“Find your own voice!” This piece of advice, often given to budding writers, has almost taken on the tone of a command, given how frequently its importance is stressed in writing courses and books. Last summer, I found myself repeating the same line to students in my creative writing class at the Maastricht University Summer […]
Category: General
4 of the Biggest Book Design Trends Currently Captivating Gen Z Audiences
Your book cover is what makes a strong first impression on potential readers. Grabbing the attention of Generation Z presents some unique challenges. Although individual Gen Zers, aka Zoomers, have some similarities with one another, they are a diverse group with multiple interests and unique personalities. So what does this mean for authors, and how […]
Using Social Media as a (Female) Author: Or How to Swim with Sharks
Building an online presence is a necessary ‘evil’ of being a writer. Whether a traditional (indie) press publishes you or you are an independent author, there hardly seems to be any escaping: you must face social media head-on so people will hear about your book. Yet like many writers, I don’t necessarily enjoy being the […]
Writing Platform Analysis
With so many writing platforms available today, it can be tough for authors (whether they’re just starting out or more seasoned) to decide which one best fits their needs. Each platform offers something different, from easy-to-use interfaces to engaged communities, and some even offer pathways to getting published! In this article, we’re bringing you a […]
Book Positioning for Beginners – Secrets to Self-Publish Like a Pro
Did you know most indie authors skip one of the most important steps in the publishing process? It’s a step traditional New York publishing houses do as a matter of course, but most self-publishers bypass because they don’t even know about it. I’m talking about book positioning, where the craft of writing meets the business […]
6 UI Tips for Designing a Book Cover That Sells
Independent authors often do much of the behind-the-scenes work of formatting their books and creating a captivating cover. Standing out amidst the sea of traditional and self-published books requires thinking outside the box. Designers focused on user interface (UI) can apply the same principles to creating covers that engage readers. Authors, here are some of […]
I write who I am? The problem with identity politics in publishing
Anyone who wants to write a novel should think about who they are. I knew my life experiences were going to affect the book I was going to write. How I had once fought with my sister as a child. My father’s roaring voice when I did something wrong. The sexist comments from the physics […]







