Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  When should you update your covers? How to know if a cover is good Cover mistakes to avoid How to create covers when you’re writing cross-genre This week’s question is: How do you plan for a new year? Recommendation of the week is: One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA Links and events I mentioned:  30% off my courses using code: BLACKFRIDAY30 Valid 25th Nov - 2nd Dec Black Friday Deals StoryBundle ***this show uses affiliate links Find out more about MiblArt on: Facebook Instagram Twitter Website Find out more about Julia on: Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok   Rebel of the Week is: Chris Williams If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Mistakes to avoid in your description What good description is and looks like How to avoid information dumping How maximise settings  How to let a character’s personality impact description This week’s question is: Since you started writing, what’s the best money you’ve spent? Recommendation of the week is: Romancing the Beat by Gwen Hayes Apple  Kobo  Amazon UK  Amazon USA  ***this show uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned:  Black Friday deal *coming soon* StoryBundle Find out more about Janice on: Website    Twitter Amazon     Rebel of the Week is: Anonymous If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, thank you and welcome to Hunter Keris and thank you to JP Rindfleisch IX for upping their pledge. A whopping big thank you to my existing patrons as well. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  How to write books when you’re an editor Why you may or may not want to be hybrid Benefits of being hybrid What’s changed in 30 years of publishing Why you may or may not want a pen name secret How to transition between writing fiction and nonfiction This week’s question is: do you have a pen name? or if you don’t what would your pen name be? Recommendation of the week is: Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds Apple  Kobo  Amazon UK  Amazon USA  ***this show uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned: Villains Masterclass Storybundle Find out more about Tiffany on: FoxPrint Editorial Twitter Instagram Facebook Intuitive Editing Phoebe Fox Author Website Phoebe Fox Author Instagram Phoebe Fox Author Facebook The Way We Weren't   Rebel of the Week is: Khalina C.S.A If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 2 new patrons this week, welcome and thank you to Christiane Erwin and Allison Carroll and thank you to Jay Rene Lawrence for upping her pledge. A big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Where to start creating voices How to reflect personality at the sentence level Literary tricks and tools for creating richer character personality Worldbuilding philosophy Character accents, dialogue, rhythm and melody This week’s question is: what characters have you read with really strong voices? Recommendation of the week is: Way of the Argosi by Sebastien de Castell Apple  Kobo  Amazon UK Amazon USA  ***this show uses affiliate links Links I mentioned are: Sacha’s Courses Find out more about Sebastien at: Website Twitter   Rebel of the Week is: Lena Johnson If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor Welcome and thank you to new patron Genevieve Schol. A big thank you to my existing patrons as well. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Get 20% off using Sacha’s link. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Launch considerations   Release strategy mistakes Shorter vs Longer release strategies Boxset release strategies Preorder strategies Nitty gritty tactics This week’s question is: what type of launch appeals to you most? Recommendation of the week is: Magick by C. M. Newell Apple  Kobo  Amazon UK  Amazon USA  Buy Direct from C.M.  ***this show uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned: Villains Masterclass Storybundle  Patrons please email Becca on rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com and share the details of your published books with the team. Find out more about Craig on: Website 20 Books Vegas   Rebel of the Week is: Anonymous If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack    THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Travel writing narrative arcs Travel writing processes Mistakes to avoid Adventure planning  Truth and lies in narrative nonfiction This week’s question is: What adventure have you been on? Recommendation of the week is: Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune Apple Kobo  Amazon UK Amazon USA  ***this show uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: Villains Masterclass Rebel Readers  Storybundle  13 Steps to Evil Audiobook Find out more about Anna on: Instagram Facebook Twitter Amazon Author Page   Rebel of the Week is: Janelle Hardacre If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor Welcome and thank you to Robyn Pearce. A big thank you to my existing patrons as well. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack

Audible US  Audible UK Buy Direct

Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What conflict is and why it’s so important for your novel How to layer conflict Mistakes writers make with conflict How to show conflict How to use “choice” and complicating choice to further tension and plot This week’s question is: what is the best book you’ve read in your genre? Recommendation of the week is: 13 Steps to Evil: How to Craft a Superbad Villain audiobook written and narrated by ME! Audible US  Audible UK  Direct Link ***this show uses affiliate links Find out more about Becca at: The Conflict Thesaurus  One Stop for Writers   Rebel of the Week is: Andy Park If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor Huge thank you to existing patron Jeff Elkins for upping his pledge and welcome and thank you to new patron Luke Kondor. A big thank you to my existing patrons as well. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack

Show Notes Howdie folks, I finally pushed my first audiobook over the finishing line. Now, I’m by no means an expert at any of this stuff, but boy did I learn a lot from the process. I love learning from other people’s mistakes, so I thought I would share 8 lessons I learned from narrating and producing my first audiobook. Read full blog here. Listen to audiobook: Audible US  Audible UK Buy Direct Links I mentioned: A sound shield (AmazonUS, AmazonUK) Pop filter / wind shield (AmazonUS, AmazonUK) Mic stand (AmazonUS, AmazonUK) A Blue Yeti mic and USB wire connecting (AmazonUS, AmazonUK) Amadeus Pro (Audacity is free and suitable for mac or PC) Karl Hughes Audio Mastering Services WeTransfer for file sending FURTHER RESOURCES FOR YOU AUDIOBOOKS Narrated by the Author: How to Produce an Audiobook on a Budget by Rene Conoulty Kobo  Apple  Amazon US   Amazon UK   Audio for Authors by Joanna Penn Kobo   Apple   Amazon US   Amazon UK  Storyteller: How to be an Audiobook Narrator by Lorelei King Kobo  Apple   Amazon US  Amazon UK  Writing for Audiobooks: Audio-First for Flow and Impact: Author Advice from Radio Writing by Jules Horne Kobo   Apple   Amazon US   Amazon UK  PODCAST EPISODES 006 How to DIY an Audiobook with Rene Conoulty 023 How to Write for Audio with Jules Horne 078 How to Sell Ebooks and Audiobooks on Kobo with Tara Cremin 104 How to Work with an Audiobook Narrator with Jillian Yetter BLOG POSTS Publishing Alternatives to ACX How Audiobook Authors and Narrators are Paid by Audible-ACX. We think. The Ultimate Guide to Self-Publishing Audiobooks Audiobook Promotion for Indie Authors  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Analogies to help you better understand editing vs drafting How to approach editing The pitfalls and mistakes writers fall into How to show the change a hero goes through The five big scenes you need to get right The stakes paradox This week’s question is: tell me something you’ve achieved this year. Recommendation of the week is: I Love You To My Heart by Matthew Dion Goodall Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***this show uses affiliate links Links I mentioned are: The 2021 NaNoWriMo Writing Tools Bundle Activated Authors NaNoWriMo Preparation Kindle Storyteller Find out more about Alex on: Twitter  Instagram The Big-Picture Revision Checklist   Rebel of the Week is: Jasmine Arch If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor   No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. 20% Discount for Rebels here. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why you need to establish a local brand Indie marketing methods that don’t work for children’s author How to connect with schools How to work with curriculums Children’s marketing mistakes to avoid This week’s question is: What unusual marketing methods have you tried that have worked? Recommendation of the week is: Keepers Universal Link The 99c Fiction Sale (ends 29 Sept) ***this show uses affiliate links Links I mentioned are: The 99c Fiction Sale (ends 29 Sept) Find out more about Karen on: Self Publishing Adventures Website Twitter Facebook Instagram How To Self-Publish and Market a Children’s Book    Rebel of the Week is: Paulette Stout If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor Welcome to new patron Judith Mortimore. A big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  Thank you to all of the patrons who have upped their pledge and joined the rebel readers group: Helen O’Neill and Lynne Wham   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  How to work with audiobook narrators How to find narrators What information you need to give narrators Mistakes authors make working with narrators How to create good working relationships with narrators This week’s question is: what’s your relationship with audiobooks? Recommendation of the week is: Some Girls Do by Jennifer Dugan Apple Kobo Amazon UK  Amazon USA  ***this show uses affiliate links Links I mentioned are: The 99c Fiction Sale Find out more about Jillian on:  Instagram Facebook Website Her books on Audible   Rebel of the Week is: Mel If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  Thank you to all of the patrons who have upped their pledge and joined the rebel readers group: Scott Kavanagh, Jen Roundell, Herman Steuernagel and Matt Goodall.  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What a three word rebellion is How to create one How to then use your three word rebellion Why writers and creatives feel like they’re bad at marketing How to use the inoculation theory This week’s question is: do you have a three word rebellion or tagline for your business? Recommendation of the week is: Fixing Your Setting & Description Problems by Janice Hardy Kobo Amazon UK  Amazon USA  ***this show uses affiliate links Links I mentioned are:  Rebel Readers Find out more about Dr Michelle Mazur on: Facebook Instagram Twitter Website   Rebel of the Week is: Amy Heath If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 2 new rebels this week, thank you Laura Lentz and Helen Scheuerer. A big thank you to my existing patrons as well. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack Thank you to all of the patrons who have upped their pledge and joined the rebel readers group: Lynn Reed Kendall, Sarah Louise, Nicole Cayer, Sassy Cassie, Eden Collier, Emma Geoffray, Juneta Kay, Maggie M, and Shane Millar.

