaborative efforts of the group have yielded remarkable results.
While there may be challenges in running and being part of a private author group, Mimi demonstrates that the rewards are worth the effort. The companionship and support among members can lead to great success and open up new opportunities that may not have been possible individually.
Mimi Barbour
https://mimibarbour.com/
The Author’s Billboard
https://authorsbillboard.com/
Hidden Gems
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When it comes to book marketing and sales, understanding the difference between the cost of acquiring a new reader and the value that new reader provides is crucial for authors, and goes beyond just the price they paid for your book.
In today's episode, JD Caron, owner of Weekend Publisher, sits down with Craig and Roland to share the expertise he's gained in helping hundreds of authors understand this fundamental concept and why it’s so essential in marketing and promoting your books effectively. JD breaks down the process of calculating both the cost and the value of a reader, which can be more complex than it seems because there are many factors that influence how much acquiring new readers can cost - and multiple ways authors can increase that reader's value after acquiring them.
Continuing to confuse these two concepts or assuming they’re the same can be a costly mistake. Only by grasping the distinction between cost and value can authors make informed decisions that will improve their marketing and expand the efficiency of their sales strategies.
JD Caron is owner of Weekend Publisher
https://www.weekendpublisher.com/
Hidden Gems
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Join us for a conversation with Cary Richards, CEO and co-founder of Infostack, one of the premier bundling sites offering valuable resources to writers at a fraction of their retail prices. Cary and his team regularly put together self-publishing related bundles, including full length courses, books, and other digital material that can help take writers' skills and marketing strategies to the next level.
In this episode, Cary shares details about the upcoming Book Profits Accelerator Live event, a 3-day online writer's conference from April 27th to the 29th, featuring industry coaches, marketing experts, and influencers who will teach attendees how to effectively market their book and connect with their audience. And for Fully Booked listeners paying attention, Cary also offers a special way to take advantage of early bird pricing even if you reserve your seat past the April 13th deadline.
Whether you're interested in attending the event or not, this episode is packed with insights on how Infostack offers affordable ways to learn from experts and achieve success faster than trying to figure it all out on your own. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a varied group of self-publishing pros.
Infostack
https://infostack.io/
Book Profits Accelerator Live event
https://hiddengems--infostack.thrivecart.com/bpalive/
Hidden Gems
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In recent weeks, controversy has erupted as publishers have been taking a red pen to the works of Roald Dahl, Ian Fleming, Ursula K. LeGuin, and others, editing their work to make them more palatable for our more sensitive times. While the debate about censorship rages on, the reality is that handling characters and cultures that you are unfamiliar with can be tricky, and that's where sensitivity readers come in.
This week, Craig and Roland sit down with Patrice Williams Marks, one of the world's leading sensitivity readers. Patrice is the go-to person for many authors and companies seeking to add authenticity and avoid harmful stereotypes in their writing. Don't miss all of the valuable insight Patrice brings as she explains how sensitivity readers can help authors navigate complex issues and create more inclusive stories. When it comes to bringing diversity into your work, Patrice's expertise is invaluable to writers at all stages of their careers.
Patrice Williams Marks
https://SensitivityReviews.com
Hidden Gems
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Aspiring authors dream of writing a bestseller, but crafting a great book is just the beginning of a long journey to publishing success. Self-publishing requires not only talent and dedication, but also knowledge of the steps that take a book from idea to bestseller.
Amazon Bestselling author and podcaster Katelyn Silva understands these steps, having spent the last few years developing a repeatable system to take a book from idea, through publishing, and onto bestseller status. In today's episode, Katelyn sits down with Fully Booked to go over her process, covering everything from the essential foundations of story planning to the intricacies of launch plans and strategies.
While there is no single guaranteed path to success for any author or book, unless you understand all of the key steps along the way, you're much more likely to diverge into obscurity than find your way to the top of the charts.
Katelyn Silva
https://club.wewritebooks.com/
Hidden Gems
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In today's episode, we're excited to have returning guest, Inkers Con co-founder, and New York Times bestselling author Alessandra Torre share her expertise on Goodreads – the often-overlooked social media platform built specifically for books. While most authors may not see Goodreads as a key player like Twitter or Facebook, it's actually the best place for authors to connect with readers. With no other distractions or reasons to spend time there, Goodreads provides a unique space for authors to connect with their audience.
As Alessandra explains, the Goodreads platform can connect authors to both existing fans and new readers by allowing people to follow you, get notifications about activity related to your books, and even get emails announcing your new releases. All of this is free, although Alessandra also goes over some of the paid options and their worth, such as hosting giveaways.
But regardless of how you decide to use it, the Goodreads algorithm doesn't limit your reach based on how much you spend, which is yet another advantage it has over the other social sites. The best part is, all of this can be achieved through less than an hour a month spent on the site, which means there really is no excuse for continuing to overlook this valuable social media platform. If you do, you're missing out on a powerful tool that could help you reach and stay connected to a wider audience of fans.
Alessandra Torre
https://www.alessandratorre.com/
Hidden Gems
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For self-published authors, marketing and advertising expenses can be overwhelming, but not all book promotion options have to blow your budget. In this episode of Fully Booked, USA Today bestselling author Kyoko M shares her knowledge on the various ways of launching your book without spending a fortune.
Over the years of launching her own books, Kyoko has tried a variety of techniques and learned not only which ones work and which don't, but also whether they're budget friendly or will break the bank. Today she is sharing this knowledge on how to generate exposure for your work through promotional methods like blog tours, cover reveals, Goodreads giveaways, book trailers, guest posting, and a lot more.
Once you know what your options are, it's simply a matter of trying them out to determine which ones are most effective for you. Once you have that figured out, you can focus on the ones that work, bringing you to higher levels of success with each new release.
Kyoko M
https://shewhowritesmonsters.com/
Hidden Gems
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Authors tend to focus most of their marketing efforts on their newest releases, but just because a book is on your backlist doesn't mean it's lost any value. It may be older, but it's still brand new to millions of potential readers that have yet to discover it, and so it should be put to work for you just as hard as your latest novel.
That's exactly what USA Today bestselling author Golden Angel joins Fully Booked to discuss in today's episode. Golden Angel has been effectively promoting her older titles for years, and she's full of all sorts of tips and advice on how to keep your own backlist fresh and make sure those books continue to generate sales and find new fans.
From leveraging social media, tracking readthrough, rebranding and even book clubs, there are plenty of ideas here that can be used on older books that cost little or no money. So it's time to stop ignoring the words you wrote in the past, and optimize your marketing to monetize your entire catalog.
Golden Angel
https://www.goldenangelromance.com/
Hidden Gems
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When ChatGPT emerged, the world was introduced to AI beyond anything we'd seen before. However, despite its potential to disrupt and revolutionize our lives, many still fail to realize the benefits it can bring.
