Critique vs. Beta

Critique Readers vs. Beta Readers

After a few self-edits, it’s time to get outside feedback. It is a very necessary step and helpful to clean up your manuscript. No matter how many readings, we can still miss issues.

What Critique Readers Do

Critique readers look at your book as a fellow writer. They focus mostly on grammar and structure. They pinpoint issues with character development and pacing. Their feedback is more technical.

Beta Readers

Beta readers are your audience. They read your story as if they had pulled it off a shelf. Their attention focuses on how your story feels to them. They help spot confusing scenes, slow pacing, timelines, thought-catching moments, and chapter flow. Their key role: Did I enjoy reading this?

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Finding Readers

Ideally, find beta readers who enjoy reading your genre; no experience is necessary. While Critique readers should be knowledgeable and understand the structure of a manuscript.

·         Writer Groups

·         Writer Associations

·         Libraries

·         Colleges

·         Recommendations from other authors

·         Paid Readers

Together, critique and beta readers can catch issues you might overlook, helping ensure readers have a great experience—one that inspires them to leave a positive review and eagerly await your next release.

Here's a great read about Beta Readers on Substack.

FINDING TIME

 Finding Time to Write

Whether you’re swamped by life’s responsibilities or if you have all day to write, the secret isn't time, it’s commitment to your WIP. Try these tips to help with your writing process:

1. The "50-Word" Write

If your life is too busy to write, try to write 50 words a day.

 * Why: It’s too small a commitment to fail. It helps you get into the habit of writing. Then, on your quiet days, it will spark the drive that will lead to those 500 to 1,000 words in a day.

2. Stop Mid-Thought

I haven’t tried this, but it sounds like a great idea! Never finish writing at the end of a chapter.

 * Why: You won’t face writer’s block as often. Make a quick note (one sentence) about what happens next. When you return the following day, you’ll be ready to write by finishing your thought from yesterday.

3. Switch Your Environment

* On the run: Use voice-to-text.

* Location: Write in a library or cafe.

* Writing Groups: Join a silent writing group; there are many online and in-person groups. (If you can’t find any in person, start one.)

Day by Day

You don’t need a bestseller during your writing process; you just need to add a few sentences every day. Use the free-writing method (don’t worry about grammar, punctuation, flow—that comes later during your edits.)

Try it! You will finish your first draft before you realize.

What will be your 50 words for today? Share them in the comments!

Event Selling

 

Go Local: Selling at Author Events, Farmers’ Markets, and Craft Fairs

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Feeling digital burnout? Meet readers in person—2026 is all about thriving in community spaces.

Why Local Events Work?

• No Algorithms: Direct interaction—just you and the reader.

• Instant Profit: Immediate payment, no royalty delays.

• Local Appeal: A “Local Author” sign is powerful marketing.

Advertise where you will be on Social Media Events and Posts

• Take advantage of FREE social media “press.”

Booth Tips

• Engage Actively: Stand up, start conversations.

• Give Value: Bookmarks or free short stories with QR codes.

• Visual Storytelling: Props that match your genre/story.

• Bundle Deals: “Event Day Only” specials like series discounts or tote bags.

Obtain Emails

Collect emails. Use sign-up sheets or QR codes with incentives.

The Power of In-Person Author Events

Beyond markets, author events attract “power readers.”

1. Indie Signing Events

• Collaboration: Share fans with other authors.

• Super-Fans: Signed books boost loyalty.

2. Micro-Launches

• Partner with local bookstores or libraries for readings/Q&A.

• Hand out coupons for your direct shop.

3. Stress-Free Setup

• Pre-packed “Go-Bag”: POS system, sign-up sheet, quality swag.

Here’s a practical Author Event Checklist based on your blog:

✅ Pre-Event Prep

• [ ] Pack your Go-Bag:

• Mobile POS (Square reader or QR code for Venmo/PayPal)
• Physical email sign-up sheet + pens
• Swag: high-quality bookmarks, stickers, or small giveaways

• [ ] Prepare genre-themed props (e.g., lantern for fantasy, “Top Secret” folder for thrillers)

• [ ] Print a “Local Author” sign

• [ ] Create event-specific discount codes (e.g., MARKET20)

✅ Booth Setup

• [ ] Stand up – either behind or if possible, in front of your table—don’t hide by sitting

• [ ] Display books attractively (stacked or fanned out)

• [ ] Add visual storytelling elements to make your booth a destination

• [ ] Offer bundle deals (e.g., “Buy 2, get a Free gift or a percentage off the purchase of a 3rd book.”)

✅ Engagement Strategy

• [ ] Greet visitors with a friendly question:

“What’s the last great book you read?”

• [ ] Hand out value-add giveaways (bookmark with QR code or a free short story)

• [ ] Promote your mailing list with an incentive (e.g., “Sign up for a chance to win an ebook”)

✅ Post-Event Follow-Up

• [ ] Add collected emails to your newsletter list

• [ ] Track sales using your payment software (such as Square)

• [ ] Share event photos on social media to keep momentum

To turn a casual passerby into a customer, your booth needs to act as a visual hook, and your greeting needs to be a low-pressure bridge.

