Challenges in Writing a Book and How to Face Them!

Writing is both an easy and difficult process. It is easy because it is a very enjoyable process and a way for you to open yourself up to the world. You can express yourself in a myriad of ways through writing and it is through your own passion that makes the writing process easy. And yet the process can also be very difficult because there are so many obstacles that may come up in the future.
True you can start out the writing process without any difficulties but in the long run these obstacles may come up. So before you think of starting the writing process here are some examples of common challenges in writing and how to face them.

• Writers Block

Of all the writing obstacles that you will face in the future, writers block may be one of the most difficult to combat. Imagine that you are just about to start working on a new book, you are so excited and everything seems so clear to you. You just sit down and type down the words on your laptop. You start out great, you make the setting of the book very intriguing and you are really enjoying yourself. Then out of nowhere you can’t seem to put two words together. You shrug it off at first then you stumble out a few sentences. They don’t seem to make any sense. You feel annoyed, then helpless and it dawns on you how uncertain you now feel. This is how writers block usually feels. It is an uncertainty on how you should proceed with your work. It will feel as if your mind is a blank and you can’t seem to think clearly. You can’t seem to make a coherent sentence no matter how hard you try.
Writers block in truth may stem from a lot of factors. It could be stress, overwork, anxiety etc. But no matter the factors though you should always tell yourself that you can still write. Writers Block is a challenge for any writer but it could be made even worse with self-doubt. The best way for you to face writers block is to calm your mind and look at it from a more logical perspective. Don’t obsess over the problem and take in one at a time. If you feel agitated with the situation you should try a change of scenery. This can help you look at the world through a whole new perspective on your writing.
Another great way to combat Writers block is to go out and take a walk, travel if you can. Do anything that will help you gain a whole new perspective in life. It is also good advice to take up a more healthy way of living because having a good overall well-being makes the writing process so much easier. It is also a good idea to refrain from writing for a while because writing with writer’s block is akin to an athlete who competes with an injury. You will not only be ineffective but you will also damage yourself as a writer further.

• Loss of inspiration

Writing a story is a very intensive activity. This is because you not only have to work at it constantly and master your craft, you also need to have inspiration to write. Inspiration is like fuel for a writer and should be cultivated as much as possible. This is why the loss of inspiration while writing a book is a very hard challenge to overcome. If you are writing a book and you lose your inspiration don’t panic. Although it is difficult to regain inspiration when it is lost you should not lose hope. One of the best ways to regain your inspiration to write is to open yourself to new things and having a well-balanced state of mind. Just stay positive and try to look at life in a positive manner and eventually you will find your inspiration again.

• Lack of confidence in your work

When you write you open yourself to the world. Your thoughts on life, your ideas and philosophies are broadcast through your writing. This is why confidence is extremely important when you write. If you don’t believe in yourself how are you supposed to convince others that your book is worth reading?

• Bad work ethic

Yet another challenge for a writer is bad work ethic. Writing a novel is a difficult process and if you lack the drive and work ethic you will find yourself floundering the whole time. This is why you need to develop a good work ethic.
Having a good work ethic means being able to work at a consistent pace, to be able to will yourself to work no matter how difficult the process may seem. The best way to develop a good work ethic is by having a rigid work schedule. You should stick to this work schedule no matter what whether it is the holidays or a work day. Through this practice you will be able to develop a good work ethic.

• Lack of support from family

Your family is your very first form of support and most of your creative ability and inspiration stems from them. Which is why it is so important that you have their full support. There are so many ways for you to get support from your family.
It could be through emotional support such as them cheering you on, encouraging you during hard times and just simply being there for you. You could also ask for their feedback on your book and any tips that they could give. All in all having your family’s support is very important when it comes to your continuing career as a writer.

• Emotional problems

We all have chinks in our armor, no one is exempted from emotional problems. You could be going through a hard time or even going through a traumatic moment in your life. And because of these emotional problems your writing may also suffer. But in truth writing can be a solace to you. Think of writing as a form of therapy where you can let out your pain. You’ll be surprised at how effective it is.
In truth writing a book is a difficult process and takes a lot of dedication and patience to get through. But always remember that as long as you work at it and do your very best you will accomplish your dream of writing your very own book.

Very Fun and Easy to use Tips for Writing a Novel!

Writing a book is a highly intense process because you are literally opening yourself up to the scrutiny of your readers, and some writers may feel a great amount of pressure. But as intense as it may be it does not need to be a hard process. The writing process can also be very enriching and downright fun. Remember that one of the main factors that you got into writing is because it is fun and you enjoy doing it. This is why you should learn to take it easy, relax and just do your best. Here’s some very easy Book writing tips to make writing fun.