While the media often focuses on the ominous uses of AI for cheating or replacing human writers completely, the reality is that this technology is far more suited at improving or enhancing the writing experience. In this episode, Craig and Roland speak with Nathan Cole, an author and teacher who has been at the forefront of writing technology for years. Nathan breaks down how GPT AI works and shares his insights on the best writing services and techniques he's discovered so far.
These tools not only make writing novels faster and easier, but they can also assist with brainstorming and plotting. The key is learning how to craft the right prompts to achieve the desired results, and Nathan offers specific examples on how to do so. This episode is essential for writers to understand because GPT-based writing tools are here to stay. AI technology is going to advance very quickly, and authors who fail to get on board soon are in danger of being left behind completely.
Hidden Gems
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When it comes to writing and self-publishing, most authors are probably not very preoccupied with the idea of risk, or how it pertains to them. The fact is, though, that being a self-published author is essentially a business, and it's important that it be treated as such. That's why the concepts such as risk tolerance and risk capacity are so important, even if many of us don't even know what they mean!
Fortunately, today's guest, author and accountant D.F. Hart, is here to give us a deep dive on the concepts, and how they can impact your writing business. As she explains (with some great examples) most of your key writing and publishing decisions should be looked at from a risk tolerance and capacity perspective. In doing so, you'll find it much easier to make smart and informed decisions that maximize your profits and help you achieve your goals.
D.F. Hart
https://www.amazon.com/stores/D.F.-Hart/author/B004VBG4I6
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland sit down with Gothic Suspense author London Clarke to talk about the world of multi-genre fiction writing. Clarke, who has made a name for herself by seamlessly blending elements of horror, romance, and suspense in her work, shares her insights on the challenges and opportunities that come with this unique approach to storytelling. She discusses how she manages to keep the different genres cohesive and how she balances the demands of each one in her writing.
London also talks about the upsides and downsides of this approach, and how she built a following and connected with readers by remaining true to her storytelling vision. The conversation takes a deep dive into the creative process and the inspirations behind Clarke's work, as well as the hurdles she has faced along the way and how she overcame them.
London Clarkehttps://www.londonclarke.com/
Hidden GemsNeed our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
In this week's episode, Craig and Roland dive into the world of narrative perspective and explore the differences between first and third person writing. Joined by a very special guest, YA fiction author Courtney Brandt, the Fully Booked team examines the impact of point of view on the reader's experience and how it shapes the way a story is told.
From the intimacy of first person to the omniscience of third person, Courtney guides the discussion through the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective and how authors can use each of them to enhance their writing.
Courtney Brandt
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B002BLOXRM
Hidden Gems
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For authors, there are typically two schools of thought around writing a novel. Plotters are authors who prefer to carefully plan out every aspect of the story before putting pen to paper. Pantsers, on the other hand, prefer to let the story unfold organically as they write. The two approaches are essentially opposite ends of a spectrum, and while there are probably times when most authors are a little bit of both, there are many who identify very strongly as being on one side or the other.
But which side is right for you? That’s the question we attempt to answer in our Pantster vs Plotter Throwdown!
On the Pantser side, we have Danielle Stewart, a USA Today bestselling author who has written over 50 books without having plotted a single scene. On the plotter side, author Bethany Maines is almost as prolific, but uses butcher paper and spreadsheets to detail out her award-winning novels. Watch as the two authors verbally duke it out until one side cries mercy and changes their writing style forever… Just kidding, of course!
The fact is, there is no right or wrong in this debate - just two different styles that fit two different types of writing personality. So, if you haven’t yet settled on which approach works best for you, Danielle and Bethany lay out all the arguments to help you figure it out.
Danielle Stewart
https://authordaniellestewart.com/
Bethany Maines
https://bethanymaines.com/
Hidden Gems
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In this episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland dive into the world of short story writing. This week’s guest is KC Grifant, who writes internationally published horror, fantasy, science fiction and weird western short stories. She shares her insights and expertise on the ins and outs of the short story genre, tells us about the various outlets for publishing short stories, including literary magazines, anthologies, and online platforms, and also shares tips on how to increase your chances of getting your short stories accepted and published.
KC also talks about the financial side of short story writing, delves into the structure and technique of short story writing, and tells us how we can create a strong plot and well-developed characters even with a limited word count. This episode is a must-listen for any aspiring short story writer looking to take their craft to the next level.
KC Grifant
https://scifiwri.com/
Hidden Gems
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Mailing lists and newsletters are a great way to keep in touch with readers and even spark some helpful sales bumps whenever new releases are announced. However, some authors have taken things a step further in their quest to build out a more stable income stream. Subscription services, like those made popular by sites like Patreon, can provide a reliable monthly income that supplements books sales while also providing value and excitement to your dedicated fans.
Author K Webster has been running a membership club like this for over a year and has built up a healthy side income from her most loyal readers, all while keeping them happy with monthly exclusive extras like special signed hardcover editions of her books, character naming rights, and all sorts of branded swag. By offering diferent levels of rewards at a variety of pricing tiers, she's able to offer options to a variety of readers and keep everyone happy.
Today, she's talking to Fully Booked about what goes into running a membership club like this, the work involved, the lessons she's learned, and a whole bunch of ideas for what sorts of things readers enjoy. There's a lot of work involved in running a service like this - but for authors who are interested in doing it, the rewards can make it worthwhile for both them and their fans!
K Webster
https://authorkwebster.com/
Hidden Gems
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With Episode 52, Fully Booked marks an entire year of podcasting - and we have no plans on slowing down any time soon! To recognize the anniversary, Craig and Roland look back over the year and highlight a few of the episodes that were most memorable to each of them, as well as talk about some of the big things currently shaking up the industry, or that seem likely to have an impact on self-publishing in the near future. Topics include:
- Amazon attribution tags
- Amazon not allowing book sales from their mobile app (and why)
- How AI (like ChatGPT) can be used as a tool for authors now and in the future
Hidden Gems
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To write deep and engaging characters that readers can connect with, we must first create empathy. This is commonly done by giving those characters detailed backstories, sometimes filled with the same sort of difficult histories and traumas that we've faced within our own lives. To do so, however, authors have to tread carefully - ensuring that they’re handling these complex and potentially triggering issues as sensitively as possible, and that they understand them enough to write about them accurately, even if they lack personal experience in the specific issue relating to their character.
To understand the best ways to handle these types of topics, we've invited two subject-matter experts to the podcast. After writing A Soldier's Guide to PTSD, veteran and licensed professional counselor Virginia Cruse turned to USA Today bestselling author Katie Salidas for help on expanding her work to a wider audience. Through their partnership, the women were able to translate the more clinical or technical jargon into language that was easier to understand, eventually leading to the publication of Acknowledge and Heal: A Women-Focused Guide to Understanding PTSD.
In today's episode, Virginia and Katie help explain how understanding the "why behind the what" of our behavior (that is, how our past trauma and experience guide how we act) is the key to writing believable and engaging characters that connect with readers without scaring them away.
