#authortips
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Navigating the Editor Handoff for Authors
So your editor — the person who listened to your book pitched, signed you to a deal, and served as your primary contact — is leaving the press. Now, they’ve introduced you to their replacement. Scary business! Whether you’re weeks from launch or mid-book tour, the “honeymoon phase” with your new editor is actually a… Continue reading
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Calling in All Favors for Book Launch
If you’re writing your first book, let me give one of most important pieces of advice I’ve learned: call in every favor you’ve ever earned. This is not the time to be shy. That podcast you guested on three years ago? Reach out. That journalist who quoted you in a piece once? Send them a… Continue reading
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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
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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
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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
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Growing Your Platform after Book Proposal Rejection
Embrace the feedback and get to work. Continue reading
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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
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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
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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
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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
Ashante Thomas's Blog 