Category Archives: Writing Business

Why I Decided to Self-Publish: An Indie Author’s Perspective

October, 2019Blogging, Editing, Indie Publishing, Publishing, Self-publishing, Sequel Writing, Series writing, Time Management, Traditional Publishing, Writing, Writing Business, Writing CraftAuthor, Book Cover Design, Craft, editing, Indie author, Manuscripts, Mentoring, Persistence, Reading, Writing lifecarolyn

I have exciting news, readers: my second novel, now OFFICIALLY named Treasure Bound, will be published this month! Woo hoo! The road to publishing this book, the sequel to Emerald Obsession, was long and jarring, so I’m all the happier for its coming release.

The preparation these past months has been tedious. As an indie author, tackling the essentials of pre-publication—like editing, conferring with the Library of Congress, obtaining ISBNs, designing the cover—is crucial and a tad nerve-wracking (and ultimately very worth it).

A fun exception to the nervy parts is that while tackling those tasks, I encountered a number of curious folks who asked why I decided to self-publish. Well, that question got me to thinking. 😉 Considering I blog about the writing life, I realized I had a great topic to share with my audience.

If you’re trying to make the indie-vs-traditional decision for your book, spend some time discovering what your goal is and who you want to reach. Why do you want to send your story into the world? Many factors will weigh in on your final decision, as they did for me. But figuring this out, or at least giving thought to your goal will offer you a good starting point.

My original decision to self-publish came about eight or so years ago, prior to the release of Emerald Obsession, and I haven’t once regretted that choice or changed my mind. Before I scoop you on why I chose indie publishing, I’d like to share something that not many of you know. When I wrote my first (still-unpublished) novel, Blind Notice, I decided to try the traditional route. Self-publishing, while not in its infancy back then, was still fledgling, full of tricky bits, and daunting.

Let me add a couple of quick points here for consideration: first, for anyone with a connection in the industry, absolutely ask for their input and advice. So many good things can come from a mentor, or someone able to direct you to the right source for help. The experience and wisdom of those who’ve traveled a similar path is invaluable.

Second, totally my gut feeling, but I truly believe any writer looking to put her- or himself out there should try the traditional path, at least for a short time, to experience that process regardless of the outcome.

Back to my “traditional” journey: I researched and found receptive agents in my genre, wrote and rewrote and polished my query letters, kept an Excel file of my efforts, and then received a number of polite rejections. That taught me a ton about persistence and belief in myself. But the whole process felt like it took an eternity to receive constructive feedback.

You know by now I’m someone who likes to learn and experience things. So you understand why I wanted to pursue traditional publishing, even knowing I was competing with scores of other mystery writers, vying for the attention of a small group of agents, and then publishers. And, ultimately, I failed.

But through all of that, I continued to work on my craft. During this time, I began writing EO. I was dealing with the death of my cousin, who had been my biggest champion (and not dealing well, I have to add), and I felt the driving need not to waste precious time waiting on other people. I grew frustrated with the length of time it would take to make any publishing progress, and I became determined to keep the fate of my work in my hands.

And that’s when I began to seriously research self-publishing options.

So, what made me commit? The short answer was (and still is, despite how long TB has taken) the speed and the control of the process. For me, those two items are intertwined, so I don’t rush either one. And now, for authors looking to earn a living writing (eventually, please, God and fingers and toes crossed!), there are broader opportunities available with self-publishing.

Even so, a ton of work and time goes into producing a quality book—and considering my desirousness of becoming a world’s best-selling author 😉 —I really, really do my best to make sure the work is done, and is done with the highest quality possible. Of course, by that I mean I pay the pros to edit my manuscripts and to design my book covers.

To be treated as a professional author, my book must meet or exceed the professional standards of any other. The writing must be the best I can make it, the book must have an experienced editor review it, and the cover must be the most compelling sales tool my designer and I can create.

There are a lot of “musts” in that paragraph. But those are the requirements of the professional world, so they’re my requirements.

With constant change in the industry, traditional publishers are mandating their newbie authors handle the bulk of their own marketing. This is the other reason I chose the indie route. I’m not a huge fan of plugging the books myself, but I believe in my stories, and so I will. But with having to manage the marketing in both cases, I’d rather retain the creative control and ownership of my timeline that comes with self-publishing.