Virginia Cruse
https://militarycounselingsa.com/
Katie Salidas
https://www.katiesalidas.com/
Hidden Gems
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If you haven't tried it recently - or ever! - you might be surprised at how useful and effective dictation can be toward increasing your word count and productivity as an author. The AI that drives voice recognition systems has come a long way over the years and, as a result, most of today's technology comes pre-loaded with some sort of speech recognition without even having to pay for it. This means authors no longer need to even sit at a computer to create their stories.
USA Today bestselling author and longtime dictation software-user Kayla Perrin has a lot of experience using speech-to-text software to write her novels - and, as she explains to Craig and Roland, it isn't all about simply saving your wrists from carpal tunnel or to compensate for a slow typing speed. Kayla often uses the software to write on-the-go, while waiting for an appointment, or even while out walking the dog. Plus, the benefits extend beyond simple convenience, especially for authors who have a tendency to get bogged down by self-editing as they go. The nature of dictation software forces you to break that habit, allowing you to get through your all-important first draft much sooner. So even if you aren't interested in committing to using dictation software as your primary writing method, the versatility of the software and ubiquitousness of the devices that support it mean that some sort of hybrid approach could easily be incorporated into your routine and make you a more productive author.
Kayla Perrin
https://www.authorkaylaperrin.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
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Almost since the very day it was founded a decade ago, BookBub Featured Deals have been known as the Holy Grail of promotional newsletters for authors. Despite the high cost and difficulty of getting selected for inclusion, those that do get a spot generally see thousands of sales or downloads. This can be a massive boost to an author's career, which explains why the demand for these limited spots is so high and writer forums everywhere are littered with more tales of rejected applications than news of success.
Yet authors DO get selected, some multiple times, as is the case with today's guest. Juliette N. Banks has been publishing her romance novels for a couple of years now, and along with her experience and knowledge gained from spending three decades as a senior marketer, she's already had six BookBub Featured Deals. They, along with other marketing strategies, changed everything in her business, taking her from three figure earning months to five. And she's learned a lot along the way.
Juliette sat down with Fully Booked to talk about her experiences and share her insight with our listeners. She has some great tips on ways that authors can improve their chances of being selected in the first place, and then once they do, how best to maximize their ability to profit from the huge exposure to their featured book and overall catalog.
Juliette N. Banks
https://www.juliettebanks.com/
Hidden Gems
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Traditional publishers were once the gatekeepers - deciding exclusively which stories were worthy of publishing, and often only because they fit the mold of what they “thought” would sell. The beauty of self-publishing is that it transferred that power back where it belonged - to the readers themselves, who now had a chance to decide for themselves what they wanted to read. By allowing anyone to publish their stories, the marketplace gained a diversity of voices and flourished as previously unserved markets were finally offered content that interested them.
Just as the types of books that may interest people are varied, so are the paths to finding your audience and attaining success as an independent author. That's why we like to talk to different authors at various levels of success and points in their careers to hear how they did it. What are the steps they took? What are the lessons they learned along the way? What can we learn from them?
Today, fantasy author Rosalind Tate sits down to tell us her story. With 3 books under her belt, she admits to making some mistakes on her journey to self-publishing success, but also learned that the key to success is the time she took to figure out where she went wrong and come up with a plan to correct those mistakes. What worked for Rosalind may or may not work for everyone, but by learning about the variety of routes that others have followed toward their goals, more authors might find the confidence to try new things and discover their own paths to success.
Rosalind Tate
https://www.rosalindtate.com/
Hidden Gems
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In previous episodes, we've discussed the benefits authors earn by staying organized - a complicated enough task for the independent author, who needs to do so much more than simply write their books, and one that becomes even more complex with each new novel published.
Everybody has their preferences on how to keep track of everything, with ingenious authors creating systems that range from using handwritten notes to creating complex spreadsheets. However, there is one piece of software that today's guest believes is ideally suited for the task, and one she's become somewhat of an expert in using.
Microsoft's OneNote is part of the Office suite, which means that many of us probably already have the software installed, but have likely never even opened it. Yet author Abigail Owen makes a solid case for how it's the best option available for organizing and keeping track of not only your entire catalog of novels, but even your personal life! Today, Abigail sits down with Fully Booked to go through the different features of the software that she thinks are key to keeping your writing and publishing career organized, and even how to apply that organization to other aspects of your life.
Abigail Owen
https://abigailowen.com/2014/07/30/onenote-for-authors-getting-started/
Hidden Gems
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The dream of most authors is to one day have their book adapted into a movie or television show, but very few of us are fortunate enough to ever have that happen. Many people believe you need a mega-series that’s sold millions of copies before any production companies will consider optioning your work for the screen, but today’s guest proves this isn’t necessarily the case.
Long time independent romance author Alana Albertson already had a lot of success with her novels, but was never able to get a producer to even consider her work for film. Rather than continuing to wait to be ‘discovered’, Alana took matters into her own hands and figured out what she needed to do to make her dreams a reality. It wasn’t easy, though. The whole process spanned a couple of years, with many steps involved, and she found herself second-guessing many of her choices along the way. But it was all worth it in the end, as she eventually signed a deal to turn her new book into a multi-part series on a major streaming service, with options on future sequels.
Now that she can finally talk publicly about the whole process, Hidden Gems was Alana’s first stop. Today, she’s sitting with Craig and Roland to discuss everything that went into getting this deal done, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and even the elevator pitch that helped spark a bidding war amongst producers – all in the hopes that others can learn from what she went through and make their own dreams come true.
Alana Quintana Albertson
https://www.authoralanaalbertson.com/
Hidden Gems
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A lot of writers struggle with organizational skills, which can be a problem since keeping yourself organized and motivated is often the key to a successful career as a self-published author. That’s why learning tactics and strategies to help manage your time and focus your attention can be incredibly powerful.
So powerful, in fact, that author and public speaker Felice Cohen has become a ‘professional organizer’ and helps other authors conquer the organizational challenges she faced when starting out as a writer. Today, she joins Craig and Roland to discuss what she teaches struggling authors, and provide some actionable tips you can take advantage of right away.
Felice Cohen
https://www.felicecohen.com/
Hidden Gems
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Whether you’re writing epic fantasy like George R. R. Martin or a 12-book Small Town Romance series, it’s often challenging keeping up with a large cast of recurring characters - and avid readers are often all too eager to point out inconsistencies! That’s why it’s important to keep track of important biographical details for your characters, and remember all the events and relationships they have going on.
This is a challenge that romance author Anna J. Stewart is all too familiar with, and on today’s episode of Fully Booked she joins Craig and Roland to discuss how she manages to keep on top of all the characters in her multi-book series, and offer tips and suggestions on using tools like OneNote to make the whole process more manageable.
Anna J. Stewart
www.AuthorAnnaStewart.com
Hidden Gems
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Unless you’re already a subject matter expert, most books require some level of research. That may seem more obvious with non-fiction, but even many fiction novels require some level of knowledge that you may not already have. Maybe the book takes place in an unfamiliar setting or time period, or perhaps the characters have jobs or belong to organizations you aren’t completely familiar with. Whatever the case, details matter and while you may think that you can fudge some things, there are readers out there that will notice.
