Is there a book in you?

Do you feel you’ve got a book in you?

Check out these top tips from international bestselling author, Dee Blick

I started writing books 28 years ago and now have five books to my name, including a publishing deal in China (from my second self-published book). Along the way I’ve met many budding authors; people with a burning desire to convert their passion, talent and know-how into a book but, are unsure where to start. The good news is you can write and publish a book on the smallest of budgets. You just need a little insider know how. Here’s mine for starters.

Writing doesn’t have to be for days on end.

As a busy parent or guardian, you’re unlikely to have tons of free time. My boys were 6 and 4 when I started. Spare time was precious! I got into the habit of jotting ideas and thoughts whenever I had half an hour and nothing on the horizon. When I had an entire day, I could build on this, earmarking a few hours, sometimes heading to the library or a café in my writer, not mum mode. Grab free time when you can and schedule in longer sessions.

You don’t have to know the beginning, middle and end of your book

when you start writing, regardless of the genre. Writing is a creative process. You’ll have ideas sparking up throughout. I have two big writing pads when I start writing – one for capturing ideas about my book – format, content, chapter headings and random thoughts as they pop up and that might lead onto something special later, the other for writing my book. I also have a small pad on the bedside table. When I wake up in the night with a thought (or two!!) I jot them down. Finally, a notebook accompanies me wherever I go. Ideas don’t restrict themselves to nursery or school times. Being prepared to capture those golden nuggets motivates you to continue the journey.

Final manuscript in your hands?

Time now to perform your own edits. At this stage, I read my book several times looking for spelling errors, overuse of descriptive words, inconsistencies, sloppily worded paragraphs where I can see I was tired or was clearly interrupted by little voices! Only when happy do I send my book to…

My editor.

I’m surprised when an author tells me they don’t need an editor. They sent their book to friends who raved over it and pointed out a few small glitches, so it was good to go. Your editor is the person who polishes your manuscript to perfection. Look at the freelancer site, Fiverr and you will find many talented editors and designers, offering their services at a decent price. Check out the reviews from previous clients and be sure to get a fixed fee. What does this fee include? Get it in writing.

Professional book cover design.

Don’t be tempted to design yours using commonly available images. Your book cover is the unique shop window of your book. It should include compelling testimonial, an inviting summary of the contents and some information about you, wrapped up in a design that complements the theme and purpose of your book. If you know a designer, can you cut them a deal whereby you promote them in exchange for a reduced fee? Before choosing your designer look at previous book covers they’ve designed. Be clear about what you want the cover to convey so they have something tangible to work from.

Professional book layout.

Your designer may well be the person that lays out your book. How it is laid out will, of course, vary based on its purpose and content. The general guideline, however, is to ensure that the content is inclusive and accessible to all target readers, so your book is universally engaging, easy to read and easy to absorb. Look at the layouts that appeal to you and those that don’t, so you have a starting point.

Publishing your book.

It does not have to be complicated. Take a good look at Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform where you can publish your paperback and E-book free of charge. Make sure your designer follows the specification for cover and layout. I would also encourage you to find a printer that specialises in printing books, so you have a supply for book signings. This is where you make your money. (Amazon take 60% of the cover price of your paperback book) You can also opt for a more luxurious book with a soft touch cover for example and 100gsm weight paper (the standard is 80gsm). Find out the minimum order and unit cost, including delivery charges so you know what you’re getting for your money. You should be able to make at least a 100% profit on books that you buy direct and sell at signings.

Good luck! I realise I’ve scratched the surface, but hope I’ve got those cogs whirring and you’re inspired to write and publish your best book.

About Dee Blick

Dee Blick is an international #1 bestselling author of 5 books. Her latest novel, The Boutique is a collection of nine short stories where each character, eight women and one man connect through a vibrant fashion shop. Storylines are poignant and gripping with unpredictable grand finales, plot twists and gritty subjects. The book is available on Amazon in e-book and paperback.

Read the many 5-star reviews and discover more about Dee’s inspiration for writing The Boutique, including her own personal story, overcoming addiction. You can connect with Dee on Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

If you buy a limited edition signed copy of The Boutique direct from Dee for £12 she will make a minimum donation of £5 to the Ten Little Toes Baby bank charity. UK orders only. Please email dee@themarketinggym.org for more details.