That makes me sad that Bethany had a professor who discouraged her from writing. Don't let anyone stop you from pursuing what you think you should be doing. Your purpose.
I wrote my first book 32 years after my third grade teacher, Mrs. Deforge told me I wasn’t a good writer. Words are so powerful. Finally got the courage to hair write. Now I’m taking the next steps.
@@mayawallace7627, people often don't realize the impact their words have on others, who take it to heart, especially children. A third-grader has barely learned to join sentences together into a meaningful paragraph! Maybe she was having a bad day, and unfortunately, took it out on you.
I've done 75 self-published books. I don't make much, but I pay a month or two of rent from my books. Everything I do now is profitable. YET, I've been publishing since 2012 but for the first 5 years I made no money. There was two issues: low sales and UNNECESSARY SPENDING! I paid no attention to what I was spending, and wasted soooo much money that took forever to reimburse. My first book JUST finally broke even this year (2023). I watch my expenses today.
I was approached by a well known, credible publisher to publish my play. After several rounds of the editing process, it went to print. After it was printed, I noticed that the very first word of the play was a typo. Authors/playwrights: read, read, read it backwards and forwards before signing off on it, even if you have a professional editor. And yes, I do mean backwards. You'd be surprise what you'll catch that way.
I have a question to whoever knows the answer: Bethany speaks about presales and at the same time reviews that you have to start with by offering your book for free to couple of people. So if you do not have any customers nor network or popularity yet, how do you manage to presell a book and at the same time give it out for free?
@Bayernvern is it possible that you build into your marketing budget, the cost of your book to reimburse all family and friends so that they can legitimately own your product as a customer and gush in their reviews about your book? I should also mention that unless your product is priced quite high, I'd hope that your family and friends would be willing to support you without being "paid-off. "... maybe you can thank them by taking them out to lunch afterward 😅. Other options might be approaching co-workers or other people in your creative space to exchange services/products so that there's legitimate transaction records, but it's both ways, and therefore no money lost or gained, just sales numbers and positive reviews? I've not published anything myself, but those are a couple of ideas that immediately came to mind. I hope they help.
Just wanted to say as a self published author myself, I really appreciate the time and advice you give out, you’ve helped me on my path sooooooo much. 🙏🏼
My writing tutor is currently tearing apart my work. Some of it helps, most of it just brings me down and makes me think I'm not good enough. Thank you for helping me realise that hers is not the only opinion and that I can push past her negativity, finish this draft and move forwards as a writer.
Just remember how many times J K Rowling’s work was rejected, Stephen Kings, James Patterson’s , Danielle Steele’s etc etc. There is always someone or someones that NEED your story ! 😊🙏🏻
Just remember though, a finished draft is still a draft. You need to spend probably as much time editing it as you did writing it to get it to a reasonable state. That's a final draft (still a draft). Now the real polishing begins where you seek other, unflinchingly critical eyes. Then ... edit, edit, edit. Then, and only then, are the words perhaps ready. Next, the cover and interior design. These will take substantial time as well. Good luck.
I'm an editor and writing tutor, so I can tell you that a good tutor builds your confidence up rather than tearing it down. Tutoring requires celebrating a writer's strengths as well as offering feedback that teaches the person how to bring out their best writing. I've always gotten really great compliments on my own tutoring, but I was trained to do it within a university setting, so I came to it with the understanding of how to help rather than harm the writer's confidence. Wishing you more success and fulfillment of your current writing goals.
The ending of this video was so encouraging! And I love it when authors aren’t afraid to share things like this because it makes self publishing less daunting. Thanks 😊
Yay I'm so happy to hear that, thanks Jasmine! Self publishing is definitely a steep learning curve haha, we all have ups and downs, but what matters is that we get back up!
I have my first book signing at Barnes & Noble tomorrow but all the things that you're talking about editing cover design I really do think that I need to work on and I might even do another version of my book and get better editing and get a new cover design, but you have been the best most insightful person. I've listened to on the Internet in terms of book writing, and author information, so thank you.!
This video really encouraged me. I am working on my second book, which has been written and rewritten numerous times...goal to finish it! And yeah, the first book's cover. Mistake. I didn't trust the person I hired and had my own ideas which I imposed. Like yours, sold OK but to family and friends and went no further, have had to explain the idea of the book ad naseum instead of letting the cover do the work. That's now in process of getting a new cover. Live and learn... so good to hear your encouragement and experience!
I can relate to the last one. It took me years to finish my first book because I kept rewriting it. I finally bit the bullet and wrote it. And I finally published it in Oct. 2019. Now I'm on that last book of that series.
Hi Bethany ... I'm so glad I came across this video. I needed it. Your passion for writing (middle finger to your writing professor), tips on self-publishing, and selfless take on mistakes are inspiring. I especially appreciated your comments on finishing one's work. I'm halfway through my first novel and I've stopped for some ridiculous, unknown reason (long, exasperated sigh). Anyhow, I've subscribed and am looking forward to your other vids! S
I took several writing courses in college and I have to say I never listened to the professors when it came to my writing style. I feel that they are trained to write in a certain way and that’s all they want. I am an out of the box thinker. I don’t like typical story endings. You have to be your own advocate. You write what your passionate about. Thanks for the video.
Yeah that describes it really well! They come across as if there's only "one way" when in reality, writing is incredibly subjective, and different people like different things! Glad you didn't listen to them!
This video makes me glad I found you and subscribed. Your content is believable, as opposed to people who might have lot of talk but not many books. It's very useful. I'm getting ready to release my 2nd book, so I'm considering what I learned and comparing it to the points you made here.
I appreciate this video. It's so intimidating to enter into this world of writing . Your honesty about finishing and editing is a relief that there are others in this .
Bethany...thanks so much for opening your heart and sharing with us your mistakes. This video changed how I am releasing my books. I am so grateful for you.
I had a similar experience with my writing journey in that I allowed one person's negative opinion cause me to doubt myself. I also finished my first draft during NaNoWriMo, but I did get a decent editor and what I think to be a good cover designer. It still took me a few more years and telling myself that publishing the book would be my 50th birthday present for myself before I would pull the trigger and publish the book. Now I'm back at mistake 5 doubting myself with the sequels. This time however instead of that one person holding me back, I think I've grown enough as a writer to know there's just *something* missing with the 2nd book. If I'd just get off my butt and write it, I know I would be a lot closer to figuring out what that something is, but it's so much easier not doing that. I've joined a coaching class this month to try to get me over that hump and on to getting my second book written.
