Hello Lovelies - Weekly Writing PodcastFor Writers by Author Rachel Cooper

Rachel Cooper
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Hello Lovelies, and welcome to the podcast! This is a podcast designed to help all authors at every level write and publish their books. Find the transcript for this episode by going to: www.authorrachelcooper.com/blog Become a Paid Subscriber: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/author-rachel-cooper/subscribe authorrachelcooper.substack.com

  1. 04/18/2025

    #169 - First Draft Deceptions

    I get it. Words are deceptively hard. There's so much that no one tells you about getting that first draft written, and trying to learn the craft while writing a novel is soul-crushing. I've been writing for over ten years, and during that time, I've come across a lot of different people who are ultimately failing themselves and their stories for different reasons. I want to address some of the more common writer-types that I've come across, because getting the first draft out of you is the hardest part. Keep in mind that none of these people are making their first draft happen. If you think you might be one of these, I wanted to also give you some encouragement and tips to help get you back on track. "I'd like to write a novel someday." This person is the kind of person who maybe liked reading, liked the idea of writing, or had a really great story to tell, but for whatever reason, has never put pen to paper. Sometimes, they'll even try to explain the great idea they had for a story once, and try to convince you that you should write that story for them. As enthusiastic as these people are, they don't realize that you have your own novels to write that you are passionate about. If you have always thought you'd write a novel someday, and never have, you must face the fact here and now that no one is going to come along and just write that novel for you. No one is as passionate or knowledgeable about that story as you, and you'd be doing your story is disservice to assume you'll get around to it one day, or even worse, pawn it off to someone else to write with their vision. If you don't write your story, no one will. You're the only one who can, so I will always encourage you to give it a try. "I have so many ideas for stories that I don't even know where to start." This person has a problem with a lack of focus. Usually this means they've started something and gotten sidetracked by another story, or another ten stories, all of which they have eaten the brains out of and then run off to another juicier meal, leaving dead bodies, (erm, you know I mean manuscripts, right?), in their wake. Don't be a zombie. All they want to do is eat your brains. Instead, try to focus on just one major project or task at a time. This could be the one you're the most excited to tell, it could be one that you've already got most of the outline done for, or one that you have come back to time and again. If you have other story ideas during this time, it's okay. Brain dump everything you've got into a file and look at it later, then get back to focusing on the major task at hand. "I can't even begin to write anything until I have it all planned out." The person that says this typically plots a novel to death. This may include their worlds, characters, and backstories. You probably shouldn't spend 20 years plotting your novel out just to write one book. Even if it is a series of books set in the same world, you will likely find even more ideas and more depth from just writing the first draft than you will by trying to plot without one. If this is your scenario, remember that your time on this planet is limited, and you may only write 3-5 books in your lifetime at this pace. If you're okay with that, then keeo doing what you love. If you're not satisfied with that, don't be discouraged that you don't know everything, yet. Get your big moments figured out, and trust that the rest will come to you when you start to write it and think about it more seriously. "I had this cool idea, and I sort of know where it's going to go, but I have no idea how to get there." On the opposite end of the spectrum are those people who have no idea how to get their novel from point A to point B. This was me the very first time I tried to write a draft. Even upon getting my most dubious of first drafts finished, my characters were incredibly flat. Very few people can write a complete novel from start to finish without having some sort of outline going. Those people essentially live in their basements and have been writing for 30 years. You are not one of those people. I wasn't one of them either. When you first have an idea for something, plot or characters or any of it, you will usually be excited and want to jump right in. Sometimes a scene comes to me in part or in whole. Sometimes, its a facet of the world that may or may not be totally relevant. Whether I can use it or not, I have some puzzle pieces that I've randomly picked out of the box that is my story. This is where my outline comes in, because they aren't always useful things like straight edges or corners, so I have to dig through the box to find some of those pieces before I can start to put everything together. You don't have to have every piece lined out and ready to put into the right part of your puzzle, but you need to at least have a starting place. "You don't have to be an English Major to know how to read and write. I grew up doing it my whole life." This type of person thinks they know the language just because they've grown up with it. They are also the type to think they know how to write a book since they've read so many of them. Yes, and no. So much no. If you're this type of person, you'll be trudging along, writing to your hearts content, only to find that the language is more nuanced and complicated than you really thought about or assumed. I don't seem to ever remember that you aren't supposed to start a sentence with a preposition. Nope. Don't care. I seem to totally ignore that rule whenever possible. Sending your chapters through critiques will call into question: did you ever learn the language at all? If this is you, consider taking some classes, watching some videos, or reading articles from your favorite authors online about the actual craft of writing. We don't actually write dialogue the way we speak. No one actually thinks about it when they reach up and scratch their nose. At least not in real life, but in writing, you do. How often do you actually use someone's name? Probably about never. But if you're reading a conversation where there are multiple characters of the same gender involved, you might use it more than you'd think. Learning the craft as much as possible, writing as much as possible, and getting feedback on your work is going to call out all these little quirks that you have built up and never noticed before will get you where you need to be. I want you to thrive in the coming months, and even further down the road. If you have any tips for getting your first draft written, let me know in the comments below! Get full access to Author Rachel Cooper at authorrachelcooper.substack.com/subscribe