Collin Glavac spent a lot of time researching details for his thriller trilogy that was set in Latin America, and today he speaks with us about all of the different ways he went about that. Despite the fact that Collin’s father spent a lot of time traveling the area, there were still many aspects of the books that needed further study. Making sure he got things like local customs, language nuances, and other regional details right meant that he could really immerse his readers in the story instead of tripping them up when they noticed something that didn’t quite fit.
Collin Glavac
https://www.amazon.com/Collin-Glavac/e/B081YDNB9N
Hidden Gems
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Tastes and trends among readers change, but learning to pivot and adapt to an evolving marketplace doesn’t necessarily mean selling out. Paying attention to the market and what people are looking for is smart business, and a savvy self-publisher can find ways to appeal to what readers want while still remaining true to themselves as writers. That’s exactly what contemporary romance author Leah Busboom discovered when her first books initially failed to find the success she felt they deserved.
Today, Leah joins Craig and Roland to discuss how she used this experience as a tool to better understand her genre and subgenres. She explains how, after careful research, she came to realize the mistakes she’d made with her cover choices and the categories in which she’d marketed her books and was then able to not just write a new series of books that performed much better, but also republish her previous books in a format that appealed much more strongly to her target audience.
Leah Busboom
https://authorleahbusboom.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
In Episode 2 of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland were joined by audiobook narrator, producer, and author Karen White of Home Cooked Books. She piqued a significant amount of interest in the growing audiobook market, so today we welcome her back to discuss the second challenge authors face when turning their written word into spoken media - actually marketing their audiobooks!
In this discussion, Karen sets the groundwork for how to approach presenting, promoting, and eventually marketing your audiobooks - including rarely-discussed challenges like where to host them, and how to navigate the process of getting reviews. It’s a great listen for those dipping their toe into this exciting and expanding part of the industry.
Karen White
Home Cooked Books
https://www.homecookedbooks.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
In Episode 9 of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland spoke to two authors about the importance of Beta Readers. Today, we’re revisiting that topic with another special guest - J. L. Delozier, author of crime, mystery, and thriller novels, who not only relies on Beta Readers to polish her own books, but also Beta Reads books written by some of her colleagues.
This has given her a unique perspective on Beta Reading because she’s seen both sides of it - and in this podcast, J. L. Delozier will use that experience to explain how authors can get the most out of their Beta Readers and make the whole Beta Reading process more efficient and enjoyable. There’s a lot of great information in this episode, and it’s a must-listen for anybody considering hiring Beta Readers of their own.
J.L. Delozier
https://www.jldelozier.com/
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems offers a beta reading service which you can book right here: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/product/beta-reader-service/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Despite the fact that the popularity of self-publishing continues to grow, often at the expense of traditional publishers, there are still some authors who are on the fence about which option is right for them. Today, we address that dilemma by talking with J.B. Manas - an author who’d already been published by traditional publishers, but very deliberately chose to self-publish his latest work.
Jerry Manas, who writes fiction under the name J.B. Manas (and nonfiction under his full name), grew frustrated at the lack of creative control, long lead times, and increasingly less-justified royalty model one has to deal with when working with traditional publishers, not to mention their aversion to risk in today's market. Today, he sits down with Craig and Roland to detail all the reasons why he decided that self-publishing was a better alternative. This episode is packed with advice for authors who are on the fence about which publishing path to follow, and hopefully you’ll find it as valuable as we did.
J.B. Manas
https://jbmanas.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
As a semi-regular ongoing feature of Fully Booked, Hidden Gems covers news, issues or rumors that affect authors and publishing in general. Today, Craig and Roland are following up on a few issues we’ve previously discussed in blogs and on podcasts, plus one newly announced Amazon product.
- Amazon finally bows to industry pressures and announces planned changes designed to make their eBook return policy more restrictive and less likely to be abused
- Quick update to Vellum ePub kindle files – previous format issues have all been completely resolved.
- Quick update on Send to Kindle ePub support.
- Our thoughts on Kindle Scribe, the latest eReader device announced by Amazon that includes a stylus. Is this something people really want or need?
Original Blog about the Return Policy Issue https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/amazons-ebook-returns-process-abuse/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
When you’re trying to become a successful writer, one of the most important things you need to do is form a connection with your readers. The first step toward doing that is to really understand why people read and write in the first place, and then use what you learn to help improve your craft. At least, that’s what author and editor Peter Gelfan believes - our guest on today’s podcast.
Peter believes it’s because great books often do more than just tell a story. They can also impart knowledge in a way that resonates with people and sticks with them. After all, humans are the only creatures that can learn through second-hand or even third-hand knowledge. Our survival skills aren’t dependent on taking risks to gain experience, but rather on listening to a storyteller impart that knowledge to us through anecdotes and stories we can connect to.
Unfortunately, many authors do things that distract their readers from the message they’re trying to impart, weakening their story’s ability to really resonate and take hold in a reader’s mind. As a professional editor, Peter has seen many examples of this throughout his career, and spent years compiling a list of the most common issues and how best to help authors fix them. In today’s podcast, he explains a few of them.
Peter Gelfan
https://petergelfan.com/
Hurling words into darkness: A Book Doctor’s Dose of Brain Science for Writers https://www.amazon.com/dp/1955196672/?tag=hgbblog-20
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
There’s more to self-publishing than just writing. As a self-published author, writers are often forced to take on multiple different roles involved in marketing and selling the books they’ve written - and not every author is able or interested in that side of the industry.
For many writers, the idea of having somebody else take on the responsibility of publishing and marketing your book is really appealing, which is why the option of finding an independent publisher seems like a great option. Independent publishers straddle the gap between self and traditional publishing, offering more opportunities for new authors to see their books in print.
However, finding and being accepted by a reputable independent publisher comes with its own set of challenges. Given that anyone can call themselves an independent publisher means there are many stories of predatory companies seeking out naïve authors and taking advantage of them.
Author Daemon Manx fell victim to one of these disreputable companies when he started his journey as a writer - but instead of letting the bad experience disillusion him, he decided to start his own independent publishing company in order to do things the right way. Today, Daemon is here to not only tell us about his writing and publishing journey, but also to give us advice on what independent publishers can and can’t do for authors - and how to make sure you’re selecting one that isn’t going to just rip you off.
Daemon Manx
https://www.daemonmanx.com/
Last Waltz Publishing
https://www.lastwaltzpublishing.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Whether you’re writing a romance story or a thriller, your characters undoubtedly have goals - but how you communicate, escalate, and eventually let your characters achieve those goals (or fail to) often marks the difference between a well-written book and a great one.
Today’s returning guest is Alex Kourvo, author of No Hero Wants To Save The World. She joins Craig and Roland to make the case that all of the stakes in your books are life and death, regardless of your genre - and communicating that is what really makes a book memorable.
