IWSG Sept - 2018 - Let's Talk About This

“For it’s a long, long while from May to December, but the days grow short when you reach September.” ~ Maxwell Anderson

Welcome Readers and fellow Writers, to the September 2018 virtual meeting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Founded by author Alex Cavanaugh and comprised of writing members just like you (and me), featuring writing tips, resources, articles, contests and IWSG swag! See what we’re all talking about here and join us as we share our writing journeys.

*We meet on the first Wednesday of every month – join us and enjoy!

It’s Be Kind to Editors and Writers Month, and I think we should add one more – Book Bloggers! After all, competition is stiff, and they typically work for free. Perhaps the next time a Blogger grants us a good review or introduces the next prodigious author, we could click on that little “Donation” button?

Someone (probably not a writer) once hinted that achieving your goals in late August or September has the effect of tapping your well of motivation bone-dry. As a writer, I disagree. I’ve not yet finished writing about summer (which it still is, here), as we streak headlong into fall. For those fortunate enough to live near the splendor, can there ever be too many descriptions of nature’s seasonal changes?

Let’s say your book just hit shelves and e-readers everywhere and you’re thinking about taking a well-deserved hiatus. The 60-page beginning of your next book can wait, right?  One thing you might want to consider is that, in terms of sales, size matters when it comes to your personal catalog. Readers may miss out on one book among a hundred other authors, whereas an author with say, four books on the shelf (or website) spreads across search engines like warm syrup over a stack of pancakes. Not that we writers need any incentive, of course ;-)

This month’s IWSG Optional Question: What publishing path are you considering, or did you take? And why?   I chose Independent – twice. I’ll likely publish that way with all the books I want in my catalog someday. However, I advise extreme caution when choosing an independent publishing method, even as I rejoice that there are (now) so many to choose from. It’s a uniquely exhilarating experience; one that allows creative freedom in content and cover design, control of financial returns, as well as expedience in the publication process while providing essential knowledge of the industry. You’re on your own in marketing, but don’t let that deter you. If you want your garden to grow, you water it, right? Professional editing remains a must, and preliminary (feedback) readers are advised. Now, if this has in any way piqued your interest, I strongly suggest perusing the invaluable resources offered right here, by the Insecure Writer's Support Group.

What is the nicest thing a stranger has ever done for you? What tool or gadget could you not live without? What traffic sign best reflects your writing journey right now?

Happy Writing!