    10 min

  2. 04/11/2025

    #168 - Boosting Book Sales on Facebook and Instagram

    Introduction In today's digital age, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer authors an incredible opportunity to connect with their target audience, build a strong online presence, and ultimately generate book sales. With billions of active users, these platforms provide a fertile ground for promoting your books and engaging with potential readers. In this blog post, we'll explore effective strategies to harness the power of Facebook and Instagram to boost your book sales and grow your author brand. Let's dive in! Create Engaging Content Define Your Target Audience: It is essential to define and identify your target audience when creating content. By understanding their demographics, interests, and preferences, you can tailor your content to resonate with them effectively. Knowing who your ideal readers are will enable you to create content that suits their needs and interests. Compelling Visuals: Visuals are an essential component of any content. They have the power to catch the eye and engage the audience. Ensure you use high-quality images, book covers, and graphics that not only look visually appealing but also reflect the essence of your book. By utilizing compelling visuals, you can attract more attention to your content and drive better engagement from your target audience. Share Excerpts and Quotes: Tease your audience with captivating excerpts and quotes from your book. This gives them a taste of your writing style and piques their curiosity, encouraging them to make a purchase. Additionally, you can enhance the impact of your excerpts and quotes by pairing them with visually captivating images that make them even more memorable and shareable. Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks: Offer glimpses into your writing process, book research, or character development. This creates a sense of exclusivity and connects readers on a deeper level. By revealing the behind-the-scenes moments, you invite readers into your creative world and allow them to feel like insiders. Moreover, you can use behind-the-scenes photos or videos to provide a visually engaging sneak peek, making it even more exciting for your audience. Leverage Facebook and Instagram Features Author Page: Create a dedicated Facebook author page and an Instagram business profile to establish your author brand. Use these platforms to share updates, engage with readers, and promote your books. Additionally, you can consider hosting giveaways, collaborating with other authors or influencers, and organizing virtual events to further connect with your audience and increase your reach. Compelling Book Descriptions: Skillfully craft compelling book descriptions that vividly convey the unique selling points and benefits of your work. Emphasize what sets your book apart and why readers should choose it. A well-written book description can entice potential readers and make them eager to dive into your story. Facebook Groups: Join and actively participate in relevant Facebook groups for book lovers, writing communities, or genre-specific groups. Engage in meaningful conversations, offer valuable insights, and share your expertise. Remember to focus on providing value to the community instead of solely self-promoting. By building genuine connections and relationships, you can expand your network and potentially gain new readers. Instagram Stories and Live Videos: Take full advantage of Instagram Stories and Live Videos to create engaging content for your audience. Share regular book updates, sneak peeks of behind-the-scenes content, host Q&A sessions, or do live readings. These features provide an authentic and immediate connection with your audience, fostering a stronger bond and increasing their interest and support for your work. Consider experimenting with various formats and interactive elements to keep your content fresh and exciting. Engage with Your Audience Respond to Comments and Messages: Take the time to engage with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and direct inquiries. Show genuine interest and appreciation for their support. This allows you to foster a strong connection with your audience and build a loyal following that values your engagement. Run Contests and Giveaways: Organize contests or giveaways that encourage readers to engage with your content and share it with others. This not only boosts your reach but also generates excitement and word-of-mouth promotion. By offering incentives, such as free copies of your book or exclusive merchandise, you can create a sense of anticipation and encourage active participation from your readers. Ask for Reviews and Testimonials: Encourage readers to leave reviews and testimonials for your books on Facebook, Instagram, or other book-related platforms. Positive reviews can significantly impact a potential reader's decision to purchase your book. By actively soliciting feedback and highlighting positive reviews, you can establish social proof and enhance your book's reputation in the eyes of potential buyers. Paid Advertising Facebook Ads Manager: Utilize Facebook's robust advertising platform to create targeted ads that reach your specific audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. Experiment with different ad formats, such as carousel ads showcasing your books or video ads featuring author interviews. Maximize the potential of Facebook's extensive user base and powerful ad targeting capabilities to effectively promote your books to a wider audience. Instagram Sponsored Posts: Boost your visibility on Instagram by running sponsored posts to reach a wider audience. Utilize captivating visuals, compelling captions, and appropriate hashtags to attract attention and drive engagement. Take advantage of Instagram's visually-focused platform by creating visually appealing posts that resonate with your target audience. By leveraging sponsored posts, you can expand your reach and maximize the impact of your promotional efforts on this popular social media platform. Conclusion Facebook and Instagram provide incredible opportunities for authors to amplify their book sales and connect with readers on a global scale. By creating engaging content, leveraging platform features, actively engaging with your audience, and utilizing paid advertising, you can effectively promote your books and grow your author brand. Embrace the power of social media, stay consistent, and adapt your strategies based on audience feedback and insights. With dedication and a well-executed social media plan, you can see your book sales soar and build a loyal reader base. Happy promoting and may your books find their way into the hands of eager readers! Get full access to Author Rachel Cooper at authorrachelcooper.substack.com/subscribe