• Think of the characters first

Although it is good that you make a general outline of your story and the overall tone, it is also very important that you think up the characters first. Entire book series are centered on a single characters adventures. This is why you should try to make the character as unique and relatable as possible. The character should be unique but not annoying and relatable but not boring. One great example of this is J.K Rowling. The author managed to create a great author in Harry Potter. The character is a great example of a memorable character because he is unique even amongst wizards but he is still quite a relatable character because at the start of the story he is like any child. Vulnerable and impressionable yet possessing a good moral compass the character that is Harry Potter totally encompasses what a great character is.

• Write a story that you want to read

As cliché as it may seem it is good advice that you write something that you want to write about and not something that is trending right now. Writing about something that you like means that you will stick with it because you enjoy writing about it. If you are merely forced to write about a subject you are not interested in there is a big chance that you would lose interest in writing it eventually.

• Make the story as realistic as possible

Although the story should be as unique as possible, it is also important that you make it as realistic as possible. There is a big difference between a well-crafted story and just mere hoopla. For example if you are creating an adventure book that was set in ancient times, make sure that you provide an explanation for the events that are happening and that the stories are not too farfetched. Although it is good that you are using your imagination, your readers will most likely get annoyed if your story does not make any sense.

• Use events from history and mythological concepts on your book

History and mythology are considered some of the most interesting topics to write about. This is because history tells the story of mankind as a whole and mythology tells humanity’s quest to explain the world through stories.  Using History and mythology in your book will give your work depth and a limitless source of inspiration.

• Think outside of the box

When you are writing a novel, don’t constrict yourself. One of the biggest mistakes you can commit when you are writing your book is that you limit yourself to what’s trending or what is considered conventional writing. This is why it is a good idea to always think outside the box. You will be surprised at the clarity of purpose that this will give you. It will release you from feeling insecure about your work and ultimately give you a whole new outlook on the writing process. Take for example great authors like J.R.R Tolkien and C.S Lewis. These great authors were able to create works of fiction that totally reshaped the literary landscape. Always strive to start the trends not follow them.

• Get started as soon as possible!

One of the common mistakes that some writers make is that they take too long to start on their book. Although it is good that you prepare for the writing process, taking too much time may lead to doubt and uncertainty to creep in and erode your confidence. Thus it is imperative that you write as soon as you feel ready. Procrastinating will not do you any good.

Highly Effectives Tips on Writing a Book as a Parent!

 

One of the greatest challenges that anyone can face is being a parent. And this is even more evident when you are writing a novel. Writing is like a vocation and it takes a great amount of time and effort to master the craft. Which if coupled with the equally time consuming task of being a parent is also quite difficult. But as impossible as it may seem you can still be a parent and have a fulfilling writing career. All you really need to do is know how to harmonize both your duty as a parent and your passion as a writer. Here are some tips on how to write effectively as a parent.

• Think positively on the situation

One of the main reasons why some writers give up on their dreams of being great writers is the fact that they will no longer have any time to write because all their time will be used up to take care of the baby. Although it might not be easy, you can still be an effective writer. One great example of this is J.K Rowling. The famous author was a single mom when she first started writing the Harry Potter series. Although money was tight and the odds were stacked against her, she was able to create one of the most beloved children’s book series of all time. So if you are feeling overwhelmed and just want to quit on your dream as a writer, remember that even J.K Rowling went through these kinds of challenges. It all really counts on how positive you are about the situation.

• Use your kids as a source of inspiration

One of the greatest driving forces in life is love and familial love is considered as one of the most potent ever. This love is what drives a parent to do the impossible for their kids. Being a writer also takes a great deal of passion to fuel your work. Which is why you should use your kids as a source of inspiration. Don’t look at your being a parent as a burden, think of it as a privilege. This positive outlook on parenthood will surely do wonders for your writing and help you achieve your dream of writing a book.

• Be realistic in your expectations

Being a writer is very unpredictable because you never know if your book is going to sell or not. Which is why you should be as realistic with your expectations as much as possible. If you release a book in the future don’t expect too much because you will only be setting yourself up for disappointment if it does not go well. Just remember that your being a parent does not impede you in reaching your full potential.

• Keep writing!

One of the mistakes that some writers commit when they become parents is that they take a hiatus from writing. Although it’s ok for you to take a short break from writing, it should not be for too long. You will be surprised how fast time moves and you will find yourself saying that you are too busy or tired to write again. Remember that writing is predominantly a habit, so it is very difficult to get back in the mood once you are away for some time.

• Follow a writing schedule

One of the biggest challenges that you can face if you are balancing between being a parent and a writer is the schedule. This is because both parenting and writing takes most of your time. So you should really set a schedule for your writing. Maybe an hour or two every day for writing a story for your book and the rest of the day for your parenting duties. The schedule really depends on your preference and when your child is already asleep. If your child is only a few months old you should keep your schedule as flexible as possible because babies sleep patterns are unpredictable. If your child is kindergarten age you can adopt a more stable schedule. You can set your writing sessions early in the morning from around 4 to 6. Or you can have them once your child has already gone to sleep. All in all your schedule is all up to you.

