In the indie publishing, Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) play a pivotal role in the pre-launch phase of a book. They help generate buzz, secure early reviews, and gauge reader reception. However, both ARC readers and authors must navigate this process with a clear understanding of expectations and etiquette to ensure it benefits both parties. Expectations for ARC Readers ARC readers are invaluable to authors, providing early feedback and generating momentum for upcoming releases. Here are key points every ARC reader should consider: Understand the Format: Typically, ARC readers should not expect ..read more

Navigating the world of website hosting can be daunting, but it’s a crucial step in establishing your digital presence as an author. I simplify this process for you, ensuring that your website not only goes live but thrives online. Registering and Owning Your Domain The first step in your web hosting journey is registering a domain name. This unique address on the internet will represent your brand and help readers find you easily. Registering a domain involves selecting a name that reflects your author brand and paying an annual fee to maintain ownership. This domain is your own corner on the ..read more

When you first consider building a website with WordPress, it might seem like there’s only one WordPress. However, it’s crucial to recognize that there are two distinct platforms: WordPress.com and WordPress.org. Each serves different needs, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your site’s functionality, freedom, and ability to grow alongside your authorial career. What’s the Difference Between WordPress.com and WordPress.org? WordPress.com is a hosted service—it’s user-friendly and great for beginners. It manages all the hosting hassles, but this ease comes with limitations. De ..read more

Reentering the indie publishing world after a hiatus can feel like navigating a whole new landscape. As someone who partners closely with authors to amplify their presence and readership, I’ve gathered insights that might help demystify this environment, making your comeback—or debut—as smooth as possible. TikTok and Indie Publishing: A Tactical Approach While TikTok’s influence in the book world is undeniable, its suitability for direct author promotion is limited. The platform’s algorithm typically does not favor self-promotion. Instead of pouring resources into multiple daily posts, a more ..read more

It’s been a day. It all started at 3 am, and with less than 3 hours of sleep, it’s felt like a non-stop cycle of what can go wrong, has gone wrong. Rejection. Feeling undervalued. Confrontation. Exhaustion. Here I am, lying down, feeling a mix of dejection and fragility. In just the last 10 minutes, I’ve caught myself wondering why I’m even bothering to try. This is miles away from the ambitious dreamer I usually am. This year kicked off with a dream for me. A dream to make this little author business of mine a full-time gig. I dreamed about how proud I’d feel to bet on myself—to believe in me ..read more

I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce you to the talented indie romance author, K. Iwancio, who’s here to shine in the spotlight today. In this exclusive interview, we’ll dive deep into K. Iwancio’s remarkable journey, from her early days of writing in 1st grade to her journey as a published indie author. Get ready to hear about the inspiration behind her latest release, “Bed… and Breakfast,” a captivating romance novel with a unique twist. We’ll  also explore her creative process, the emotions that drive her characters, and her experiences across various writing genres ..read more

If you love books as much as I do, you’ll know how special they can be. They can take us on adventures, teach us new things, and provide us with endless hours of entertainment. So why not take that love of books and turn it into some creative book-inspired crafts? Here are some fun and easy ideas to get you started: Book Page Wreath This craft is a beautiful way to repurpose old book pages and create a unique decoration for your home. To make a book page wreath, all you need is a foam wreath form, some book pages, and a glue gun. Simply cut the book pages into strips, then glue them onto the w ..read more

Colleen Hoover is a bestselling author known for her contemporary romance novels that are heart-wrenching and emotional. Her novels are known for their raw honesty, flawed characters, and unexpected twists. If you’re a fan of Colleen Hoover’s work, here are some authors you may also enjoy. Taylor Jenkins Reid Jenkins Reid is a talented author known for her ability to create deeply emotional and engaging stories. Her books often explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, and are filled with complex characters who feel incredibly real. If you enjoyed Colleen Hoover’s “It Ends With Us” or ..read more

In the digital age, a well-crafted author website is as crucial as a meticulously edited manuscript. It’s the virtual home where your readers pop by for a visit, and it’s your job to make their stay as enjoyable as possible. Here’s how to create an author site that’s not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly. Define Your Brand Your website is a direct reflection of your personal brand and your literary style. Start by asking yourself what emotions or messages you want your brand to convey. Is your writing style elegant and sophisticated, or are you more about a fun, qui ..read more

For indie authors, Amazon’s review system is a double-edged sword. It can propel a book to success or cast a shadow over its potential. One of the most misunderstood aspects is the impact of a 3-star review. In this post, we delve into Amazon’s review system, particularly focusing on the implications of 3-star reviews, and why mindful reviewing matters. The Weight of Amazon’s Star Ratings Amazon’s star rating system is straightforward at first glance – a five-star scale reflecting customer satisfaction. However, the implications of each rating tier are more complex, especially when it comes to ..read more