Books are masters who instruct us without rods or ferules, without words or anger, without bread or money. If you approach them, they are not asleep; if you seek them, they do not hide; if you blunder, they do not scold; if you are ignorant, they do not laugh at you.
— RICHARD DE BURY
Amazon Author Page / Send Us Your Link!
By Natalie Bright
Last week’s post was about Amazon Author Pages. I’m still surprised at how many authors have not utilized this social media tool. In case you haven’t done it yet, here’s another reminder: If you have books listed for sale on Amazon.com, you can set-up an Amazon Author Page.
Go to authorcentral.amazon.com to add content. Nothing fancy, just the basics will do. Enough to give you an official presence.
Sign in with your Amazon Account.
Under the Books tab, you can request that any books not listed be added. Search by ISBN, author or title.
Add a bio photo and write a bio.
Include a link to your blog, or write a new blog specific for your Amazon readers.
Add events to the handy calendar.
Post pictures of book signings, research trips, author friends, your pets, or anything that might be of interest to your fans.
Add a welcome video.
Read Author Central News. This section provides great information and ideas on promotional opportunities and specific marketing tools for authors.
Now go and be brilliant!
Include a link to your Amazon Author Page in the comment section. I’m looking forward to learning about you.
HAVE YOU SET UP YOUR AUTHOR PAGE?
By Natalie Bright
If you have books listed for sell on amazon.com, then you have an Author Page. As the author, you can access that author page and provide updated information that might be of interest to your readers.
As a reader, I like checking out the Author Page before I buy. This information is informative and much quicker than finding the website when I’m short on time. If I love that .99 cent special promo book, I can easily find more books at their Amazon Author Page.
Join at authorcentral.amazon.com and sign in using your amazon account.
Add your books (there may be a waiting time for approval). You can post original content at any time, such as a bio picture, update your bio info, pictures of author events, videos, and blog posts or link to an RSS feed. There is even an events calendar you can utilize.
I enjoy reading other author bios. I have to admit that I’ve reworked my bio several times. I can’t decide if a long and detailed bio works better than having one that is brief, to the point. Should it be in first person or third person? Read several of your favorite authors and decide.
You can create an Amazon Author Page URL link for use in blog posts, Facebook posts, and tweets.
Have fun adding content through yet another way to connect with readers on social media. Comment to this blog and provide a link to your Author Page on Amazon. I’m looking forward to reading it.
Meet the Author
Since the creation of WordsmithSix as a critique group, we have evolved in many ways. While every member is like family and brings their own valuable insights to the group, sometimes there are changes. Some of our members have moved on in their life’s journey, however their contributions continue to influence our writing forever. Others have filled the empty chairs and have started their journey into the world of writing.
Each member of WordsmithSix is excited about our writing journey. For the next few weeks we will dedicate a Sunday blog to letting our readers know a little more about who we are. Each author will be asked a few questions to help you understand their desire to write and what motivates them. Maybe their answers will influence you in your writing.
This week we are excited to feature one of our original Wordsmithsix members. An established Author and Blogger, his writing includes: Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Writers “The Challenge,” also, multiple devotionals published in the Secret Place magazine by Judson Press.. You can find more about Rory on his website Roryckeel.com
Please welcome Rory C. Keel
When did you start writing?
Being a preacher for 30 years, I’ve written many sermons but never considered myself as a writer. However I seriously started writing around 2006. When I say seriously, I mean with a determination to do something with it like publish or sell my writing.
One day I had a strong desire to write a novel using some historical research I had collected, and was confronted with the fact that I knew nothing about writing a novel. That was the start of my writing.
Why did you choose the genre you write in?
I would have to say that I write in the genre that I read and enjoy. I love reading inspirational Christian stories that encourage the human spirit along with history and the human resolve to overcome adversity. To be able to take lessons from the past and put them into words in order to inspire others in life, drives me to write in the historical Christian, inspirational genre.