This is a valid thing. I had a total of ten beta readers, two critique partners, and one editor. The beta readers where wonderful. A lot of their input was the same about things they liked from the story such as characters, unique stylistic elements, or plots and subplots. Which told me that, on the things that I mattered, I was doing something right. One of the critique partners was incredibly nasty, and their input was the opposite of what I got from my beta readers. For instance, “I don’t care about the characters and don’t have any questions about what follows,” when my beta readers said they were invested and were excited or anxious to know more. “Your narrative is distant, like someone watching from a drone,” where my beta readers said that they were immersed and felt what the characters felt by how I described them experiencing events and emotions. My editor wasn’t bad and had good input when it came to fine tuning with the developmental side, but they nitpicked a lot of my terminology, such as medical or weapons terms that I knew far better about than they did (having worked in fields related to both for the greater part of a decade,) quirks of the world such as slight differences in jargon of the book’s world and Earth, or individual speech ticks of characters. Like literally, a specific character uses the term “hey now,” as a way of saying “in my defense,” (eg, hey now, that was an accident), and the editor suggested I delete every time she says it, without providing a reason. Or that I should change “peak the door” to “peak at the door,” not realizing that “peaking” something in a combat scenario means “looking through or around it,” and that would change the meaning entirely. She also corrected my use of the radio term “out,” and replaced it with “over,” even though the conversation was finished. The term is “out.” That isn’t an item that’s up for discussion. All in all it was a hair-pulling masterclass in gaslighting, where people who were “professionals,” fellow writers or editors, demonstrated a subconscious need to tear me down, either slightly or very egregiously like the critique partner, while the reader community only had sometimes neutral, but mostly positive feedback. This told me that, regardless of the naysayers, READERS enjoyed reading my book. So I took the negative feedback with a grain of salt and actually listened to the consumers, not the naysayers. I had done my diligence and my research. I wasn’t an upstart, even though some felt the need to make it seem so. If one writer says your book is shit and you should quit, but ten beta readers say they absolutely loved it, that tells you you’re doing something right. Avid consumers of a certain market won’t lie about liking a product, especially if they get nothing from doing so.
Thanks for talking about your mistakes in self-publishing! These are great things for writers to consider when publishing their stories. I'm so saddened to hear that you had a professor discourage you so harshly. Some teachers should not be teachers! Also, as someone pursuing a career in editing, I'm heartened to see indie authors recognizing the importance of a great editor!
Thank you for posting this!! I had an assessment editor read my first manuscript (over 80k words), and she responded with a 10-page assessment with links to websites that she thought would help me develop my writing style. She read the manuscript and marked it up with questions, suggestions, and guidance. It was the best $1,500 I ever spent!! 1. invest in an illustrator for your cover. 2. Invest in an assessment editor. 3. invest in a copy editor or proofreader once you've reached your final draft prior to publishing.
I am basically in the same boat as you were back then! I started my love of writing back in high school (I'm 24 now) and i wanted to eventually publish, but my mom and sister kept telling me that it's not feasible and that I should just focus on other things. I'm still struggling to write every day because I am also a vet tech and work over 40 hours a week, but I started writing again and I am determined to finish my first book!
It is absolutely feasible!! A lot of people see creating as a big risk, and that's okay if they feel that way, but we still need to create simply for the joy of it and if it ends up being really successful, that's just a bonus! :) You've got this!
Writing my most recent book has been a testament to my resilience - it took me all of three years to get to the final chapter. I'm glad I pushed through though. This was a last ditch effort to get my writing gears going again after a major bout of burnout-induced writer's block. I'm glad I finished it though and I'm glad I found your channel because I have no idea how to start getting it out there. Thanks for this.
This was a great, educational video! I honestly appreciate you taking the time to post this. I made so many mistakes with my debut "Just a Little Broken" but my largest mistakes and regret lie in editing and preorders. I made an absolute mess of that, I just didn't realize how important preorders and A.R.C.'s were until much later. I was so secretive with my debut before it was officially published because I was so fearful and anxious it wouldn't even happen. As for the editing, I thought I was getting a better value for what I paid and I wish I would've hired a different editor of a different type too to improve it. It has some issues but I still absolutely love my story/book, while I'm learning from those mistakes to better benefit my current wip.
This was so nice to hear. I also made mistakes with my first book and feel like I've grown so much as a result. Still, definitely not fun at the time. I'm still kicking myself for a few of them.
Yeah I can relate to that, making mistakes sucks, but it teaches hard lessons like nothing else haha! Don't worry, you're not alone, we all make mistakes!
Thank you! My novel is going live on January 31st so I can't undo much but this actually did help me build some confidence in my release. Also, I've had people discourage me too, and I am so SO proud of your for coming back to it.
I honestly love these types of videos from other indie authors bc it helps ppl like me newbies know what not to do so that way we learn from more experienced authors like yourself! ❤️
Hi, thanks for sharing your so called “ mistakes” I have just completed writing my memoir, and looking for a good editor, I was also thinking of designing the cover but not anymore ☺️
This is just what I needed and is amazing! As someone still very much learning the process I don't have a clue what I'm doing most times. I've been lucky enough to have good friends in the writing community that have helped guide me more than once. One has even offered to be my editor when the time comes. She's a great writer herself. But I learn new things with each of your vids. Like for instance. I was going to use the cover design I have that I found through one of the free pic sites that you can use. But I know I need to really get myself a cover designer and some beta readers, I need those too! The list goes on. But the wise words of my brother sit with me like yours. He said the same thing. My mom did too. Finish the story. The rest will come. Thank you for the awesome videos as always.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have not yet published my first book (though I have finished it🤩), so these insights were super helpful. The number one tip I'm taking to heart is the value of investing in a good editor. This was a big question I had, as I have a very small budget, but your reasoning convinced me this is a high priority for my limited funds. Blessings to you on your channel and writing pursuits. Sorry about that prof. Good for you to overcome!
Yes Torally Incredible helpful encouraging video..Bless your heart Mightily and continued grand success in your future draft writings and Books.... Thank You, Blessings & Peace 🕊️
Thank you Bethany ... your suggestions have been encouraging and very helpful. i"m a first time book writer and am researching how to get my book finished and published. I have subscribed to your channel and hope to learn more from your videos. Thank you again and keep up the good works!
This was very helpful. I love that you went from paying for Kirkus Review to teaching us how to do this on the cheap. That's growth ;) Also the bit about your professor telling you to quit writing was incredibly sad. Even if they didn't LIKE your writing isn't the whole point of their job to teach you how to refine and hone your craft? Even if it took you 10 years to circle back around to it, I'm glad you did. I love your books and tbh they mean a lot to me. I'd love to hear the rest of your author journey!
Thanks Erica! And I agree, it's really disappointing to look back on and realize it could've gone very differently. But it's also the story that led me to where I am today, so I can appreciate that maybe it helped me care less what other people think when I came back to writing haha... So happy to hear that you love the books, thank you so much!