6 Tips on how to Create a Great Romantic Novel!

Romantic novels have always been a great way for people to go into a world of fantasy and romance, where men are ideal and love is forever in the air. Romance novels have always been a solace for both men and women during times of heartbreak and pain. It is also quite a lucrative genre as evidenced by the Twilight novel series. But it’s not as easy as it seems. There are so many ways for a romance novels to go wrong and seem too mushy or sentimental. This is why you should follow a formula if you want to be write a great Romantic novel. Here are 6 tips to creating a great Romantic novel.

1. Make your leading man unique!

Your leading man should be as unique as possible. He should have a certain trait that makes him truly unique. These traits could be anything. He could be a god, he could be a superhero, he could be an astronaut. All in all your hero should stand apart from other men. One great example of this is the leading man in the Twilight novels Edward Cullen. He’s a vampire, he has lived a long time and he addictively drawn to only one woman.

2. Your leading man should be very attractive but still achievable

A leading man should be very attractive because it will make him desirable to readers. But he should not be too attractive that makes him unattainable to readers. Give him traits like a sculpted jaw, blue eyes, a muscular body and more but you should give traits that also make him more attainable. This could come in the form of a broken nose or scar on his cheek. These imperfections will make your leading man seem more real.

3. Give your leading man a tragic past

Your leading man would be quite boring if he was perfect in every way. Which is why you should give your leading man a tragic past. This gives him a vulnerability that will ultimately make him endearing to readers. He could be a former priest who lost his faith due to a forbidden love affair, he could be a warrior who accidentally killed his love and vowed never to love again or a young millionaire who lost his fiancée to a mountain climbing diet. The more tragic his past the more vulnerable and likeable he will be to audience. He could also have a morose and temperamental attitude which is a façade for a more kind and sensitive personality underneath.

4. The setting could be practically anywhere

When you’re writing a story the setting is very important. And in Romance novels they are even more important because these settings need to set the tone for the romance.  The setting could be in during the First or Second World war, or in a small mining town in Alabama, or New York during the roaring twenties. Try to be as detailed as possible and give the readers a chance to travel to these places themselves.

5. Give your Leading man and heroine admirable values

What you should remember when you are writing a novel, especially a romantic one is that readers always root for the good guy or girl. This is because they will always see something admirable in good values. Which is why when you are writing a book, always highlight the innate goodness in your characters. They don’t have to be saints, but they need to show that when the time comes to  make the hard decisions they will always so the right thing.

6. Make your villain complicated

It can be annoying if the book you are reading has a cliché villain, with all the usual traits that are associated with villains. Traits such as ugliness, selfishness or underhandedness. It is usually more preferable if your villain is more realistic. He or she could be handsome and kind at a glance but has a festering bitterness towards the hero which leads him to antagonize the hero, or he could be a misguided person or even a past victim of the hero. Although the villain should be antagonistic towards the main characters he does not need to be hated by the readers. Because who knows the villain may only be a victim of circumstance himself set upon an unhappy path.
All in all when you are writing a romantic story, you should always remember that a story does not need to be corny to make an impact with readers.

Tips on How to Create a Truly Terrifying Suspense Novel

 

Suspense novels are some of the most widely read books in popular culture and every year a new book comes out of the wood work to terrify readers. One example of a great suspense writer is Stephen King. For many years Stephen King has made his mark in both the suspense and horror genre. He has used his very own formula to create books that will totally immerse the reader in a world of his own making. And if you yourself are thinking of writing a book you will need to fill it with as much suspense as possible. But in order to write a suspense novel you will have to be able to create your own style of writing and trademark it as your very own. Here are some great tips on how to create a truly terrifying suspense novel.

Create multifaceted characters
It is a good idea if you create multifaceted characters. This is because readers will respond better to multifaceted characters better. When you create your characters try to add as much depth and backstory into your characters. Don’t just make mindless automatons that your readers will eventually get tired of. Try to make them as unique as possible. Your leading character should be both likeable and relatable. This is because most readers see themselves in the main characters. Thus they are subconsciously afraid for the main character and the harm that may befall him or her. It is also a good idea to surround your main character with a colorful and likable supporting cast. This will allow you to put the focus on your characters but give you the option to take the limelight off him or her during some parts of  the story. Just remember when you are writing a book that your characters are the main focal point of your story. Thus they can determine the success of your book.

Create a unique and interesting backstory
When you create a backstory try to make it as unique and interesting as possible. Remember that most readers especially those interested in the suspense genre have already read their fair share of books. This will make them quite good at seeing overused tropes that will inevitably bore your audience. You should steer away from clichés and instead try to forge your own trail. Read the works or great authors that have transcended from their previous genre. Such examples being Neil Gaiman. The famous author of such great works such as Stardust and the Sandman series has made his name as a great author of fantasy, but he has been able to add a sinister tinge to his books that not only makes his work a treat to read but also sometimes quite chilling. When you write a novel try to transcend to other genres so that your book will not be considered one dimensional.

