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Recommend this book:
Your Book or Your Excuse
Why the 1% of Leaders Publish—and the 99% Get Forgotten
Alinka Rutkowska
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
History has shown that written ideas reverberate through generations. But according to bestselling author Alinka Rutkowska, about 99% of successful people end up never recording their path to success. Your Book or Your Excuse is for those 1% of business authors who understand the nuances of publishing and the importance of positioning, branding, and identity. Publishing a book is the best way to show your authority and become the person you want to be. Rutkowska emphasizes that true leaders know how to attract followers through books, creating a strong social identity that demonstrates their leadership. Inside, you will learn about structuring books as lead engines, building trust by writing books, leaders leaving a legacy, leaders using publishing to lead, the benefits of recording lessons from life experiences, the ripple effects of authorship, and more.
Whatever your reason for hesitating about writing a book may be, Your Book or Your Excuse will help you cross that threshold. Alinka Rutkowska has helped many business authors and entrepreneurs achieve the maximum rewards of publishing, and she seeks to help others do the same with this guide. For me, this is the perfect book for authors who want to build and grow their brands and expand their reach into other fields, which will, consequently, turn them into true leaders who can guide others to follow their paths. I liked the fact that Rutkowska chose to show the significance of publishing through case studies, examples, and real-life stories. It makes it easier for readers to engage with the book and find the tools they can use in their own lives. Highly recommended.
History has shown that written ideas reverberate through generations. But according to bestselling author Alinka Rutkowska, about 99% of successful people end up never recording their path to success. Your Book or Your Excuse is for those 1% of business authors who understand the nuances of publishing and the importance of positioning, branding, and identity. Publishing a book is the best way to show your authority and become the person you want to be. Rutkowska emphasizes that true leaders know how to attract followers through books, creating a strong social identity that demonstrates their leadership. Inside, you will learn about structuring books as lead engines, building trust by writing books, leaders leaving a legacy, leaders using publishing to lead, the benefits of recording lessons from life experiences, the ripple effects of authorship, and more.
Whatever your reason for hesitating about writing a book may be, Your Book or Your Excuse will help you cross that threshold. Alinka Rutkowska has helped many business authors and entrepreneurs achieve the maximum rewards of publishing, and she seeks to help others do the same with this guide. For me, this is the perfect book for authors who want to build and grow their brands and expand their reach into other fields, which will, consequently, turn them into true leaders who can guide others to follow their paths. I liked the fact that Rutkowska chose to show the significance of publishing through case studies, examples, and real-life stories. It makes it easier for readers to engage with the book and find the tools they can use in their own lives. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Finish Your Book
Plug Into the Power of a Writing Community and Get It Done
Lorraine Haataia Ph.D.
2026 Bronze Medal
253 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Mansoor Ahmed for Readers' Favorite
Finish Your Book by Lorraine Haataia, Ph.D., is a guide for anyone who has started a manuscript and stalled somewhere in the middle. The book opens by rejecting the usual advice about waking up early or hitting a daily word count, and instead builds its case around a different idea: writers finish more often when they stop working alone. From there, Haataia walks readers through why they want to write in the first place, how to work through perfectionism and self-doubt, and how to build a writing system built for their own life rather than someone else's routine. The book's biggest through line is community, with a full chapter dedicated to a "quadrant" system for understanding different kinds of writer relationships, from fleeting encounters to deep-rooted kinship, before closing with a direct invitation to join a writing group and keep the process going.
Lorraine Haataia writes with a warm, encouraging tone that feels more like a mentor than a lecturer, and the chapter titles alone, like "Your Scars Give You Credibility" and "Beware of Grifters and Scams," show she understands the real emotional traps writers fall into. The pacing moves logically from motivation to habit-building to community, so each chapter builds on the one before it rather than repeating the same advice in different words. Haataia's own writing journey threads through the book and keeps it from feeling like a dry manual. The quadrant grid for identifying writing relationships stood out to me as a practical tool I haven't seen laid out this clearly elsewhere. Finish Your Book is a supportive, useful read for any writer who has been stuck and quietly wondering if finishing is even possible.