OMG this was super helpful!! I am not sure if you have any time for a quick chat, but I am first time children's book author and I teetering between a pre-order launch or Kickstarter campaign
Wow great shit Bethany! "Hiring a good editor is like taking a Writing MasterClass ...".... you can learn so much, it helped me to learn about my writing style" ... you're opening my minds, all of them, all my minds blown🎉⁶
I am FINALLY about to finish my first book, which turned into a trilogy. now I'm looking for means and ways to get it published. I've worked on it for what feels like FOREVER. So, I want to thank you, Bethany, for posting. I have a long way to go.
Thank you, your story gave me motivation to keep moving forward with my first book. I know I'll make some mistakes but I want to learn to be successful and arrive at the finish. I can't wait to finally publish!
I have been on the self publishing and writing advice rabbit hole, but I think this video above all else gives clear advice and motivation to future authors.
I came across this video as I’ve been recently watching videos on self publishing and formatting and things of that nature. I am not an avid reader, and don’t regard myself as a writer, although I do enjoy telling stories and many aspects of writing. I’ve written several screenplays and enjoyed that process, but always felt unfulfilled when I loved the story but had no means to have it made into a movie so now I’m turning to writing my first book. I’ve learned very quickly just in the process of starting the book that writing a screenplay and writing a book are not the same at all. This video I am definitely going to come back to when I get closer to finishing because you mentioned things I haven’t yet considered. Seeking the review for the cover, elaborating more on the cover design speaking to the genre better. Thank you for this video. I just subscribed and will be passively checking out more.
Sort of new writer/but def a new subscriber here: I greatly appreciate the way you explain. I asked someone to be brutally honest with my writing 30 years ago. (mistake) Even though it was likely trash, I allowed that criticism to shut me down on writing for 30 years. I am now back into and happier than ever. I no longer ask for opinions, but rather write for myself. If it makes me laugh and interests me, others will likely feel the same. And even if no one else does... I love it and its okay being just a story for me.
I really enjoyed this video. I just published my first book. Release date April 2024. I learned a lot from this video. I'm glad that I had your 1st 2 points down (cover and editor). Those were 2 very important things to me from the start. Sad that your professor discouraged instead of encouraged you. We can discourage ourselves when it comes to writing a book. We don't need help from others. However, I'm glad you pursued your goal as an author, which has led so many of us to this video! Keep up the good work!
Thank you for your openness and candor!!! So many passionate writers end up shutting down before they even start!!! Wonderful and encouraging video~ Kudos~
Absolute mondo help, Bethany! I'm a retired Soldier and now also just retired from the Veterans Health Administration. With that, I'm finally at the place in my life that I have looked forward to for 30 some years. Writing books! I'm just researching the intros and beginnings, hence how I came across your video. Thanks to your courage of honesty, you've probably saved me many frustrating headaches. I love how you make clear that "mistakes" are actually opportunities to learn and grow. Because they are! I also have always believed that things happen for a real reason. Even if we don't know what it is at the time. No matter how bad or good it is. And as a beginner, I have all the rest of your videos to watch.😁 I had to search for what an "Indie author" is. That's how green I am. But like I've said to so many throughout my life as a trainer in the US Army, High School History teacher, and Veterans I provided for at the VA, "You have to start somewhere." I'm not that educated on novel type of writings so non-fiction would be my main area. At least at first. Probably, due to all the papers I had to write through college up into grad-school. If I did do a novel it would be based on some historical event. I'm sure this as all TMI. I'm just very grateful for your video.
From the start we all make decisions based on our knowledge and as time passes our experience changes, and our decisions are more informed. ♥️ I have a list as well, maybe I should do a video lol
I'm finally getting back to trying to finish something that I started in middle school. The first versions (which I never finished) were pencil on paper. I got lots of positive feedback from teachers on my writing, but life kept getting in the way. The kids are grown now so I've been trying to make this my main focus. Looks like it's a lot easier to get published now compared to when I started.
It's always wonderful to have two editors or one editor who does both a developmental and style editor and one for line editing. When I was in college my professor for my creative writing course actually mentioned who so few editors actually do developmental and style editing and actually had me focus on my style and development more than just what words went on the page. I ended that class with an aesthetic style all my own and felt like I got more out of my writing than I ever did with someone just going line by line. I actually felt able to go line by line was easier once it was aesthetically mine.
I'm to the point of wanting to publish my first book, but my inner-critic (and some close family members) voice is hard to overcome. Thanks for doing these videos. I'll likely go through all of them systematically, and hopefully gain some courage.
Thank you for sharing. Professors, teachers and mentors who aren’t careful with a budding author can do so much damage. We have a responsibility to nurture. You are such an inspiration.
Just self published my first book about our son's battle with ASD and OCD, and I think so far my big mistake is hesitating on promoting it. I was excited initially but started to second guess myself...I'm going to turn my brain off and push forward!
Congratulations on pushing through the discouragement and not letting go, even if it took a long time to finish your first book! That is very admirable. (I'll look into setting up pre-ordering on Amazon. Thanks for that tip.)
An excellent video. I pushed myself hard last year and really slowed down again. I almost had my first book ready for copy editing but there was so much developmental work needing done and life got in the way. Now I'm gearing up to get back on the saddle but it's such a difficult and vulnerable process. Hearing your words of encouragement are helpful and it's so good to know that mistakes are an inevitable part of the process that will help us grow as writers. 🙏
I wold loved to know how you set up your Kickstarter with the tiers! Thanks for sharing all of this info and your personal journey. I'm so sorry that your professor was so discouraging. No teacher said every tell a student they are not good at something (coming from a previous college English and Literature teacher)!
To be honest, I just followed the advice videos and blogs on the kickstarter website haha! I'm not sure I was an expert, but it was fun! And thank you so much!
This is a great video. I have been writing for years, decades, and your insight into self publishing, editing, etc is really helpful. I absolutely agree with you that reviews are so important. In fact the first that catches my eye is the cover, the second, the reviews. Reviews really help guide the reader, and for me as a writer I like to read bad reviews as well as the good. What I find in the bad reviews actually helps me keep from making the same mistake. I read one review where an author made the protagonist so whiny that the reader stopped reading. Then I noticed at least 5 other reviews which had the same complaint. Great lesson! Thank you for your videos, your wise words and help. Really helpful and appreciated!
Hi Bethany, My 10 yo and I are working on her final draft and artwork for her first published book (she has another book she's still writing-all self-directed by her-she is my hero!). We are learning so much from you, she is a talented author, and her target audience is for this book (although it was not written with her audience in mind-she was simply writing her feelings and thoughts after several experiences within our family and in life-sort of journaling). I was reviewing her work and came across this little book/journal within her school work and read it and it screamed- "Publish me!" I discussed this with her, as she was already writing a fantasy book with the intent of publishing it and she agreed we should publish her work. She has many goals in life, one of them is to be an author. We homeschool and it's been such a joy to see her grow and learn and to be her biggest fan! Thank you for all your energy, thoughts, time and sharing your journey with us. Thank you again!
