Plotting a novel before writing it isn’t a part of everyone’s process. However, determining the structure of a story is vital for every author, whether a plotter or a “pantser.” Without a solid structure, a story will lose a reader, no matter how compelling...

Film can be an extraordinary vehicle to learn about storytelling says award-winning author and film critic Sam Staley (SR Staley). Screenwriters have the challenging job of telling a comprehensive story within a specific structure and set amount of...

The process of getting your work published can be confusing and overwhelming. There are many paths available to authors today, and a large amount of publishing companies and service providers, some more reputable than others. Per author AJ Baker, he...

To leverage a speaking engagement to its fullest effect, you need to back it up with some follow-up tasks. To do this, you have to grab data during your engagements. A beautiful signature book is a nice touch. Low tech works here. Collect names and email...

Novels follow rhythms. Some are slow and sensual. Others are rip-roaring reads. This underlying rhythm within the novel is called pacing. Chapters, scenes, paragraphs, sentences and word choices all affect pacing. These choices determine how fast a book...

This webinar with freelance publicist and communications professional Lindsey Gobel reviews what an author can expect from working with a literary publicist, as well as detailed examples of what is involved in a publicity campaign. Gobel talks about...

Many novice writers think they don’t need to worry about submitting their manuscripts to agents and publishers until they are done. This is not true. In fact, the earlier you know what distinguishes a publishable manuscript, the better. In this session...

You've identified your target audience. Good for you! This group of readers is most likely to buy your book. Now it's time to think outside the box by choosing your secondary audience. This group of readers will likely buy your book. They will have different...

As an Indie author, I walk away from New York City and the largest book industry trade show in North America feeling pretty good. The mood was positive, and there was plenty of room for both independently and traditionally published authors. Of course...