Ashante Thomas's Blog

Freelancer ▪ Acquisitions Editor

June 24, 2025

Crafting a Cover Design that Works for More than the Author

the true goal is to get folks who don’t know you to buy your book Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#bookdesign, #booksells, #booktok, #coverdesign, #nonfictionauthors, #publishing
May 24, 2025

Leveraging Your Book for Maximum Impact

Publishing a nonfiction book is an incredible achievement, but its true power lies in how you as author share it. A well-placed copy can open doors to new audiences, strengthen professional relationships, and inspire future collaborations. The following are three strategies you can use to strengthen your platform—and generate new business. 1. To Build Your… Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#authortips, #compcopies, #nonfiction, #professionaldevelopment, #publishingtips
April 13, 2025

Growing Your Platform after Book Proposal Rejection

Embrace the feedback and get to work. Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#authortips, #bookproposal, #publishing
February 16, 2025

Jumping on Early Promo and Sales Opportunities

For authors, especially first-time authors, the urge to delay promoting their forthcoming book until the finished product is in hand is understandable but counterproductive. Waiting, especially during the sell-in window (that is, the six months ahead of publication when their book is available for preorder on retailer sites), robs authors of sales and promotion momentum.… Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#authortips, #publishing, #writers
January 4, 2025

Saying Goodbye to Outdated Author Beliefs

As we turn the page to 2025, it’s a great time to reflect on our approaches to publishing. For first-time authors, especially, the following three common misconceptions can hinder success. The Myth of the Follower-Fueled Bestseller: Having a substantial online following is undoubtedly valuable. It provides a built-in audience and a platform for promotion. However,… Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#authortips, #bookmarketing, #books, #booktok, #publishing, #writers, writing
December 26, 2024

Choosing the Right Book Binding

Nonfiction lovers often face a binding dilemma: paperback or cloth or spiral bound? All formats offer clear advantages. Paperbacks standout for accessibility. Their lower price point makes knowledge more attainable for budget-conscious readers and book buyers. Plus, their flexible design makes them ideal for reading on the go—easily slipping into bags and backpacks. However, paperbacks… Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#authortips, #publishing, #writers
September 15, 2024

Setting Yourself Up for Success Post-Contract

Once you’ve signed that coveted book contract, the journey is far from over. In fact, it’s just beginning. The following are three actions to take to ensure a smooth and successful publication process. You can have an efficient, successful publishing experience by following these steps. Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#authortips, #bookproposal, #books, #CopyrightClearanceCenter, #permissions, #publishing, art, reading, writing
March 1, 2024

Using Your Complimentary Copies—Wisely

Many authors receive free copies of their book at publication, but most don’t know how they can leverage those copies to increase book sales and to draw in new clients. The following are a few ideas: Authors can also use their author discount to purchase additional copies to accomplish many of these tasks too. The… Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#ashantethomas, #bookpromotion, #booksales, #marketing
October 24, 2023

Tapping Your Network

You’ve signed with your dream publisher and submitted your manuscript to production. As release day draws closer, you wonder what you can do as author to help sales and publicity. The following are a few tips that involve leveraging your network to drive sales as soon as your book is available for preorder. > Ask… Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#ashantethomas, #books, #publishing
August 24, 2023

Refreshing Your Website before Hitting “Send”

Many publishers check prospective authors’ platforms ahead of offering them a publishing agreement. Their goal is to sign authors with a strong platform to mitigate the risk of signing someone who cannot help drive sales of their book. So, the following are two elements that authors should address before sending a publisher their book proposal.… Continue reading

Publishing Tips

#ashantethomas, #bookproposal, #publishing

About Me

Rooted in the rhythms of Motown and most at home on Midwest hiking trails, I am an editor with a career that bridges trade and scholarly publishing. Whether working in continental philosophy, Holocaust studies, or my current focus on health and fitness, I respect the creative process and the dedication it takes to bring a book to life. When I am not tending to my backyard patch of cabbage, I use this space to clear my mind and share practical insights. My goal = help nonfiction authors demystify the publishing journey and enjoy a much richer experience from manuscript to marketplace.