Thank you so much for these videos. I just found you and I've been checking out your content. My first novel is currently in the hands of my editor and I am lost as to what to do next after my manuscript is returned and I complete it.
Bethany, thank you very much. I am looking at 7th July for my first book to be published on Amazon, you've made me realise that I have a ton of stuff to do between now and then. Thank you thank you thank you!
Wow! That's my situation, the novel i've been writing is something thats has taking me 10 years. No support, no one taking me serious, so called family and friends putting me down. My own procrastination, not thinking it's worthy..ughh self doubt and finances. It's just so much. No one wants to read it in my circle, no one to brain storm ideas with. I'm just on my own as usual. That hasn't stopped me though,i'm still going strong. I clicked on this video rightvon time. It always feels like you're talking directly to me. Which helps substantially. Thanks again 😊
Thanks for this good video and tips even tho I knew most of them. I like your title of this video. It's easier for me to listen to someone who teaches form a humble place from their mistakes. I'm Glad you finished the book even after your teacher's discouraged you with their wrong opinions. This was encouraging. I want to learn more about. I want to learn more about kick starter. This book was inspiring
I had professors in college do that to me with my writing all the time too . They would take out or skip whole pages without even reading the pages. I just ignored them. But I'm like you were. I'm still working on that same wip novel since 2007. And I've kind of tried all the things you mentioned in this video as well. I'm glad I found your video.
This video was very helpful. Most of my professors liked my writing, but I got distracted with other things and never had the time or courage to pursue publishing. I needed to make a living, and getting what I wrote published and earning a living at it seemed like a long shot and too much to risk. These lessons might make the difference I need.
I have made all five mistakes and tried to get my book out to publishers but Damn they wanted any where from $3000, to $5000 to do all the things she just explained here! Thank you! I have so much to learn!
Oh wow, this last point was so me! I had a professor tell me to quit, that I would never make it as a writer. And I quit for a semester but then said eff that, in gonna try one more time. Still don't know if I'll ever make any money, but I have a contract for an eight book series with a digital house and, [shrugs] it feels okay for now. Thank you for this video and sharing!
Thank you Bethany. I'm a first time author and you inspire me, I have learned so much from you. I'm hoping to publish in the next 2 months. Do you have any advice on first time authors to avoid online scams ? I'm naturally very protective over my manuscript and am very cautious about 'professional' online help. The sort of thing I am thinking of is upselling, access to your kdp account .. it's a dilemma as I need professional help for cover design/editing/formatting but am sceptical when they ask for these things. I have carried out my due diligience but it is a minefield.
I learned a lot about how to publish as indie from your videos. I used to have a bad experience regarding the choice of cover, then I learned from you how to choose a cover artist. It meant so much to me. Thank you so so much. And I think thank you is not enough. God bless you, Bethany
I've worked on a novel for more than 20 years. Lots of life issues got in the way over the years, but in the last two years the time was right and I was able to focus on finishing the first draft and I'm nearing completion of the second draft. Then it will be officially onto the third draft soon for beta-reader feedback. I've outlined my second book using the post-it method. So I plan to have the third draft into the hands of beta readers in November while I join in on NANOWRIMO for the first draft of book 2. December will be querying agents or setting up for self-publishing. Thanks for all the information you share. It is much appreciated by all of us rookies.
Can you pleasssseee do a video of the genres and what a cover must have in it? A updated video with the most common genres or as many as you want. I'm still learning to research them
Thank you so much for this video. As a self-published author who has had several bad plays with smaller publishers, I went back to self-publishing. Editing has been my sore spot. With many eyes and editors, I keep finding errors. and it's kept me from releasing book 3 in my series. Readers who love the series, keep asking about book 3. Every republish I do puts those readers off although, I have found new readers. its exhausting and depressing to have to keep go over the manuscript over and over again.
Great tips. I think the cover and blurb (copy) are key to getting noticed. I spent all my time researching, writing, and editing my first three books on KPD. Since publication I have spend twice as much time trying to optimize each entry, redo covers, and fix errors in the text. I hired my first cover for my fourth book. You mentioned Kirkus reviews but have you entered any book award contests?
That makes me sad that Bethany had a professor who discouraged her from writing. Don't let anyone stop you from pursuing what you think you should be doing. Your purpose.
I wrote my first book 32 years after my third grade teacher, Mrs. Deforge told me I wasn’t a good writer. Words are so powerful. Finally got the courage to hair write. Now I’m taking the next steps.
@@mayawallace7627, people often don't realize the impact their words have on others, who take it to heart, especially children. A third-grader has barely learned to join sentences together into a meaningful paragraph! Maybe she was having a bad day, and unfortunately, took it out on you.
No wonder Harlan Ellison reportedly punched out a professor who told him he shouldn't be a writer. Then he became famous.😅
I've done 75 self-published books. I don't make much, but I pay a month or two of rent from my books. Everything I do now is profitable. YET, I've been publishing since 2012 but for the first 5 years I made no money. There was two issues: low sales and UNNECESSARY SPENDING! I paid no attention to what I was spending, and wasted soooo much money that took forever to reimburse. My first book JUST finally broke even this year (2023). I watch my expenses today.
I was approached by a well known, credible publisher to publish my play. After several rounds of the editing process, it went to print. After it was printed, I noticed that the very first word of the play was a typo. Authors/playwrights: read, read, read it backwards and forwards before signing off on it, even if you have a professional editor. And yes, I do mean backwards. You'd be surprise what you'll catch that way.
Errr.....'surprised', not surprise.
Yes, proofreading is important.
Yup, I learned that trick when I transcribed legal documents and testimony for two federal agencies!
As someone who has also taken 10 years to finally get out a project - it means so much to me to hear this from another creative.
I have a question to whoever knows the answer: Bethany speaks about presales and at the same time reviews that you have to start with by offering your book for free to couple of people. So if you do not have any customers nor network or popularity yet, how do you manage to presell a book and at the same time give it out for free?
@Bayernvern is it possible that you build into your marketing budget, the cost of your book to reimburse all family and friends so that they can legitimately own your product as a customer and gush in their reviews about your book? I should also mention that unless your product is priced quite high, I'd hope that your family and friends would be willing to support you without being "paid-off. "... maybe you can thank them by taking them out to lunch afterward 😅.
Other options might be approaching co-workers or other people in your creative space to exchange services/products so that there's legitimate transaction records, but it's both ways, and therefore no money lost or gained, just sales numbers and positive reviews?
I've not published anything myself, but those are a couple of ideas that immediately came to mind.
I hope they help.
Just wanted to say as a self published author myself, I really appreciate the time and advice you give out, you’ve helped me on my path sooooooo much. 🙏🏼
It has me too!!
Thank you so much Diana and Jean! That means a lot to hear!
