Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers

Episode 073 / Surprise pregnancy. Murder on a train. Rag-tag crew. In this episode Jami and Sara dive into the wonderful world of tropes. They discuss why you want to use tropes in your writing and marketing. They share their personal favorites and then brainstorm creative twists on tropes. This episode was inspired by two things: Jami’s interview on Best Book Ever podcast and the Creative Penn podcast episode 513: Writing In The Dark. Horror Writing Tips With Tim Waggoner, in which Tim Waggoner gives some great tips for using tropes in a new way. Jami’s book recommendation: Romance Tropes & Hooks by Karen Winter ✨ Question of the week: What is your favorite trope to write? Come over and let us know at WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. Genres discussed include romance, romantic comedy, cozy mystery, traditional mystery, police procedural, thriller, urban fantasy, and sci-fi.  Other links:  The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes  Jami’s Launch Plan Sara’s Book Release Timeline Checklist WIKT episode on ParaSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 072 / Action & Adventure Thriller author Nick Thacker joins us this week to talk about the delicate balance of plot versus character. Nick is also a systems guy and he shares tips on getting a Bookbub and well as what trends for authors he sees on the horizon.  Sara’s in a fantastic nonfiction promo this week: the Writer Blowout 99 cent sale. How to Write a Series is on sale until June 4th along with a slew  of other great books from these authors:  KM Weiland – Structuring Your Novel Joanna Penn – The Successful Author Mindset Cheryl Bradshaw – Mastering Your Mysteries  David Gaughran – Amazon Decoded Angela Ackerman & Becca Puglisi – The Emotional Wound Thesaurus  Robert Ryan – Amazon Ads Unleashed Sara Rosett – How To Write A Series Shea Macleod – Writing Faster With Art Journaling Nick Thacker – Platform Mastery Zoe York – Romance your Brand Grab your copies and share the sale with an author friend! :)  Jami’s made it to “the end” of her WIP! She also recommends Renee Rose on the SPA Girls Podcast. Links:  https://www.nickthacker.com Send us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 071 / Do you want to cultivate a core readership who will read anything you write? Historical fantasy and historical mystery author C.J. Archer joins us this week to talk about how she’s nurtured a group of readers who will read anything she writes no matter what the genre it is.  We also discuss how discipline and consistency have contributed to her success, overcoming shyness and developing self confidence, and the tactics C.J. uses as a wide author to market her books, including permafree books.  We also talk about translations, the boom in audio, and why she shifted her YA marketing focus to adults. Plus hear which shows Jami and C.J. are streaming.  Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. Genres discussed include historical romance, historical fantasy, and historical mystery. Author website:  https://www.cjarcher.com Twitter handle  @CJ_Archer Instagram handle  @authorcjarcher Facebook Author Page  https://www.facebook.com/CJArcherAuthorPage Links:  The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes  Jami’s Launch Plan Sara’s Book Release Timeline ChecklistSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 070 / Dan Wood from Draft 2 Digital joins us to talk about how using an aggregator like Draft 2 Digital can make your your life easier. We also talk about the importance of building relationships with author service providers. Plus tips and ideas for using subscription models, book trends, and Dan’s advice for new authors.  Intro links: Sara on the Self Publishing Show Finding You movie - adaptation of Jenny B. Jones’ novel Question about Reedsy and Reviews - Episode 31 - How to Get and Use Reviews and Episode 46 - How Authors Can Use Reedsy Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. Links:  Draft 2 Digital Self Publishing Insiders interviews WIKT podcast with Jen Falls The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes  Jami’s Launch Plan Sara’s Book Release Timeline ChecklistSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 069 / Daniel Willcocks, author of dark fiction that spans the genres of horror, post-apocalyptic, and sci-fi, joins us this week to talk about how being authentic attracts your ideal reader. We also touch on how Daniel began his fiction writing career with short stories, why he’s moving away from the rapid release model, and his advice for new authors. Plus live math with authors, which is always entertaining! :) Intro:  Jami is celebrating the release of a new audiobook, and Sara is deep in plans for a move, but finally has the beginning of her next book planned out. Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. Genres discussed include horror, sci-fi, and post-apocalyptic.  Links:  Daniel’s website:  www.danielwillcocks.com Twitter handle  @willcocksauthor Instagram handle  @willcocksauthor Facebook Author Page  www.facebook.com/willcocksauthor The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes Send us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 068 / Thriller, mystery, and horror author Simon Wood joins us this week to talk about how he learned he was his own best advocate in negotiating right and how he’s become a “rights raptor” because he realizes the value of his intellectual property.  