Review of Deborah Riley-Magnus’ Finding Author Success…
(Deborah-Riley Magnus, Finding Author Success, Path Maker Books, Second Edition, 2013, B00CHW2GLA)
For the newbie author, this ebook will be a helpful compendium of what can be done before, during, and after their book is launched—possibly necessary conditions for writing success (there are no sufficient ones—know the difference). Either because they’re dated or time- or dollar-intensive, some suggestions are more practical than others, but there’s a lot of sage advice here. Indie authors and traditionally published can adopt some of this advice to go beyond writing the book, so necessary in today’s book marketplace.
For authors with a few books, this guide is also useful in that it provides a sanity check on their PR and marketing efforts. I, for one, couldn’t help coming up with some new ideas as I read. I found particularly interesting Deborah’s “Battle Ready Check List.” Tactics are discussed throughout the book, though, so a careful read is in order. And Deborah is very good about reviewing the points she has made.
Today, every author has to accept the challenge that his work doesn’t stop with a finished manuscript. Even before that’s finished, there are things to do besides writing. The author of this guide, with her many years of experience, can help the writer help himself through part of the maze that is modern publishing.
In spite of being a second edition with an emphasis on the internet, I believe it’s hard to keep up with the rapid changes in the book business from year to year. However, authors can certainly take this book as a strong foundation for their promotional activities. Deborah’s reference list is extensive too—her website offers additional information. There are many books on how to write both non-fiction and fiction. There are too few about what a writer must do beyond just the writing. This book belongs on your Kindle.
(Note from Steve: This honest review was written in exchange for a complimentary copy of the book. It was not written in my official capacity as a Bookpleasures reviewer.)
In libris libertas….