In a thriller, those stakes might literally be ‘life or death’ - but Alex argues that in other types of stories, life and death are equally at stake, just in a different way. That could mean anything from the death of a relationship to the destruction of a character’s standing in your community.
Alex has a lot of insight into the best (and worst) ways to go about doing it, and if you’re interested in taking your writing to the next level, there’s plenty you’ll learn in this discussion - not least of which is how “raising the stakes” keeps your readers not just invested in your current book, but also looking forward to how you raise the stakes in your next book as well.
Alex Kourvo
https://alexkourvo.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
There are few self-published authors who haven’t at least heard of Kindlepreneur, Publisher Rocket, and its creator, Dave Chesson. Obsessed with data, Dave helped democratize access to Amazon’s behind-the-scenes sales and marketing information when he created Publisher Rocket, and today it’s become one of the most talked-about and hotly-reviewed self-publishing software tools on the market.
But a tool is only useful if you know how to use it, and today Dave joins Craig and Roland to discuss just what independent authors can hope to get out of investing in Publisher Rocket, and all the different features and functions it provides - including many that have only just been added to the latest update (or are coming soon).
So, whether you’ve already got a copy of Publisher Rocket and want to get more out of it, or you’re thinking of buying it, take a listen and learn what you can expect.
Publisher Rocket
https://hiddengems--rocket.thrivecart.com/publisher-rocket/
Amazon Book Sales Calculator
https://kindlepreneur.com/amazon-kdp-sales-rank-calculator/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Using social media to market your books comes naturally for some authors - but for many others, it can feel like an absolute chore. After all, the goal should be using it to create a connection with your audience, which isn’t achieved by what so many of us do when we open an account for our pen name - which is generally just sending out the occasional post about our latest release.
Using social media effectively is tricky, which is why we invited Aimee Ravichandran to help us figure it all out. Aimee is the owner of Abundantly Social, an agency that specializes in helping authors master social media, which has quickly become a fairly essential ingredient in the recipe for self-publishing success. Aimee was full of all sorts of tips and helpful advice, such as knowing which of the social sites are a good fit for which type of author. That’s right, you don’t have to post to all of them!
So whether you’re new to all this social stuff, or think you have it all figured out, listening to this episode will help you on the road to getting the most out of all your posts, tweets and likes.
Aimee Ravichandran
https://abundantlysocial.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Just because you only speak one language doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself to only selling your book to other speakers of that language. Translating your book can be a great alternative income stream, but it’s not something that a lot of self-publishers have experience with. The reason for that may be because there are a lot of steps and costs involved in the process, and very places that really lay out how to get it all done.
That’s why we were excited to have author Lilian Monroe on with us. Lilian has gone through all of the steps needed to translate multiple books from English to German, and she’s in the process of translating her work into other languages as well. Not only did she take us through all the steps needed, but Lilian was also very upfront and open about the costs involved and how well the translations did for her in terms of sales. If you’re considering whether it’s time to start translating your books, or wondering how to get started, this is the podcast you’ll want to listen to!
Lilian Monroe https://www.lilianmonroe.com/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
If you think back across all of your favorite books and movies, it’s more likely that some of the great characters of those tales spring into your head faster than many of the grander plot details. Just as images of Darth Vader and Yoda are conjured up whenever we hear the words “Star Wars,” would “To Kill a Mockingbird” be so well-loved without the character of Atticus Finch? How many of us can recall the details of the mysteries he solved more vividly than the character of Sherlock Holmes himself? If you want your stories to be memorable, you’ve got to fill them with characters that readers can connect with. But how?
To answer that question, Author Melinda Curtis turned to psychology, studying the character traits that define a person, how they develop, and why they drive the decisions we make. Melinda then put what she learned into her book “Frankly, My Dear: Creating Unforgettable Characters”, and today she sits down with Fully Booked to go through some of the fundamentals. Because just like real people, our characters need a backstory, a set of conflicts, internal and external, that drive who they are and the decisions they make. If you get that right, you can transform your fictional characters from mere words on a page, to true three-dimensional people that live in the minds of your readers long after they’ve gotten to the end of your book.
Melinda Curtis https://www.melindacurtis.net/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Most people measure self-publishing success by number of copies sold, or total profit earned. That makes sense, especially if you write for a living or to support your family. It also explains why so much of the conventional advice given to new authors is geared towards those goals, such as studying your genre, writing to market, or using cover designs that will be familiar to your readers. It's a safer path to success, while still allowing you to eventually build up a fanbase that can act as a safety net later in your career, allowing you to then try out some of your riskier ideas.
Some authors, however, choose to take that riskier path right from the start – whether by accident or by choice. Terrance Layhew falls into the latter category. With a regular job that both pays his bills and provides ample writing time, Terrance recognized that he had the opportunity to take chances and do things differently right from his very first book. It’s not that he doesn’t dream of selling loads of copies or seeing his name at the top of the charts, but his livelihood doesn’t depend on it. And to some, being able to forge your own path without compromise can be just as satisfying as becoming an overnight bestseller is to others.
Terrance Layhew https://terrancelayhew.com/
Suit Up! Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/suit-up-with-terrance-layhew/id1524236505
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
The idea that publicists are only employed by traditional publishers to work with their authors and aren’t used by self-publishers is as outdated as the idea that only a traditionally published author can make a living as a writer. Publicists can and do work with independent authors, but the author still must understand what sort of benefits they offer and whether it is the right time in their career to hire one.
That’s the purpose behind today’s discussion with Mickey Mikkelson, founder of Creative Edge Publicity. Mickey helps both traditionally published and self-published authors build their brand and promote themselves as authors, and he’s here to lay out the details of everything a publicist can do for an author, how to pick the right publicist for you, and even give us an idea of what it might cost for the various services that they offer.
Mickey Mikkelson – Creative Edge Publicity https://www.creative-edge.services/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
It doesn’t matter how great your book is if you can’t get people to read it in the first place. Without a huge existing fanbase that buys whatever you publish, the best way to get people to try your book is to make sure it’s packaged the best way possible.
A strong cover is arguably the most important part of that package, and unfortunately many authors aren’t selling as many copies as they could be because their cover isn’t working for them.
In today’s episode of Fully Booked, we talk to Hidden Gems cover designer Nate Allison about why covers are so vital to selling books, what goes into a good cover (it’s not just about the pretty picture!) and what to look for in a designer if you’re hiring someone to produce your cover for you.
Nate Allison’s Cover Design Page
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/nate/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Here is one of the most difficult things to accept as a self-published author: You can write the best book in the world, but it won't make any difference unless it's packaged in a way that makes potential readers want to actually buy and read it.
That's a truth urban fantasy and paranormal author JP McLean had to accept when she tried marketing and advertising her books - but unlike many others, she acted on that information. Investing in new covers and blurbs written by our very own Ginger, JP McLean was able to double sales for her books.
