writing – Page 2 – Success Strategies

From Manuscript to Bestseller: Unleash Your Publishing Potential

If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.
Martin Luther

Are you a writer with a story burning to be told, but feeling overwhelmed by the traditional publishing maze? Listen to this electrifying workshop facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron on behalf of Nova Southeastern University’s Alvin Sherman Library. The tips and tricks will transform your publishing dreams from wishful thinking to strategic action.

In this game-changing discussion, you’ll discover the exact blueprint successful self-published authors use to launch their books, build their audience, and generate real income. We’ll pull back the curtain on the traditional vs self-publishing industry, revealing insider strategies that most writers never learn—from choosing the right platforms and mastering digital formatting to marketing techniques that actually sell books. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to take control of your publishing journey, this session promises to equip you with practical, immediately actionable insights. Stop waiting for someone else to validate your story. Listen and Learn how to become the author you’ve always dreamed of being—on your own terms, with your own power. Don’t miss your chance to revolutionize your writing career.

Key Insights: Publishing Questions from Authors You Must Know

Many questions were asked throughout the presentation. Here are a 14.

Should you use Ai for Book cover designs?
Are authors required to let readers know that you used Ai?
What is the full marketing potential for a book?
How do you translate a book into another language?
How do you negotiate speaking fees for your book?
Are there any supporting groups to guide on how to format books on KDP?
How can you hire someone to help with publishing?
I’m doing away with writing the Foreword or comments on back of book. What’s the trend?
Do you have resources to look for the audiobooks?
How much can editors charge for beginner writers?
How do you copyright a book?
How do you find someone to edit your work?
How can I get more exposure for sales other than amazon?
Do I have to be a published author to be an editor?

If you’re interested in publishing your book, listen to the presentation and accompanying responses. If you need help, we are passionate about publishing. Reach out for help today and realize your publishing dream!

Happy Writing!

Top 8 Audiobook Publishers You Should Know

Listening to the dulcet tones of a familiar voice is an appealing way to work our way through those books we’ve always meant to get around to, but haven’t.– Clare Thorp

You have written your book! Took it a step further and did the audiobook. Now what do you do? How do you get it into the hands of listeners? The options listed may help.

1. Audible (an Amazon company)

What they do: Industry leader in audiobook publishing and distribution.
Also produces: Audible Originals (exclusive content).
Website: audible.com

2. Tantor Media

What they do: Full-service audiobook publisher with a wide range of genres.
Known for: High-quality production and professional narration.
Website: tantor.com

3. Podium Audio

Focus: Sci-fi, fantasy, and thriller genres.
Notable for: Discovering and promoting indie authors with huge success (e.g., The Martian by Andy Weir).
Website: podiumaudio.com

4. RBmedia

What they do: One of the largest audiobook publishers globally.
Imprints include: Recorded Books, HighBridge Audio, Tantor Media, and more.
Website: rbmediaglobal.com

5. Dreamscape Media

What they do: Audiobook production and publishing for libraries, retail, and direct sales.
Also handles: Distribution to major platforms like Audible, Hoopla, OverDrive.
Website: dreamscapepublishing.com

🧰 Self-Publishing & Hybrid Options

6. ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)

Owned by: Amazon (works with Audible and iTunes).
For: Authors and publishers to create and distribute audiobooks.
Website: acx.com

7. Findaway Voices (by Spotify)

What they do: Allows authors to produce and distribute audiobooks across 40+ platforms (including Audible, Apple Books, Google, etc.).
Website: findawayvoices.com

8. Author’s Republic

What they do: Distribute audiobooks globally with easy access for self-published authors.
Website: authorsrepublic.com

Questions to Consider

Consider these questions before you make your selection.

Is the audiobook already recorded, or do you need help with narration/production? (e.g., voice talent, editing, mastering, etc.)
Are you looking to self-publish, or are you open to working with a publisher?
What is your target audience and platform preference? e.g., Audible, Spotify, Apple Books, libraries, global reach, etc.)
Do you want control over pricing and rights, or are you okay with royalty splits?
What’s the genre or focus of the content?
(e.g., business, leadership, fiction, memoir, etc.)