Create a dangerous aura around your villain
The same as your protagonist needs to be likable, your villain also needs to be feared. Creating an aura of fear surrounding him would make him a truly worthy for. This can be done in various ways. One way is to give him a reputation. In the Hannibal series of books, readers are given tidbits of the many cannibalistic depravities that the main villain Hannibal Lecter has committed in his long career. One other method would be to have his or her work speak for him. One example is that he kills in a very specific way that would show his sociopathic or psychopathic tendencies. This would give your readers a glimpse into his psyche and the way he does things. All in all your main intent is to create a feeling of dread before your villain is even revealed.

Be detailed in your settings
One of the worst things you can do when you are writing a story is to be lackadaisical in writing your settings. This is because settings are what gives your stories the added feel of dread. This is the way that you can create a situation where your reader will feel suspense and fear. If you write sparingly about the details of your setting your readers will surely feel annoyed and stop reading your book. Word of advice though do not overdo it on the details either because this might end up boring your readers.

Try to add cultural nuances and concepts into your book
When you are writing a novel it can also be quite boring if your story was centered in just the norm. Which is why it is advisable that you use other cultures in your book. You can make your hero Hispanic or African American. Remember that a multicultural setting gives your book an added zest.
All in all when you set out to put a little suspense into your book always remember to use your own unique writing style, so that your readers will recognize your work, remember that a unique and personalized style goes a very long way in the writing world.

Tips on How to Infuse Romance into your Novel!

 

If you are a writer and currently writing a book you would probably have noticed that infusing romance into your work can help you get reader’s attentions. No matter what genre you write in, whether it is a pure romance novel to science fiction it is still a viable way to get your reader’s attentions. Which is why you should be able to put a little bit of romance into your novel. But it is easier said than done. This is because you have to find the right balance in order for it to work. If you overdo it your story might come out too cheesy. If you put too little into it, your story will just come out too wooden and detached. Here are a few tips on how to infuse romance into your novel.

• Build up the romance gradually
The same way as romance develops in real life the same way that you should develop your romance in your stories. When you are writing your story and planning on having your characters get together it is a good idea to take it slow. This is because the buildup of the romance is enough to keep most readers involved. It is also good idea that your characters are not too obvious with each other. They should be able to develop as characters before they get together. One perfect example of this is when J.K Rowling paired two of her most famous characters in the Harry Potter series together. Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley are two of the most prominent characters besides Harry Potter himself. And the two started out as friends but through the years their feelings were slowly revealed. From minor jealousies to lover’s quarrels their love story has titillated millions of fans. So take this to heart, give your characters the time to grow as characters and not stifle them with unnecessary love triangles and anxieties.

• Don’t focus too much on the romance
One common mistake committed by some writers is that they focus too much on the romance and not enough on the story. Whether it is a romance novel or a fantasy one you should not focus too much on just one aspect of the story. When writing a novel you should give every part an equal share of your attention. If you focus too much on the romance your readers will surely find it tedious fast. So when you are writing a story always remember to give equal attention to each aspect of your book.

• Try to find a balance between cheesiness and detachment
Cheesiness and detachment are two extremes when it comes to infusing romance into your novel. If you put too much cheesiness or sentimentality into your work your audience may find it unbearable to read because of the overbearing use of emotions in your work. On the other hand if your work lacks emotion, it will come out as emotionally detached and your readers will say that your writing is lifeless and lacks any soul. It is a good idea to find a good balance between the two.

• Try to make the romance as realistic as possible
Another common mistake by some writers is that they tend to make the romance too fantastical and fake. Real romance is a developing thing. It is about two people finding each other and learning to deal with each others differences and faults. The concept of soulmates is an outdated one and stories of this nature come out as too contrived and come out as hollow in the end. This is why, when you write your novel always remember that a realistic love story is always more satisfying to read because your readers can relate to the story themselves.

• Don’t let genre stop you from infusing romance into your novel
Romance can be used in every genre thus you should never limit yourself. It does not matter whether you are writing a true blue romance novel or a high fantasy book. Just remember that romance will always put added flavor into your work. Even if your genre is a space opera you can still infuse it with romance. Just remember to put it in the proper context.

All in all romance will always bring a whole new dimension into your book all you have to do is make your romance as original as possible.

What Does it Take to Write a Great Book?

Have you ever dreamed of writing your very own book? Making your own mark on the literary world? Creating a classic that will make you famous long after you are dead? Well so has every other writer that has lived. This dream has propelled writers to greatness through the years. But what makes a great book? What separates them from other books? Of course there is really no fool proof plan or special ingredient as to what constitutes a great book.  But great books do have certain similarities that could be used to create a great book. Here are some examples that could help you in your quest to make a great book.