In this week's podcast, JP joins Craig and Ginger to discuss how she came to this conclusion, the work it took to update her book details and republish her books, and the end result it had on her career as a self-published author. It's a fascinating discussion and one many struggling authors will find immensely valuable.
JP McLean https://jpmcleanauthor.com/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Most audiobook producers warn authors not to narrate their own books, and for good reason. It’s very easy to tell a professionally narrated and produced audiobook from a homemade one, and when done poorly, readers can be turned off from listening just as fast as a weak blurb or cover can turn them off from buying in the first place. But that doesn’t mean that it can’t be done. It just has to be done right.
Author Adrienne Giordano had a good reason for wanting to narrate her book, but with no experience with audiobook recording, she realized she would need some serious guidance. In this week’s podcast, Adrienne takes us through everything she went through and learned – from hiring a voice coach and booking a recording studio, to whether doing it all herself ended up saving or costing her money.
Recording your own audiobook isn’t for most authors, but it can be done successfully if you’re motivated enough to take it seriously and understand that there is much more to it than simply turning on your home microphone and reading your book out loud.
Adrienne Giordano
https://www.adriennegiordano.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Most authors are aware of the need to hire a good editor to work on their book once it’s finished, or to recruit Beta Readers to look over an early draft. However, sometimes it’s better to get help even sooner than that. A book coach works with an author early in the writing process, sometimes even before they’ve put down their very first words. With many tools at their disposal, coaches can help guide authors towards success in a variety of ways, such as serving as a sounding board for ideas, working as an accountability partner, or even helping to design a blueprint or outline for your book.
As a certified non-fiction book coach, author Amy Bernstein takes a holistic approach to helping authors improve their books and realize more success. In today’s episode, Amy stops by Fully Booked to chat with us about everything a book coach can do for authors, the differences between fiction and non-fiction
book coaching, and how to determine whether or not a book coach is right for you.
Amy Bernstein's Author Website
https://amywrites.live/
Amy Bernstein's Book Coaching Website
http://wordfirstbookcoach.com
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
In the past, Fully Booked has covered the idea of Going Wide, meaning selling your books on a variety of online storefronts instead of being exclusive to just one. However, another alternative to expanding your reach would be to sign on with a traditional publisher and have your books distributed by them.
Of course, it’s not always as easy as that. Unlike self-publishing, where anyone can publish a book on their own in a very short period of time, the traditional publishing process has many steps and hurdles to overcome. That’s why we asked Tudor Robins and Mara Shatat to speak with us today, as these two authors have experience with both traditional and self-publishing, and even mentor other authors in how to muddle through it all.
Together, Mara and Tudor take us through what goes into trad publishing, the pros and cons, landing an agent and making deals, and even who it’s right for in the first place.
Mara Shatat
www.marashatat.com
www.maradabrishus.com
Tudor Robins
https://www.tudorrobins.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
One of the best things about writing is that you can do it from anywhere and on your own schedule. Taken to the extreme, that means you can even do it from a boat in the middle of the ocean while travelling around the world!
But believe it or not, that’s exactly how today’s guest lives her life. For the last few years, romance author Liz Alden and her husband have been sailing the seas, visiting exotic locales that most of us only read about, and using that first-hand experience as the backdrop of her successful series of romance novels.
In this episode, Craig and Roland ask all about how she found herself living this hard-to-believe life, and how she balances her adventures with the practicality of finding time to write, getting a reliable Internet connection, and building her career as an author.
Liz Alden
https://www.lizalden.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
When it comes to writing, the worlds you spawn from your imagination, the characters you create, and the series you bring to life are all part of your Intellectual Property (IP) and are very important to both your career and your brand. However, just because you were the first one to create or publish your works doesn’t mean they’re automatically protected from copycats (intentional or otherwise). In fact, publishing first didn’t even protect this week’s guest from being the one accused of being a copycat!
Brian Sachetta, a blogger and author/owner of Get Out Of Your Head™, tells a cautionary tale that may sound more like a horror story to many of us authors - but Brian’s story is not an isolated incident, and he’s eager to share with Fully Booked all the things he wished he’d done differently during his ordeal, including registering a trademark, in the hopes that he can help other authors avoid going through what he had to endure by thinking seriously about protecting their IP.
Brian Sachetta
https://getoutofyourhead.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Erin Wright is back to continue our previous discussion about the various ways of marketing your books when you publish on storefronts beyond just Amazon. Many of the online bookstores have their own in-house promotions that can be taken advantage of, and some of them can provide a big boost to your book sales. The problem is that most authors don’t even know about them, because many of them are hidden unless you specifically ask for them to be added to your author account! And even then, there may be some hoops you have to jump through…
Luckily, Erin knows all about these promotions, and this episode is chock full of the secrets you need to unlock them on your own accounts. So if you are an author who publishes wide and don’t already know about all of the promotions that sites like Google, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple have to offer, this is not an episode you can afford to miss!
Erin Wright:
https://erinwright.net/
Wide for the Win Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/wideforthewin
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Some authors think that in order to publish a book, there are just three simple steps: Write. Edit. Publish. However, there's actually a whole step between writing and editing that sometimes gets forgotten, overlooked, or just not taken seriously enough by a lot of fledgling writers, and that step is revision.
Author and developmental editor Alex Kourvo understands how important the revision process is, and how it shouldn’t be ignored or treated as an afterthought. That’s why she wrote The Big-Picture Revision Checklist, as a way of helping authors keep from being overwhelmed during this sometimes daunting process. Today she sits down with Fully Booked to discuss why it is so important to take a step back and look at your book as a whole when trying to determine what needs to be revised, and the best way to tackle the whole process in general.
Alex Kourvo
https://alexkourvo.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Many self-employed people dream of having a “family business”, but you don’t hear about it quite as often when it comes to authors. In those rare cases that it does happen, it is often a husband and wife co-writing team, but when it comes to Bill and Mia Belew, it’s a father daughter duo.
Mia is only 14, but she’s an avid reader and deeply involved in the process of creating the stories and characters for the Upper Middle Grade books that she and her father, Bill, create. Today they’re sitting down with Craig and Roland to discuss how and why they do it, besides the obvious benefit of just getting to spend some quality time together. We get into everything from where they get their ideas, what their goals were in starting this journey, the routes they’ve traveled to find their audiences and gain success, and where they hope it will all end up.
Mia & Bill Belews’ Growing Up Aimi series
Website: https://growingupaimi.com/
On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086QZPNF2
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
After two years of social distancing, one of the things many of us are most excited about is meeting with our peers at events - and writers are no exception. Writing conferences are back in a big way in 2022, both in person and digitally, including one of the best-known and most-talked-about: Inkers Con.
The mind behind Inkers Con is New York Times best-selling author Alessandra Torre, who joined Craig and Roland to discuss the benefit authors can get from writers' conferences in general, and some of the history and details of Inkers Con specifically. Find out how her first conference experience changed the trajectory of her career, and what Inkers Con does differently versus other conferences.