Finish Your Book by Lorraine Haataia, Ph.D., is a guide for anyone who has started a manuscript and stalled somewhere in the middle. The book opens by rejecting the usual advice about waking up early or hitting a daily word count, and instead builds its case around a different idea: writers finish more often when they stop working alone. From there, Haataia walks readers through why they want to write in the first place, how to work through perfectionism and self-doubt, and how to build a writing system built for their own life rather than someone else's routine. The book's biggest through line is community, with a full chapter dedicated to a "quadrant" system for understanding different kinds of writer relationships, from fleeting encounters to deep-rooted kinship, before closing with a direct invitation to join a writing group and keep the process going.
Lorraine Haataia writes with a warm, encouraging tone that feels more like a mentor than a lecturer, and the chapter titles alone, like "Your Scars Give You Credibility" and "Beware of Grifters and Scams," show she understands the real emotional traps writers fall into. The pacing moves logically from motivation to habit-building to community, so each chapter builds on the one before it rather than repeating the same advice in different words. Haataia's own writing journey threads through the book and keeps it from feeling like a dry manual. The quadrant grid for identifying writing relationships stood out to me as a practical tool I haven't seen laid out this clearly elsewhere. Finish Your Book is a supportive, useful read for any writer who has been stuck and quietly wondering if finishing is even possible.
Recommend this book:
The Villain's Journey
How to Create Villains Readers Love to Hate
Debbie Burke
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Villain's Journey: How to Create Villains Readers Love to Hate by Debbie Burke examines antagonists as the initiating force of the plot and argues that effective stories require a detailed understanding of their villain. Burke tells us that focusing solely on protagonists produces inactive opposition and logical gaps, while tracking the villain’s objectives and offstage behavior sustains causality across scenes. Drawing on research and references, Burke situates villains as threat models that prompt response and problem solving. Burke breaks down mystery, suspense, and thriller through the timing of revelation, and how genre molds the presentation of viewpoint. She also talks about non-malicious antagonists and parallel journeys adapted from The Hero's Journey. Alongside all of this, Burke offers worksheets, archetypes, timeline, and other methods for planning.
The Villain's Journey by Debbie Burke is a wonderfully comprehensive and methodical guide for writers who want antagonists that actively drive story action. Burke grounds her advice in scholarship and publishing experience, and breaks down almost every conceivable angle and shape an antagonist can take. Her style of writing is conversational and easy to follow, and I love how she moves between theory and application, showing how belief systems, social pressure, trauma, and power affect harmful behavior across genres. Perhaps the most eye-opening part for me is the attention to female villains, and correcting long standing habits that sideline or excuse their actions. I hadn't realized the sheer volume of cliches around gendered antagonists, and am grateful to see it now. Planning exercises and dual timelines translate ideas into daily writing practice. Overall, this is the perfect guide. Very highly recommended.
The Villain's Journey: How to Create Villains Readers Love to Hate by Debbie Burke examines antagonists as the initiating force of the plot and argues that effective stories require a detailed understanding of their villain. Burke tells us that focusing solely on protagonists produces inactive opposition and logical gaps, while tracking the villain’s objectives and offstage behavior sustains causality across scenes. Drawing on research and references, Burke situates villains as threat models that prompt response and problem solving. Burke breaks down mystery, suspense, and thriller through the timing of revelation, and how genre molds the presentation of viewpoint. She also talks about non-malicious antagonists and parallel journeys adapted from The Hero's Journey. Alongside all of this, Burke offers worksheets, archetypes, timeline, and other methods for planning.
The Villain's Journey by Debbie Burke is a wonderfully comprehensive and methodical guide for writers who want antagonists that actively drive story action. Burke grounds her advice in scholarship and publishing experience, and breaks down almost every conceivable angle and shape an antagonist can take. Her style of writing is conversational and easy to follow, and I love how she moves between theory and application, showing how belief systems, social pressure, trauma, and power affect harmful behavior across genres. Perhaps the most eye-opening part for me is the attention to female villains, and correcting long standing habits that sideline or excuse their actions. I hadn't realized the sheer volume of cliches around gendered antagonists, and am grateful to see it now. Planning exercises and dual timelines translate ideas into daily writing practice. Overall, this is the perfect guide. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month
Strategies to Improve Sales
Susan U Neal RN, MBA, MHS
2026 Gold Medal
212 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Susan U. Neal’s How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month is a comprehensive guide for authors seeking to elevate their book sales and establish a successful writing career. With a focus on Christian authors, Neal provides a clear roadmap that combines practical strategies with spiritual encouragement. The book is organized into twelve chapters, each covering a key aspect of the writing and publishing process. From developing a literary vision to mastering advanced marketing techniques, Neal addresses everything an author needs to succeed in the competitive publishing world. She highlights the importance of preparation, including creating a solid outline, joining a writers’ group, and understanding the differences between self-publishing and traditional publishing.