Understanding Publishing: Pros and Cons for Aspiring Authors

To write is human, to edit is divine.
Stephen King

New and aspiring writers are curious about the publishing process. As a foundation, it is important to understand the basic advantages and disadvantages of each. These two infographics were prepared as a comparative analysis to help writers understand each especially when navigating the agent-publisher-author relationship.

Here’s hoping it will clarify any confusion associated with the process and help new authors make informed decisions.

Which have you used? Traditional, Self-Publishing, or a combination of both. Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

Success Stories: 15 Women of Color Who Self-Published

“A word after a word after a word is power.”
Margaret Atwood

The publishing process can be intimidating for an unknown writer. The traditional Agent-Publisher-Author relationship is hard. Rejection after rejection is common as Agents say ‘no’. Writers become discouraged and often give up. Manuscripts stay in the darkness of desk drawers for years.

As time has involved, so has the advent of self-publishing. Writers become bold and take advantage of their publishing plight. They make bold moves; step ahead, take the reins to achieve their publishing goal of becoming an author. With low budget and unplanned expenses, some cut corners and quality becomes compromised. Book covers are mediocre. Titles lack depth. Formatting is non-existent, which leads to the demise of some great manuscripts.

On the other hand, some writers step out, work hard, invest, learn the process, and viola! Success follows!

Self-Publishing Success

Here are 15 Authors of color who achieved significant success through self-publishing:

Toni Morrison – While primarily known for her traditionally published works, she self-published her first novel “The Bluest Eye” before gaining wider recognition
Terry McMillan – Initially self-published her debut novel “Mama” before securing a publisher for subsequent works
N.K. Jemisin – First self-published some of her fantasy work before becoming the first author to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel three years in a row
Alexandria House – Found success self-publishing contemporary romance novels featuring Black characters
Kristen Ashley – Built a dedicated following through self-publishing her romance novels before signing with traditional publishers
Brenda Jackson – Pioneer in African American romance who began with self-publishing before becoming a New York Times bestseller
Alyssa Cole – Initially self-published her diverse romance novels before becoming an award-winning author
K.M. Jackson – Self-published romance author who found success writing diverse contemporary stories
Nikki Turner – Self-published her first urban fiction novel before becoming known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Fiction”
Beverly Jenkins – Started self-publishing historical romances featuring Black characters when traditional publishers showed little interest
Sister Souljah – Self-published “The Coldest Winter Ever” which became a groundbreaking street lit phenomenon
Nnedi Okorafor – Self-published some of her early Africanfuturist works before winning multiple prestigious awards
Kiini Ibura Salaam – Award-winning speculative fiction writer who self-published collections of her short stories
Octavia Butler – Though mostly known for her traditionally published works, she self-published some early stories
Zane – Built an erotic fiction empire beginning with self-published works before launching her own publishing company

These authors demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and literary talent often creating space for Black women’s voices. This occurred at a time when traditional publishing wasn’t receptive to their work. Many of these women went on to sign traditional deals. Suffice it to say they proved their commercial viability through self-publishing. Others maintained independence throughout their careers.

Need help to get over your fear to make the leap? Let these women inspire your journey. Thoughts about any of these or other women of color who have experienced success? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Top 15 Women Authors Who Achieved Success in Self-Publishing

“Writing is a process, a journey into memory and the soul.”
Isabel Allende

Award-Winning Storyteller and Journalist Sharon Gordon published her debut novel Sheribaby and started off with a bang! Introverts may not be as purposeful due to shyness. They are reserved and avoid putting themselves ‘out there’ for the world to see them and their author life.

That said, here are 15 women authors who found significant success through self-publishing:

Amanda Hocking – Became a millionaire by self-publishing her paranormal romance novels before signing with a traditional publisher
E.L. James – Initially self-published “Fifty Shades of Grey” as fan fiction before it became a global phenomenon
Colleen Hoover – Self-published her debut novel “Slammed” before becoming a #1 New York Times bestselling author
Rachel Abbott – One of the UK’s most successful self-published authors with her thriller novels
Lindsay Buroker – Found success with her Emperor’s Edge fantasy series and numerous other works
Bella Forrest – Self-published the phenomenally successful “A Shade of Vampire” series
H.M. Ward – Romance author who sold millions of copies of her self-published works
Jasinda Wilder – Self-published numerous bestselling romance novels before signing a traditional deal
Vi Keeland – Initially self-published her romance novels before becoming a #1 New York Times bestseller
Penny Reid – Built a successful career with her self-published romantic comedies
Rupi Kaur – Self-published her poetry collection “Milk and Honey” which became a worldwide bestseller
Sierra Simone – Found success with her provocative romance novels
Sarina Bowen – Award-winning romance author who began her career self-publishing
L.J. Shen – Romance author who built a massive following through self-publishing
Lauren Blakely – Multi-million selling self-published romance author