Inkers Con Website: https://www.inkerscon.com/
Alessandra Torre https://www.alessandratorre.com/
Hidden Gems Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
There are plenty of advantages for authors writing within a shared fictional universe, such as expanding their individual audiences, collaborating on new ideas and characters, sharing common costs, etc. But there are many challenges as well.
Everyone needs to keep their timelines straight, plan and coordinate major world/story events, and stay on top of all of the other shared details so that they don’t introduce any inconsistencies that will not only affect their own story, but those of their collaborators.
Authors Kathy Fawcett (writing as K.M. Fawcett), Jen Talty, and Stacey Wilk have created the Candlewood Falls series, each writing novels that take place in the same small town. Together, they’re a dozen books in and today they’re talking with Fully Booked about everything that’s gone into making this whole thing work so successfully.
The Candlewood Falls Series: https://www.amazon.com/Candlewood-Falls/e/B0965TRR8B
Stacey Wilk: http://www.staceywilk.com/
K.M. Fawcett https://kmfawcett.com/
Jen Talty https://jentalty.com/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Writing is often described as a craft, not an art, and the most successful writers are those who constantly hone that craft. To that end, we're excited to welcome Stefan Emunds to this week's episode of Fully Booked to discuss what he learned during his journey to becoming a writer.
After struggling initially to find success with his visionary fiction books, Stefan went back to the drawing board and studied fiction writing from the ground up - identifying the "Eight Crafts" essential for grabbing a reader's attention and getting them invested in your character's journey. In fact, Stefan became so well versed in the subject that he wrote a book about these crafts, and teaches a course about them as well. In this podcast, Craig and Roland ask Stefan to give a high-level explanation of what these "crafts" are and talk about the transformative effect they can have on the stories you tell.
Stefan Emunds
The Eight Crafts of Writing: https://www.amazon.com/Eight-Crafts-Writing-Map-Storytelling-ebook/dp/B097N9Q6QH
Website: https://www.eightcrafts.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
If you publish on Amazon, then you probably think that paid ads are the best way to market your book. When it comes to selling your eBook elsewhere, though, it’s all about newsletters! Wide-publishing expert Erin Wright is back, this time to talk about how to effectively market books that are sold on multiple online storefronts.
In fact, even if you aren’t publishing wide, this episode is one you don’t want to miss because it’s packed with all sorts of useful statistics, information and tips about how to get the most out of both the newsletters you advertise on and your own! Erin goes into detail on how to improve your sales, open rates, build reader loyalty, run effective giveaways and so much more.
Erin Wright: https://erinwright.net/
Wide for the Win Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wideforthewin
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
What is it that makes romance such a popular genre among readers? The genre is massive, made up of countless sub-categories that allow for a wide variety of stories to be told, but the most popular of them usually conform to certain tropes or norms that tie the genre together. It’s important for authors to understand what it is that makes romance novels work for readers, and who better to discuss that with than NYT and USA Today bestselling author Krista Lakes.
Krista has been writing successful and very popular billionaire romance for years, and she has a plenty of insight into not only that particular category, but in what makes romance stories work in general.
Krista Lakes http://kristalakes.com/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
As a semi-regular ongoing feature of Fully Booked, Hidden Gems will cover news, issues or rumors that affect authors and publishing in general. In the first episode of this series, Craig and Roland discuss three separate issues.
- Amazon ads for traditional published authors – In a recent blog post, Roland posted about how Amazon’s ad platform has recently opened up to authors of books that were published by traditional publishers and what it may mean for traditional publishing. There were a few comments on that blog from readers that disagreed with his take, so we discuss the issue and Craig gives his thoughts.
- Read and return controversy – Recently, a battle has been waging between authors and some TikTok users that are urging readers to return their eBooks for a refund after having read them. We discuss this issue in detail as well as give our take on both sides of the argument and what, if anything, should be done about it.
- Amazon product page changes – Amazon is constantly tinkering with their product pages, making it harder for authors to know where the info is coming from, and thus potentially losing a rich source of advertising information.
Links
Original HG Amazon ad blog post with comments:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/amazon-delivers-blow-traditional-publishers/
One article about the read and return issue, and the change.org petition:
https://medium.com/lets-write/this-new-tiktok-trend-is-damaging-your-favorite-authors-47817bd7c1f6 https://www.change.org/p/change-amazon-return-policies-for-completed-e-books-protect-authors-from-theft
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/ All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Despite receiving numerous rejection slips and even a warning from the producers of the James Bond movies themselves, menswear aficionados Peter Brooker and Matt Spaiser nevertheless spent five years bringing their book "From Tailors with Love" to bookshelves worldwide.
If you've been working on your own literary passion project and want some inspiration, you'll get a lot from listening to Matt and Pete explain how they navigated the challenges of writing a loving homage to a copyrighted franchise.
Peter Brooker https://fromtailorswithlove.co.uk/
Matt Spaiser https://www.bondsuits.com/
Hidden Gems Hidden Gems offers a beta reading service which you can book right here: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/product/beta-reader-service/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
When it comes to sheer productivity, it’s hard to find someone that gets more done than Bradley Charbonneau. He spent years writing every single day, hosting multiple podcasts, running courses and events, and publishing a multitude of books. If there is anyone to look to for advice about breaking down the barriers that are preventing you from writing, it’s him.
This week, Bradley sits down with Fully Booked to go through some of the tactics he’s found to keep those creative juices flowing. It’s a fun and lively discussion with plenty of ideas for not only established authors to try, but even as motivation for those want-to-be writers that have been sitting on the sidelines, dreaming of getting started as they wait for their “someday” to come along.
Bradley Charbonneau
https://bradleycharbonneau.com/
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems offers a beta reading service which you can book right here: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/product/beta-reader-service/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
The idea of “Going Wide” refers to making your books available from a variety of sources instead of limiting them to only a single vendor. Many authors agree to exclusivity deals without really understanding what it is they’re giving up, such as allowing their eBooks to be available from libraries, or even being eligible to be included in some of the biggest bestseller lists like those from the New York Times or USA Today.
Erin Wright runs the biggest online Facebook group for authors that publish wide, with over 11,000 members, which is why she’s the go-to expert on the subject. Today, she sits down with Fully Booked to discuss what it means to go wide, what the benefits and options are, who should or shouldn’t do it, and so much more.
Erin Wright:
https://erinwright.net/
Wide for the Win Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/wideforthewin
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems offers a beta reading service which you can book right here:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/product/beta-reader-service/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Whether you’re a new author or a seasoned pro, it never hurts to have a fresh and unbiased assessment of your story, BEFORE it gets published or into the hands of reviewers. Beta readers familiar with your genre can give valuable feedback on common and expected tropes, plot, characterization, or pacing.
But they can be used even more specifically when needed, such as by choosing readers that fall within the specific demographics of your target audience, or from those with the unique knowledge to comment on how you may have handled any potentially sensitive topics that your story deals with.