• Great Characters make a great book

Throughout the years one of the staples of truly great books are great characters. This is because great characters are what adds texture and character to a story. They are also what makes the story truly great. Haven’t you noticed that you remember the characters of a book faster than the book itself?
This is because the characters have made a bigger impression on you than the story. Such examples being Alexandre Dumas’ masterpiece The Count of Monte Cristo. The protagonist Edmond Dantes captures the people’s imaginations more than the events of the story because it is through his indomitable will that he was able to escape Chateau Di’f. It was his need for vengeance that propelled him to the heights of French society and allowed him to take revenge on those who wronged him. This character is a perfect symbolism of the strength of the human spirit.

Supporting characters are almost as important as the main character if they are written properly. This is because they provide a foil or stabilizing factor to the main character. One great example is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Dr. Watson. The Sherlock Holmes series of books had a magnificent main character in Sherlock Holmes because of his brilliance and intricacies but these traits were further explored when the two work together. Dr. Watson accentuates Holmes’ incredible intellect and provides a contrast with him by acting as the straight man of the duo.

The same could even be said about a story’s antagonist. A great antagonist could create an incredible amount of conflict and fear in the storyline and many an antagonist in classic stories have left their mark on literature.

• Try to think up something new!

One of the most important aspects of writing a great book is coming up with something new. With the many books that have come before your work, there are already a myriad of stories written and because of this you will have to come up with something new. Something that readers have yet to read. The only problem though is that it is easier said than done. Readers can be very finicky about what they like. One book can seem good but unsatisfactory to others. There is no definite formula on what makes a book great. The best you can do is to be adventurous and courageous in your writing.
It is also important that you refine your writing style. You can never be too good at something, and this includes your writing style. Practice your writing every chance you get. You should also personalize your writing style. This way your book can be recognized by readers. This is a great way for you to cultivate a fan base.

Refrain from old clichés
Using old clichés is a big mistake when it comes to writing books. This is because readers are already quite familiar with them. Old clichés can be a lot of things. They can be how a character is written, the writing style or a certain plotline. Old clichés will earn you nothing but reader’s ire. Be original in your writing.

• Be tenacious in your writing

One of the best attributes you can have as a writer is tenacity. Having tenacity allows you to weather any obstacle that comes your way. You must accept the fact that there really is no guarantee that your book will be a success. In many ways writing a book is a gamble. On one hand you can achieve your wildest dreams and become rich and famous. On the other hand your book can be lost in the sea of other aspiring books and never reach its full potential. All in all tenacity will help you to hold on to your love of writing until you finally succeed.

All in all your greatest advantage when it comes to writing a great book is your love for the written word. A genuine love for writing will not only make you a better writer but it will also make the entire process a joy.

Great Tips on How to Decide what your Book is About!

Writing a book is a very immersive process and it takes out a lot from you. Because in writing a book, you are using a great amount of concentration, skill and passion. But despite the hardships involved most writers still persist in their dreams of writing a novel of their very own. This is because writing a book of your very own is one of the most worthwhile things you could ever accomplish. But before you even think of starting on a book you should take time to think some things through. Foremost being, what kind of book should you write? Here are some great book writing tips on how to decide.

• Write about something you are interested in

Writing about something you like is the most important aspect of book writing. Why would you go to all the trouble of writing a book, putting so much time and effort on the process and not be interested in it? If you are going to write a book make sure that you are interested in it. This way should you feel stressed out or unsure of the writing process, you will still have the resolve to go through with it because you are passionate about what you are writing about.

• Take trends and popular culture into account

Trends and popular culture is very important when it comes to writing a book. This is because in order for you to be relevant to your readers, you should at least know what is popular. That way you can see what type of book you should write. Although it is not necessary that you cater to all trends, it is good that you at least know what’s popular nowadays. This way you would know what books are popular in this era and you can take pointers on how you should write your book.

• Use your own life experiences in choosing your book topics

A good number of great books have been based after the life experiences of their authors. Ernest Hemingway is one great example. The great novelist was a very adventurous man, and for most of his life he has travelled the world and honed his skills as a writer through his adventures. His life experiences helped him come up with literary masterpieces that are still well loved to this day. In writing your own book, use your life experiences to add depth and sensitivity to your book.

• Research on various cultures to add more character into your work

It is a good idea to use various cultures as inspiration for your book. This because cultures other than your own represent something foreign and mysterious. By learning about other cultures you not only broaden your sources but it also gives you a whole new viewpoint on life. Having a multicultural outlook on the world will not only make you more versatile when it comes to writing a book, it also gives you more stories to draw inspiration from.