    11 min

  3. 04/04/2025

    #167 - One Solid Method I Use to Overcome Writer's Block

    I find I deal with writer's block in the same way I deal with a tough boss in a video game. Sometimes, when the same guy has been kicking my butt over and over again, no matter what I do, or how many level grinding sessions I've done, I have to just save my game and walk away. In the same way, I find that I can be writing a passage smoothly, words flowing effortlessly from my hands when all of a sudden, something shifts. Someone might ask me a question, breaking my train of thought, or I might slip over the too tired to write threshold, or I write an incredibly amazing sentence and have no idea what I could possibly say next that could be just as good. At those points, I have to save my file and walk away. Maybe that sounds a bit counter-productive, but give me a moment to explain. When Indie authors write, we rarely write for a living. For us, it's a passion. We scribble plots in the margins of our notebooks instead of paying attention to class. We talk endlessly about our character's entire life story, and how to work it all into a single book. We fuss around with the most minute details, such as whether an angel could fly after being thrown in a pool of water, or how to describe human emotions like your heart fluttering madly when your character is, well, dead. Being an Indie author means you really don't write for a living. Not usually. We have to find time to write outside of our everyday responsibilities. We have real jobs that we go to, children and animals to take care of, and then if there's time, maybe some time to ourselves. We grapple every day with the injustice that there isn't enough time in a day for life, let alone to be writing on top of that. How can you justify sitting at the computer and writing when there's dishes piling out of your sink, cat litter to scoop, and laundry steadily trickling out of your basket like a slow-burning lava flow? So we write in the margins. We write on the subway on our commute to work. We write on our cell phones in the line at the DMV. We write on our lunch breaks, or while sitting at the pool watching the kids swim, or find a quiet corner to write at our family gatherings. But let me tell you. Walking away from writing when you have a serious writer's block is the best and the hardest thing you can do. Because when you walk away, you know that every spare second you spend not writing is a complete waste of time, but in that time your thoughts can begin again. You might be ringing up a customer at work, talking to your neighbor about their Christmas light display, or even driving home, but in those moments, you are thinking. You are thinking about your story and where it sits. Because you walked away, you are thinking about your story, and just itching to get back into it. You want to get back into it. Because let's face it. We're Indies. We do this for fun, right? Get full access to Author Rachel Cooper at authorrachelcooper.substack.com/subscribe

    5 min

  4. 03/28/2025

    #166 - Why the Pomodoro Technique Didn’t Work for Me

    Everyone's heard of the Pomodoro Technique by now, right? RIGHT? I wanted to continue our discussion on using our time wisely, and I wanted to talk a little bit about the Pomodoro Technique because it is an important tool for task management big and small. I have to tell you that the moment I heard of this, I immediately loved the idea and could see the many applications of it. For some reason, I kept coming back to it over and over again but could never make it work. What is the Pomodoro Technique you ask? So the Pomodoro technique is something invented in the 1980’s. If you were wondering, Pomodoro is the Italian word for tomato and the inventor called it that because he was using a mechanical kitchen timer in the shape of a tomato to time his progress. In the traditional Pomodoro method, you use a 5 to 1 ratio--usually 25 minutes on, 5 minutes off--to time your work periods. Using a mechanical kitchen timer, the inventor decided that he was going to work intensely on something for 25 minutes, and then take a short break. He'd get back into it, doing sets of 25 on, 5 off, until he'd completed four of these timed sets. Then at the end of the fourth set, he'd take a longer 15-30 minute break. This whole cycle is called a Pomodoro. I made a fun little 5:1 chart for you to kind of break down the process. Okay, that's cool, but why is something like that supposed to work? The Pomodoro technique can increase intense focus, and keeps you working in short sprints to ensure you are consistently productive throughout the entire day. You can still take short breaks, get up and use the bathroom, go grab some more coffee, and these mini-breaks will help you to avoid burnout. Are you a procrastinator? Trick your brain into doing just a little work, for a very short amount of time. The Pomodoro technique can help you minimize fatigue inside an office setting by not sitting too long, and outside an office setting by not standing too long. With the Pomodoro technique, you can manage your time better and actually get more work done, despite the breaks. It's easy to implement, all you need is a clock or a timer, and it's simple to integrate with other productivity tools and to-do lists. I think you can see why this really appealed to me. So why couldn't I make it work for me? So many reasons. The first time I tried it, I was trying to do too much. I couldn’t figure out how to portion my day into these small, 25 minute chunks. Then I went out to the store and bought some mechanical timers, thinking the clicking and ticking noise would be the key to help me to focus during the allotted time. Still, I could not portion my work into small chunks. I would get to the end of the 25 minutes, forget about the timer and keep working, then get distracted by something, and the timer sat unused on my desk until I dragged myself out of whatever weird research hole I had fallen into several hours later. I broke a timer once. Did I mention that? Because that seriously didn't help at all. Like I said, I tried it many times and kept coming back to it over and over with bad results. I tried several proportions, but the proportions were all off. I found that something that worked for my day job didn’t work at home or on the weekends. What I really wanted was one set time that buttoned up my day really nicely. At some point, I had to do some serious thinking. I knew I liked the Pomodoro idea and kept coming back to it over and over, so it was pretty obvious that I needed it in my life. I utterly failed at putting it into action, but why that was, I hadn't a clue. I thought long and hard about how to make it work, and realized something that was the true key for me. I was trying to force my time management into a tidy little box that had a precise size and shape, instead of creating this box around my own time. I naturally work for about 40 minutes at a time. On so many occasions I have sat at my desk typing away for 35-40 minute intervals. If I try to push past the 40-minute mark, I typically lose focus, but I can generally get in a fair amount of work in about 40 minutes worth of time. Something else I know about myself is that I get restless if I want to work but am not working for more than 5 minutes at a time. 5 minutes is plenty of time for me to take that bathroom break, get some more water, stretch, or go check the mail. Any more than that, and I get anxious about getting back to working. In order to keep my productivity over 9000, I had to adapt the Pomodoro Technique. Find out how I did that in Part Two of the Pomodoro Series, coming to you next month! Get full access to Author Rachel Cooper at authorrachelcooper.substack.com/subscribe