Susan U. Neal offers detailed insights on how authors can promote their books effectively, including leveraging social media, securing endorsements, organizing book launch events, and participating in trade shows. She emphasizes the importance of reviews, contests, and advanced strategies such as hosting summits, launching podcasts, and attending conventions to broaden an author’s reach. Neal shares practical tips and personal stories that enhance her credibility. Her experience as a bestselling author and her role as CEO of the Christian Indie Publishing Association support the trustworthiness of her advice. The book is filled with resources, including links to courses, discounts, and tools that help authors apply her strategies. How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month equips authors with the tools they need to succeed in both the creative and business aspects of writing. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to achieve their sales goals.
Susan U. Neal’s How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month is a comprehensive guide for authors seeking to elevate their book sales and establish a successful writing career. With a focus on Christian authors, Neal provides a clear roadmap that combines practical strategies with spiritual encouragement. The book is organized into twelve chapters, each covering a key aspect of the writing and publishing process. From developing a literary vision to mastering advanced marketing techniques, Neal addresses everything an author needs to succeed in the competitive publishing world. She highlights the importance of preparation, including creating a solid outline, joining a writers’ group, and understanding the differences between self-publishing and traditional publishing.
Susan U. Neal offers detailed insights on how authors can promote their books effectively, including leveraging social media, securing endorsements, organizing book launch events, and participating in trade shows. She emphasizes the importance of reviews, contests, and advanced strategies such as hosting summits, launching podcasts, and attending conventions to broaden an author’s reach. Neal shares practical tips and personal stories that enhance her credibility. Her experience as a bestselling author and her role as CEO of the Christian Indie Publishing Association support the trustworthiness of her advice. The book is filled with resources, including links to courses, discounts, and tools that help authors apply her strategies. How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month equips authors with the tools they need to succeed in both the creative and business aspects of writing. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to achieve their sales goals.
Recommend this book:
Self-Publishing Simplified
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Success
Sallie Dawkins
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Sallie Dawkins' Self-Publishing Simplified: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Success has new and prospective authors in mind. However, this book contains many golden nuggets that will also help seasoned authors. Sallie motivates the reader by giving all the information needed to be a successful self-publisher. I have over fifteen books published and still found the information in this book very useful. Every step in the publishing process is thoroughly covered with advice for maximizing the impact of your book. One piece of advice Sallie gives is to “concentrate on what you did well rather than fixating on what didn’t go according to plan.” While Sallie gives the different options involved in publishing, she makes her own suggestions but leaves the choice to you. This is not a book for “Dummies,” but a guidebook for those who think and want to know what options are available. I highly recommend this book to all who plan to write and publish a book.
Self-publishing can be complex and time-consuming, but Self-Publishing Simplified by Sallie Dawkins cuts to the chase and gives expert advice from one who has been there and done that. As one reads Sallie’s easy-to-understand instructions, writing does not seem such a foreboding task. After guiding the reader through the four main ways to publish—tradition, hybrid, vanity, and self-publishing—Sallie breaks the writing task into key stages that are easy to follow: preparation, writing, revision, publishing, launching, and marketing. In her successful effort to make sure all the bases are covered, she gives plenty of resources that expand the contents of her book. I look forward to applying the new knowledge to increase my sales and continue to publish quality books. Sallie has thought of everything, including a practice project at the end. When you see your books in publication, you will be grateful that you took the time to read this guide.