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why diversity in fiction is important  What to do if you’re afraid to approach writing diverse characters Sensitivity readers What you need to research How to include diverse characters when you yourself are not diverse This week’s question is: Tell us a book you’ve enjoyed with diverse characters. Recommendation of the week is: Jay’s Gay Agenda by Jason June  Apple Kobo Amazon UK  Amazon USA  ***This show uses affiliate links Diversity resources: Writing With Color Blog  How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi The Antiracist: How to Start the Conversation about Race and Take Action by Kondwani Fidel   We Need Diverse Books Writing Diversely  How to Write Black Characters: An Incomplete Guide by Salt and Sage Books Find out more about Eliana on: Website Instagram   Rebel of the Week is: Laura Rye If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why you need a headshot How a shoot works Considerations for tone and mood of photos How to prepare for a shoot Common mistakes in shoots This week’s question is: Have you got a professional headshot? Recommendation of the week is: Life in a Fishbowl by Len Vlahos Apple  Kobo  Amazon UK Amazon USA ***this show uses affiliate links Events I mentioned are: The York Writers Conference 2021. Three days, nine guest speakers, and plenty of opportunity to network and chat with authors from all over. Sessions include writer's craft and marketing workshops. Join Friday evening for a virtual cocktail party with opening remarks from our honorary patron, Terry Fallis. Then workshops begin Saturday with a lunchtime Keynote with Andrew Pyper and of course, Sacha Black. When: October 22-24, 2021 Where: Zoom - Register here Find out more about Ed at: @LastmanPhotography   Rebel of the Week is: Sarah W. Sparx If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack 

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What rights reversion is How you find out if you can revert your rights A walk through of a high level rights reversion How long the process takes What mistakes to avoid in the reversion process This week’s question is: Would you consider selling subsidiary rights and if so, what ones? Recommendation of the week is: Take Back Your Book Rights by Katlyn Duncan Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This show uses affiliate links Links I mentioned are: Join me on Patreon for Silent September. Write Away Podcast: Episode 55: How do you write memorable characters? My interview with Katlyn on her YouTube Channel: '8 Steps to Side Characters' by Sacha Black | Author Interview To pitch to be on the show, please complete the form here. Find out more about Katlyn on: Website Newsletter Youtube Instagram Podcast Channel   Rebel of the Week is: Lynn Reed If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor Welcome and thank you to Mel Climo and Angie Green. A big thank you to my existing patrons as well. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.      

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Defining short fiction How much story do you need for short fiction? How to do more with your short fiction Mistakes writers make with short fiction Quirky ideas for your short fiction This week’s question is: how do you use short fiction in your writing business? Recommendation of the week is: The Anatomy of Prose: The Senses Course: Discount Code: rebelvacay15 Matty’s The Short Tack Book Links I mentioned are: The Senses Course Find out more about Matty on: Website Facebook Twitter The Indy Author YouTube channel ​LinkedIn Episode I did with Matty on Side Characters Example of Short Fiction Promotion:  Ann Kinnear Suspense Short ALL DEATHS ENDURE   Rebel of the Week is: Shirish Deshpande If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor Huge thank you and welcome to: Kirstin Bussey, Maggie Menane, L.K. Latham, Paisleykaat, and Claire L. Fishback. A big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why formatting is important Mistakes to avoid with formatting Why you might consider a formatting company Differences between print and ebook formatting What to look for in a professional formatting company This week’s question is: How do you format your books? Recommendation of the week is: 10 Steps to Hero: How to Craft a Kickass Protagonist by ME! books2read.com/10stepstohero  books2read.com/heroworkbook **Please note this show uses affiliate links Links and shows I mentioned are: 3 Mistakes to Avoid with Your Side Characters on Angela Ackerman’s site Writers Cookbook Book Echoes Find out more about Formatted Books and their services on: Website Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn   Rebel of the Week is: Claire L. Fishback If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What Kindletrends is and how it can help you The different aspects of book market research How to find readers How to research blurbs, covers, content and more This week’s question is: How do you learn about your genre? Recommendation of the week is: Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating by Adiba Jaigirdar Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This show uses affiliate links Links I mentioned are: Grab your copy of 8 Steps to Side Characters today: Universal link textbook Universal link workbook Order direct from me ALLI ratings page To find out more about Nat and Kindletrends: What Kindletrends does How to use Kindletrends to research genre fiction If you use the code REBEL at checkout time, you’ll get USD5 off your monthly Kindletrends subscription, bringing it down to USD10 per month, forever.     Rebel of the Week is: Amber Sauer If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week. Welcome and thank you to Aaron Betts. A big thank you to my existing patrons too. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