So the best thing for me is to continue to write at my own pace, produce the books I want to read, publish them myself as expertly as I can, and keep on writing.

And that’s the trick, my friends. For those who want to write, keep on doing so. Writing more will make you a better writer. So will reading more. Sharing your words with critique partners will also make you better. And becoming better will make you want to share your gift. I say, go for it!

But before you go, haha, you may want to check out this post, “Should You Self-Publish Your Book? 5 Essential Questions to Help You Decide,” from a website I enjoy, thewritelife.com. The author, Blake Atwood, has relevant advice to help you decide which choice would be best.

One last thought: whichever path you choose, and for whatever reasons, don’t forget you may need to reassess at some point. Or consider new options. Try to stay true to the path that makes sense for you and your goals. If an agent or traditional publisher knocked on my door, would I answer? Sure, I’d let them in and see what we could work out; after all, there’s that whole “world’s best-selling author” thang for me to consider. Haha. 😉

Which choice will you make? Tell me in the comment section below, or directly at carolyn@carolyngreeley.com. Would love to hear from you. 😉 Happy writing and reading, all.

PS—Stay tuned for Treasure Bound release details and cover reveal! Coming soon!

Missing? Yes. In Action? Oh, Yeah.

July, 2019Blogging, Editing, Indie Publishing, Publishing, Self-publishing, Series writing, Writing, Writing Business, Writing Craft, Writing timeFront matter, MIA, Publishing requirements, Revisingcarolyn

Wow, it’s been an incredibly long time since I last blogged. Do you guys even remember who I am? I hope so. I haven’t (really) gone anywhere. And I certainly didn’t mean to go MIA without explanation. That, however, is exactly what happened.

I’ve worked in a number of different types of jobs and environments in my life. Regardless of the setting, though, one big thing is required of all:

You have to show up and do the work.

But I can honestly say that as much as I love to write, showing up every day, doing the work, is so much harder because it’s a creative endeavor.

Not hard as in “sit down and let my fingers do the talking,” but hard as in composing, producing, saying something meaningful. I’m a writer, yeah? But I’m only as good as the words I use to communicate and the things I wish to say. Readers are overloaded with choice, so the struggle to say something relevant—say it creatively, purposefully—is real. And daunting to tackle on a daily, weekly, monthly basis.

So, yeah, sometimes instead of penning nonsense, I don’t write at all. Or more specifically, I don’t share my words with the public. There are tons of authors who can argue the benefit of writing daily; that routine just isn’t me, isn’t what I can or want to make the time to do. I’ll say this, though, which I’ve potentially said before and likely will again: writing well takes practice, and I know I become better the more I discipline myself. My skills don’t necessarily regress when I’m not corralling words, but in neglecting the words, I know my craft is idling instead of improving.

Back to that “not writing for public consumption” thing. That’s been the case these past few months of no blog posts. No apology, simply flat-out truth: I haven’t blogged lately because I’ve been working hard to finish the self-edits for my second novel. And in my non-author-y life, I’ve dealt with a number of bad things, a few tough-but-good things, and one very wonderful thing in the past half year. As ever, lots to juggle.

How about we gloss over those other bits for now (heh-heh-heh, writer’s prerogative) and focus on the first part: my fifteen zillion rounds of personal edits for Book 2, Treasure Bound, are DONE! Can I get a woo hooo?

Yes, it’s true: after all those additional years of writing, rewriting, and editing, and then hitting up a few trusted beta readers, I finally packed up my manuscript and shipped it to my editor (you know, via email). Now, I’m chomping my fingernails, researching new cover designers (can’t afford the increased price for the guys who did such a great job on my first book), and re-familiarizing myself with the necessaries for publication, things like formatting styles, ISBNs, LCCNs, BISACs, and the rest of those fun requirements. (For some fab info on the topic of self-publishing, check out Jane Friedman’s detailed blog by clicking here.) Good thing memory serves, as do the notes I took copiously the first time out. Whee.

