In my role as a professional editor, it still surprises me when I encounter authors who don’t see why they need a website at all. Some prefer a Facebook author page, and don’t get me wrong, they’re good too, but I believe a website is an essential tool in an author’s marketing strategy, especially if you’re only producing ebooks, not print books. The advantage of your own website over something like a Facebook page is that you can design it (or have someone design it for you) to your own specifications and you can fill it with whatever you believe […]

When I became a published author, I knew I would have to make sure I got my name out there so people heard about my books. However, I don’t know if I anticipated just how constant my communications would have to be. I always see a distinct difference in my trilogy’s Amazon ranking immediately after I’ve done an author event. Recently, I haven’t been ranking that well, as I’d had trouble finding the time and motivation to put myself out there. However, I attended a school fete recently, and sure enough, the following week, my Amazon ranking improved. It happens […]

It was my sixteenth wedding anniversary this week, and as my husband and I celebrated, it was nice to see others celebrate with us by offering their congratulations. Over 80 friends ‘liked’ my Facebook post about the anniversary, and it made me thankful that so many rejoiced in the sixteen years we’ve had together. It also made me reflect on something I’ve noticed as an author, and that is that the majority of people like stories with happy endings. Now, I’m sure you’re aware that numerous classic stories, which have stood the test of time when it comes to popularity, […]

It’s Mothers’ Day today where I am, and yes, since this day celebrates lots of mothers I believe the apostrophe should be after the s! 🙂 I am mother to a beautiful young boy who’s growing up a bit too quickly for my liking. However, he’s now at the stage where he wants to buy gifts for me with his own money. This can be great if he gets me something I like, which is some of the time. I guess that’s better than none of the time. 🙂 At least my husband also gets a joint gift from both […]

Today I’ve been reflecting on what I expected when I first became a published author and what the reality has turned out to be. Fortunately, I think I was fairly realistic, although, as with anyone with a good imagination, I had no trouble imagining myself achieving fame and fortune because of my writing! I must confess I still do at times. So I was thinking of four things I’d tell prospective authors if they ask and I’ve come up with these: You will probably not become a famous author. You might, but there are far more of us out there […]