My writing tutor is currently tearing apart my work. Some of it helps, most of it just brings me down and makes me think I'm not good enough. Thank you for helping me realise that hers is not the only opinion and that I can push past her negativity, finish this draft and move forwards as a writer.
Just remember how many times
J K Rowling’s work was rejected, Stephen Kings, James Patterson’s , Danielle Steele’s etc etc. There is always someone or someones that NEED your story ! 😊🙏🏻
@@Bravosmom1 JK traditionally published. She never did indie.
Just remember though, a finished draft is still a draft. You need to spend probably as much time editing it as you did writing it to get it to a reasonable state. That's a final draft (still a draft). Now the real polishing begins where you seek other, unflinchingly critical eyes. Then ... edit, edit, edit.
Then, and only then, are the words perhaps ready.
Next, the cover and interior design. These will take substantial time as well.
Good luck.
Write your heart out dont be discouraged by people who are hating cuz they aint done shit with their own writing.
I'm an editor and writing tutor, so I can tell you that a good tutor builds your confidence up rather than tearing it down. Tutoring requires celebrating a writer's strengths as well as offering feedback that teaches the person how to bring out their best writing. I've always gotten really great compliments on my own tutoring, but I was trained to do it within a university setting, so I came to it with the understanding of how to help rather than harm the writer's confidence. Wishing you more success and fulfillment of your current writing goals.
The ending of this video was so encouraging! And I love it when authors aren’t afraid to share things like this because it makes self publishing less daunting. Thanks 😊
Yay I'm so happy to hear that, thanks Jasmine! Self publishing is definitely a steep learning curve haha, we all have ups and downs, but what matters is that we get back up!
I have my first book signing at Barnes & Noble tomorrow but all the things that you're talking about editing cover design I really do think that I need to work on and I might even do another version of my book and get better editing and get a new cover design, but you have been the best most insightful person. I've listened to on the Internet in terms of book writing, and author information, so thank you.!
Congratulations 🎉
So beautiful that you kept contact with something that brought you so much joy and not letting the envious professor to stop you.
This video really encouraged me. I am working on my second book, which has been written and rewritten numerous times...goal to finish it! And yeah, the first book's cover. Mistake. I didn't trust the person I hired and had my own ideas which I imposed. Like yours, sold OK but to family and friends and went no further, have had to explain the idea of the book ad naseum instead of letting the cover do the work. That's now in process of getting a new cover. Live and learn... so good to hear your encouragement and experience!
I can relate to the last one. It took me years to finish my first book because I kept rewriting it. I finally bit the bullet and wrote it. And I finally published it in Oct. 2019. Now I'm on that last book of that series.
That's awesome, you got a lot further than most people who never finish a book, that's so huge!!
Hi I can relate. I made some similar mistakes with my children’s book. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Bethany ... I'm so glad I came across this video. I needed it. Your passion for writing (middle finger to your writing professor), tips on self-publishing, and selfless take on mistakes are inspiring. I especially appreciated your comments on finishing one's work. I'm halfway through my first novel and I've stopped for some ridiculous, unknown reason (long, exasperated sigh). Anyhow, I've subscribed and am looking forward to your other vids!
S
I took several writing courses in college and I have to say I never listened to the professors when it came to my writing style. I feel that they are trained to write in a certain way and that’s all they want. I am an out of the box thinker. I don’t like typical story endings. You have to be your own advocate. You write what your passionate about. Thanks for the video.
Yeah that describes it really well! They come across as if there's only "one way" when in reality, writing is incredibly subjective, and different people like different things! Glad you didn't listen to them!
This is so true! I had a professor change my entire ending which everyone else loved. I was so angry 😡
This video makes me glad I found you and subscribed. Your content is believable, as opposed to people who might have lot of talk but not many books. It's very useful. I'm getting ready to release my 2nd book, so I'm considering what I learned and comparing it to the points you made here.
Thank you. I adore people who want to help others. I'm working on my first self-publish. So much to learn to get it RIGHT. Thanks again.
You can do it! So glad the videos are helpful!
I appreciate this video. It's so intimidating to enter into this world of writing . Your honesty about finishing and editing is a relief that there are others in this .
Bethany...thanks so much for opening your heart and sharing with us your mistakes. This video changed how I am releasing my books. I am so grateful for you.
I had a similar experience with my writing journey in that I allowed one person's negative opinion cause me to doubt myself. I also finished my first draft during NaNoWriMo, but I did get a decent editor and what I think to be a good cover designer. It still took me a few more years and telling myself that publishing the book would be my 50th birthday present for myself before I would pull the trigger and publish the book. Now I'm back at mistake 5 doubting myself with the sequels. This time however instead of that one person holding me back, I think I've grown enough as a writer to know there's just *something* missing with the 2nd book. If I'd just get off my butt and write it, I know I would be a lot closer to figuring out what that something is, but it's so much easier not doing that. I've joined a coaching class this month to try to get me over that hump and on to getting my second book written.
I'm so sorry you experienced that as well. And congratulations on moving forward and not giving up!
This is a valid thing. I had a total of ten beta readers, two critique partners, and one editor.
The beta readers where wonderful. A lot of their input was the same about things they liked from the story such as characters, unique stylistic elements, or plots and subplots. Which told me that, on the things that I mattered, I was doing something right.
One of the critique partners was incredibly nasty, and their input was the opposite of what I got from my beta readers. For instance, “I don’t care about the characters and don’t have any questions about what follows,” when my beta readers said they were invested and were excited or anxious to know more. “Your narrative is distant, like someone watching from a drone,” where my beta readers said that they were immersed and felt what the characters felt by how I described them experiencing events and emotions.
My editor wasn’t bad and had good input when it came to fine tuning with the developmental side, but they nitpicked a lot of my terminology, such as medical or weapons terms that I knew far better about than they did (having worked in fields related to both for the greater part of a decade,) quirks of the world such as slight differences in jargon of the book’s world and Earth, or individual speech ticks of characters. Like literally, a specific character uses the term “hey now,” as a way of saying “in my defense,” (eg, hey now, that was an accident), and the editor suggested I delete every time she says it, without providing a reason. Or that I should change “peak the door” to “peak at the door,” not realizing that “peaking” something in a combat scenario means “looking through or around it,” and that would change the meaning entirely. She also corrected my use of the radio term “out,” and replaced it with “over,” even though the conversation was finished. The term is “out.” That isn’t an item that’s up for discussion.
All in all it was a hair-pulling masterclass in gaslighting, where people who were “professionals,” fellow writers or editors, demonstrated a subconscious need to tear me down, either slightly or very egregiously like the critique partner, while the reader community only had sometimes neutral, but mostly positive feedback.