While I await the feedback from my editor, I’m doing my best to get back to writing my blog and brainstorming BOOK 3!!! Because, yes, Virginia, there is a Book 3 lurking somewhere in my brain’s nether regions. Though I added another six thousand words to Treasure Bound since my August post (yippie!), I still have more story to tell. And I hope people enjoy Book 2 enough to stick around for the rest of the ride.

And now, readers and friends, what’ve you got to say for yourselves? Are you still out there? 😉 That’d be great, for sure. I hope you’ll let me know what you’ve been up to these past months, either in the comments section below or by email. You know it: carolyn@carolyngreeley.com. Hope to hear from you soon.

PS—The plan is to publish Treasure Bound later this year, so stay tuned. Woo hoo!

My State of Writing

December, 2017Blogging, Book Clubs, Editing, Gratitude, Speaking engagements, St. Augustine, Writing, Writing BusinessAuthor Talks, blogging, Critique, editing, Friends and Family, Gratitude, St. Augustine, writing, writing craftcarolyn

I’ve struggled a lot these past few months to blog consistently. So often, that’s the writing I push to the back burner when life pops up with tedious little requirements like grocery shopping and feeding the family. 😉 It’s a bummer, putting it off, because while blogging isn’t my favorite form of writing, overall I enjoy it when I’ve had time to think over what I want to say. And like most things, I’m better at blogging when I practice more.

One decent side effect is that though blogging took a back seat, the editing on Treasure Bound continues on a semi-regular basis. I feel slow as a sloth at that, but I can honestly say I’ve kept up with the edits for the last few weeks. I wish I could work faster, but at least I feel the changes are substantial and accurate. I know someone will find fault with something in the book—maybe a detail about the Puente Map, or a liberty I took with the Castillo—but I’m trying hard to make my story as correct and entertaining as possible.

With all this said, then, I decided my December blog would be sort of a year-end recap of me and my writing life, along with a little progress report on Treasure Bound. So here goes.

Some of you may recall I started out on a good writing note this year. I had my blog up and running and produced two pieces a month (my 2017 New Year’s Writing Resolution) for a couple early months. I’m sad my resolution was shorter-lived than I’d hoped for. I’d tried something new this year, a formal editorial calendar and a social-media-post suggestion list. They both worked very well … to the extent I used them. Agh. After a short time, the printed lists became buried on my desk, only to be seen when I remembered to shuffle through the piles of paper.

Still, I have to say the quantity and quality of much of my writing (and marketing) has improved over last year. For that, I’m truly happy and glad. And along the way, I’ve had some fantastic experiences, too. This was a year of fun writing firsts: I guest spoke at a local book club where I discussed Emerald Obsession, answered questions, and read an excerpt from Treasure Bound; I hosted my first EO author signing in downtown Saint Augustine. I’m honored to say my signing was the best they’d hosted, despite being set up on short notice. Thanks again, AnaRosa Burke, for your incredible support! Also, this year saw me make new writer friends when asked to participate in my first Flash Fiction Blast hosted by my friend, fellow author Rita Henuber. Positive reviews and comments on my short, “Bitter,” gave me a lift, especially during the ongoing TB edit process.

And in between that, our Irma-extended trip to the Czech Republic, an extreme poison ivy allergic reaction, Thanksgiving week in a Georgia mountains cabin, still sticking with the crazy-but-interesting part-time job, freelancing here and there for NY, trying to finish the detail work and décor on our house, and taking care of the household and my hub, I’ve squeezed in time for editing Treasure Bound.

If you remember, I had that big ol’ cow in June when I realized I’d only half-written the story on my computer and had the other half scribbled longhand in my notebook. In mish-mash pieces, no less. Boy, was that a kick in the butt. But I’m happy to report progress!

Not that I have an updated word count to give you…yet. I’m still working through the whole story, adding scenes and transitions to the original “half” I’d keyed into my laptop. Right now, I’m only three-quarters of the way through. But, I’m fleshing out the secondary characters and subplots, and my critique group’s feedback is very positive. Yay.

Those of you familiar with the “exciting” ways of editing know that once I finish this second editing round, I’ll go through everything again. And again, and likely again. During each round of edits you read for something different. Though this stage can be draining, I sort of enjoy it, because that’s where I polish the story to a hopefully brilliant shine.