Start a Conversation

Genre-Specific Table Props

Your table shouldn't just look like a "bookstore shelf"—it should look like a portal into your world

The Approach (The "No-Pressure" Hook)

The biggest mistake authors make is sitting behind the table or asking, "Would you like to buy a book?" This triggers a "sales defense" in people.

Try these 3 low-pressure opening lines instead:

 * The "Genre" Question: "Are you a fan of [Genre] stories, or are you just browsing for gifts today?" * Why it works: It helps you categorize them immediately without being pushy.

 * The "Vibe" Hook: "If you like [Famous Movie/Book], you might enjoy the world I've built here." * Why it works: It gives them a familiar mental anchor.

 * The "Prop" Icebreaker: If they look at your props (like a dragon egg), say: "That egg actually plays a pretty big part in Chapter 3."

   * Why it works: It’s a natural conversation starter about the story, not the sale.

The Elevator Pitch (The 10-Second Hook)

Once they stop, you need a one-sentence "hook" that explains the stakes of your book.

•  Formula: "My book is about [Protagonist] who has to [Action] before [Stakes/Bad Thing] happens."
• Example: "It’s a cozy mystery about a baker who has to solve a murder before her grand opening, or she’ll be the one ending up behind bars."

Closing the Direct Sale

If they seem interested but hesitant, offer them a "market-exclusive" reason to buy now:

 * "If you pick up a copy today, I can sign it for you and include this limited-edition bookmark."

 * "I'm actually doing a 'Market Bundle' today—if you grab the first two, I'll take $5 off."

Pro-Tip: If they still aren't ready to buy, don't let them walk away empty-handed. Give them a business card with a QR code for a free sample chapter. This gets them into your "Direct-to-Consumer" funnel later!

Happy Selling

CHOSING WRITERS GROUPS

 JOINING MORE THAN ONE

Joining more than one writers' group can be a fantastic move for your career. Think of it like cross-training: different groups exercise different "muscles" of your writing life.

The Benefits of Multiple Groups:

If you choose your groups strategically, they can serve different purposes:

* The Accountability Group:

These are "silent writing" groups or "sprint" groups where the only goal is to sit down and hit your word count.

* The Brainstorming Group:

Where authors of different calibrations share ideas to help each other with marketing, formatting, building website, beta reading, etc.

* The Genre-Specific Group:

Example - A group of sci-fi writers will understand the nuances of world-building and "hard" science in a way a general group won't.

 * The Critique Group:

This is your "inner circle"—a small group of 3–5 people who read your chapters deeply and help you edit.

Most successful authors find a balance by joining two distinct types of groups.

A Quick Checklist

Before joining a second (or third) group, ask yourself:

 [ ] Does this group offer something my current group lacks?

 [ ] Do I have the time to be a contributing member.

[ ] Will a second group benefit me in my writing journey.

Holiday Sales

🎁 Deck the Shelves: Why the Holidays are Your Bestselling Season! 📚

The holiday season is more than just eggnog and twinkling lights; it's the Super Bowl of gift-giving! For authors, this festive window presents an unparalleled opportunity to reach new readers and boost sales. Don't let your book gather dust in the snow—it’s time to market it as the perfect present!

Here’s why the holiday season is your moment to shine and how you can capitalize on the spirit of giving.

🌟 Three Reasons the Holidays are Your Golden Ticket

1. The Power of Gift-Giving

People are actively looking for gifts. A book is the ultimate thoughtful, personal, and affordable present. Unlike a generic gift card, a book offers a story, an experience, or a piece of knowledge—making the gift-giver look incredibly insightful.

 * Action: Position your book as the "perfect gift for [niche/interest]." (e.g., "The perfect stocking stuffer for the armchair detective," or "The ultimate gift for the history buff in your life.")

2. Built-in Downtime

The period between Thanksgiving and New Year's is traditionally a time for travel and relaxation. What do people do when they're curled up by a fireplace or stuck on a plane? They read! This increased leisure time translates directly into higher book consumption.

 * Action: Promote your book as the "must-read for cozy holiday evenings" or the "perfect travel companion" for long trips.

3. Last-Minute Shopping Spikes

Let's be honest, everyone scrambles for last-minute gifts. A physical book purchased online (with fast shipping) or an instant eBook purchase becomes an easy, stress-free solution for panicked shoppers.

 * Action: Highlight the convenience of your book purchase, whether it's the immediacy of a digital download or linking directly to a retailer with rapid delivery.

💡 Quick Tips to Maximize Your Holiday Sales

1. Create a "Gift Bundle"

Partner your book with a small, relevant item for a unique offering.

 * Novelists: Combine your book with a themed bookmark, a sticker of a character, or a recipe from the story.

 * Non-Fiction Authors: Bundle your book with a relevant journal, a pen, or a related small tool.

 * Idea: Offer signed copies for a limited time—a truly special, personalized gift!

2. Leverage Festive Keywords

When promoting online, adjust your language to match the season's intent.

 * Use words like: gift guide, stocking stuffer, holiday read, present, cozy, winter reading, and Christmas shopping.