• Research on the lives of great people

The lives of great people are always fascinating to read about. They are also a wealth of inspiration for any writer who wants to find a topic for a story. Famous people are famous for a reason. It is because they did something significant with their lives. Doing research on their lives would not only inspire you, but also give you a whole new perspective on things. Read about how they struggled and achieved their greatness and try to put these ideas into your own work. You will be surprised at how rich and colorful your work will be.

Highly Overlooked Steps in Selling a Self-published Book!

If you are writing a book you would obviously want to sell it. Although your main intent for writing may be to show people your work, you would still want to sell your book well. This is because one of the most obvious ways to see if your book is really good is if it sells well. But selling a book is easier said than done. Especially if you are a Self-Published author. There are so many factors that affect the sale of your book. Is your book going to do well in the current economy? Will it work well in today’s popular culture? Is it any good at all? These are just some of the questions that you ask yourself on the day you release a book. It is common that that you will feel some anxiety before you release a book. But don’t worry here are some overlooked steps that will undoubtedly help you sell your book.

·         Make a marketing plan months before you write the book
Although it might seem weird to make a marketing plan so early in the book writing process it is always good to have a set plan before you start out. That way you already know how you will conduct your book campaign. You should also know your target market, that way there would be no confusion on who you are going to sell your book to. Making your target market too broad might confuse potential readers what your book is really about. Thus as early as possible, it is always good to recognize the best target market for your book.

·         Do your marketing before you release your book
One of the most frequent mistakes that writers make is that they only bother to market their book once it is finished. This is a big mistake because the time you spent writing your book could also be the time spent marketing your book. There are so many ways that you can market your book even whilst you are writing it. One way is to market it to family and friends. As insignificant as it may seem your family and friends form a nucleus of fans that will continue to support you through thick and thin. They will stand by your book no matter what and could be counted on to spread word of your book’s merits no matter what. Word of mouth marketing is best suited for this and is quite effective in the long run. Especially if it is paired with Social Media tools.

The fact that you are a self-published author means that you don’t have the support of a traditional publishing house. Which means that the more marketing you get done the better. Which is why it is a good idea to create your own Blog where you can posts your book. You can even hire someone who can manage the site for you. The good thing about this set-up is that you don’t need to spend too much to keep it afloat. And the more your blog site stays afloat the more publicity your book will get.

·         Don’t overlook the importance of the good old bookstore!
Because of the modernization of the marketing industry, most people tend to think that bookstores are an outdated concept. That they are not as efficient as the online retailer services being offered nowadays. But this is not so. A good number of people still feel that bookstores have a certain charm that more modern services lack. It tells of a time where you had to go to the bookstore yourself and look for the book. This in many ways speaks to people who look back to those days with fondness. Selling your book to bookstores may not be as efficient as selling it through Amazon but it has a very good chance of getting you a good fan base of book lovers in the future.

·         Polish your writing skills
Although this may seem obvious, some writers especially self-published writers have sub-par writing skills. Because there is a difference between just wanting to be a writer and having the necessary skills. So before you go and spend a fortune self-publishing your book make sure that your writing skills are up to task. You are not doing yourself any favors rushing into the book writing process without the needed writing skills

5 Things you need to know before you write a book!

 

When you write a book, you are literally starting on something truly grand. This is because not everyone is given the privilege of creating their very own book. But this can also prove to be a double edged sword if taken lightly. On one side you are given the chance to reach out to other people and affect their lives through your writing. On the other hand you should expect to invest a lot of effort and time into the endeavor. This is why before you even set out on your writing journey you should be prepared. Here are 5 things you should know before you write a book.

1. A unique concept

This is very important because a unique concept is needed to make your book interesting. It takes a lot of time and effort to get a truly unique concept. Some people have even spent years looking for the right concept that will make their work great. The strange thing about this process is that you never really know when you will get the right concept for your book. All you can do is create as many story concepts as you can until you get the right one. It is well known that great writers like Ernest Hemingway have patterned their work after some experiences in their lives. Which is why you should go out and experience life in all its splendor. Through these experiences you can create a truly unique concept that will become a great book.

2. Know your target audience

This really depends on the genre of your book. For example if you are writing a book for the science fiction genre you should target people who are also interested in the genre. Always think of your potential fan base when you write a book. Writing a novel is a truly great experience but it is a fruitless endeavor if no one gets to read your book. This is why you should pay close attention to your selected genre and see what’s popular to the existing fan base. Is a certain story popular right now? Is your story relevant for the times? Should you make a change in your story to make an impact in today’s crowd. These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself before you even think of writing a book.