To celebrate the launch of 8 Steps to Side Characters, I thought I’d add a sneaky little bonus episode. I’m going to give you a few tips from the book to help you write better side characters. If you haven’t purchased your copy yet, you can do so here: Order the textbook here. Order the workbook here. Or you can order signed paperback copies or digital copies straight from me using this link. If you missed the series of mini tips videos some of these tips are covered at a high level in those. See those episodes here:   What Are Side Characters?  The “Three Whys” Stop Them Taking Over  How to Kill Your Side Characters  How to Use Humour with Your Side Characters  Three Types of Side Character What You Need to Know About Character Arcs   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What the Kindle Storyteller Competition is What the judges are looking for Storyteller success stories How to increase your visibility on Amazon Publishing mistakes to avoid This week’s question is: Do you enter competitions? Recommendation of the week is: The Girls I’ve Been by Tess Sharpe Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This show uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: Unstoppable Authors ep 100 - Sustaining a Writing Career with the Right Mindset Facebook Live: 29th July 8pm BST  Your Side Characters and You LIVES: 8pm (BST) every night from the 30th July on my instagram  Preorder Bonus  Find out more about Kindle Storyteller here.   Rebel of the Week is: Shay Raby If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Charlotte Platt. A big thank you to my existing patrons too. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover: The type of book launch when you’re only publishing once a year The type of marketing needed between launches How to build your audience and find readers The writing and marketing process for one book a year Tips for marketing to YA audiences This week’s question is: how many books would you ideally like to publish a year? Recommendation of the week is: A Lair of Bones by Helen Scheuerer Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This show uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: Daniel Wallace Find Your Next Reader summit IngramSpark Interview Facebook Live: 29th July 8pm BST Your Side Characters and You LIVES: 8pm (BST) every night from the 30th July on my Instagram Preorder Bonus Find out more about Helen on: Website Amazon Instagram Facebook   Rebel of the Week is: Laura Hatchell If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Kirsten Taylor. And thank you to Jen Roundell for upping your pledge.  A big thank you to my existing patrons too. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  How to start building a magic system How and why you need to limit your magic system Common magic building mistakes Diversity in magic systems  How to make a magic system integral to the plot and characters This week’s question is: what is your favorite magic system? Links and events I mentioned are: Order a signed copy of Side Characters (or any other book) direct from me. Order Side Characters:  Textbook Workbook LIVE Side Characters Launch Q&A. To join in, you’ll need to be a member of my Facebook Group.  When: 29th July Time: 8pm GMT (5am AEST, 12pm PDT, 3pm EDT) Find out more about Angeline on: Website Worldbuilding Facebook Instagram Twitter   Rebel of the Week is: Gordo If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Melinda Brack. A big thank you to my existing patrons too. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Mistakes to avoid when running an author event What small details set an event apart from others How to make author events into a revenue stream How to pitch speakers What considerations do you need to make What kind of person do you need to be to run author events This week’s question is: What are the best author events you’ve been to (digital or in-person)? Recommendation of the week is: The Science of Storytelling by Will Storr Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA  ***This show uses affiliate links Find out more about Daniel on: Website Twitter Instagram But the best way for people to make contact Daniel is his free, do at your own pace, writing course.   Rebel of the Week is: Ian Worrall If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 5 new patrons today, welcome and thank you to Cassi Emerson, Kelllye Burroughs, Lynn Reed, John Rindfleisch IX and Elizabeth Prais. A big thank you to my existing patrons too. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack 