3. Run a Time-Sensitive Promotion

A little urgency goes a long way during the holidays.

 * Offer a "12 Days of Christmas" discount.

 * Promote a "Cyber Monday" or "Boxing Day" sale.

 * Run a contest where a few winners get a free book for themselves and a friend.

4. Optimize Your Author Bio & Website

Make it easy for visitors to see your book as a gift.

 * Add a temporary banner on your site that says: "Give the Gift of Reading!"

 * Create a dedicated "Holiday Gift Ideas" page with links to all your books and easy purchase options.

Blurbs

How to Write the Killer Blurb On Amazon 

You've finished your novel, celebrated, and now comes the hard part: getting strangers to click "Buy Now." The text on your Amazon page—variously called the Book Description or Blurb—is the absolute most critical piece of marketing copy you will write.

It's not just a summary, it's a sales pitch. Here's how to write one that grabs a reader.

Your Blurb should be short (150-250 words is ideal), focused, and designed for a reader who is scanning your page on their phone.

The 4-Part Structure:

A high-converting Blurb is built on a four-part formula that creates tension and demands a resolution the reader can only find inside the book.

1. The Opening Hook (1-2 Sentences)

Grab attention immediately by establishing the genre, tone, and main dilemma. This line should be bolded, punchy, and make the reader stop scrolling.

 Example (Thriller): The only thing worse than being framed for murder is realizing the real killer wears your face.

 Example (Romance): She swore off love, but when a grumpy single dad moves next door, her perfect plan burns to the ground.

2. The Setup: Character & World (2-3 Sentences)

Introduce your protagonist (by name) and briefly establish their normal world, their internal desire, and the stakes. Who are they, and what do they want before the trouble starts?

3. Inciting the Incident or Conflict (3-4 Sentences)

Detail the event that breaks the world and forces the protagonist into action. Clearly articulate the stakes—what is the central threat, and what will they lose if they fail? This is where the tension escalates.

 Crucial Element: Name the antagonist or the core threat. The conflict must be clear.

4. The Cliffhanger (1-2 Sentences)

End with a compelling question or a massive, looming choice. This is the moment you leave the reader hanging, forcing them to click the buy button to discover the answer.

Example: To save her past, she must risk her future on a desperate alliance. But what happens when the enemy becomes the only person she can trust.

KDP Self-Publishing

 KDP Paperback Publishing 101:

Formatting Your Interior and Cover

Welcome back, fellow authors! I was busy with events and a mini vacation. Excuse me for the delay.

Today, we're diving into the essential, and sometimes complex, world of publishing your book as a paperback through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Getting your book on the shelves means successfully formatting and uploading two key files: your interior manuscript and your cover.

This workshop is designed to cover the basics. For a deep dive, remember that KDP itself provides a wealth of information. You can visit your KDP account, click Help, and search for "formatting a paper book" to find step-by-step tutorials and videos for both the interior and cover.

First things first, if you haven't already, head over to www.kdp.amazon.com and create your account.

Step 1: Formatting Your Interior Manuscript File

The manuscript is the heart of your book, and proper formatting is critical to a professional-looking paperback. Here are the core steps to prepare your interior file:

 * Set Trim Size and Margins: Determine the physical size of your book (the trim size) and set the margins for the pages.

 * Handle Bleed: If your book includes visual elements, like images or graphics, that need to extend all the way to the edge of the page, you must set up your interior file with bleed.

 * Create Book Matter: Assemble all the necessary elements of your book, including the:

   * Front Matter (e.g., title pages, copyright page)

   * Body (the main content/chapters)

   * Back Matter (e.g., author bio, other books)

 * Save, Upload, and Preview: Save your final interior file correctly to avoid upload errors. Once saved, upload it and use the preview tool to make sure everything looks perfect.

Step 2: Formatting Your Cover File

The cover is your book’s first impression. KDP offers three primary options for creating and formatting your print-ready paperback cover:

 * Use KDP's Free Cover Creator Tool: This is the simplest option for meeting KDP specifications.

 * Download a Cover Template: If you prefer to design your own, you can download a template. Use any graphic design software that handles PNG or PDF files to create your print-ready cover, and then save the final product as a PDF file [02:08]. You should use KDP's Cover Calculator and Templates to ensure the dimensions are correct.

 * Use the Cover Guide: Refer to KDP's cover guide for detailed specifications to create your cover, leveraging the KDP calculator to help with your book dimensions.

A Quick Note on Ebooks

If you decide to create an ebook version, the formatting is similar to the paperback, with one key difference: you must include a table of contents. This allows readers using an e-reader device to easily click and jump to any chapter they wish.

As you work on your manuscript and publishing steps, remember to take your time. Write your story, and edit it as many times as you need to before you upload it to Amazon KDP.

Our next workshop, Part 10, will cover writing a strong synopsis for the back of your book, which is also useful for advertising and social media promotion.

If you have any questions, you can feel free to contact the workshop by email anytime at 4ewriters@gmail.com.

https://youtu.be/087eXd65TuE?si=fUuv_DTz8NFiw1Ix