What’s the best thing you’ve done to help your writing?
The best thing I’ve done to help my writing is to find a good critique group. To have a group of writers that will encourage you and give honest constructive criticism of your writing is invaluable.
What’s your writing routine like?
My writing routine usually starts with a cup of coffee at my desk in the early morning. This seems to be the best time of the day for me to write. I make a pot of coffee, sit at my desk and listen to classical symphony music while I write. I like to think of it as the soundtrack music to the movie I’m writing.
How do you reach that personal place that allows the writing to flow?
For me, reaching that place where writing flows happens when I put my self into the story. For a reader to be drawn into a story while reading, the writer has to go there first. When I see the setting, and know the character’s good traits and flaws, when I feel their emotions, that’s the point when the writing flows. That place becomes very personal because, by putting myself in the story I must reveal pieces of myself, both good and bad.
Are you an outliner?
Yes, I like outlining. Most of the time I have a beginning point and know where the story ends, so outlining is easy for me, especially if it is a historical writing. I think of my outline as a skeleton and the story is meat on the bones.
What has been your biggest writing challenge?
My biggest writing challenge is feeling guilty when I take the time to write. When I’m writing, it’s hard not to think about all the other things I need to get done. That might be easier to overcome if I thought of writing as work instead of a pleasure.
What are you working on currently, future?
Currently I’m working on a Christian fiction novel about a man with misguided determination and his conversion to the truth. It is the story of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus to Christianity from his viewpoint as a Jew. Future works will include a sequel with the main character of Timothy, a student of Paul, and a completion of an inspirational story of one family’s struggle to improve their life over the Oregon trail. Along with these works a series of short devotionals for publication keeps the writing juices flowing.
What advice would give to new writers?
Keep going, that’s what I would tell new writers. After you’ve started your journey of writing you will hit roadblocks—keep going. When others tell you that you can’t, you can – keep going. When the mountain seems too high to climb, take small steps and keep going. Every writer, from beginner to bestseller, must start and finish so keep going.
What’s the most positive thing you could tell writers today?
If you really want to, you can!
Book Authors and Sales Tax
By Natalie Bright
Members of the Texas High Plains Writers enjoyed an informative talk by accountant Dan Brown with ———at the May meeting in Amarillo.
One of the questions that we talked about, which we didn’t have time to fully discuss, involved collecting and paying sales tax for your book sales. Below I’ve listed a few blogs and websites with great information which will help clarify this very confusing issue.
SALES TAX
Ø Note that if you’re selling your self-published book through a dealer at a trade show, or an Internet retail entity such as Amazon.com or bn.com or a publishing service acting as a retail entity (such as Blurb or Lulu.com), the retail entity making the sale is responsible for collecting sales tax. “Sales Tax Facts for Book Authors” at publishing.about.com
Ø You may think that you are paying the appropriate sales tax because you pay the tax to the printing company when you purchase the book. But that tax is only for your purchase price, not the actual selling price. So unless you sell the book at your cost, you will have a sales tax obligation. “Sales Tax Responsibility for Authors” at writeyourlife.net
Ø Reimbursement for books sold through Amazon is considered a royalty and is not subject to sales tax. However, if you sell books through your website, at a book signing, or after a public speaking engagement, sales tax should be included if those books are sold within your state. “Sales Tax Responsibility for Authors” at writeyourlife.net
Ø There are exceptions: 1. selling to someone other than the end user. Generally, states only tax sales on the final user, so if you are selling your books to a bookstore or retail store for resale, you do not charge them sales tax. [NOTE: Most retail outlets expect the ability to add a 50-60% markup above your price. If you quote them a price too high, they may not be able to carry your book in their store.]
2. Selling to a nonprofit organization. In some states, nonprofit organizations are able to obtain sales tax exemption. These organizations should provide you a copy of their sales tax exemption certificate from their state.