    8 min

  5. 03/21/2025

    #165 - How to Build a Healthy, Long-Lasting Writing Career

    Hello Lovelies, As we move into 2025, the concept of Sustainable Authorship is becoming more important than ever. With the fast-paced, digital-first environment many of us operate in, the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance while pursuing a successful writing career can feel overwhelming. In today’s blog post, we’re going to dive into the strategies that help authors maintain their well-being—both mentally and physically—while building long-lasting careers. We'll also share inspiring stories from authors who have found ways to sustain success over the long term. Let’s talk about what it really means to be a sustainable author in 2025! Strategies for Maintaining a Healthy Work-Life Balance One of the toughest challenges authors face is maintaining the delicate balance between their creative work and personal life. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of writing, marketing, publishing, and social media. Before you know it, you might find yourself facing burnout. So, how can we juggle all of these tasks without sacrificing our health or relationships? 1. Set Clear Boundaries for Your Writing Time Many authors who write full-time from home struggle with this, but it’s important to set boundaries around your writing time. Schedule your writing hours just like you would a regular job, and make sure that when your writing time is over, you step away. This means no answering emails, editing, or writing “just one more page” late into the night. Creating boundaries ensures that you’re giving yourself time to unwind and recharge, which leads to better creativity and productivity in the long run. 2. Take Time for Other Creative Outlets Writing is a deeply creative process, but sometimes authors forget that creativity extends beyond the written word. Engaging in other creative activities—whether it’s drawing, playing music, or gardening—can help give your brain a break from writing while still allowing you to tap into that creative energy. Diversifying your creative outlets can be a fun way to prevent burnout while still staying connected to your passion. 3. Break Tasks Into Manageable Pieces It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by a big writing project, especially if you’re juggling multiple responsibilities. To combat this, break your tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces. Whether it’s drafting a chapter or editing a specific scene, setting mini-goals can help you feel a sense of progress without becoming overwhelmed by the enormity of the project. The Importance of Mental and Physical Well-Being for Authors Writing, for many of us, is not only a career but also a deeply personal endeavor. However, the solitary nature of the work and the pressure to constantly produce can take a toll on both our mental and physical well-being. Here are some ways to take care of yourself holistically as an author. 1. Prioritize Mental Health Writing can be emotionally draining, and it’s important to keep an eye on your mental health. If you find that stress, anxiety, or self-doubt are creeping in, consider talking to a mental health professional or practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation or journaling. Taking care of your mind is just as important as hitting your word count for the day. It’s also crucial to remember that it’s okay to take breaks. Sometimes, stepping away from a project for a little while can actually be the most productive thing you do. Giving your brain time to rest and process can lead to breakthroughs when you come back refreshed. 2. Stay Physically Active Authors spend a lot of time sitting, and this sedentary lifestyle can have negative effects on your health. Try to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Whether it’s taking a walk, practicing yoga, or hitting the gym, staying active will improve not only your physical health but also your mental clarity and mood. Many successful authors swear by using the Pomodoro technique (which we’ve discussed in previous posts) to manage both their work and physical well-being. For example, after 25-30 minutes of writing, take a 5-minute break to stretch, walk around, or do a quick physical task. These small bursts of movement will keep you from getting stiff and help you return to your writing with renewed energy. 3. Connect with a Community Writing doesn’t have to be a completely solitary experience. Find a community of fellow writers where you can share experiences, offer support, and get feedback. Whether it’s through social media, a local writing group, or online communities, staying connected can help combat feelings of isolation and give you much-needed encouragement. Stories of Successful, Long-Term Authors Now, let’s take a look at some inspiring examples of authors who have managed to build sustainable careers. What did they do right, and how can we learn from their success? 1. Joanna Penn Joanna Penn is a well-known self-published author who writes both fiction and non-fiction, but she’s also an advocate for author well-being. Penn often speaks about the importance of diversifying your income streams, such as creating non-fiction books, podcasts, and courses. She also emphasizes the need for authors to take time to replenish their creative well through travel, reading, and time off. By focusing on building a creative business that allows for flexibility and freedom, she has sustained a long and fruitful career. 2. Bella Andre Bella Andre is a powerhouse in the world of self-publishing, having sold millions of copies of her contemporary romance novels. One of the keys to Andre’s long-term success is her consistent release schedule, which keeps her fans engaged without overwhelming herself with deadlines. Andre also prioritizes work-life balance, ensuring that she takes time away from her career to focus on family and personal well-being. By doing so, she avoids burnout while continuing to write bestselling novels year after year. 3. Mark Dawson Mark Dawson, another highly successful self-published author, has achieved longevity in his writing career by diversifying his projects and creating a self-publishing podcast that helps other authors navigate the industry. Dawson emphasizes the importance of building a strong author brand and focusing on long-term relationships with readers. By combining his writing with educational content and maintaining a steady flow of books, Dawson has created a sustainable career that continues to thrive. Final Thoughts As authors, our success is not just about how many books we sell or how quickly we can churn out content. Sustainable authorship is about finding the balance between our creative work and our personal well-being. It’s about creating a life that allows us to keep doing what we love for the long haul—without sacrificing our health or happiness. By setting clear boundaries, staying active, nurturing our mental health, and learning from the success of others, we can ensure that our writing careers are not only successful but also fulfilling for many years to come. Discussion Questions * How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance as an author? * What strategies have helped you stay mentally and physically well during your writing career? * Have you ever experienced burnout from writing, and how did you overcome it? * What role does your writing community play in your overall well-being as an author? * What long-term goals do you have for sustaining your writing career? Get full access to Author Rachel Cooper at authorrachelcooper.substack.com/subscribe