Episode Show Notes:  In this episode we cover:  The overarching steps indies need to take to publish their book Most common indie publishing mistakes MVP launches versus bells and whistles launches The self-publishing cycle How to work with a writing coach This week’s question is: what part of self-publishing do you enjoy the most? Recommendation of the week is: 8 Steps to Side Characters: How to Craft Supporting Roles with Intention, Purpose, and Power Preorder everywhere Preorder workbook everywhere Submit preorder proof to get goodies here.  ***This show uses affiliate links Find out more about Dan on: Hawk & Cleaver Devil's Rock Publishing Next Level Authors Podcast The Other Stories Podcast The Self-Publishing Blueprint   Rebel of the Week is: Candy Glynn Wilde If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week, but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Methods and tactics for selling on Apple Mistakes on Apple Using preorders on Apple What it’s like to have your book turned into a film How to write better sexy scenes This week’s question is: what is your focus for the last half of 2021? Recommendation of the week is: Writing and Marketing Systems by Elana Johnson Apple Kobo Amazon UK  Amazon USA **This show uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Find out more about Kristy on: Facebook  Instagram   Amazon Website   Rebel of the Week is: CJ Dainton If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron today, welcome and thank you to Herman Steuernagel. A big thank you to my existing patrons too. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  How publishing schedules will help you reach your goals Common mistakes authors make trying to reach six figures Tactics for finding readers Measuring marketing campaigns Pen names This week’s question is: what was the last realisation you had? Recommendation of the week is: The Giver by Lois Lowry  Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are:  The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Find out more about Ines on: Her Bookbub Article: How I Make Six Figures as a Self-Published Author Website   Rebel of the Week is: Karen Heenan If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  The minimum viable requirements for an author website Common mistakes authors make on websites  What SEO is and why authors need to be aware of it Website content This week’s question is: have you got an author website and how did you find the process of setting it up? Recommendation of the week is: My own Senses course   Links I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Find out more about Ginnie on: Done for you author website: Be sure to mention this podcast episode to get your discount. ***Please note this show uses affiliate links   Rebel of the Week is: Eden Collier If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week but a big thank you to my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram      

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What memoir is What memoir story structure is Where the line between your truth, factual truth and story truth sits How to use fairytales to help you write your memoir How to include moments we’re not proud of authentically This week’s question is: what would you call your memoir if you ever wrote one? Recommendation of the week is: Effortless: Make it Easier to Do What Matters Most by Greg McKeown Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Interview with Kristina: What's the Difference Between Copyediting and Structural Editing? Find out more about Janelle on: Instagram Facebook Janelle's Website The Personal Mythmaking Podcast The Art of Personal Mythmaking Course   Rebel of the Week is: Aime Sund If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor No new patrons this week but a big thank you to returning patron Cindy. A big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  The different types of edits and what you can expect from them The most common myths about editing and editors Editors and author voice  How to know if an editor is good How to deal with, process and work with editorial feedback This week’s question is: How do you process your editorial notes? Recommendation of the week is: A Dead Djinn in Cairo by P. Djèlí Clark Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Connect with Kristina Stanley: Her Course: An Insider’s View of Story Editing Course Description:  Thirteen professional story editors edited the same novel. Each editor worked separately in Fictionary StoryCoach. This course compares their edits and shows you what worked and what didn't. You'll see actual examples of edits. We'll also show you a scene before and after revisions were done based on the edits. If you want to elevate your skills as a story editor, this course shows you how Fictionary Certified StoryCoach editors work. You'll know what you need to deliver to a client to help them tell a powerful story. If you're a writer looking to hire a professional story editor, this course shows you what you should receive from a story editor. Coupon Code:  SACHAREBELS You get the course for $39USD instead of $99 just because you’re a rebel! If you’re interested in Kristina’s software StoryTeller, she has a coupon SAVE20 for writers who want to try StoryTeller. That gives them 20% off an annual  or monthly subscription.  Link to Kristina’s first episode with me   Rebel of the Week is: Jere Anthony If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 3 new patrons this week, welcome and thank you to Matty Dalrymple, Eden Collier and Lucie Béraud-Sudreau. A big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.    

