The Publishing Blog
Publishing is constantly evolving — platforms change, tools improve, and industry “best practices” don’t always keep up. This blog is where I examine publishing decisions in real time, sharing practical guidance, professional insight, and observations drawn from years working in book production and publishing consulting.
Some posts explore specific publishing topics in depth. Others respond to current tools, trends, or common points of confusion authors face right now. When a topic warrants a more structured or evergreen approach, it’s expanded into resources like the Publishing Foundations Series or In-Depth Education. Everything here is written with the same no-nonsense, professional lens that underpins the rest of my work.
Kampala Writes Literature Festival 2025: Belonging, Books, and a Bold Vision for Storytelling
Discover how Africa’s literary scene is booming—from Lagos’s CORA Book Party to Kampala Writes Festival and a quirky spotlight at Printers Row—these events redefine where and how stories emerge.
Spells, Sass & One Shifty Cat: The Cat Stole Your Tome by Jeannie Wycherley
🐾 What do you get when you mix a cursed tome, a snarky witch, and a feline with secrets?
The Cat Stole Your Tome by Jeannie Wycherley is a cozy magical romp with charm, sass, and spells gone hilariously wrong.
How to Use Scrivener to Plot, Plan, and Power Through Your Draft
Scrivener is more than a writing app—it’s a full command center for indie authors. But only if you know how to use it. Here’s how to plan, plot, and draft smarter (without the overwhelm).
How to Host Successful Read-Dating Events in Your Bookshop
Bookshops are hosting “read-dating” nights where singles swap favorite titles in speed-date rounds—sparking romance and boosting sales. Learn how to set up your own event: partnerships, format, marketing, and follow-up tips.
Psychics, Pajamas & Pink Feathers: Fires & Flamingos by Cassidy K. O’Connor
🦩 What do psychic pain, French toast, and flamingos have in common?
Fires & Flamingos by Cassidy K. O’Connor is a fast, funny, and flamingo-fabulous cozy mystery full of sass and heart.
Scrivener vs Vellum vs Atticus: Which One Works Best for You?
Choosing the right publishing software is a game-changer. Scrivener, Vellum, and Atticus each bring something different to the indie author experience—here’s how to choose the one that works best for your process.
Why LLMs Are a Boon for Premium Publishers
AI-driven LLMs now favor authoritative, structured journalism—boosting premium publishers over clickbait. Learn how conversational ads, answer-layer sponsorships, and citation metrics can transform revenue models.
Dark Operations & Dangerous Men: Predators by Marc Liebman
When justice hides behind red tape, someone has to cross the line.
Predators by Marc Liebman is a tense, intelligent thriller where the mission gets personal—and dangerous.
Formatter vs. Book Designer: Why the Difference Matters More Than You Think
Formatting is functional. Book design is transformational.
If you’re publishing a book, it’s time to stop thinking like a DIYer and start thinking like a professional.
AI vs. Copyright: Insights from the July 2025 Senate Hearing
Senators are scrutinizing AI training on copyrighted books, and courts are green-lighting class actions against firms like Anthropic. Authors must update contracts, press for legislative clarity, and demand transparency on AI use to safeguard creative rights.
SEO Keywords: #AITraining #AITrainingCopyrighted Works #AICopyrightHearing #AuthorRightsAI
The Wounds We Inherit, The Power We Choose: Shadows of the Elders by Will Elm
A dark, hopeful epic fantasy, Shadows of the Elders by Will Elm is a raw, thoughtful exploration of trauma, survival, and the power of chosen legacy.
KDP Delivery Charges: What They Are & How to Avoid Overpaying
Did you know Amazon charges authors a hidden delivery fee on every ebook sold? If your file is too large, you could be handing over profits without even realizing it. Learn what these charges are, how they work, and the simple ways to reduce them—without sacrificing your reader’s experience.
Could a National Year of Reading Revolutionize Kids’ Literacy in the U.S.?
The UK’s 2026 National Year of Reading unites publishers, sports leagues, and charities to spark a reading revolution. Learn how America could adapt this model—leveraging NFL partnerships, school funding, and digital campaigns—to close literacy gaps and build lifelong readers.
Second Chances and Quiet Strength: Back in the Saddle by Cynthia Terelst
Emotional, real, and tender—Back in the Saddle by Cynthia Terelst is a slow-burn second-chance romance about rediscovering love, family, and purpose on a rural Aussie horse stud.
Why You Shouldn’t Publish Directly from Word (and What to Do Instead)
TL;DR: Don’t Do It.
Microsoft Word is a great word processor—but a terrible publishing tool.
Sure, Amazon lets you upload a .docx file, but that doesn’t mean you should. Here’s why Word falls short—and what indie authors should use instead.
Why Over 70 Authors Are Urging a Pause on AI Publishing
Over 70 authors have signed an open letter urging publishers to halt AI-generated books without consent or compensation. They demand human editorial roles and narrators stay in place. Read why this matters—and how responsible AI can protect creativity and trust in storytelling.
Raw, Redemptive, and Real: Something to Dream On by Diane Rinella
Dive into Something to Dream On by Diane Rinella—an emotionally intense second-chance romance that explores trauma, trust, and the healing power of love.
How Much Does It Really Cost to Self-Publish a Book?
Think self-publishing is free? Think again. From editing and design to ISBNs and ads, this post breaks down the real costs of doing it right—and why cutting corners could cost you more in the long run.
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