Today, Fully Booked talks with authors Helen Yeomans and Lisa M. Lilly, both of whom have used beta readers for years and from a variety of sources. Together, we dive into this topic to give some answers to questions such as who does or doesn’t make a good beta reader, how they work, where they can be found, how many you need, and even thoughts on how to decide which suggestions, if any, should lead to changes in your book.
Lisa M. Lilly
https://lisalilly.com/
Helen Yeomans
https://www.helenyeomans.com/
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems offers a beta reading service which you can book right here:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/product/beta-reader-service/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Breaking content into parts that can be sold, distributed and consumed on a schedule isn’t a new idea. We see it on television all the time, where we’ve become accustomed to waiting a week between new episodes of our favorite shows.
Fiction has been doing it for even longer, with Charles Dickens often credited with writing the first serialized novel (The Pickwick Papers). But recently, novel serialization has exploded in popularity through a number of companies that began to deliver content in this format and finding huge audiences happy to consume it. The popularity has led to a number of very expensive acquisitions in the space, to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars, and the entry of a new and very big player in Amazon and their creation of Vella.
Author/Publisher/Marketer Sean Zirconia has been publishing in this space for a while, and has experience with a number of the options available. Today he sits down with Fully Booked to take us through who can benefit most from this model, how they earn money, how your books get marketed on them, and even some of the pros and cons of the different platforms available.
Krista Lakes (Sean’s wife)
https://www.amazon.com/Krista-Lakes/e/B00AW3NJTY
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Whether you need help with social media, book formatting, mailing list setup and automation, or any number of other things, a versatile author assistant has a range of skills and tools that allow them to take over not just the tasks an author doesn’t have time for, but even the ones they either don’t enjoy doing or don’t have the knowledge to handle themselves.
Erin Tolbert has worked as an author assistant for years, and today she sits down with Fully Booked to go through all of the things that she or her peers can help with, an idea of how much you can expect to pay, and even provide tips on what to look for when you hire them.
So whether you need an assistant on a continual basis, for one-time tasks, or even just to get you organized, the sooner you get the help you need, the quicker you can get back to the part of being a self-publisher that actually earns you money – writing your next book.
Erin Tolbert
https://www.etolbert.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Writing books is one way that authors can earn a living, but these days there are plenty of other alternatives available as well.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro that just wants to take a break from writing novels, a new author that isn’t sure you’re ready to write an entire book, or even if you simply want to try something new, there are plenty of reasons and options for branching out creatively while still getting paid.
Author Naomi Bellina has experimented with a variety of non-traditional writing paths, and she sits down with Fully Booked to deliver all the details. From interactive gaming and visual novels, to professional blogging and greeting card writing, Naomi is either familiar with it or has tried it herself.
Find out what works and what doesn’t, the pros and the cons, and what options are available to authors looking to build new audiences and revenue streams by going beyond traditional books.
Naomi Bellina
https://www.naomibellina.com/
https://www.naomibergner.com/
Hidden Gems
Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Many authors write their books first, and then struggle to identify who the audience for it is and how to reach them. Author Gail Z. Martin found success by reversing this process, identifying the key elements and tropes that made one of her favorite shows, Supernatural, so successful and then using those same elements in her own original works. This allowed her to connect with the audience for that show through their shared passion, and allowed her to offer them something unique, yet comfortably familiar.
Even though Gail had been publishing and building her audience for years prior, building this separate series and publishing it under a completely new pen name gave her a big advantage when it came to marketing and advertising it, because she already knew exactly who the audience for it was and where to find them.
There is much to learn from Gail’s story about how she found her tribe – a group of people that share similar interests and tastes – because having a strong connection to your audience is one of the most important factors in selling your book.
Gail Z. Martin: www.GailZMartin.com
Morgan Brice: https://morganbrice.com/
ConTinual: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ConTinual/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
Advertising your book is one of the trickiest things for a self-publisher. Do it wrong, and your ad spend can easily outpace your sales. But when you get it right, you can take your career to the next level and beyond.
Paranormal cozy mystery writer Trixie Silvertale did just that, and she sits down with us from her writing retreat in Mexico to share the story of just how she made it all happen. Her catalogue was earning $200 a month before she got serious with ads, but now consistently brings in many thousand. This is a tale lined with silver that no author should skip, because Trixie speaks frankly about her numbers and the self-awareness, market research and experimentation that led to where she is now. And the best part is, through her careful monitoring and tweaking of her ad performance, she saw results quickly, and never had to risk everything to make it happen.
Trixie Silvertale
http://trixiesilvertale.com/
Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
All episode details and links:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast
If you’re an author still on the fence about Tiktok, you won’t want to miss this episode. Bestselling author Jennifer Millikin stops by to share her incredible story of how Tiktok changed her career, literally overnight. Jennifer’s video had over 14 million views, turned a 4-year-old book into a bestseller, and even led to it being optioned for a movie/tv deal.
Self-published authors should never be afraid to experiment with new ways to market their books, especially because that often means putting your book in front of a brand new audience. Tiktok may have started off as a way for kids to waste time watching silly videos, but has matured into a platform that authors can no longer afford to ignore. Readers have embraced the platform, creating a massive #booktok community that can not only improve your sales, but potentially change your fortune overnight.
Jennifer Millikin
https://www.jennifermillikinwrites.com/
Jen’s famous TikTok video:
https://www.tiktok.com/@authorjenmill/video/6946330855946194181
Authors seeking to capture the attention of readers more interested in listening to a book than turning pages may be surprised at all that goes into audiobooks. There’s plenty more to it than simply reading your book into a microphone and selling it.
There are plenty of things to consider, which is why we turned to two seasoned audiobook narrators and producers to help us navigate the sea of questions and decisions that an author needs to make.
Sarah Goer and Karen White walk us through all the factors that authors need to consider when beginning their audiobook journey, such as:
- When is the right time in your career to start creating audiobooks?
- Deciding whether to do it yourself or simply sell the rights to a company to do for you?
- If doing it yourself, what goes into that?
- Do you need to hire narrators and producers?
- What benefit do you get from them?
- And plenty more!
Sarah Goer https://www.sarahbethgoer.com/
Karen White https://karenwhiteaudiobooks.com/
Looking for some help publishing or marketing your book? Check out all the ways Hidden Gems can assist you here: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
In this first episode of the Hidden Gems Author Podcast, Craig Tuch and Roland Hulme discuss the purpose and goals of this podcast, a bit about the author services company Hidden Gems itself, and then dive into a discussion about one of the most important topics to authors in general: Book reviews.
There are ways to position your book to get good ones, but even the best books end up with some negative ones. We discuss why those bad reviews aren’t always as “bad” as authors fear and what they might mean, what can be done about them, and even how they can be used to improve our books going forward.
Looking for some help publishing and marketing your book? Check out all the ways we can help you here:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/
Are you a reader that loves leaving Amazon reviews and getting free books? Then you’re in luck! Sign up to the Hidden Gems ARC program for an endless supply of free books of all genres:
https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/genre-landing-page/?referral=HGPod1