    11 min

  6. 11/30/2024

    #164 - Five Word Count Killers

    Whenever you go to author blogs or hear interviews from your favorite author, the number one piece of advice is always to write every day. While it is good in theory, for an Indie Author, it doesn't always work that way. Starting a writing habit is extremely difficult. Life so easily gets in the way. So here are the 5 worst word count killers, and how to avoid them. The Problem: Writer's Block To tell you the honest truth, I'm not convinced that Writer's Block is actually a real thing. It's a term we all use, but I'm really only half convinced this might exist. What is this mysterious thing we blame for 90% of our problems not writing? Words are hard, I get that, but I really feel that what most people term "Writer's Block" they are using interchangeably with words we like a lot less. Words like "Procrastination" "Plot Holes" and "Lack of Motivation". Don't get me wrong. I once put a novel on hold for two years because I didn't like a plot twist that had come up and couldn't figure out how to work with it. I woke up from a dead sleep one day, after two whole years not thinking about the novel at all, and voila! I suddenly knew exactly what was wrong and how to fix it, and that novel was back on track. Writer's block is a thing, and it does happen. However, if it hits you unaware, it's most likely because you haven't done enough planning. The Fix: Brainstorming First off, you need to come to terms with the fact that it might not be true Writer's Block that you're facing. If this is not the case, and there is no other underlying cause, then you could truly have a blockage that you need to work on. The easiest way to get yourself out of a block is to brainstorm plots and ideas. The reason this works is that it forces you to confront what's really causing the block and to work out ways around it. There are a lot of different things that could help, no matter the situation. A mind map is a graphical way to represent ideas and is a visual way to help structure your information. Using your character as the center bubble, branch out things about your character that motivates them, that they like or dislike, main concepts you're trying to portray, or even situations they might face. If you use the plot as the center bubble, you can line out important plot points that are the crux of your story, and branch out to scenes that you have which move each piece of that plot along. You can also use writing prompts. There are thousands of prompts for every genre, and even vague ones for every genre. Pick one you like, and write them as if they are taking place with your character, within your story, or inside your world. Use the rules of your world to make it as likely an event as possible, and really explore the character and the situation they find themselves in. I've even had success with rewriting the scene from the perspective of another character who is also in the scene. This forces you to reevaluate the importance of why these things are taking place and helps you to understand how each character is experiencing the same scene. The Problem: Not Knowing Where to Go Next Sometimes as authors we get so excited about a story or a scene that we jump straight into writing it, the words flowing freely out of our heads and onto the page, but then your inspiration flags in the middle of the scene. Maybe your characters have gotten themselves arrested without warning, or have taken your story off in an interesting direction that was different than you had thought it would be. No matter the cause, your character is now legitimately dropped into the middle of the ocean, and treading water with no direction or land in sight. The Fix: Plan Ahead Planning ahead is a great way of staying on top of your writing habits. If you're especially pleased with what you've written today, at the end of the writing session, scribble in a few more words into the end of the document about what you're thinking will happen next. Another option is to spend about 5 minutes before bed writing in a journal or notebook about what you need to accomplish in the next day. Don't just say that you need to "write 500 words today." Think a bit about it, and ask yourself what your characters need to accomplish tomorrow. This way, you have something to write about even before you sit down. The main idea is that you are a little bit ahead of the game. Finally, keep a scene or two in reserve, which are really clear in your head. All of us have pieces of the plot that are really clear, and pieces that are really blurry. You know, even before you write it, what has to happen in certain scenes, so most of the time you want to write them, and get them down on the page as fast as possible. But because these scenes are so clear in your head, it's unlikely that you'll forget them. Make a few notes on each scene, so that you don't lose your vision, but leave these scenes largely untouched. This way, if you are really stuck, or having a