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  How to create character voices Behavioural consistency vs character arcs Creating better dialogue  How to create and use character detail How to write about identity authentically This week’s question is: We’re almost halfway through the year, are you where you want to be? Recommendation of the week is:  The Self-Publishing Blueprint: A complete guide to help you self-publish your book by Daniel Willcocks Apple Kobo Amazon UK  Amazon USA 13 Storey Treehouse Books by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Boni Podcast on sentence level prose: Link to the podcast Link to the blog (where we link to the podcast :0)  Interview on Jenna’s show all about how to podcast as an author. Street Team Find out more about Joya on: Instagram: @joya.goffney Website Buy the book   Rebel of the Week is: Estelle Van de Velde  If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Laura Beeby, thank you as well to Helen O'Neill for upping her pledge and joining the rebel slack group. A big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why mindset is so important The most common mindset roadblocks Tools and techniques for helping you improve your mindset How to keep your starting energy going to help you finish your book Mindset myths This week’s question is: What aspect of mindset do you struggle with most? Recommendation of the week is: The World of LORE: Dreadful Places by Aaron Mahnke  Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA ***This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Find out more about Kristina on: Twitter Facebook Productivity for Writers How to Write Believable Characters   Rebel of the Week is: Mira Monroe If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Shane Milar and thank you to Juneta for editing her pledge up. Of course, a big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  The differences between writing a novel and a graphic novel How to actually write a graphic novel How to choreograph a fight scene with an illustrator How story arcs work across a single graphic novel and a series How to find and work with an illustrator Mistakes to avoid This week’s question is: Do you read graphic novels? If so, what are your recommendations? Recommendation of the week is:  How to Get Your Book Into Schools and Double Your Income With Volume Sales by David H Hendrickson Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Sacha’s Proofer / Workbook Editor: Tim Seabrook — Fifth Ring Press Connect with Marcus: Twitter - @Marcus_Ako; @IonWritersBlock  Instagram - @IonWritersBlock Book - Call 1-800-KillAGuy: Book 1   Rebel of the Week is: Yanni Jade If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 2 new patrons this week, welcome and thank you to Shelly Sara and Stephanie Johnson. And of course, a big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

It feels like a blink since the original post “lessons from one year of writing full-time”. But it is with ENORMOUS pride, a slight maniacal cackle and a deep sigh of caffeine-fuelled relief that I get to say this is 5 lessons from two years of writing full-time.   5 Lessons from Two Years of Writing Full-Time    Lesson 1: The Income Update In my first year, my only goal was to survive. I was desperate not to go back to the corporate hellmare that was my old day job.  I did that, yay me. But I also ended year one feeling like I was rudderless and hadn’t pushed myself sufficiently on the income front—which, funnily enough, I hadn’t because I was so consumed by just surviving. Year two was a financial shifting year. While I wanted to beat my old day job income, it was more important to me to reduce the freelance in order to focus on my business and create the financial and life freedom I really wanted. But I'm also a competitive bitch, and STILL wanted to increase my overall income, a tall order given I was starting from a lower baseline after giving up a lot of the freelance gigs. Thanks to a frankly terrifying amount of caffeine, a little hysteria and a few gins, I managed it. Turnover was up 22% and net profit up 67%.  But the really exciting development is the change in breakdown of income. In year one, 75% of my income came from freelance work, 17% from book sales and 8% from everything else like affiliate income, speaking fees etc. But in year two, what changed dramatically. I’m genuinely surprised, shocked and delighted to see the shift. It shows how much of a lie time is, the last year has felt endless and so, so fast all at the same time.  But the summary is that I halved the income from freelance which sat at just 37% of turnover and increased sales income to the point where it’s now my biggest income stream at 44% of turnover. This makes me crazy happy and hungry to continue decreasing the freelance income and continue boosting my other streams. Interestingly, my “everything else” bucket more than doubled in year two and that’s thanks in part to the podcast, sponsorships, and patreon but also to course sales and a variety of other income streams. A takeaway here for me is that while I doubled the array of “everything else” income streams, it still only accounted for 19% AND in order to generate that, it took as much effort if not more than everything else. Realistically, it’s the books that shifted the income percentages and so this coming year, I must focus my energies on getting more books written. In my second year, my main income streams included: book sales, freelance work, patreon, merchandise, affiliate income, sponsorship, course sales, consulting and speaking.  Year two assets include: 8 nonfiction books and 3 nonfiction box sets and 2 fiction books. In year three, my goal is to continue growing turnover and profit, continue reducing the % freelance work accounts for and increase my wide book sales income. In addition, I want to add audiobooks and more courses to my asset portfolio. I still haven’t beaten my old day job income so that goal is burning hard now! Takeaway 1: Annual analysis is really important to help give you perspective. I’ve been flailing a bit recently with the direction I should be going and this has helped to solidify that.   