This told me that, regardless of the naysayers, READERS enjoyed reading my book. So I took the negative feedback with a grain of salt and actually listened to the consumers, not the naysayers. I had done my diligence and my research. I wasn’t an upstart, even though some felt the need to make it seem so.
If one writer says your book is shit and you should quit, but ten beta readers say they absolutely loved it, that tells you you’re doing something right. Avid consumers of a certain market won’t lie about liking a product, especially if they get nothing from doing so.
Thanks for talking about your mistakes in self-publishing! These are great things for writers to consider when publishing their stories. I'm so saddened to hear that you had a professor discourage you so harshly. Some teachers should not be teachers!
Also, as someone pursuing a career in editing, I'm heartened to see indie authors recognizing the importance of a great editor!
Thank you for the wonderful video, and for sharing these important insights. ❤ Bravo for persevering!!!
Thank you for posting this!! I had an assessment editor read my first manuscript (over 80k words), and she responded with a 10-page assessment with links to websites that she thought would help me develop my writing style. She read the manuscript and marked it up with questions, suggestions, and guidance. It was the best $1,500 I ever spent!!
1. invest in an illustrator for your cover. 2. Invest in an assessment editor. 3. invest in a copy editor or proofreader once you've reached your final draft prior to publishing.
I am basically in the same boat as you were back then! I started my love of writing back in high school (I'm 24 now) and i wanted to eventually publish, but my mom and sister kept telling me that it's not feasible and that I should just focus on other things. I'm still struggling to write every day because I am also a vet tech and work over 40 hours a week, but I started writing again and I am determined to finish my first book!
It is absolutely feasible!! A lot of people see creating as a big risk, and that's okay if they feel that way, but we still need to create simply for the joy of it and if it ends up being really successful, that's just a bonus! :) You've got this!
Writing my most recent book has been a testament to my resilience - it took me all of three years to get to the final chapter. I'm glad I pushed through though. This was a last ditch effort to get my writing gears going again after a major bout of burnout-induced writer's block. I'm glad I finished it though and I'm glad I found your channel because I have no idea how to start getting it out there. Thanks for this.
This was a great, educational video! I honestly appreciate you taking the time to post this. I made so many mistakes with my debut "Just a Little Broken" but my largest mistakes and regret lie in editing and preorders. I made an absolute mess of that, I just didn't realize how important preorders and A.R.C.'s were until much later. I was so secretive with my debut before it was officially published because I was so fearful and anxious it wouldn't even happen. As for the editing, I thought I was getting a better value for what I paid and I wish I would've hired a different editor of a different type too to improve it. It has some issues but I still absolutely love my story/book, while I'm learning from those mistakes to better benefit my current wip.
Thank you, so glad you liked it! And don't worry, you're not alone, but we learn from our mistakes and that's what is important!
This was so nice to hear. I also made mistakes with my first book and feel like I've grown so much as a result. Still, definitely not fun at the time. I'm still kicking myself for a few of them.
Yeah I can relate to that, making mistakes sucks, but it teaches hard lessons like nothing else haha! Don't worry, you're not alone, we all make mistakes!
Thank you! My novel is going live on January 31st so I can't undo much but this actually did help me build some confidence in my release. Also, I've had people discourage me too, and I am so SO proud of your for coming back to it.
I honestly love these types of videos from other indie authors bc it helps ppl like me newbies know what not to do so that way we learn from more experienced authors like yourself! ❤️
Thank you so much!
Hi, thanks for sharing your so called “ mistakes” I have just completed writing my memoir, and looking for a good editor, I was also thinking of designing the cover but not anymore ☺️
This is just what I needed and is amazing! As someone still very much learning the process I don't have a clue what I'm doing most times. I've been lucky enough to have good friends in the writing community that have helped guide me more than once.
One has even offered to be my editor when the time comes. She's a great writer herself. But I learn new things with each of your vids. Like for instance. I was going to use the cover design I have that I found through one of the free pic sites that you can use.
But I know I need to really get myself a cover designer and some beta readers, I need those too! The list goes on. But the wise words of my brother sit with me like yours. He said the same thing. My mom did too. Finish the story. The rest will come.
Thank you for the awesome videos as always.
Yay so glad you enjoyed it and that it was helpful! :D Good luck with your story and the publishing learning curve, you've got this!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have not yet published my first book (though I have finished it🤩), so these insights were super helpful. The number one tip I'm taking to heart is the value of investing in a good editor. This was a big question I had, as I have a very small budget, but your reasoning convinced me this is a high priority for my limited funds. Blessings to you on your channel and writing pursuits. Sorry about that prof. Good for you to overcome!
Loved it!!! I have started my book but haven't finished it yet. However, Thanks for the inspiration and motivation! 😁
Yes Torally Incredible helpful encouraging video..Bless your heart Mightily and continued grand success in your future draft writings and Books....
Thank You,
Blessings & Peace 🕊️
Thank you for this, especially point #5. I found it very encouraging!
Another great video that taught me loads. Thanks for taking the time to share.
Thank you Bethany ... your suggestions have been encouraging and very helpful. i"m a first time book writer and am researching how to get my book finished and published. I have subscribed to your channel and hope to learn more from your videos. Thank you again and keep up the good works!
Thank you so much. I am just starting, and I am gathering information. Love your clear way of talking and explaining. I appreciate you.
Yay so glad it was helpful!
This was very helpful. I love that you went from paying for Kirkus Review to teaching us how to do this on the cheap. That's growth ;)
Also the bit about your professor telling you to quit writing was incredibly sad. Even if they didn't LIKE your writing isn't the whole point of their job to teach you how to refine and hone your craft? Even if it took you 10 years to circle back around to it, I'm glad you did. I love your books and tbh they mean a lot to me. I'd love to hear the rest of your author journey!
Thanks Erica! And I agree, it's really disappointing to look back on and realize it could've gone very differently. But it's also the story that led me to where I am today, so I can appreciate that maybe it helped me care less what other people think when I came back to writing haha... So happy to hear that you love the books, thank you so much!
OMG this was super helpful!! I am not sure if you have any time for a quick chat, but I am first time children's book author and I teetering between a pre-order launch or Kickstarter campaign
Wow great shit Bethany! "Hiring a good editor is like taking a Writing MasterClass ...".... you can learn so much, it helped me to learn about my writing style" ... you're opening my minds, all of them, all my minds blown🎉⁶
I am FINALLY about to finish my first book, which turned into a trilogy. now I'm looking for means and ways to get it published. I've worked on it for what feels like FOREVER. So, I want to thank you, Bethany, for posting. I have a long way to go.
Thanks for your sharing the mistakes you made on your publishing journey, Bethany. I learned a lot!
So glad it was helpful, thank you!
I find authors make the best content videos. Nice work!
Thank you, your story gave me motivation to keep moving forward with my first book. I know I'll make some mistakes but I want to learn to be successful and arrive at the finish. I can't wait to finally publish!