rough time putting words on the page, you can pull one of these brilliant scenes out and get to writing something right away with no word counts lost. The Problem: Time Management As an Indie Author, I actually have a day job that doesn't involve my writing. Because I work 40+ hours a week, I used to find it incredibly difficult to write even 300 words a day after I got home. I would get off work, sit at my desk, and the internet would immediately turn my brains to mush until I went to bed. Because I was exhausted and couldn't brain any longer, no words would get written. I tried waking up an hour early like some writers do, getting some words in before I started my day. While this might work for some, I'm not a morning person, and I spend the first two hours of my day, going largely by autopilot until I have enough tea and moving around that I can finally wake up. This utterly failed for me. The trouble was, I was thinking that in order to write anything at all, I'd have to sit down at my desk at home for an hour or two every day and work at writing, or spend my whole weekend cramming as many words onto a page as I could possibly manage. I mean, how could I call myself a writer if I wasn't as serious about writing as I was about my day job? I've read tons of blogs that say you have to structure your writing time in some rigid, grid-like way. They say you have to pencil in appointments for your writing and then keep them. Well, that's a lovely sentiment, but again, that was something that sounded great to me on paper, but just didn't work in practice. One thing I came to understand was that it wasn't about me not being serious about writing. It wasn't about not having the time or not making time. For me, it was not utilizing the time that I already had. I'm an afternoon writer. Finding that out about myself really clued me into what I should be doing. I really encourage you to figure out when you naturally like to write, because that information is the single best piece of information for you to know about yourself as a writer. No matter what anyone says, for an Indie, I find that you can't force your writing into these neat little packets of time. Life happens. You're already busy enough. If you schedule these time packets, it just doesn't seem to always work out. So you miss more days with a rigid schedule than anything else. The Fix: Restructure Your Writing Time So what do you do? You do what you have to do. It's that simple. You write whenever you can. I can get in 600 words or so on my hour lunch break. Only have half an hour? Take ten minutes to scarf down some dinner leftovers and then get in as many words as you can. I write on notebooks when I am waiting for a movie to start, or for a friend to meet me at a restaurant. Do you have a commute to or from work? Use the time in commute. Instead of listening to the radio or something, I typically dictate my novels using apps on my phone when I am driving or can't otherwise use my hands. I will even admit to putting my tablet in a plastic baggie so that I could take it with me into the shower and finish my word counts while I'm rinsing my hair one-handed. Let's be totally honest. You get a ton of good ideas while you're in the shower anyway, so why not? The main point is that I identified all the tiny bits of downtime that I possibly could have during the day, and with the help of my handy-dandy notebook, or cell phone, or tablet, or whatever, I get words in every single day. And you have no idea how nice it is to come home from work and have my word count done, or nearly there already because I worked on it while I was on lunch at work. It's like finishing your homework while you're still at school. The Problem: Motivation For writers, doing the thing is so very hard. You're sitting there staring at your Work In Progress like "Wut R Werds!" Some days, you literally can't even. And you know what? That's okay. I'd venture to say that most people who become writers do so because we're introverts. And this is important to our writing life. I'll tell you why. You may think that as an introvert, sitting in a room by yourself, pouring your heart and soul out into your story, is the best thing ever. I mean, why would we give up our lives like that to be by ourselves and in our own heads if not? But you are actually pouring your soul into your novel when you give it some of your precious time. Unlike an extrovert, who absorbs energy by being around other people, introverts make their own energy inside themselves. We give to others, and we put our energy into everything we do, totally exhausting ourselves in the process. The Fix: Recharge Your Batteries Recharging is an essential part of being not only an introvert but a writer. Sometimes, you really have to allow yourself some grace and take a few days off the writing gig. You can't give if your well is dry. This one is harder to give a definitive answer for since so much of how you recharge depends on you. Let me attempt at least to give you a