I’ll be excited to finish this round, though, because then I’ll reprint the entire manuscript and will read through all the additions in as few sittings as possible to check for flow and consistency. I’m prepared for the likelihood I’ll still need to write more, too. Not crazy about the possibility, but that’ll be an update for next year…hopefully early next year!

So that’s about it from my end. Crazy life, crazy book status, but s’all good. And all manageable.

Before I sign off for this year, I’d like to thank you all once more for traveling this sometimes-bumpy path with me. The company sure helps keep me sane. 🙂

And I wish you and your families, friends, loved ones a wonderfully Merry Christmas and a joyous, festive, peaceful, and loving New Year. May the best spirit of the holiday season stay with you year-round!

Hugs from me……….

Book Club Brilliance

February, 2017Book Clubs, Gratitude, Indie Publishing, Reading, Speaking engagements, St. Augustine, Writing, Writing Business, Writing CraftAuthor Talks, Book Club, Critique, Experience, Food writing, Gratitude, Indie Publishing, Learning, Opportunity, Reading, St. Augustine, writing, writing craftcarolyn

Every year, February’s brevity catches up with me, no matter how many times I remind myself it’s a short month. In my effort to keep on schedule, I’m squeaking in my second February blog with a few hours to spare. Whee! I’m lucky, though, because I have a fun topic for this post: book clubs. More specifically, my first invitation to attend a book club and to join the discussion as the author of the group’s chosen monthly read! What a freaking treat for me. : )

Through the most excellent graces of my friend Monika—she talked me up to her friend Melissa who’s part of this club—I was introduced to a wonderful group of authentic, candid readers who are in love with books.

As much as I appreciate book clubs, I haven’t participated in one before, even as a reader. And it hadn’t occurred to me to offer to speak to or participate in a book club discussion as a writer. Those of you who’ve followed my blog from the onset know I feel challenged by marketing and putting myself out there as an author.

And I’ll share this: discussing books and telling stories to friends is one thing, but stepping into the spotlight of this group felt so intimidating. It’s an entirely different experience to sit before a group of intelligent, time-pressed individuals who purchased your book on someone’s recommendation and then be held accountable for your words, creativity and entertainment value. I mean, what if these people hated my book? Or found inconsistencies? Or thought it too simplistic? I’ll say again, a tad bit intimidating.

That was, until I met this group of lovely people. Well-read, well-traveled, outspoken and outgoing, these women welcomed me and treated me like a friend while being honored I, “a local author,” joined their discussion.

And let me tell you, these guys do Book Club right: their once-a-month evening meeting begins with catch-up chats over a welcoming glass of vino and simple starters, is followed by a delicious, no-fuss meal (we enjoyed chicken chili, salad and fresh fruit; I’m hoping Natalie will hook me up with that recipe!), and culminates in the discussion of that month’s selected title. Their discussion format is straightforward and begins with the host opening with a book-related question or discussion topic to get the ball rolling. The conversation is free-form, with members commenting and asking additional questions until by consensus the evening ends. Simple, fun, effective, entertaining.

Every writer I know struggles with the desire to share stories but not to feel rejected by those who dislike, don’t understand or fear them. And we struggle with how to tell those stories the best we possibly can. The club’s questions were engaging and thought-provoking and even gave me ideas for a couple points I plan to work into the sequel I’m writing now, TB. Though a bit unnerving in the anticipation, in all ways, this experience was fantastic: the welcome, the interest, the engagement, the thoughtful and valuable questions and comments.

Though the group said they felt honored by my presence, I have to say I’m the one who was pleased and humbled by their invitation. They welcomed me and my story, Emerald Obsession, into their lives for a time; they allowed themselves to be carried away by my characters’ antics and transported to unfamiliar locales where they feasted on exotic fare. How fortunate am I?

Special thanks to: Melissa, Natalie, Leslie, Carolyn, Sarah, Kathy, Eleanor, Maggie, the fab ladies of (mostly) Davis Shores for their warmth, interest and welcome. Also, for your encouraging response to the vignette I read from Treasure Bound, my work-in-progress sequel.