Sallie Dawkins' Self-Publishing Simplified: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Success has new and prospective authors in mind. However, this book contains many golden nuggets that will also help seasoned authors. Sallie motivates the reader by giving all the information needed to be a successful self-publisher. I have over fifteen books published and still found the information in this book very useful. Every step in the publishing process is thoroughly covered with advice for maximizing the impact of your book. One piece of advice Sallie gives is to “concentrate on what you did well rather than fixating on what didn’t go according to plan.” While Sallie gives the different options involved in publishing, she makes her own suggestions but leaves the choice to you. This is not a book for “Dummies,” but a guidebook for those who think and want to know what options are available. I highly recommend this book to all who plan to write and publish a book.
Self-publishing can be complex and time-consuming, but Self-Publishing Simplified by Sallie Dawkins cuts to the chase and gives expert advice from one who has been there and done that. As one reads Sallie’s easy-to-understand instructions, writing does not seem such a foreboding task. After guiding the reader through the four main ways to publish—tradition, hybrid, vanity, and self-publishing—Sallie breaks the writing task into key stages that are easy to follow: preparation, writing, revision, publishing, launching, and marketing. In her successful effort to make sure all the bases are covered, she gives plenty of resources that expand the contents of her book. I look forward to applying the new knowledge to increase my sales and continue to publish quality books. Sallie has thought of everything, including a practice project at the end. When you see your books in publication, you will be grateful that you took the time to read this guide.
Recommend this book:
Escape the Writer’s Web
Untangle Your Procrastination Type, Discover Personalized Solutions, and Transform Your Writing Life
Colleen M. Story
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Escape the Writer’s Web by Colleen M. Story is a comprehensive guide to understanding and overcoming procrastination, specifically tailored for writers and creative artists. The book begins by illustrating how procrastination is an insidious curse that can sabotage dreams and lead to lifelong regret. It explores the science and psychology behind why we delay tasks, highlighting that procrastination is often more complex than mere laziness or lack of discipline. The author emphasizes that each person has a unique "procrastination type," such as Worrier, Avoider, Dreamer, Perfectionist, or Crisis-Maker, and provides detailed insights and strategies for identifying and addressing these specific patterns. The book offers personalized tools, mindset shifts, and actionable steps to untangle one's web of delays, encouraging readers to embrace their authentic selves and take consistent, meaningful action toward their creative goals.
I haven’t written a book and didn’t have any plans to write one, but Colleen M. Story made me feel like I can do it. I learned a lot from this book because it is not written only for writers, but for anyone struggling with a passion, a task, or a dream; the strategies outlined can be applied to any area of life. Escape the Writer’s Web explores various themes and discusses self-awareness, compassion, and the importance of mindset in overcoming procrastination. It underlines that procrastination often stems from underlying fears—fear of failure, rejection, or imperfection—that must be acknowledged and addressed with kindness rather than self-criticism. The author encourages readers with practical steps to shift perceptions of tasks from daunting to manageable and fun, breaking projects into small, achievable steps, and to celebrate progress along the way. This book gives you the tools you need to succeed as a writer or an artist; it is written in clear prose, filled with actionable steps and insights.
Escape the Writer’s Web by Colleen M. Story is a comprehensive guide to understanding and overcoming procrastination, specifically tailored for writers and creative artists. The book begins by illustrating how procrastination is an insidious curse that can sabotage dreams and lead to lifelong regret. It explores the science and psychology behind why we delay tasks, highlighting that procrastination is often more complex than mere laziness or lack of discipline. The author emphasizes that each person has a unique "procrastination type," such as Worrier, Avoider, Dreamer, Perfectionist, or Crisis-Maker, and provides detailed insights and strategies for identifying and addressing these specific patterns. The book offers personalized tools, mindset shifts, and actionable steps to untangle one's web of delays, encouraging readers to embrace their authentic selves and take consistent, meaningful action toward their creative goals.
