Book Writing & Publishing

The debate over whether to use AI (and how much) to write books is endless (truly). I, for one, choose not to use it when writing my books. I actually enjoy conjuring a great way to express that it feels like the world is ending (though I may use it to create a deserted island itinerary quite shortly!).

But something I do use AI for as an author and business owner? Jogging my creativity when it comes to new topics I could speak to or fun ways to engage fellow writers and attract new followers who I can begin to build a relationship with.  

(I also recently asked ChatGPT what it could tell me about myself based on my queries to date. I didn't love how accurate its response was!)

Here's a prompt I've continued to hone to help it become more and more specific (i.e., provide me with better and better ideas) in suggesting fun ideas for my social media content.

Of course, they aren't all winners. And of course, I still modify them so they're more in my voice. But getting the ball rolling...

Keywords: they either fascinate you or they're the bane of your existence. 

For me, it's the second. 

Which is why I'm so excited to bring you this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast with guest Dave Chesson, creator of Kindlepreneur, where we do an in-depth exploration of the significance of keywords and categories when it comes to a book's success on Amazon. 

We discuss strategies for choosing keywords that maximize book discoverability and allow you to run effective Amazon ads, as well as best practices for connecting with your ideal readers.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

 • Understanding the profound role of keywords in discoverability
• Strategies for optimizing Amazon ads based on keyword effectiveness
• Common misconceptions surrounding keywords
• The necessity of consistent sales patterns for enhanced visibility
• Insights on crafting compelling book descriptions for better conversion rates

CLICK HERE FOR THE SPECIAL DEAL ON PUBLISHER ROCKET ($30 off when you purchase, pl...

I’ve worked with countless authors who've asked the same question: “Do I really need a website?” (followed shortly by "Will I have to shell out $25K for it? 'Cuz that ain't happening!").

The short answers are yes, you need a website. And no, you absolutely do not have to shell out $25K (or anywhere near that) to have a great one. 

Now, before you roll your eyes and mentally add it to your never-ending to-do list, let me explain why having an author website (or at least a stellar book page on your already-existing website) can be one of your most powerful author assets.

Why a Website Is Necessary for Authors

In the same way that your email list is your home base for communicating with your readers, your website is your home base for your overall online presence. It’s the one place where you have complete control over how you present yourself and your book(s). Social media platforms come and go, and algorithms are constantly shifting. But your website, like your email list, is yours....

In this episode, I speak with the legendary Jenn Hanson-dePaula about strategies authors are using today to promote their books. 

Learn how to create content that resonates with your target readers and get greater clarity on the vital role of empathy in crafting messages that engage readers across genres—from fiction to nonfiction to poetry to memoir. 

We also unravel the complexities of platforms like Substack and the impact of AI on content creation, offering practical advice for maintaining authenticity while leveraging time-saving new technologies.

Finally, discover how focusing on building a dedicated core fan base can revolutionize your marketing efforts, rather than chasing after a massive audience. 

With actionable tips and a fresh perspective on the role of algorithms, you'll be inspired to enhance your book marketing strategy and connect more authentically with your audience as we head into 2025!

About Jenn

Jenn is a marketing and social media expert who has been working w...

Want the insider secrets to creating book events that actually sell books and build superfans? This episode is your masterclass!

I'm joined by the absolutely magnetic Traci Thomas, host of The Stacks podcast and literary event connoisseur, for a conversation that's packed with actionable insights for authors at every stage. If you've ever wondered how to transform your book events from awkward readings to memorable experiences that drive real connection (and sales!), you'll want to grab your notebook for this one.

We dive deep into:

• The massive mistakes many authors make at their events (and how to avoid them!)
• Why the traditional publisher-author relationship is broken (and what to do about it)
• Traci's genius strategies for building genuine reader relationships
• How to leverage your unique story and personality to ensure an unforgettable events
• An author event framework Traci loves for driving book sales and engagement

Whether you're launching your debut or working on bo...

Emma Grey is the Australian author of the international bestseller, THE LAST LOVE NOTE, which was both a Book of the Month and Target Book Club pick, and was praised in Oprah Daily as “relatable, hilarious and charming".

She’s back this November with her new novel, PICTURES OF YOU — a suspense-filled romance about love and control that explores the way a sparkling relationship can morph into darkness and what might happen with a second chance at first love.

In her second appearance on the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, we chatted about Emma's experiences with prologues, her collaborative work with editors (from different countries, no less), and the evolution of her book-writing process. She also reflects on the challenges of writing a second novel after the success of her first, emphasizing the importance of pushing through the "messy first draft."

CONNECT WITH EMMA

Emma's website: www.emmagrey.com.au
Emma's Instagram: instagram.com/emmagreyauthor
Click here to order The Last L...

As the Founder and CEO of Kathleen Schmidt Public Relations, Kathleen is a well- respected voice in book publishing with in-depth experience in all aspects of the industry, including as a publicist, literary agent, acquisitions editor, and ghostwriter. 

Her career encompasses 30 years of creating and directing impactful and strategic global media, marketing, and branding campaigns for politicians, A-List celebrities, athletes, and high-profile personalities. 

To date, she has worked on 50 New York Times bestsellers, and her clients have continuously appeared in top-tier national print, broadcast, and radio outlets such as The Today Show, Good Morning America, Vogue, Elle, Financial Times, Vanity Fair, GQ, and Sirius XM.

I was thrilled to chat with her about her perspective on book publishing as well as the rise in indie author opportunities.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

• Navigating the current negativity/collective rut in book publishing 
• The truth about bookstore distribution today (inclu
...

Donna Norman-Carbone's second novel, Of Lies and Honey, just launched (April 24, 2024, Red Adept Publishing), and it was wonderful to have her on as a repeat guest.

Her first novel, All That Is Sacred, came out less than a year ago (June 2023, Red Adept Publishing), and chatting about the differences between book 1 and book 2 proved as fun and insightful as I knew it would! 

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

• The biggest differences between the first launch and the second (including the task she full-on forgot to do when launching the first book!)
• How Donna navigates looking at sales numbers and reviews
• Using NetGalley for reviews: the benefit of being with a smaller publisher versus a Big 5 publisher 
• The admission that made me question whether Donna and I could be friends (yes, that’s clickbait.)
• The challenge of writing back cover copy/book jacket summary
• Donna's strategy for ensuring she doesn’t get “stuck” while writing a book

ABOUT DONNA

Donna Norman-Carbone's debut novel, All Th...

Key Takeaways:

• It's important to give yourself permission to try different approaches and strategies when writing and publishing a book.

• Don't feel pressured to follow the advice of others if it doesn't align with your goals or preferences.

• Consistency and courage are key to finding success in your writing journey.

Introduction

In this episode of the Write the Damn Book Already podcast, we discuss the importance of giving yourself permission to do what feels right for your book, regardless of the advice and opinions of others. Let's dive in and explore the power of embracing your own path.

Embracing Your Unique Approach

In the world of book writing and publishing, there is no shortage of advice and opinions on the "right" way to do things. From running ads to choosing the perfect marketing strategy, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the sea of recommendations. However, it's crucial to remember that what works for one person may not work for anot...