Between Drafts

Delve into the fascinating world of book cover design! The hosts share personal tales of designer collaborations, revealing the essential role of clear communication and genre alignment. Discover the complexities of creating compelling creative briefs and the balancing act of stock image use. They shine a light on industry insights, from traditional publishing pitfalls to the evolving landscape shaped by technology. Plus, explore how cover art rights can impact merchandising opportunities. It's a vibrant discussion for aspiring authors and design enthusiasts alike!

The podcast dives into the intricate world of developmental editing, highlighting Nathan's journey with seasoned editor Michael Braff. They discuss the substantial investment required for quality editing and share valuable feedback on enhancing manuscripts. Listeners learn about the importance of precise word choice, detailed scene setting, and techniques for improving pacing and character depth. The conversation also touches on the subsequent steps in publishing, from copy editing to design decisions, while Nathan shares exciting news about positive reviews for his book.

Aspiring authors face financial challenges while pursuing their dreams. The hosts share strategies for balancing a full-time job with writing, emphasizing productivity and financial planning. They discuss the benefits of low-expectation jobs that allow creative freedom. Differentiating between fiction and nonfiction, they reveal insights on profitability and marketing approaches. The conversation also touches on the complexities of building an audience and the nuances of selling books versus courses, highlighting the relentless persistence needed for success.

Dive into a thrilling exploration of memory and time with Blake Crouch's 'Recursion.' The hosts analyze how the novel transforms from an intimate character study into a global crisis. They compare it to 'Dark Matter,' highlighting the author's evolution in handling complex scenarios while keeping the emotional core intact. The discussion delves into unique time travel concepts, causality, and philosophical elements, making it a captivating listen for sci-fi fans who enjoy thought-provoking narratives.

Explore the behind-the-scenes of launching a self-published novel with insights on navigating Amazon's ranking system and the balance between direct sales and distribution. Discover the secrets behind selling over 500 copies in just one week! The hosts discuss marketing strategies, including the importance of early reader reviews, and the effectiveness of pre-orders. Learn about the challenges of long-term promotion and hear unique strategies like using social media ads and TikTok hacks to engage potential readers.

As Nathan prepares to launch his sci-fi novel 'Husk', he and Nat dive into the emotional and strategic nuances of self-publishing. They discuss choosing Amazon categories for better visibility and the fine art of pricing and promotions. Insights into effective pre-order sales, direct website purchases, and social media engagement reveal the complexities of modern book marketing. The duo also touches on the evolving landscape of publishing and the challenges of maintaining creativity under time pressures, all while navigating their personal experiences.

The hosts dive into the epic science fantasy of 'Empire of Silence,' exploring its rich world-building and deliberate pacing. They compare it to classics like 'Dune,' discussing character development and the intricate narrative structure. Key themes include the blending of faith and power, alongside moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist. The conversation also addresses the challenges of self-publishing, offering insights from Nat’s book launch experience, and sets the stage for their upcoming book club choice, 'Recursion.'

Dive into the world of paid newsletters as hosts discuss launching subscription-based content. They explore inspiring models like George Saunders' Story Club and emphasize the importance of valuable storytelling. The conversation reveals strategies for monetizing writing on platforms like Substack, the shift from one-time purchases to subscriptions, and the art of collaboration in storytelling. Plus, they tackle the complexities of marketing books and boosting audience engagement, highlighting the benefits of bundling and community support.

The hosts discuss Nathan's first paperback copies of his sci-fi novel, focusing on innovative pricing strategies for various formats. They delve into the evolving landscape of author marketing, highlighting the power of platforms like Instagram's Bookstagram community. The effects of Amazon's pricing on self-published works are examined, alongside the potential benefits and drawbacks of Kindle Unlimited. They also share engaging insights on connecting with readers through Discord and maximizing influencer collaborations.

Discover the essential strategies for authors looking to build their audience. The discussion emphasizes the need to distinguish between attracting writers versus readers. Key topics include leveraging social media, the power of niche content, and the effectiveness of short-form videos. Insights are shared on how to convert social media followers into newsletter subscribers, and the speakers highlight the importance of engaging content and leveraging reviews for book success. Tune in for practical tips on enhancing your author brand!