3. Decide how you want to publish your work

There are two viable options on how you could publish your work. One option is to go with the self-publishing option. This option gives you the chance to have full control of your book. You are given full rein of almost every aspect of your book’s production and promotion.  You get to decide how you want to publish your book and you get to decide how you want to sell it. The only setback to this is the fact that will have to do most of the work and pay for everything. The other option is traditional publishing. This form of publishing entails you to go with well-established publishing houses and sell them the rights to your book. You will get a substantial payment and receive a royalty fee according to your book’s earnings. In return the company will publish and distribute your book for you. The only set back is the fact that you will give up a majority of your book rights to have it published. In the end it’s up to you to fully weight out the pros and cons of the two.

4. Create a writing schedule for yourself

Before you get started on the writing process you should make a writing schedule for yourself. This schedule could be at any time. It could be early in the morning, after lunch or late at night. Just as long as you could keep up with your schedule. Remember that this schedule will be there until you finish writing your book. So it is very important that you can follow it no matter how strenuous the writing process is. You should also make sure that you are physically and mentally sound before you start on the writing process so that you will be able to function at your very best.

5. Ask fellow writers for help and advice

The same way only another soldier knows the stress of battle, so does only a fellow writer know the stress of writing a book. Before you start on your book make sure to ask other writers for advice. They can give you advice on how to stay focused on your writing no matter how difficult it may get in the future. You can also ask them to review your book in the future.
Once you have made the proper preperations you are now equipped with the tools and confidence to write your very own book.

Great tips on How to Choose the Best Genre for you!

One of the biggest factors in creating a truly great book is finding the right genre to write in. Genre is the category of literature in which you choose to write in and it shows what kind of writer you are. In truth choosing the right genre for yourself could mean the difference between success and failure. Imagine J.R.R Tolkien writing a book about relationships instead of the Lord of the Rings books. It would have robbed the world of one of the greatest works of literature ever. This is why you should be very careful what genre you choose to write in. It could mean the difference between failure and success! Here are some great book writing tips that will surely help you choose what genre to write in.

• Go with the genre that interests you

Sometimes the genre itself chooses you. Usually when you are a writer you are already a wide reader and have a genre that you are interested in. For example you have already been a big fan of romance novels. Even before you decide on writing a novel you have already read a good number of romance books. Take this as a hint that you are meant to write about romance. This is because not only are you already acquainted with the writing styles and trends that are prevalent in the romance genre you are also quite interested in the genre already. Being interested with the genre means that you will work hard on your craft and go far in your writing career.

• Make a blog site for your writing

If you are truly interested in writing a book in a certain genre you should write as much as possible. Making a blog site for your work is a great way of truly cementing your chosen genre. Through this site you can share your work with fellow writers. You can also have your work reviewed by fellow writers and ask for their advice on how to improve your craft. By showing your work through your site, you are taking your first step in your favorite genre.

• Write Fan fiction

Fan fiction is a type of writing wherein you use the existing characters and settings to create your own stories. This is a good practice for you to create your own stories. For example, if you are a fan of the Harry Potter series you can dabble into a bit of fan fiction. You can create storylines based on characters from the book. Be reminded though that you should never ever try to publish and sell any of your fan fiction. This would be considered illegal and could land you in a lot of trouble. The only reason you should be dabbling in fan fiction is to try your hand in writing in the genre. It should under no circumstance be for profit.

• Read Fan fiction

You should also read fan fiction. This is because other people’s fan fiction is a great way for you to develop your own writing style. Reading other people’s fan fiction lets you look at your chosen genre from other people’s eyes. Reading fan fiction will also inspire you to create your own work and make it even better. Just remember that fan fiction is never for profit, it is all for your chosen art.

• Read up on various media connected to your chosen genre

One of the best ways to expand your knowledge on your preferred genre is to read other forms of media that are connected to your chosen genre.  It all really depends on your chosen genre. One example would be to visit sites that are dedicated to a certain genre. If you are a science fiction writer you could visit sites that are dedicated to everything about the science fiction genre. All in all the more you read about your chosen genre the more ideas you’ll have when you decide to write a book.
Choosing a genre is a truly serious step for you as a writer. It will be what identifies you to your readers. Your first work on a genre will usually be imprinted in the minds of readers for many years.  So remember be careful in choosing your genre, and once you have chosen one work hard to make your stories unforgettable.

5 Overlooked Tips that you Should Add to your Writing Process!

Being a writer can be pretty hard because your work is like an extension of who you are, and your reputation as a writer is always on the line. And writing a book is a very immersive process that takes a lot of your time and attention. This is why it is very important that you start out right. Sadly though some people tend to overlook some very subtle yet important steps in writing. With these book writing tips you can now cover all the bases and create a truly complete and immersive book.

• Watch inspirational movies

You may laugh at this tip but in truth watching movies is a great way to get inspiration for your work. It really depends on what movies you watch. Movies have a way of inspiring you to greater heights. Try to watch a movie before you start the writing process. You will be surprised at how refreshed and invigorated you will feel afterwards. These movies can also help you get over writer’s block and help you get even more immersed into your work. Some great examples of these movies are Dead Poet’s Society and Freedom Writers. These movies are perfect for writers who are fully committed to their writing and want to change the world through their writing. Writing is all about conviction and your ability to reach out to others through your work.