3. Selling to out-of-state customers. Usually, you must collect sales tax from customers that live in your state.
Ø The best thing about publishing your own book through Amazon Author Central is that you are not the seller of record. This means you are not responsible for collecting the sales tax on the books you publish. Blog.taxjar.com
Ø Nexus is having a presence in the state which indicates which state you should be submitting sales tax to. Your “nexus” is the state in which you reside and do your business, however every state is different.
Ø Let’s say you’re selling your own book and you spend the summer selling your book at festivals across five states. Some states consider making a single sale in the state to create sales tax “nexus”, while others do not. Many festivals, book stores, etc. will have a bookseller on hand to sell your books for you. This generally includes collecting the sales tax. In that case, you would be off the hook for collecting sales tax. blog.taxjar.com
SELLING BOOKS
Being an indie book author these days can be daunting, but take a deep breath and consider the big picture. The opportunities for reaching readers today is truly amazing. Take off your creative cap and slip into your owner/entrepreneur mode.
Here’s a few more things to consider:
I hope this helps you. Business is done. Go write now, y’all!
Meet the Author
Since the creation of WordsmithSix as a critique group, we have evolved in many ways. While every member is like family and brings their own valuable insights to the group, sometimes there are changes. Some of our members have moved on in their life’s journey, however their contributions continue to influence our writing forever. Others have filled the empty chairs and have started their journey into the world of writing.
Each member of WordsmithSix is excited about our writing journey. For the next few weeks we will dedicate a Sunday blog to letting our readers know a little more about who we are. Each author will be asked a few questions to help you understand their desire to write and what motivates them. Maybe their answers will influence you in your writing.
This week we are excited to feature one of our original Wordsmithsix members. An established Author and Blogger, her writing includes: Chicken Soup for the Mother of Preschoolers Soul “The Race”, Books – Oil People, Gone never Forgotten and West Texas Christmas Stories. You can find more about Natalie on her website nataliebright.com.
Please welcome Natalie Bright
When did you start writing?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been scribbling in diaries or writing silly poems, and then I began to write novels in high school.
Why did you choose the Genre you write in?
The stories choose me. My vision was to be a romance novelist because I’m been a lifelong fan of the genre, but the stories inside my head tend to be more for young readers. I honestly do not have any control over the characters that wake me at night.
What’s the best thing you’ve done to help your writing?
Found a great critique group (thank you WordsmithSix!). I read a gazillion kid lit books, and reread my childhood favorites with a critical eye. Why have those classics stood the test of time? Write every day. Stop questioning the why. Joined writing organizations directly related to the genre I write.
What’s your writing routine like?
There is no routine. I have two teenagers, a day job, community volunteer work; I write whenever, wherever I can.
How do you reach that personal place that allows the writing to flow?
Butt in chair, focus and do your job. Writers must practice intense self-discipline. No one is hovering over your shoulder telling you to work. I think this is what separates the successful writers from the ones that always struggle to reach THE END. It’s an endless internal battle.
Are you an outliner?
Sometimes. Every book is different.
What has been your biggest writing challenge?
Finishing one novel before the next spark takes over.
What advice would you give to new writers?
Just like any professional in any career, learn as much as you can about story craft and the publishing business.
What’s the most positive thing you could tell writers today?
I believe it’s an amazing time to be a writer. If you have respect for the craft and can find joy in the writing, then your work will be authentic. When writers view their craft like a business and they see themselves as a professional, both traditional and indie published authors can achieve great success. We have just begun to tap the potential of eBooks and the ability to reach worldwide markets. There are readers out there waiting for your stories.
BUTTON METHOD FOR WRITERS
By Natalie Bright
The Button Method for Writers combines the psychology of a creative mind along with plain ole common sense, and is easy to implement. It’s guaranteed that you will experience an unbelievable increase in productivity and quality of work.