We also discuss how his background as a mechanical engineer helps him breakdown stories and reverse engineer his plots. Plus tips on pen names, writing flawed heroes, and dealing with impostor syndrome. Intro links:  Check out the Wish I’d Known Then Facebook group for the Q&A replay.  Kirsten Oliphant’s Create If Writing podcast: Lessons Learned in Three Years as an Author  How to Write a Bestseller WIKT Episode 9: Clean Romance, Sustainability, and “Pantsing” books with Kirsten Oliphant Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. Genres discussed include thriller, mystery, and horror. Links:  Simon’s website: http://www.simonwood.net Twitter handle @simonwoodwrites Instagram handle @simonwoodwrites Facebook Author Page @simonwoodwriter Send us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 067 / Mystery author Nancy Warren has been publishing for 20 years and has over 100 books out. She joins us to chat about writing mysteries and explains how her Vampire Knitting Club series came about and how she’s kept the series fresh and interesting for readers for 13 books.  We talk about finding joy in writing and taking care of yourself so you can have a long career. Nancy also gives some great tips on including humor in your books. Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com.   Genres discussed include romance and paranormal cozy mystery. Links:  Author website:  www.nancywarrenauthor.com Twitter handle  Nancywarren1 Instagram handle  instagram.com/nancywarrenauthor Facebook Author Page  https://www.facebook.com/35585383469 The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes Send us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 066 / Prolific romance author Nana Malone joins us to talk about being a pantser and writing instinctively, how she uses Instagram live to connect with her readers, and why she includes adventure, mystery, or intrigue. We also discuss the difficulties for authors of color and ways to support authors of color, including the gofundme campaign for Audio in Color.  Links:  Audio in Color: https://www.gofundme.com/f/audio-in-color-brownnipplechallenge-audiobooks Nana website: www.nanamaloneromance.net   Twitter handle @nanamalone   Instagram handle @nanamalonewriter   Facebook Author Page https://www.facebook.com/nanamalonewriter The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes  Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. Send us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 065 / Paranormal cozy mystery author Bella Falls joins us to talk about how she learned to write to market. Writing with her readers in mind helps Jenn plot a series as well as plan her release schedule. Jenn’s active on Clubhouse, and she tells us how authors can use the new platform. Plus, talking squirrels!  Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group. You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. Intro Links:    BingeBooks Author Registration   Sara’s profile on BingeBooks   Creative Penn Podcast - What Can Authors Learn From Digital Changes In The Music Industry? With Tristra Newyear Yeager   Jami on Best Book Ever podcast   Episode links: Jenn’s website: http://bellafallsbooks.com Twitter handle: @bellafallsbooks Instagram handle: @bellafallsbooks Facebook Author Page: http://facebook.com/bellafallsbooks Clubhouse Authors on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320971962548578  Jenn on Clubhouse: @bellajenn The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodesSend us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing

Episode 064 / We answer your questions about newsletter content and autoresponders plus tips for reviving backlist sales and launch strategies for debut authors and/or first in series books.  Intro links: Come over and say hi to Jami and Sara in the WIKT Facebook group! You can find show notes and links at wishidknownforwriters.com. In this podcast episode, you’ll discover: What kind of newsletters we send to our list and how often we email What special things we do for our readers through our newsletters Tips and ideas for growing a newsletter Launch strategies for debut authors and/or first in series books Plus, our tips on how to revive backlist, our favorite conferences, and what we wish we’d know about beta readers and editors   Genre discussed in this podcast: romantic comedy, cozy mystery and historical mystery. Links:  Jami’s Launch Plan Sara’s New Release Timeline Episode 26: Book Launch Plans: The Mega Episode  Episode 36: Trends in Selling Direct and Audiobooks with Damon Courtney of Bookfunnel Send us a textSupport the show🚀 Jami’s Launch Plan https://www.jamialbright.com/authorservices❤️ Jami’s books https://amzn.to/3wSraA5🔎 Sara’s books https://www.sararosett.com/bibliography/ 📚 Sara’s How to Write a Series book and audiobook: https://www.sararosett.com/how-to-write-a-series/The Big List of Craft and marketing books mentioned on WIKT podcast episodes https://bookshop.org/lists/recommenced-resources-for-writers-from-the-wish-i-d-known-then-podcastResources from the Author and Reader Community to Help Ukrainians https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E9QQhmcpa_dlxQY-GEqBiIbIZk-_J1MgQX_BxLI3F84/edit?usp=sharing