I haven’t written a book and didn’t have any plans to write one, but Colleen M. Story made me feel like I can do it. I learned a lot from this book because it is not written only for writers, but for anyone struggling with a passion, a task, or a dream; the strategies outlined can be applied to any area of life. Escape the Writer’s Web explores various themes and discusses self-awareness, compassion, and the importance of mindset in overcoming procrastination. It underlines that procrastination often stems from underlying fears—fear of failure, rejection, or imperfection—that must be acknowledged and addressed with kindness rather than self-criticism. The author encourages readers with practical steps to shift perceptions of tasks from daunting to manageable and fun, breaking projects into small, achievable steps, and to celebrate progress along the way. This book gives you the tools you need to succeed as a writer or an artist; it is written in clear prose, filled with actionable steps and insights.
Recommend this book:
Self-Publish & Succeed
The No Boring Books Way to Writing a Non-Fiction Book that Sells
Julie Broad
2025 Bronze Medal
237 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite
Self-Publish & Succeed: The No Boring Books Way to Writing a Non-Fiction Book that Sells by Julie Broad is the perfect cheerleader and guide to start or finish the book that is crucial to you, your brand, or career. This compact, succinct book brims with information on how to self-publish your non-fiction book. Whether it's a how-to or your brand's life story, Broad's inside information will give you the tools and boost you need to succeed. Some of the topics covered are overcoming procrastination, how to avoid writing a boring book, how to find a good editor, a one-page secret that could turn your book around and generate a mountain of leads and sales, speed writing, how and where to market, how to change lives with your book, write for the reader and not yourself, and lots more. This author gives you the keys to unlocking your potential, your future, and your business; making sure that your non-fiction book is, above all, fun.
Broad has crafted a book that needs to be in front of anyone who's even thought about writing a non-fiction book. Some writers have a natural talent for it, and some need a book to boost their business or career, but all writers need the information contained in Broad's book. Even experienced writers can use a refresher course, some new ideas, or some motivation. A book can open new revenue streams for you, and reach different audiences or customers. The author puts forth her No Boring Books approach to publishing, and it's information you can refer to again and again. I love Broad's motto that non-fiction books don't have to be boring. The best ones never are. Non-fiction can be just as moving, thoughtful, and inspiring as a fiction novel. I also like the way the author gets into the nuts-and-bolts of writing non-fiction, the publication process, which changes with the times, and you the reader or potential writer can change right along with it. Also interesting are the real-life success stories she profiles. Broad also shows you what not to do, which is just as important. Read Julie Broad's Self-Publish & Succeed from cover to cover, and you will hit the ground running with your non-fiction book.
Self-Publish & Succeed: The No Boring Books Way to Writing a Non-Fiction Book that Sells by Julie Broad is the perfect cheerleader and guide to start or finish the book that is crucial to you, your brand, or career. This compact, succinct book brims with information on how to self-publish your non-fiction book. Whether it's a how-to or your brand's life story, Broad's inside information will give you the tools and boost you need to succeed. Some of the topics covered are overcoming procrastination, how to avoid writing a boring book, how to find a good editor, a one-page secret that could turn your book around and generate a mountain of leads and sales, speed writing, how and where to market, how to change lives with your book, write for the reader and not yourself, and lots more. This author gives you the keys to unlocking your potential, your future, and your business; making sure that your non-fiction book is, above all, fun.
Broad has crafted a book that needs to be in front of anyone who's even thought about writing a non-fiction book. Some writers have a natural talent for it, and some need a book to boost their business or career, but all writers need the information contained in Broad's book. Even experienced writers can use a refresher course, some new ideas, or some motivation. A book can open new revenue streams for you, and reach different audiences or customers. The author puts forth her No Boring Books approach to publishing, and it's information you can refer to again and again. I love Broad's motto that non-fiction books don't have to be boring. The best ones never are. Non-fiction can be just as moving, thoughtful, and inspiring as a fiction novel. I also like the way the author gets into the nuts-and-bolts of writing non-fiction, the publication process, which changes with the times, and you the reader or potential writer can change right along with it. Also interesting are the real-life success stories she profiles. Broad also shows you what not to do, which is just as important. Read Julie Broad's Self-Publish & Succeed from cover to cover, and you will hit the ground running with your non-fiction book.
