• Open Versus Closed Writing Critique Groups

    Open Critique Groups Open writing critique groups are open to everyone who wishes to join with no restrictions in regards to age, writing genre, writing experience, group participation, meeting attendance, group size, or anything else in that matter. There are also typically little to no rules beyond common courtesy. PROS Flexibility: Attendance to meetings–whether virtual or in-person– isn’t mandatory. There’s also no pressure in sharing or participating which many writers that are new to critique groups will appreciate.  Diversity: You’ll receive and observe feedback from a large variety of perspectives and writing styles. Networking: If your goal is to expand…

  • Tips for Your First Book Signing Event

    Your hard work of writing your manuscript and self-publishing has all led to this moment: releasing your book. Now, it’s time to plan a book signing event. It takes a lot of thought and effort to make a book signing event a success. To lighten the load, we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you make the most out of it. 1. Research a venue. Look for a practical location for the number of guests you expect will attend as well as for the atmosphere you wish to create. Some authors like the intimacy that local coffee shops can…

  • Why Every Writer Needs a Business Plan

    As you’ve probably noticed, there’s no such thing as “only being a writer” anymore. And while many writers might not want to handle the business side of things, to give yourself and your books the best chance of success, it’s a must. If you’re hoping to turn that passion for writing into a career, having a well thought out business plan in place will be essential. It’s time to overcome that idea that as an author your only job will be to write. Whether you’re working towards a traditional publishing contract or self-publishing, a carefully crafted business plan can help…

  • How To Get Book Reviews

    1️⃣ Find your target audience. This is the first and most important step. You can put every effort into marketing your book, although you might get some response, it will not be anywhere near successful if you’re not targeting the correct readers. What is or how do you find your target audience you may be wondering? In simple terms, a target audience just means breaking down who you believe your book’s audience is (demographics, location, and interests). For a full breakdown, check out our blog Finding Your Target Audience.  2️⃣ Find blogs with readers that fit your target audience. Now…