Many of these authors began self-publishing when traditional routes weren’t available to them. They remained independent even after achieving success. Several eventually signed traditional publishing deals after demonstrating their commercial appeal through self-publishing

Need help to get over your fear of leveling up to achieve your goal of being a published author? Let these women inspire you. Have you or someone you know stepped out and achieved success? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

A Conversation With Journalist & Award Winning Story Teller Sharon Gordon

Absolutely thrilled to announce that Sharon Gordon’s debut book “Sheribaby is NOW AVAILABLE!

Journalist Sharon, is the talented 2025 Award winning Storyteller and niece of beloved Jamaica’s Singer Songwriter Beresford Hammond.

I met Sharon a decade ago when Reggae music matriarch Miss Patricia Chin, hosted my Success Strategies of Caribbean American Leaders book event at VP Records, New York.

It’s been such an honor to guide Sharon through the book publishing journey – from connecting her with Raquel, the perfect editor for her genre, to navigating publisher conversations and finally seeing her words in print.

Her dedication to the craft and willingness to embrace the publishing process made this success inevitable. This is why I do what I do!

Congratulations Sharon! Indeed, hard work pays off!

If you have been dreaming of becoming a published author but aren’t sure where to start, let Sharon’s journey inspire you. With the right guidance, YOUR story could be next on the shelves!

Order your copy of Sheribaby today https://a.co/d/5R50Nwu and follow Sharon’s author journey

Enjoy our literary conversation here.

2024 South Florida Writers Of Color Online Literary Magazine

The Legacy of Books

As humans, we die, but Books Live on Forever, culturally and intellectually enriching the lives of future generations.

– Ralph Hogges

2024’s Collection of poems, writings and gleanings from The Hogges, Cowins, & Smiley South Florida Writers of Color, literary Magazine shown in the link below.

2024 South Florida Writers of Color Magazine Download

Readers’ Favorite Summertime Reading Spots

Reading Space

Never trust anyone who has not brought a book with them.
Lemony Snicket

Reading, reading, reading. It grows the mind, expands thinking, develops insights and helps us think differently. Goodreads asked The question “what’s your favorite summertime reading spot?” Readers chimed in excitedly. Here I share:

Of Books, Places and Reading

Sea front
Patio
On the beach
In a tent while it rains
Outdoors while listening to the birds
Under the big oak tree
At the summerhouse
Coffee house
RV while camping across provinces
On a balcony
Sneak away for an hour in my car
On a boat on a lake
On a chair by the pond
While driving – audiobooks
Airplane
Hammock
Pool
Beach
Picnic blanket
Bed
Nook

Wow, what a list! Yet there’s more. Where is your favorite place? Do share. We would love to hear.

Happy Reading!

Develop Your Brand: A Blueprint For New Authors

Your personal brand is a promise to your clients… a promise of quality, consistency, competency, and reliability.
Tim Ferriss

Many are the desires of the first-time author. Writing is the biggest. Often new authors find it overwhelming to write and see the manuscript to the end. When they do, the next step is often forgotten. Suddenly an author becomes and an entrepreneur – one in which they didn’t anticipate. Developing the book’s brand… yikes!

It’s important to the book’s success and target audience awareness. Essentially, building an author brand is very important because a strong brand helps you stand out, attract readers, and build a loyal fanbase. Here are six (6) steps to get you started:

Build Your New Author Brand

Understand your Brand
- How do you distinguish yourself in the literary world?
Discover your Brand’s Identity
- Reflect: Who are you as an author?
- Who is your ideal Reader?
- USP: What sets you apart?
Create your author persona
- Define your writing style, tone tc
- Design consistent visual identity
- Create author Bio to showcase achievements, background, writing journey
Build your online Presence
- Create author website to showcase books and engage with Readers
- Choose social media platform where target audience hangout
Engage your Audience
- Develop content calendar
- Engage with Readers
- Connect with fellow authors
Launch Book and Grow Brand
- Create buzz and Lunch or Re-Launch your book
- Collaborate to expand
- Keep learning. Keep writing.
- Be flexible and adaptable

There you have it. What has been your experience with the writing process? Do share. We would love to hear.