You guys rock. Read on, ladies!

So, readers, do you belong to a book club? How does yours work? As I mentioned, I haven’t been in one before, but this experience really made me want to start. How about you? Let me know below or by email (carolyn@carolyngreeley.com). Thanks!

3 Reasons to Find Your Writing Mentor

January, 2017Mentoring, Publishing, Time Management, Writing, Writing Business, Writing Craft, Writing tipsCritique, Experience, Inspiration, Learning, management routines, Mentoring, Opportunity, Publishing, tips, writing, writing craftcarolyn

I discovered an interesting tidbit the other day as I scanned an online calendar of fun facts: January is National Mentoring Month. Okay, maybe you take that sort of online info with a grain of salt, as I do (Really, National Crown of Roast Pork Day? It’s March 7, according to some.), but now and then I run across a factoid that stays with me and spins the gears.

Such is the case with National Mentoring Month. This struck me because I’m an advocate of mentors (and not just recognizing their usefulness for a month). This past year, I’ve been talking about their importance with my husband, whose business is expanding. As it grows, I’ve encouraged him to reach out to friends and colleagues who’ve already traveled similar paths, so he might learn from their experiences.

Why take this path:

When you can travel a clear path with a trusted advisor and friend:

But to be honest, I hadn’t thought of a mentor for myself as an author before now. I don’t know why. It took that chance mention to make me look at my career and realize how critical a mentor could be for a writer. And many of the ways in which a mentor helps say, an entrepreneur, are the same ways one would help a writer.

So, as ever on my kick about continuing to learn and grow, I searched around for more information. 🙂

Here are three ways a writing mentor can help you:

1—Experience. One of the best things a mentor can do is share the wisdom of their experience. I love the expression “work smarter, not harder.” By finding someone who’s attained the goal you’re aiming for and having them mentor you, you’ll benefit from their knowledge and hopefully will avoid their mistakes. An established writer will counsel you on both creative and business aspects of writing and will guide you along your specific career path.

2—Connection. Another benefit of your mentor will be access to their broader network of contacts. Though writing is usually a solitary effort, if publication is one of your goals, then connecting with others—readers, publishers, agents, editors, other writers—is essential. As an author looking to grow and reach an audience, having a mentor to open doors and offer ways to connect with people will be invaluable.

3—Inspiration and Input. Inspiration can come from anywhere, but for me, it doesn’t happen on a consistent basis. With a mentor, though, you may be only a call, text or coffee chat away from the butt-kick motivation you need to flush out that sketchy scene that’s vexed you for a week. The right writing mentor will offer creative support and unbiased, constructively critical insights. And that’s huge for gaining confidence and thickening the skin to the rejection prevalent in the writing world.

So, readers, what do you think about writing mentors? I believe engaging with one is a great idea for anyone looking to grow their career or passion. Do you have one? Or would you consider mentoring someone less experienced? What would you hope or expect to gain from that association? Please let me know in the comments section. I’d appreciate your thoughts. Or feel free to email me at carolyn@carolyngreeley.com. Thanks!

Christmas Presence: My First Author Talk

December, 2016Gratitude, Indie Publishing, Publishing, Speaking engagements, Writing, Writing Business, Writing CraftAuthor Talks, Gratitude, Indie Publishing, management routines, Opportunity, Publishing, workshops, writingcarolyn

My heart rate doubled. So many faces stared at me. In my hands, the pages of my speech shook, so I laid them on the smooth white tablecloth. Took a few deep breaths.

Did not imagine the audience in their undies or naked. TMI, for sure.

But the thought made me smile, loosen up, and I dove in. This was it, my first speaking gig as an award-winning author. And my early Christmas present. Huge!

I’ve done a good deal of public speaking in various forms in my previous life as a Manhattan ad woman. Those appearances had been nerve-wracking, empowering, frustrating. But none compares to the experience of speaking about writing and my indie publishing experience to a group of attentive, non-captive Florida Writers Association members and guests.