Recommend this book:
The One Week Writing Workshop
7 Days to Spark, Boost or Revive Your Novel
Karin Adams
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Karin Adams' One Week Writing Workshop offers a structured, seven-day approach to story writing. It includes daily warmups and core exercises to enhance skills, stimulate creativity, and tackle writer's block. Writers can either start a new project or refine an existing one, with a focus on idea generation, plot development, and storyboarding. For example, day four highlights the plot with a mini storyboard; and Adams' workshop leans into the importance of the writing process over the end product. Techniques such as brainstorming, "Writer’s Walks," and using sensory elements like music are employed to boost creativity. Readers are taught about building characters by writing detailed biographies, first-person viewpoints, and visual aids; the setting is integrated with character actions, and the story world is expanded through backstories and physical models. The workshop stresses revision, advising a focus on story core, gathering feedback, and incremental improvements.
One Week Writing Workshop by Karin Adams is a wonderfully pragmatic and engaging approach to writing, making it a standout resource for both novice and seasoned writers. Adams’ own writing style within the workshop is comfortably conversational, making it accessible in how she provides a clear seven-day plan that guides readers. I think her encouragement to embrace the act of writing and experiment freely is extremely helpful and brings writers back to the joy of storytelling. The workshop excels in practical advice, such as using sensory details to bring settings to life and creating dynamic characters through innovative exercises. I personally thought the “500/500 Method” for balancing new writing with revisions to be particularly effective. Overall, with Adams' implementation of interactive elements throughout and her thoughtful strategies that foster steps and prompt proactive writing, One Week Writing Workshop is a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their craft and stay inspired. Very highly recommended.
Karin Adams' One Week Writing Workshop offers a structured, seven-day approach to story writing. It includes daily warmups and core exercises to enhance skills, stimulate creativity, and tackle writer's block. Writers can either start a new project or refine an existing one, with a focus on idea generation, plot development, and storyboarding. For example, day four highlights the plot with a mini storyboard; and Adams' workshop leans into the importance of the writing process over the end product. Techniques such as brainstorming, "Writer’s Walks," and using sensory elements like music are employed to boost creativity. Readers are taught about building characters by writing detailed biographies, first-person viewpoints, and visual aids; the setting is integrated with character actions, and the story world is expanded through backstories and physical models. The workshop stresses revision, advising a focus on story core, gathering feedback, and incremental improvements.
One Week Writing Workshop by Karin Adams is a wonderfully pragmatic and engaging approach to writing, making it a standout resource for both novice and seasoned writers. Adams’ own writing style within the workshop is comfortably conversational, making it accessible in how she provides a clear seven-day plan that guides readers. I think her encouragement to embrace the act of writing and experiment freely is extremely helpful and brings writers back to the joy of storytelling. The workshop excels in practical advice, such as using sensory details to bring settings to life and creating dynamic characters through innovative exercises. I personally thought the “500/500 Method” for balancing new writing with revisions to be particularly effective. Overall, with Adams' implementation of interactive elements throughout and her thoughtful strategies that foster steps and prompt proactive writing, One Week Writing Workshop is a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their craft and stay inspired. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Profitable Author
1,001 Ways to Build a Business You Love Around Your Books
Sharon Woodhouse
2025 Gold Medal
508 Pages
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Mansoor Ahmed for Readers' Favorite
The Profitable Author: 1,001 Ways to Build a Business You Love Around Your Books by Sharon Woodhouse is a practical and motivational guide for writers who want to turn their books into a steady, fulfilling source of income. The book doesn’t just focus on writing itself—it’s about what comes next. It teaches authors how to treat their writing like a real business by sharing tested advice on marketing, selling, managing time, creating multiple income streams, and building a life they enjoy around their books. Whether you’re self-published, traditionally published, or just starting, the book offers ideas on how to take small, daily steps to reach bigger goals. With tips on events, partnerships, merchandise, services, social media, and even mindset, Woodhouse helps authors customize a plan that fits their strengths, lifestyle, and values. This is not a “get rich quick” manual but a long-term guide to making writing work financially and personally.
Sharon Woodhouse’s writing is clear, friendly, and energetic. Her advice feels personal and authentic, drawn from years of experience in publishing and business coaching. The narrative structure is organized into themes like sales, marketing, productivity, and mindset, making it easy to use as a reference or read straight through. The tone is encouraging, and I liked how she emphasizes building a business that fits your life, not someone else’s idea of success. Her “do five things a day” tip stuck with me—it’s simple but powerful. The Profitable Author made me feel excited, not overwhelmed, about taking control of my author journey. It’s full of useful tools and motivation, especially for writers like me who want freedom, income, and purpose from their books.