If you feel overwhelmed, let’s connect.

Not Perfect But…

Don’t be afraid to try

Not perfect but still doing it. Dr. Charles Stanley said it.

Pastor Steven furtick said it about being in his youth and starting a new church with his wife.

Reggae Music Miss Pat Chin said it too. She said when she started entrepreneurship she didn’t know what she was doing. Young. Niaive but she tried big things not realizing they were too big for a new entrepreneur.

Guess what? It worked! Because she didn’t know. She tried, did it and yep success!

Dr Suess’s idea was different. Novel. Untried by others so his manuscript was rejected by many publishers. Then he met a friend who had just received a promotion to of all things… a publisher! The right place. The right time. The dots connected. Today Dr Seuss is a household name worldwide.

So don’t be afraid to try new crazy things! Things untried by others …because … it just might work.

Cheers!

Four Stages Of Elimination In Life…

Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.
John Lennon

Alvin Foo in a LinkedIn post shared his view of the different stages of life. Here is his thought-provoking view. Is it a reality check or a paralysis digger? Hmm, read and decide.

Four Stages of Elimination in Life

At 60, the workplace eliminates you. No matter how successful or powerful you were during your career, you’ll return to being an ordinary person. So, don’t cling to the mindset and sense of superiority from your past job, let go of your ego, or you might lose your sense of ease!

At 70, society gradually eliminates you. The friends and colleagues you used to meet and socialize with become fewer, and hardly anyone recognizes you at your former workplace. Don’t say, “I used to be…” or “I was once…” because the younger generation won’t know you, and you mustn’t feel uncomfortable about it!

At 80, family slowly eliminates you. Even if you have many children and grandchildren, most of the time you’ll be living with your spouse or by yourself. When your children visit occasionally, it’s an expression of affection, so don’t blame them for coming less often, as they’re busy with their own lives!

At 90, the Earth wants to eliminate you. Some of the people you knew have already departed forever. At this point, don’t be sad or mournful, because this is the way of life, and everyone will eventually follow this path!

Therefore, while our bodies are still capable, live life to the fullest! Eat what you want, drink what you desire, play and do the things you love.

Remember, the only thing that won’t eliminate you is the your current families and friends. So, meet more, communicate more, say a hello, maintain your presence, be happy, and have no regrets!

Do you agree with his view of life? Did it put you in a state of melancholy, reflection or glee? Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

When You Don’t Know What To Say…

When you don’t know what to say, listen to your heart.
José Micard Teixeira

“When you get tired of something, don’t sweep it out of your life without first understanding why you attracted it, otherwise you can be sure that it will return, even if it is in another form or in another context. When you stop feeling in love with someone, allow them to leave without thinking that a part of you leaves with them. In fact, nothing leaves. What leaves is only what came, now with more knowledge about who it was while it stayed here. When you feel disrespected, take back the power you gave that person over your life. Do not allow disrespect to turn to indifference and find yourself deposed from the place that was rightfully or lovingly yours in the beginning. When you feel uncomfortable somewhere, leave. All the moments you remain there will only contribute to bringing you even more suffering. Leave and if you have nowhere else to go, leave anyway, because at that moment no place is worse than this one for you. When you can’t say what you want to say, write it down. What is written speaks louder and remains longer in time. When you don’t know what to say, listen to your heart. Everything you need to know has always been there waiting for you. And when you think you have nothing to do, look at yourself and see yourself once more. It may be that this time you will understand everything you have forgotten to.”

~ José Micard Teixeira Excerpt from book “Between Many Truths and Some Secrets”

Key Insights: Publishing Questions from Authors You Must Know

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1. Audible (an Amazon company)

2. Tantor Media

3. Podium Audio

4. RBmedia

5. Dreamscape Media

🧰 Self-Publishing & Hybrid Options

6. ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)

7. Findaway Voices (by Spotify)

8. Author’s Republic

Questions to Consider

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Self-Publishing Success

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Of Books, Places and Reading

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Build Your New Author Brand

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Four Stages of Elimination in Life

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