The Button Method is best explained like this:
1. Butt-On Chair
2. Write
The more you do, the better you become at the doing. Isn’t that true with almost every career? I heard the Butt-on tip early as a newbie writer, but honestly I haven’t always applied the method.
Two of my writerly friends have, and they are a source of great inspiration for me. Linda Broday and Jodi Thomas are both New York Times and USA Today Bestselling authors. They’re currently writing series; Linda for Sourcebooks and Jodi for HQN. By writing, I do mean they’re ALWAYS writing. They both have set times every day, and rarely waiver from that schedule. They both practice extreme self-discipline.
I asked Linda one time how she manages to keep pushing herself, and she told me that when she’s writing, it’s the time she feels the most calm and relaxed. For her, social media and crafting blogs creates more anxiety than disappearing into her fictional world.
Jodi fell several years back and injured her wrist. During that same time, I twisted my ankle. We met for lunch and exchanged details and sympathies. Jodi says,” I asked the doctor to set my cast in a different way, because if I prop my arm on pillows I can still type with the tips of my fingers.”
I had planned to head home for aspirin and to prop my foot on pillows. Jodi went home to write.
Butt-On is the key.
Writing Benediction: Focus on the pure joy of crafting stories with words.
BUTTON METHOD FOR WRITERS
By Natalie Bright
The Button Method for Writers combines the psychology of a creative mind along with plain ole common sense, and is easy to implement. It’s guaranteed that you will experience an unbelievable increase in productivity and quality of work.
The Button Method is best explained like this:
1. Butt-On Chair
2. Write
The more you do, the better you become at the doing. Isn’t that true with almost every career? I heard the Butt-on tip early as a newbie writer, but honestly I haven’t always applied the method.
Two of my writerly friends have, and they are a source of great inspiration for me. Linda Broday and Jodi Thomas are both New York Times and USA Today Bestselling authors. They’re currently writing series; Linda for Sourcebooks and Jodi for HQN. By writing, I do mean they’re ALWAYS writing. They both have set times every day, and rarely waiver from that schedule. They both practice extreme self-discipline.
I asked Linda one time how she manages to keep pushing herself, and she told me that when she’s writing, it’s the time she feels the most calm and relaxed. For her, social media and crafting blogs creates more anxiety than disappearing into her fictional world.
Jodi fell several years back and injured her wrist. During that same time, I twisted my ankle. We met for lunch and exchanged details and sympathies. Jodi says,” I asked the doctor to set my cast in a different way, because if I prop my arm on pillows I can still type with the tips of my fingers.”
I had planned to head home for aspirin and to prop my foot on pillows. Jodi went home to write.
Butt-On is the key.
Writing Benediction: Focus on the pure joy of crafting stories with words.
Meet the Author
Since the creation of WordsmithSix as a critique group, we have evolved in many ways. While every member is like family and brings their own valuable insights to the group, sometimes there are changes. Some of our members have moved on in their life’s journey, however their contributions continue to influence our writing forever. Others have filled the empty chairs and have started their journey into the world of writing.
Each member of WordsmithSix is excited about our writing journey. For the next few weeks we will dedicate a Sunday blog to letting our readers know a little more about who we are. Each author will be asked a few questions to help you understand their desire to write and what motivates them. Maybe their answers will influence you in your writing.
This week we are excited to feature one of our original Wordsmithsix members. An established writer, she lists three documentaries, a thirteen-week local television series, commercial copy and news copy on her writing resume. She has also written Bible application stories, puppet plays, and two 15 minute plays for her church youth group.
Please welcome Cait Collins
When did you start writing?
I started writing when I was in grade school. Then I fell in love with Illya, the Russian agent from Man from U.N.C.L.E, and wrote “romances” based on the show.
Why did you choose the Genre’ you write in?
I like suspense and romance, so I began writing romance with the suspense twist. I recently tried writing memoirs of growing up during the 50’s and 60’s. My nieces and nephews have no knowledge of how different my childhood was. Some of the memoirs are for the kids.
