Write to Publish

Self-publishing...the good, the bad and the downright exciting!

The publishing landscape has changed so much in recent years, and now there is never a more viable publishing option for new writers.
In this episode, we'll explore what it means to self-publish and some of the pros and cons that you'll need to be aware of before you choose your own unique publsihing path.
Don't forget you can buy my book, How to Publish a Book, without getting ripped off on Amazon in paperback, but you can also download a PDF version if you prefer - https://mabelandstanley.com/howtopublishabook - which has a couple of added BONUS downloads (you could always buy both versions if you feel so inclined...one for the shelf and one for the laptop!)

The Brutal Truth - why readers stop reading

You have two main challenges as a writer - the first is to create a great first line that hooks your reader in, and the second is to make them want to read all the way to the end without pausing for breath...simple, right?!
In this episode, we talk about how to create content that means your book is read to the end and not banished to the much-maligned 'did not finish' pile.

The line that changes everything - writing a great hook

Your first sentence only has ONE job... (whether you are writing reports, emails, novels, a business book or a social media post)...and that is to make your reader desperate to read the second one!
 
In this episode, we explore what makes a good hook and how to make sure that you write one.
 
If you'd like some feedback on your first line just drop me a message at karen@mabelandstanleypublishing.com

The messy middle!

What do you do if you start your novel with masses of inspiration, but lose momentum and motivation once you get to the middle?
This is a common problem for writers, and in this episode, we explore some of the reasons why this can occur and what you can do to fix it.
As usual, if you have any questions, you know where to find me: karen@mabelandstanleypublishing.com
And don't forget to like, follow and share this episode if you loved it!

The realities of becoming a self-published author - the highs and the lows

Authors have so much more freedom currently, and there are many more options open to them than the traditional publishing route of yesteryear.
Self-publishing can be a great way to publish - you retain rights and royalties, and you have creative freedom for sure, but it can also be a lonely path. In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of self-publishing for new authors keen to share their work with readers.

Building your author platform beyond social media likes

Building your author platform takes time and consistency, and social media is only part of the picture. Using a range of marketing tactics will greatly improve your author visibility and ultimately the success of your book.
If you have any questions about building your author platform, then please do drop me a message at karen@mabelandstanleypublishing.com
If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, share and subscribe!

Author Interview with Aileen Coleman

Aileen's charming children's book about a lively Granny who loves to be active invites kids to interact and engage with some fun pilates-inspired activities.
As a teacher and pilates instructor, Aileen is passionate about keeping minds and bodies active and used her experience of reading many children's stories throughout the years, to overcome any confidence issues when it came to writing and publishing her book.
If you have any questions about writing a children's books then get in touch karen@mabelandstanleypublishing.com

Author Interview with Sandra Hughes

Sandra published her book 'Calm Your Worry Warrior' with #mabelandstanleypublishing in 2021 and has used her book as a great lead magnet.
She has also leveraged the book to position herself as an expert in her fields of psychotherapy and physiotherapy. The far-reaching opportunities of writing a business book can have a real positive impact; a business book can open many doors.
As usual if you have any questions, send me a message karen@mabelandstanleypublishing.com and don't forget to like and share if you enjoyed this episode.

Author Interview - Samantha Ward-Smith

As part of the Write to Publish interview season for Autumn 2025, I chat with author Samantha Ward-Smith about her book 'Tower of Vengeance' and about her upcoming launch of 'Ravenscourt', another work of historical fiction set in Venice, this time as opposed to the 13th-century Tower of London!
You can find Sam's book on Amazon.
Get in touch - karen@mabelandstanleypublishing.com

Author Interview - Jackie Sansom

As part of the Write to Publish interview season for Autumn 2025, I chat with author Jackie Sansom about her book 'I am Agnes' and about her plans for book two. Jackie was one of the founder members of the Mabel and Stanley community, and she has definitely got the writing bug!
You can find Jackie's book on Amazon.
Get in touch - karen@mabelandstanleypublishing.com