Brilliant video, thankyou for the information. I'm just wading through the beginners quagmire. Daunting but exciting. Onwards! 🙂
Thank you Bethany for encouraging writers! And sharing your knowledge and experience!
I have been on the self publishing and writing advice rabbit hole, but I think this video above all else gives clear advice and motivation to future authors.
Glad it was helpful!
I came across this video as I’ve been recently watching videos on self publishing and formatting and things of that nature. I am not an avid reader, and don’t regard myself as a writer, although I do enjoy telling stories and many aspects of writing. I’ve written several screenplays and enjoyed that process, but always felt unfulfilled when I loved the story but had no means to have it made into a movie so now I’m turning to writing my first book.
I’ve learned very quickly just in the process of starting the book that writing a screenplay and writing a book are not the same at all.
This video I am definitely going to come back to when I get closer to finishing because you mentioned things I haven’t yet considered. Seeking the review for the cover, elaborating more on the cover design speaking to the genre better.
Thank you for this video. I just subscribed and will be passively checking out more.
I’m finishing up the manuscript and videos like this help immensely with making this a reality. Thank you.
Sort of new writer/but def a new subscriber here: I greatly appreciate the way you explain. I asked someone to be brutally honest with my writing 30 years ago. (mistake) Even though it was likely trash, I allowed that criticism to shut me down on writing for 30 years. I am now back into and happier than ever. I no longer ask for opinions, but rather write for myself. If it makes me laugh and interests me, others will likely feel the same. And even if no one else does... I love it and its okay being just a story for me.
I really enjoyed this video. I just published my first book. Release date April 2024. I learned a lot from this video. I'm glad that I had your 1st 2 points down (cover and editor). Those were 2 very important things to me from the start. Sad that your professor discouraged instead of encouraged you. We can discourage ourselves when it comes to writing a book. We don't need help from others. However, I'm glad you pursued your goal as an author, which has led so many of us to this video! Keep up the good work!
Thank you for your openness and candor!!! So many passionate writers end up shutting down before they even start!!! Wonderful and encouraging video~ Kudos~
Absolute mondo help, Bethany! I'm a retired Soldier and now also just retired from the Veterans Health Administration. With that, I'm finally at the place in my life that I have looked forward to for 30 some years. Writing books! I'm just researching the intros and beginnings, hence how I came across your video. Thanks to your courage of honesty, you've probably saved me many frustrating headaches. I love how you make clear that "mistakes" are actually opportunities to learn and grow. Because they are! I also have always believed that things happen for a real reason. Even if we don't know what it is at the time. No matter how bad or good it is. And as a beginner, I have all the rest of your videos to watch.😁 I had to search for what an "Indie author" is. That's how green I am. But like I've said to so many throughout my life as a trainer in the US Army, High School History teacher, and Veterans I provided for at the VA, "You have to start somewhere." I'm not that educated on novel type of writings so non-fiction would be my main area. At least at first. Probably, due to all the papers I had to write through college up into grad-school. If I did do a novel it would be based on some historical event. I'm sure this as all TMI. I'm just very grateful for your video.
I'm working on my Ed.D. and wanting to become a professor. I'm telling my future students you are a master writer!
Aww yay thank you!
From the start we all make decisions based on our knowledge and as time passes our experience changes, and our decisions are more informed. ♥️ I have a list as well, maybe I should do a video lol
Very true! And you should! :)
I'm finally getting back to trying to finish something that I started in middle school. The first versions (which I never finished) were pencil on paper. I got lots of positive feedback from teachers on my writing, but life kept getting in the way. The kids are grown now so I've been trying to make this my main focus. Looks like it's a lot easier to get published now compared to when I started.
It's always wonderful to have two editors or one editor who does both a developmental and style editor and one for line editing. When I was in college my professor for my creative writing course actually mentioned who so few editors actually do developmental and style editing and actually had me focus on my style and development more than just what words went on the page. I ended that class with an aesthetic style all my own and felt like I got more out of my writing than I ever did with someone just going line by line. I actually felt able to go line by line was easier once it was aesthetically mine.
I'm to the point of wanting to publish my first book, but my inner-critic (and some close family members) voice is hard to overcome. Thanks for doing these videos. I'll likely go through all of them systematically, and hopefully gain some courage.
You've got this! It helps to ask what's the worst that can happen, then accept it, and dive in!
Why am i watching this when i havent finished writing my book yet 👀🤣😔...if only i could stop being a perfectionist. I keep rewriting my prologue...
Thank you for sharing. Professors, teachers and mentors who aren’t careful with a budding author can do so much damage. We have a responsibility to nurture. You are such an inspiration.
Agreed! Thank you so much!
Just self published my first book about our son's battle with ASD and OCD, and I think so far my big mistake is hesitating on promoting it. I was excited initially but started to second guess myself...I'm going to turn my brain off and push forward!
This was so helpful and encouraging. Need to listen again to take notes. Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it, thank you!
Thank you for this post. One of the most encouraging and uplifting stories I've heard on book writing. It will aid and encourage many. God bless.
You encourage me! I totally relate to rewriting the begining again and again. Going to try NanoWrimo this year!
Thank you for your honesty ! Bravo Bethany, i am writing my book right now and i will take your advice :)
Congratulations on pushing through the discouragement and not letting go, even if it took a long time to finish your first book! That is very admirable. (I'll look into setting up pre-ordering on Amazon. Thanks for that tip.)
thank you! and so glad it was helpful!
An excellent video. I pushed myself hard last year and really slowed down again. I almost had my first book ready for copy editing but there was so much developmental work needing done and life got in the way. Now I'm gearing up to get back on the saddle but it's such a difficult and vulnerable process. Hearing your words of encouragement are helpful and it's so good to know that mistakes are an inevitable part of the process that will help us grow as writers. 🙏
So glad it was helpful, you've got this!
Best way to learn is from our mistakes, thanks for sharing!
I wold loved to know how you set up your Kickstarter with the tiers! Thanks for sharing all of this info and your personal journey. I'm so sorry that your professor was so discouraging. No teacher said every tell a student they are not good at something (coming from a previous college English and Literature teacher)!
To be honest, I just followed the advice videos and blogs on the kickstarter website haha! I'm not sure I was an expert, but it was fun! And thank you so much!
Great tips, it’s always so hard to talk about mistakes but thank you for sharing. I learned a lot that I can use right away. Thanks
Absolutely! So glad it was helpful! :)
Excellent!
This video came up in my news feed on my phone this morning. I enjoyed it and was definitely very helpful.
Thanks for sharing,
James
So glad it was helpful!