What’s the best thing you’ve done to help your writing?
First was taking a creative writing course at Amarillo College taught by New York Times Best Selling Author, Jodi Thomas. Jodi is a great teacher and mentor. I also began attending writers’ conferences and workshops. Wordsmith Six, my critique group, is the best. If you don’t want honest critique, you don’t belong in the group. We have a rule; give the good before pointing out the weaknesses.
What’s your writing routine like?
I’m not one to force myself to look and the computer daily and get frustrated when the words don’t come. I tend to go on writing binges when my characters are talking to me and demanding I tell their part of the story. I don’t sit down after a critique session and make the requested changes. I’d rather keep going forward, and editing when the inspiration is just not there.
How do you reach that personal place that allows the writing to flow?
Silence the phone, put on some music or turn on the news (the news is easy to block out). I read a few paragraphs from the last point, and start writing. Once I get going, I don’t stop until I need a break for food or something to drink, or until the session ends itself.
Are you an outliner?
No. I make lists or do timelines, but outlines stifle my creativity. I find myself writing to the outline instead of responding to my characters nagging.
What has been your biggest writing challenge?
Coming from a broadcasting and business writing background, I find settings and details are often overlooked. When the action is moving forward, I will neglect the setting and concentrate on the action.
What are you working on currently, future?
I have a memoir and a novel I’m trying to edit and I’m actively writing book five, a suspense novel with the working title Three by Three.
What advice would you give to new writers?
Write your story. Don’t disregard the advice of critique partners or beta readers, but remember it is your story. If you think the character would not respond as a reviewer suggests, stick to your guns. If you are honest with yourself, you will be able to make the right choice between your gut instinct and the reviewers’ suggestions.
What’s the most positive thing you could tell writers today?
Opportunities are unlimited for writers. Network studios need material. The Netflix and other independents have opened doors for us. Ebook outlets are exploding. Movie studios need original material. Don’t overlook opportunities in magazine articles, technical writing, and training manuals. I truly believe we are limited only by ourselves. That said, do your homework. Learn what the media and publishers are looking for. Watch the trends in releases. And above all, be sure your formatting, grammar, and facts are correct before submitting to an agent or editor.
What’s He Wearing?
By Natalie Bright
Writing Excuses podcast touched upon a subject I had never given much thought to: fashion.
In an interview with Rebecca McKinney, they talk about how clothing descriptions can add depth to characters and detail to your story.
Here’s the link, if you want to take a listen: http://www.writingexcuses.com/2016/05/08/11-19-fashion-for-writers-with-rebecca-mckinney/
Character Profiles
This opens a whole new list of possibilities in my mind. Fashion could be used as a personality flaw. Maybe quirky colors in an attempt for attention or a certain look that becomes an obsession. How about the teenager that changes clothes every time she leaves the house, and how does that reflect her personality? Perhaps a meticulous appearance might be a sign of deeper psychotic issues.
Historical Accuracy
Fashion isn’t the only thing that has changed throughout time. As an author of historical fiction, the podcast reminded me to dig deeper. Think about the materials available at the time of your story. Laborers, European aristocrats, the plantation owners, eastern business men, and the cowboys out west would have dressed very differently.
Take jeans for example; they haven’t been around forever. Levi Strauss first appeared on the scene in 1870 when he took a twill made in France and died it indigo. At first his blue denim work pants were considered for the poorer working man. Miners working in the gold fields of California were some of the first to appreciate the sturdy denim.
Resources
Since the majority of my historical stories are set in the west, I have found these books to be invaluable resources:
HOW THE WEST WAS WORN, Chris Enss, Morris Book Publishing (2006).
“Clothes and Accessories”, Chapter Six, EVERYDAY LIFE IN THE WILD WEST from 1840-1900, Candy Moulton, Writer’s Digest Books (1999).
Wordsmith Six 