    21 min
  7. #163 - The Future of Print-On-Demand

    11/22/2024

    #163 - The Future of Print-On-Demand

    Hello Lovelies, Today we’re diving into a fascinating topic that’s transforming the publishing world: The Future of Print-On-Demand Services. Print-on-Demand (POD) has revolutionized how authors get their books into readers' hands, allowing self-published authors to produce physical copies without having to worry about large upfront costs or unsold inventory. But like all technology, it’s constantly evolving. In this post, we’ll look at the latest advancements in print-on-demand technology, discuss the environmental impact, and offer some guidance on how to choose the right print-on-demand services for your self-publishing needs. Advancements in Print-On-Demand Technology Print-on-Demand technology has come a long way since its early days. Previously, self-published authors had to navigate long production times, limited printing options, and high costs, but modern advancements in POD have changed the game. Here’s what’s new in the world of POD: 1. Higher Quality Printing One of the most notable advancements in POD is the significant improvement in print quality. Today’s print-on-demand services offer high-resolution printing, better paper options, and even premium features like hardcovers, matte finishes, and full-color printing for illustrations or photo-heavy books. These enhancements help indie authors compete with traditionally published books in terms of appearance and feel. 2. Faster Turnaround Times Gone are the days when print-on-demand meant waiting weeks for a single proof copy. Thanks to advancements in printing technology, authors can now receive their printed books in just a matter of days. Some services even offer next-day printing for faster distribution, which is a huge plus for authors aiming to meet deadlines or launch dates. 3. Global Distribution Made Easy In the past, distributing books worldwide was a logistical nightmare for indie authors. But POD services have now made it easy to print and ship books directly to readers across the globe. Services like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and Lulu provide wide-reaching distribution networks that help authors reach international markets without the hassle of managing inventory. 4. Customization and Personalization Another exciting advancement in POD is the ability to personalize each book. Authors can offer limited editions, include special inserts, or even customize the content for specific readers or events. This makes it easier to build deeper connections with your audience and create unique products for book signings, launches, or giveaways. The Environmental Impact of Print-On-Demand The environmental impact of publishing has long been a topic of concern, particularly when it comes to traditional print runs, where large quantities of unsold books often end up in landfills. Print-on-Demand services offer a more eco-friendly solution by producing books only when they’re ordered, reducing waste and minimizing the need for warehousing. However, while POD has several eco-friendly benefits, there are still environmental factors to consider: 1. Reduction in Overproduction With print-on-demand, books are printed in response to actual orders rather than in bulk, which significantly reduces the risk of overproduction. This leads to fewer unsold books and reduces the overall waste that occurs in traditional publishing, where unsold inventory may eventually be destroyed. 2. Lower Carbon Footprint Because books are printed close to their point of purchase, POD eliminates the need for large-scale shipping and warehousing, which helps reduce carbon emissions. For instance, if a reader in Europe orders your book, it’s likely printed at a local facility, cutting down on international shipping distances. 3. Energy and Resource Usage Though POD reduces waste, it's important to consider the energy and resources used during the printing process. Digital printers used in POD services consume energy, and there’s ongoing debate about whether POD’s frequent small print runs are more or less efficient than traditional bulk printing in terms of overall resource use. Choosing the Right Print-On-Demand Service With so many print-on-demand services available, how do you decide which one is the best fit for your self-publishing journey? The answer depends on several factors, including your budget, distribution needs, and book type. Here are a few considerations when choosing the right POD service: 1. Book Type and Print Quality If your book relies heavily on images, such as a children’s book or a photo-heavy non-fiction title, you’ll want to prioritize services that offer high-quality color printing. Platforms like IngramSpark and Blurb are known for their high-quality prints, while KDP (Amazon’s POD service) is great for novels or books that don’t require full-color illustrations. 2. Global Distribution If reaching an international audience is important to you, choose a POD service that offers global distribution. Amazon KDP is a popular choice because it integrates directly with Amazon’s marketplace, but services like IngramSpark and Lulu also provide international reach through their extensive distribution networks. 3. Pricing and Royalties When selecting a POD service, it’s essential to understand the cost structure. Different services charge various fees for printing, distribution, and listing. Some platforms may have lower upfront fees but take a larger cut of your royalties, while others require setup costs but offer higher payouts. Consider your long-term goals and do the math before making a decision. 4. Author Control Some print-on-demand services offer more control than others when it comes to pricing, file formats, and distribution. If you want complete control over your book’s pricing and global availability, a platform like IngramSpark might be the best option. However, if you prefer a streamlined process with easy setup, Amazon KDP could be more appealing. 5. Customer Support Don’t underestimate the importance of excellent customer service, especially if you’re new to self-publishing or managing print-on-demand. Look for platforms that offer responsive customer support and resources like templates, design tools, and how-to guides. Final Thoughts Print-on-demand services have made it easier than ever for authors to self-publish physical books without the need for large upfront investments or unsold inventory. As the technology continues to evolve, it’s opening up new possibilities for authors to create high-quality books, reduce their environmental footprint, and reach readers across the globe. By choosing the right print-on-demand service and taking advantage of the latest advancements, you can streamline your self-publishing journey and focus on what you do best—writing! Discussion Questions * Have you used print-on-demand services for your books? What was your experience like? * How do you think advancements in POD technology have impacted the self-publishing industry? * Do you believe print-on-demand is an environmentally sustainable solution for publishing? Why or why not? * What factors are most important to you when choosing a print-on-demand service (e.g., quality, cost, distribution)? * How do you think print-on-demand services will continue to evolve over the next few years? Get full access to Author Rachel Cooper at authorrachelcooper.substack.com/subscribe