The Profitable Author: 1,001 Ways to Build a Business You Love Around Your Books by Sharon Woodhouse is a practical and motivational guide for writers who want to turn their books into a steady, fulfilling source of income. The book doesn’t just focus on writing itself—it’s about what comes next. It teaches authors how to treat their writing like a real business by sharing tested advice on marketing, selling, managing time, creating multiple income streams, and building a life they enjoy around their books. Whether you’re self-published, traditionally published, or just starting, the book offers ideas on how to take small, daily steps to reach bigger goals. With tips on events, partnerships, merchandise, services, social media, and even mindset, Woodhouse helps authors customize a plan that fits their strengths, lifestyle, and values. This is not a “get rich quick” manual but a long-term guide to making writing work financially and personally.
Sharon Woodhouse’s writing is clear, friendly, and energetic. Her advice feels personal and authentic, drawn from years of experience in publishing and business coaching. The narrative structure is organized into themes like sales, marketing, productivity, and mindset, making it easy to use as a reference or read straight through. The tone is encouraging, and I liked how she emphasizes building a business that fits your life, not someone else’s idea of success. Her “do five things a day” tip stuck with me—it’s simple but powerful. The Profitable Author made me feel excited, not overwhelmed, about taking control of my author journey. It’s full of useful tools and motivation, especially for writers like me who want freedom, income, and purpose from their books.
Recommend this book:
Mastering Your Scenes
Your Blueprint for Success
J.A. Cox
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Non-Fiction - Writing/Publishing
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Are you an old hand at writing or a newbie? Either way, Mastering Your Scenes: Your Blueprint for Success by J.A. Cox is a great book for all fiction writers. If you have ever been stuck writing a chapter, this book gives you ideas on how to get back to writing. The author lays out a simple plan to construct your chapters so your writing flows from start to finish. After describing the different types of writers, the author delves into what scenes are and how to sketch them. After you have built the book’s skeleton, you can put flesh on it by following the template. The more real the scene is to you, the more real it will be to your readers. Everyone needs a little push sometimes, and this book will give you the push you need to finish your masterpiece.
If you have been looking for a well-crafted book on making your fictional scenes realistic, Mastering Your Scenes by J.A. Cox is the book you want. The author writes in an easy-to-follow style that will get your writing juices flowing. Each chapter includes the following sections: when, where, how, and practical application. Armed with knowledge about perfecting scenes, you will improve your writing and be pleased with how much better your book seems. Since every story occurs somewhere, learning how to develop and describe the location is vital. American football coach Vince Lombardi started each training season with the simple statement, “Gentlemen, this is a football!” Even seasoned writers must remember the basics; this book is a wonderful primer. I highly recommend this book to all fiction writers.
Are you an old hand at writing or a newbie? Either way, Mastering Your Scenes: Your Blueprint for Success by J.A. Cox is a great book for all fiction writers. If you have ever been stuck writing a chapter, this book gives you ideas on how to get back to writing. The author lays out a simple plan to construct your chapters so your writing flows from start to finish. After describing the different types of writers, the author delves into what scenes are and how to sketch them. After you have built the book’s skeleton, you can put flesh on it by following the template. The more real the scene is to you, the more real it will be to your readers. Everyone needs a little push sometimes, and this book will give you the push you need to finish your masterpiece.
If you have been looking for a well-crafted book on making your fictional scenes realistic, Mastering Your Scenes by J.A. Cox is the book you want. The author writes in an easy-to-follow style that will get your writing juices flowing. Each chapter includes the following sections: when, where, how, and practical application. Armed with knowledge about perfecting scenes, you will improve your writing and be pleased with how much better your book seems. Since every story occurs somewhere, learning how to develop and describe the location is vital. American football coach Vince Lombardi started each training season with the simple statement, “Gentlemen, this is a football!” Even seasoned writers must remember the basics; this book is a wonderful primer. I highly recommend this book to all fiction writers.
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