Lesson 2: Self-Belief is Everything It’s only now that I look back at the end of my second year of business that I realise just quite how much of my first year was spent in crippling fear. My sphincter was constantly quivering at the thought of having to go back to a job I hated and the prospect of being flung back into that depressive “no way out” mindset. I spoke earlier about how I didn’t care about anything other than surviving and making sure I didn’t go back and that was all consuming in the first year.  It’s taken me two years to get rid of that fear. I still fidget a little, itchy sphincter hasn’t totally gone, but I have self-belief in a way that I never had before. I know without a doubt that I won’t go back to a day job. This career, hell, any career working for myself is for life. Even if I end up doing something else as a business, this life of working for myself is not something I can or will ever give up. I was not made to work for other people but accepting that or more, being comfortable and confident enough to accept that has taken time. Indies are especially good at wanting things now, now, now. I’m like it too. I think it’s because our businesses are in our control, therefore we want results now, to publish yesterday, the covers last week and the income ALL DAY LONG BABY.  But there is something intangible that “time” can give you. Growth doesn’t happen instantly. You don’t just quit your job and have the self-belief that you can do this, or the income appear instantly. Shit is rocky for a while, business is hard, and it is a rollercoaster of wobbling belief, income and learning. But fuck me is it the most glorious rollercoaster out there. This second year, despite it being in extremely difficult global times, has allowed me to blossom and grow in confidence and self-belief and the security that I can do this for the long haul and things are going to be okay. Takeaway 2: no matter how quick or amazing your income balloons, there is something that only time can give you, a kind of security blanket of confidence and assurance that you’ve got this. It’s a hard pill to swallow when you’re drowning in a society of “nowness” but embrace it, buckle up baby and grip hard, this is a rocky rollercoaster ride.   Lesson 3: The Honeymoon Period Ends Alright, yes, this job is fucking amazing. I will never say otherwise. However, every job no matter the business or industry you’re in, has a grind. And this year the honeymoon period well and truly ended for me. Perhaps it was made worse and brought forward because of Covid and the absolute devastation it caused on my time and sanity. But the honeymoon period of working for myself is definitely over. Does that mean I regret leaving my day job? Abso-fuckin-lutely not. This is the best job in the world. However, managing a family, a school kid, a wife a house and a business is A LOT. Because I have work “flexibility” nine times out of ten the “can you dos” fall to me. The ad hoc life shit will fall on my plate and I ended up doing 95% of the homeschooling. Which at six hours a day did not leave much time or energy for business. The grind of having to do admin and emails and deal with everything else life throws at me as well as work a number of evenings is tough. Without having had a proper holiday in the last 18 months I’m feeling worn if I’m honest. There’s a kind of viral exhaustion I can’t get rid of because staycations are never real breaks when you work for yourself. What this means is that I need to keep things fresh. I need to do projects that I both enjoy and that bring me income. Finding the balance is key to retaining my enthusiasm. Takeaway 3: Holidays away from the house and my office are essential to get real rejuvenation time. Reducing or outsourcing “grind” tasks over the next year to ensure I stick with what only I can do is essential. I also need to find a way to work less evenings it’s having a severe impact on my energy and enthusiasm.    Lesson 4: Input and Strengths In my first year I was so concerned with just surviving that I didn’t put much thought into learning, growth or development. But as I neared the last third of my second year, I felt a gaping emptiness and my ability to write was being affected. It’s in large part thanks to Becca Syme and her Better Faster Academy that I’ve been able to learn more about my strengths and make them work smarter for me. Case in point, I’ve upped my reading input from 60-70 books a year to 130-140ish. The result? In the first month alone I output 30% more words. Whether I like it or not, I have a high need for input. I’d assumed it was just visual stimuli I needed but apparently binge watching Netflix isn’t cutting it for my brain, it wants to eat books and so I will deliver as a humble servant. I think the other lesson is that by being aware of my strengths, intentionally learning and trying to develop them, I can have real tangible results. But I do need to give myself the time and headspace to reflect and learn and input. Something I find difficult from the outset because it doesn’t feel like work. If it helps me develop, work better or smarter, then clearly I need to do it. Takeaway 4: Sometimes the things that create the biggest effect on your bottom line don’t feel like work, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t or that it’s not important. Far from it. You have to do those things. Those are the things that allow you to grow.   Lesson 5: You Have Permission This is going to sound bonkers from the mother of villains and queen of rebels. BUT, it’s very easy to institutionalise yourself. When you live day in day out with how your business is and doing things “because they work” it’s easy to forget you can pivot or change or adapt. When it comes to someone else telling me what to do, I’ll always rebel or find a way to break the rule, but I’m often left floundering when it comes to myself. I tend to be reluctant to give myself permission, or I let doubt creep in and prevent me from doing the thing I know I should be doing. That’s why I have Post-its reminding me “YOU HAVE PERMISSION”. This is the life I created and the one I want to live, taking the time to write the book I want to write IS OKAY, SACHA. Take this post, I had to force myself to sit down and do it even though I knew it would be helpful. Expectation is a slippery fucker, whether it’s from external sources or yourself, it’s weighty and meaty and it can stop you doing things you either want to do or know would be good for your business. No more.  