• Establishing Rapport and Credibility in Nonfiction

    - By 

    I often find myself telling authors that they must establish rapport and credibility with their readers before anyone begins reading their book. This is vital for a number of reasons. The most important reason is that as an author, you want potential, on-the-fence readers to keep reading. You want them to recommend your book to others. You want your words to be out there for everyone to read. And you want readers to finish your book feeling satisfied. So, you’re probably thinking, how this is done? Well, when we take away the actual content of the book and we focus…

  • writing prompts

    We’ve Endorsed These 5 Writing Prompts to Make You a Better Writer

    - By 

    Setting aside time each day for reading and writing is a highly effective method for honing your writing skills. What if you find it difficult to dedicate time to write lengthy paragraphs every day? Or perhaps you’re dealing with a case of writer’s block? Writing prompts and exercises are quick and effortless ways to work writing into your daily schedule. Plus, they can supply a dose of creativity and inspiration you need for an upcoming major writing endeavor. Let’s take a look at the 5 writing prompts we’re sharing today: 1. Give It Life Pick an inanimate object that you…

  • How to Write Your Life Story

    - By 

    One aspect of writing that I love is when we stop to look inward at ourselves. We take note of the choices we’ve made in our lives and they present a multitude of stories to tell. Most writers don’t think it is that easy. I have received a lot of messages over the years from writers who say, “No one knows me, why would they care about my story?” And, “I’m not a professional writer, so I don’t know how to get my story on paper.” I’ve said the same thing to each one of those writers, and I’m saying…

  • Writing a great author bio is incredibly important, but that doesn't mean it's easy to do. Read along as we navigate ways to write an author bio!

    Writing a Great Author Bio

    - By 

    Your manuscript is done. It has been through the rewrite and revision, beta reading, and editing processes. You can see the finish line, and you are so ready to feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing over that invisible line. Then, your dreams come to screeching halt! Your publisher asks you to submit your author bio. For a moment, you consider tossing the whole idea of becoming an author out the window because of one paragraph. I get it—the idea of having to write about yourself and your accomplishments seems hard. Instead, let’s look at author bios as…