Comments for The Book Midwife

Comment on In a Hurry to Publish Your Book? Be Careful! by Dee Blick

Dee Blick — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:54:38 +0000

A very good article indeed that I endorse as a successful self published author.

I spent 4 months on my first book, a year on my second book which went to 150 on Amazon 18 months ago and spent most of last week between 400 and 800 in the ranks.

I very much took the tortoise not hare approach and recognised that if I wanted an enduring best seller and not simply to hype up the initial amazon stats (as you will know some authors claim a best seller because their book went into the top 100 in its category on day one which means that about 6 of their friends bought it!! They then disingenuously continue proclaiming it a best seller!)I had to write a cracking book readers would love and rave over. No rushing to claim the title of author as an extended business card or to make folk swoon they are in the presence of an author! Writing has to become almost an obsession with the end goal being reader delight.

I have managed to sell many thousands of books. My second book is being launched in Australia next month and my third will be published worldwide by Wiley in September 13. I decided to take a publishing deal simply because I am curious to compare the two experiences. I will however self publish my fourth book because it will be on self publishing!

Nothing lands in your lap without a huge input of tenacity, passion, talent and commitment. My advice to any would be author is: don’t chase fame or fortune. Seek to craft something of value and you will create a legacy and may well end up with a genuine best seller.

Comment on How to Get Noticed in Tough Times by Doreen Pendgracs

Doreen Pendgracs — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 13:37:35 +0000

Great post. I agree that it is so tough for us authors to get noticed in today’s world where there is SO much content out there.

I’ve worked hard to build my author’s platform over the past 3 years and am finally beginning to see the results. But … wow! Does it ever take a lot of tine and effort, even with effective networking.

Comment on How to Get Noticed in Tough Times by Alice DiNizo

Alice DiNizo — Sun, 06 Jan 2013 12:14:22 +0000

I loved every word of what you wrote! Thanks!

Comment on Free Pays Off by Ellen

Ellen — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 23:00:38 +0000

Thanks Mindy – I was fowarded this link form a networking contact as my first book is just about to be released (Dec 8th) – so this is timely advice indeed – thank you & I certainly agree with with all your observations and recommendations. Kindest regards, Ellen

Comment on Blah blah blah brag brag brag by Jo Bayne

Jo Bayne — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:07:10 +0000

Mindy – I think your probably about right at the maximum of 30% sales – but that might be a bit toppy. For me it’s about joining in the conversation – not just output – so it should be a dialogue ideally whether on linked in facebook or twitter. Social media helps keep you front of mind with your prospects and build rapour so they know like and trust you!!

Comment on Let’s talk about your ego by Edna N Ramirez

Edna N Ramirez — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 01:16:37 +0000

Very nice article and straight to the point. I am not sure if this is actually the best place to ask but do you people have any thoughts on where to hire some professional writers? Thx 🙂

Comment on Blah blah blah brag brag brag by Shelley Fishel @shelleyfishel

Shelley Fishel @shelleyfishel — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 09:05:31 +0000

This is a great question Mindy. I tweet keyboard shortcuts for Microsoft Office and a few other tips. It gets a great response and then when I post about courses etc, my followers are happy to repost retweet and share. I think your 70/30 ratio sounds about right to me.

Thanks for asking a great question.
Shelley