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Ashante Thomas's Blog

Freelancer ▪ Acquisitions Editor


  • October 9, 2025

    Optimizing Your Platform for Book Buzz: Tip 1

    A successful book launch is a marathon, not a sprint. As a veteran nonfiction acquisition editor, I’ve seen countless authors pour their hearts and souls into their manuscripts, only to fall short when it comes to getting the word out. In the coming months, I’ll share three common mistakes and tips to overcome them. Tip… Continue reading

    Tips for Authors
    #authortips, #bookcoaching, #bookpromotion, #booktok, #publishing
  • July 27, 2025

    Understanding why Your 500k Followers Might Not Make You a Bestseller

    You’ve built a loyal following. Congrats—that’s no small feat! But here’s the truth: followers alone won’t move your book off the shelves. Some may cheer you on, but others are simply there for the bite-sized insights or free advice. That’s not a flaw in your brand—it’s reality. If you’re counting on your social media audience… Continue reading

    Tips for Authors
    #authortips, #bookmarketing, #bookproposal, #booksales, #booktok, #publishing
  • 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

    Tips for Authors
    #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

    Tips for Authors
    #authortips, #compcopies, #nonfiction, #professionaldevelopment, #publishingtips
  • April 13, 2025

    Growing Your Platform after Book Proposal Rejection

    Embrace the feedback and get to work. Continue reading

    Tips for Authors
    #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

    Tips for Authors
    #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

    Tips for Authors
    #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

    Tips for Authors
    #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. Establish a writing schedule: A well-structured writing schedule is essential for staying on track and delivering your manuscript on time. Remember to… Continue reading

    Tips for Authors
    #authortips, #bookproposal, #books, #CopyrightClearanceCenter, #publishing, art, Permissions, 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: Send signed copies to their network—the decision makers—encouraging them to purchase copies for each staff member if they enjoy… Continue reading

    Tips for Authors
    #ashantethomas, #bookpromotion, #booksales, #marketing
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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.

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Recent Posts

  • Choosing the Right Comps for Your Book
  • Diluting Your Manuscript Can Kill Your Book
  • Helping Readers Buy Your Book
  • Recognizing that Launch Day Is Just the Start
  • Relying Only on Amazon is Hurting Your Book Sales

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Recent Posts

  • Choosing the Right Comps for Your Book
  • Diluting Your Manuscript Can Kill Your Book
  • Helping Readers Buy Your Book

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