In November, I’d been asked by one of our St. Augustine FWA chapter heads (thanks, Nancy Quatrano!) to join a panel of speakers for our December holiday meeting. When she approached me, I immediately said yes, thinking of the honor it would be: The opportunity to speak about my love, writing. I felt the first flicker of nerves later, when I sat to brainstorm the specifics.

But the truth is, writing my short presentation turned out to be crazy easy. Sure, I toyed with a few different directions to start, but once I sat and began typing, the words flowed, the message clear and concise: I took myself from NYC newbie writer to FL published, award-winning author, and I learned a hell of a lot—about publishing and life—along the way.

My real anxiety didn’t hit until the morning of my talk. But the openness of my fellow panelists, and the welcome of the FWA heads and audience members helped mellow me. After the first couple of minutes, I felt like a million bucks.

One of the best parts? The questions and interest from the group after my speech. Holy smokes! People asked questions, sought my opinion on publishing, wanted to know more about how I handled the pressures, time-constraints, technical aspects of publishing on top of simply writing. I knew I’d learned a great deal over the past years, but I hadn’t truly realized until then how my insights could help other writers, at least in some small way.

So now, at the end of this incredible year of more firsts, I give thanks again for the unique and humbling ways in which my life continues to unfold.

The holiday season makes me as reflective and maudlin as the next person. The new year is around the corner, and that’s soon enough to contemplate resolutions and remedies.

For the last days of 2016, I plan to be grateful for the joys of this year. They are many, though interspersed with sorrows. Though we’ve lost a terrible number of artistic souls this year, my year has ended on a writerly high note. I hope the same is true of yours.

I’m sending all best wishes for a year of betterment, of love, peace, happiness, growth and wisdom. Let’s continue to strive for this.

By the way, if you’d like a copy of my speech and the list of online resources I found useful on my publishing road, please let me know in the comments section or email me at carolyn@carolyngreeley.com. Sharing = caring. <3

Thanks again and Happy New Year!

Lucky Work

October, 2016Writing, Writing Business, Writing CraftGratitude, Learning, Opportunity, Reading, writingcarolyn

Every once in a blue moon, the stars arrange themselves and surprise me with something ridiculously happy. I’m incredibly grateful for those alignments, and I’m aware not only of their rarity but of their fleeting nature. I also realize those configurations often occur through more mundane efforts. This adage, often ascribed to Thomas Jefferson, is one I really get behind: “I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it.”

I consider myself very fortunate in this little life o’ mine. Plenty of less-than-good inhabits my daily world, but I’m one lucky SOB most of the time. I’ve learned, though, better things come from when I work hard to reach my goals.

That said, I try to remember to be grateful for all I have (especially when it’s hard to remember!), and I really try to share that appreciation with all those who have supported me on my somewhat-randomly chaotic ride.

So, where am I going with this? A big shout-out to all of you for championing my first mystery novel, Emerald Obsession.

The latest, brilliant news for me and my book is that we just won 2^nd Place in the Royal Palm Literary Awards for Published Mystery!!!!

Wooo hooo. I am beyond over the moon! And still—a bit—in a state of disbelief. On a fun-factoid note, my win came on October 22, 2016, which is the one-year anniversary of Emerald Obsession’s publication! Unreal. October 22 also happens to be the birthdays of my Uncle John and Aunt Marge, so I think it’s a pretty fabulous day on many levels. : )

What a wonderful shock, a needed jolt for my next challenge. I’ll do my very best to keep up the hard work, to use this win as motivation to continue writing, especially when the brain spews sludge or simply dumbs down into temporary oblivion. ; ) (Don’t worry: I spew, therefore, I edit.)

Before I sign off and get back to writing EO’s sequel, TB, I’ll say one more quick thank you. Who knew where my novel would take off to all those years ago? In my wildest dreams, perhaps I’d thought of winning an award, but wow. In reality, all I’d like is for more people to enjoy my stories. I hope that continues. Thank you for helping make this ride possible. <3

I’m happy you visited. Please spread the word and tell your friends about my website, so they can sign up for my newsletter and read all the latest. See you again soon!

PS—Wishing you all an early, fabulous and Happy Halloween! Want to see what the hub and I are dressing as this year? Be sure to visit again soon. : )