• Keep a journal full of your favorite quotes

Quotes are an extremely potent source of inspiration for a writer. This is especially true when you are writing a book. This is because writing a novel is very tiring work and it takes a lot of will power to get through it. Keeping a quote journal gives you access to a collection of your favorite quotes that can quickly inspire you to write better. It is also a great source of quotes that can be used for your work. The quotes can be from anyone that you respect and idolize.

• Read books!

One of the first things that go when you start writing a book is reading other people’s books. This is because most of your time and effort is taken up by the writing process. You should refrain from this practice. Because in the long run, you might lose interest in your own book. It is always okay to read other books. This will not only help you relax but also help you gain a whole new perspective during the writing process. Try reading the great classics of the past like the works of Mark Twain and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. They are some of the most prolific novelist of their era and should be a great inspiration to other writers.

• Work out!

Yet another mistake that some writers do while they write their books is that they tend to obsess over the writing process. Because of this they tend to neglect their health and form unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking too much caffeine. They also tend to neglect to go out and exercise. It is important for writers to exercise because lack of it tends to make some people lethargic and irritable. This is because exercise can give you a much needed does of endorphins that can make you feel happier and more focused. So remember when you start the writing process always make time to work out.

• Enjoy the writing process!

It may come out surprising but not all writers enjoy the writing process. This is because they are too blinded by their need to finish on time. It IS important to stick to your deadline, but you should also know that enjoying the process is just as important because it can make you a better writer. This is because writing is an art form and art is a means for you to express yourself. And how can you fully express yourself if you are too stressed out. In order for you to fully reach your writing potential you must be passionate in your work.

All in all when it comes to writing a book, there really is no guarantee that your work will be a success. The best you can do is to be passionate about your work and hope for the best.

How to Earn a Living as a Self-Published Author!

Self-publishing is defined as publishing your book without the help of an established publishing house. This is one of the options that some writers take in order to get their book published. Self-publishing in a way can be quite advantageous to you as a writer because you have full control of the rights to your book and you also have the rights to most of the profits from your book . Sadly though there are also certain disadvantages that make it difficult for self-published authors to make money off their work. One reason is that most self-published authors lack the finances needed to have their book published. There is also the fact that it is difficult to market your book or creating marketing services if you are on a budget. These are some of the reasons why it is very difficult to make money as a self-published writer. But don’t worry there are ways that you can earn money as a self-published writer. Here are some great tips.

• Focus more on your e-book sales

eBooks are a great blessing to self-published writers. This is because eBooks are easier to distribute and cheaper than traditional paper books. You also don’t need to have them printed and stockpiled.  According to recent studies conducted by Author Earnings a site dedicated to tracking downloads on Amazon, it seems that the bulk of eBook sales are by self-published. Which goes to show how eBooks are becoming most self-published authors bread and butter.

• Use Social Media to spread word of your book

Social media is the game changer when it comes to book marketing. With Social Media you now have the chance to spread word of your book without having to spend a huge amount of money. Before social media book advertising was very expensive and work intensive. But with social media you can advertise your book without having to spend a fortune. There are various ways that you can use Social Media to promote your book. You can use Facebook to inform friends of your new book and to establish a fan base there. You can also use social media like Twitter and Instagram to talk about your book. With Facebook Ads manager you can select a target audience and test the waters before you fully commit to a full on book advertisement. That way you won’t have to spend valuable resources on a fruitless venture.

• Create your own blog site

Having a blog site dedicated to your writing is one of the best investments you can have. Not only is it cheap to maintain but it also has a long reach. Through your blog site you can conduct a book promotion campaign and manage your fan base. Even better is the fact that you can sell your books through your blog site. Overall you are hitting two birds with one stone with having your own blog site.

• Give freebies

One of the most important aspects of book promotion is having a fan base. Having a fan base gives you a loyal group of readers that will stick with you through thick and thin. But how can you get a fan base if people have yet to read your book. Try to give away some of your books for free. You can give them away through your blog site and then asking their opinion on your book. If they like your book you will have a good fan base that you can expand even further.

• Stay positive!

A self-published writer’s worst enemy is self-doubt. Although being a self-published writer is a difficult job just as long as you have faith in yourself you still have a big chance of succeeding. The process will be long and hard that’s for sure. It will be full of challenges that will test your resolve and will power. It will costs you time, effort and money. But remember that anything that is worth anything takes a lot of hard work and perseverance. So from the very start you should ask yourself if you really want to be a writer. Ask yourself what you want to accomplish as a writer and what are you willing to do in order to succeed. That way you will be able to go into the self-publishing career with full conviction.