This is a great video. I have been writing for years, decades, and your insight into self publishing, editing, etc is really helpful. I absolutely agree with you that reviews are so important. In fact the first that catches my eye is the cover, the second, the reviews. Reviews really help guide the reader, and for me as a writer I like to read bad reviews as well as the good. What I find in the bad reviews actually helps me keep from making the same mistake. I read one review where an author made the protagonist so whiny that the reader stopped reading. Then I noticed at least 5 other reviews which had the same complaint. Great lesson!
Thank you for your videos, your wise words and help. Really helpful and appreciated!
Hi Bethany, My 10 yo and I are working on her final draft and artwork for her first published book (she has another book she's still writing-all self-directed by her-she is my hero!). We are learning so much from you, she is a talented author, and her target audience is for this book (although it was not written with her audience in mind-she was simply writing her feelings and thoughts after several experiences within our family and in life-sort of journaling). I was reviewing her work and came across this little book/journal within her school work and read it and it screamed- "Publish me!" I discussed this with her, as she was already writing a fantasy book with the intent of publishing it and she agreed we should publish her work. She has many goals in life, one of them is to be an author. We homeschool and it's been such a joy to see her grow and learn and to be her biggest fan! Thank you for all your energy, thoughts, time and sharing your journey with us. Thank you again!
Hi am trying to publish my project work of over 8 years by myself. I have watched your UA-cam videos, is quite helpful.
Thank you so much for these videos. I just found you and I've been checking out your content. My first novel is currently in the hands of my editor and I am lost as to what to do next after my manuscript is returned and I complete it.
Hi Bethany, I fully sympathize with the editing aspect I made the same mistake and realized I should have hired a copy editor.
Omg, sooooooo much great advice in this one video! Thank you so much! Sending you love! ❤️
Bethany, thank you very much. I am looking at 7th July for my first book to be published on Amazon, you've made me realise that I have a ton of stuff to do between now and then. Thank you thank you thank you!
I'm currently writing a book, thank you for this video. It's encouraging and informative.
Thank you for sharing your mistakes these are great tips if you use them as a “what not to do” list 😅
Wow! That's my situation, the novel i've been writing is something thats has taking me 10 years. No support, no one taking me serious, so called family and friends putting me down. My own procrastination, not thinking it's worthy..ughh self doubt and finances. It's just so much. No one wants to read it in my circle, no one to brain storm ideas with. I'm just on my own as usual. That hasn't stopped me though,i'm still going strong. I clicked on this video rightvon time. It always feels like you're talking directly to me. Which helps substantially. Thanks again 😊
I will read it. When you are done, please send me the link to where I can buy it. I finished mine and now formatting for kdp. Don’t be discouraged. ❤
@@FrankKoineI sure will, and return the favor. I'm even considering an audio version. It's just selecting the proper voice for my characters.
Thanks, I’ll have my ear to the ground waiting for your release 😎
I've been watching your videos on Self Publishing, Thank you! Do you happen to have a video on how to properly cite quotes used in your book?
Thanks for this good video and tips even tho I knew most of them. I like your title of this video. It's easier for me to listen to someone who teaches form a humble place from their mistakes. I'm Glad you finished the book even after your teacher's discouraged you with their wrong opinions. This was encouraging. I want to learn more about. I want to learn more about kick starter. This book was inspiring
Very clearly articulated. Thanks for sharing.
I'm a self published author and I totally understand having to market harder before strangers will consider the book. Your tips are very helpful!
I had professors in college do that to me with my writing all the time too . They would take out or skip whole pages without even reading the pages. I just ignored them. But I'm like you were. I'm still working on that same wip novel since 2007. And I've kind of tried all the things you mentioned in this video as well. I'm glad I found your video.
This video was very helpful. Most of my professors liked my writing, but I got distracted with other things and never had the time or courage to pursue publishing. I needed to make a living, and getting what I wrote published and earning a living at it seemed like a long shot and too much to risk. These lessons might make the difference I need.
I have made all five mistakes and tried to get my book out to publishers but Damn they wanted any where from $3000, to $5000 to do all the things she just explained here! Thank you! I have so much to learn!
Oh wow, this last point was so me! I had a professor tell me to quit, that I would never make it as a writer. And I quit for a semester but then said eff that, in gonna try one more time.
Still don't know if I'll ever make any money, but I have a contract for an eight book series with a digital house and, [shrugs] it feels okay for now.
Thank you for this video and sharing!
I'm so sorry you had a similar experience! But heck yes, you've got this!
Thank you for sharing your writers journey - I am really taking what you say to heart.
So glad it was helpful!
Thank you Bethany.
I'm a first time author and you inspire me, I have learned so much from you. I'm hoping to publish in the next 2 months.
Do you have any advice on first time authors to avoid online scams ? I'm naturally very protective over my manuscript and am very cautious about 'professional' online help. The sort of thing I am thinking of is upselling, access to your kdp account .. it's a dilemma as I need professional help for cover design/editing/formatting but am sceptical when they ask for these things. I have carried out my due diligience but it is a minefield.
This has encouraged soo much I have too many unwritten books in me
I learned a lot about how to publish as indie from your videos. I used to have a bad experience regarding the choice of cover, then I learned from you how to choose a cover artist. It meant so much to me. Thank you so so much. And I think thank you is not enough. God bless you, Bethany
I'm so glad you enjoyed the videos and that they've been helpful! :)
I've worked on a novel for more than 20 years. Lots of life issues got in the way over the years, but in the last two years the time was right and I was able to focus on finishing the first draft and I'm nearing completion of the second draft. Then it will be officially onto the third draft soon for beta-reader feedback. I've outlined my second book using the post-it method. So I plan to have the third draft into the hands of beta readers in November while I join in on NANOWRIMO for the first draft of book 2. December will be querying agents or setting up for self-publishing. Thanks for all the information you share. It is much appreciated by all of us rookies.
Good very interesting presentation patiently by connection with self history. Thank you.
Can you pleasssseee do a video of the genres and what a cover must have in it? A updated video with the most common genres or as many as you want. I'm still learning to research them
Very encouraging, and great information, Bethany. God bless you❤️🙏
Thank you so much for this video. As a self-published author who has had several bad plays with smaller publishers, I went back to self-publishing. Editing has been my sore spot. With many eyes and editors, I keep finding errors. and it's kept me from releasing book 3 in my series. Readers who love the series, keep asking about book 3. Every republish I do puts those readers off although, I have found new readers. its exhausting and depressing to have to keep go over the manuscript over and over again.
Great tips. I think the cover and blurb (copy) are key to getting noticed. I spent all my time researching, writing, and editing my first three books on KPD. Since publication I have spend twice as much time trying to optimize each entry, redo covers, and fix errors in the text. I hired my first cover for my fourth book. You mentioned Kirkus reviews but have you entered any book award contests?
They are both extremely important, I agree. And yes, I've won the 2020 Minnesota Author award! :)
@@BethanyAtazadeh congratulations!
Gosh, you are good at this. Thank you so much!