    12 min
  8. #162 - The Formula for Writing a Best-Selling Novel

    11/15/2024

    #162 - The Formula for Writing a Best-Selling Novel

    There is a formula for writing novels. Many of them, in fact. You can look up tons of them on the internet. One that particularly comes to mind is the “Hero’s Journey.” In 12 easy steps, we see the normal person gets thrown into an alternate reality, struggles and must cope with this new state of reality, and then after many ups and downs, finally overcomes the problems with the new reality and triumphs to become a hero. Academia especially enjoys this idea of writing using a formula. We write our term papers all the same. It’s easy! You must have an introduction, a thesis statement, at least three proofs of your thesis, a conclusion and an outgoing sentiment, and just like that, your term paper is written! If I’m coming off as sarcastic about this, it’s because I am. I don’t much like using formulas in my fiction writing. I think it’s important to understand the basics of fiction writing for your genre. You can look at a formula to see how it should be structured, and to give you clues about what needs to be included in the plot in order to craft a complete novel. If you’re stuck, looking at a formula might give you ideas on what should be included next. In fact, formulas are often incredibly useful for addressing plot holes before they become actual holes in your story, or trying to figure out your novel’s pacing, because you do need to know what your characters are building up to, and how to get them there. However, using a formula as a strict measuring tool is also a dangerous thing, and has its downsides as well. One of them, right off the top of my head, is predictability. We’ve all been there. You hear a song on the radio that you’ve never heard before, but within a few lines, you already pretty much know what the singer is going to say next, or how the chord will progress. Or maybe you’re reading a popular book, and you think to yourself early on about what is likely going to happen to a character, and then several pages or chapters later, it does, and you’re like, “Yep, I called it.” If you use a formula to the letter, what you will sometimes find is that your readers will also be able to predict your novel. It’s like every episode of Scooby Doo, where you just know who the criminal is long before “those meddling kids” come along to expose them. It takes all the fun out of it. Formulas get overdone, to the point where anybody can predict how it will play out. What I enjoy reading are books where I’m twenty pages from the end and I still don’t know how this will ever wrap itself up, but then it does. It’s a miracle! I enjoy books where unexpected things happen constantly, or are irregular enough that I don’t notice. When your reader notices that your books, chapters, or pacing is placed just so, they become predictable, and the reader will lose interest. Another thing that is bad about using formulas is that it takes a lot of the creativity out of the project. Have you ever had an idea for a scene or a bit of dialogue that was just genius, but you weren’t really sure where to put it? Well, if you’re using a formula, I have bad news for you. You won’t have room for it anywhere, even if it’s entirely relevant. Yep, sorry, if it can’t be written into your already tight plot schedule, you can kiss it goodbye. Don’t get me wrong. A lot of your scenes are going to get cut anyway if they don’t further your characters or plot. I’ve deleted entire chapters that I liked but served no real purpose. The problem is, when you use a formula, there are scenes that absolutely have to be in your work, whether you like them or not, and everything else is usually considered filler. So there goes that adorable love scene, that witty bit of dialogue, that awesome fight you just choreographed in your head. Do your characters sometimes look down their noses at you and decide to go off in their own direction? Well too bad. You better keep them on the path you’ve chosen, not the one they want to be on. This is getting a little wordy, but the main point is, while it is really useful to know how novels are written, and see how plot points get filled out, using a formula can sometimes take the fun and creativity right out of writing your novel, making it crappy to have to write. Get full access to Author Rachel Cooper at authorrachelcooper.substack.com/subscribe

    7 min
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About

Hello Lovelies, and welcome to the podcast! This is a podcast designed to help all authors at every level write and publish their books. Find the transcript for this episode by going to: www.authorrachelcooper.com/blog Become a Paid Subscriber: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/author-rachel-cooper/subscribe authorrachelcooper.substack.com

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