Takeaway 5: There are a couple of BIG game changing things I need to do this year and I need to stop holding myself back. No more fucking about Sacha, you have lofty goals and you’re not going to apologise for them. I have permission. I just need to get on with it.   One Last Thought: No matter what happens, this is better This was one of the lessons from my first year full-time. No matter what happens this life is better. I stand by that, if anything I believe it even more firmly this year than last. I keep two sentimental photos from this journey. The first is the Post-it I signed and dated saying I’d be writing full-time in 2020. I left in 2019, and every time I look back at the Post-it I smile. The other photo is the photo of me on one of my worst days in my old job. I’m broken and in so much pain that it’s genuinely uncomfortable even now for me to look at. I keep it because it’s also a short, sharp annual reminder not to get lazy, not to take this life for granted and to appreciate every second I’m lucky enough to do this as a job. Yes, running an author business is hard, yes the honeymoon period is over, yes it’s grueling, but it’s also the best fucking thing I could have done and I’d die before I gave it up.  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What are the key elements you need to take into account when starting from zero Most common indie publishing mistakes new writers make What business and platform basics do you need in place before you publish What marketing should a writer do when they only have one book How do you continue to get sales after launch? This week’s question is: What worries you about starting from zero? Recommendation of the week is: This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links This is a link explaining how the book was written: A Conversation with Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone Links and events I mentioned: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Connect with David Gaughran: Website Youtube Twitter   Rebel of the Week is: VAL NEIL If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Jennifer Thompson. And  of course, a big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why we still struggle with time management despite there being so many tools out there Mistakes people make with time management Time management mindset shifts How to deal with your inbox The Pyramid of Time Mastery This week’s question is: What are your personal time management tips? Recommendation of the week is: Taking the Short Tack by Matty Dalrymple and Mark Lefebvre  Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Connect with Steven: LinkedIn Website His book   Rebel of the Week is: Alexa If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Tauna Sonn-lemarbe. And of course, a big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What creative self-publishing means What are success measures for indie authors How to harness the thing that’s uniquely you Mistakes to avoid with publishing contracts This week’s question is: What is your success measure? Recommendation of the week is: The Liar’s Daughter by Megan Cooley Peterson Apple Kobo Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Find out more about Orna on: Twitter offers self-publishing advice for creatives Instagram Page is for her poetry Her Facebook Author Page is for her novels and also has a bit of everything else  Join ALLi here Book Link: Creative Self-Publishing: ALLi’s Guide to Independent Publishing for Authors and Poets   Rebel of the Week is: Bobbie Ann Atwood If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 1 new patron this week, welcome to Lynne Wham, but of course, a big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  How to create rich and memorable characters How to develop chilling atmospheres How to use the senses in your writing How to introduce your characters in the most impactful way possible How to create deeper emotions in your stories This week’s question is:  What’s the last book you absolutely couldn’t put down? Recommendation of the week is: House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland  Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Find out more about Krystal on: Instagram  House of Hollow is out now   Rebel of the Week is: Helen Sheuerer  If you’d like to be a Rebel of the Week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 2 new patrons this week, a huge welcome and thank you to Sarah Louise and Kate Swed. And of course, a big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What is storybrand? How writers can incorporate storybrand into their marketing Mistakes people make with storybrand The key elements of storybrand including a worked example How to incorporate storybrand into your side hustles This week’s question is:  Are you wide or in KU and why? Recommendation of the week is: Wide for the Win by Mark Lefebvre  Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open Find out more here. Find out more about Amy on: Instagram: @amymertz / @ifcstudios ifcstudios.com/rebel   Rebel of the Week is: Dharma Kelleher If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or instagram me @sachablackauthor 3 new patrons this week. A huge welcome and thank you to Nathan Scammell, Heather Adame Saenz and Moninder Gainda. And of course, a big thank you to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content, you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Kobo’s new audiobook platform How to publish audio with Kobo How to price your audiobook What’s hot and what’s not in audio right now Marketing tactics that work for Kobo right now This week’s question is:  What are your Q2 goals? Recommendation of the week is: How to Make a Living with Your Writing by Joanna Penn Kobo **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open: Find out more here. Mark’s Wide for the Win Q&A Replay Find out more about Kobo: You can sometimes hear Tara as a guest host on the Kobo Writing Life Podcast. If you’re interested in publishing with KWL, create your account today at www.kobo.com/writinglife. Website  Facebook  Twitter  Instagram Links to the books Tara mentioned: Birds Art Life by Kyo Maclear A Ghost in the Throat by Doireann Ní Ghríofa For audio, here’s some links that may be of interest: KWL Audiobook Press Release How to Publish your Audiobook Podcast interview with Kobo Audiobook Merchandiser   Listener Rebel of the Week is: Lynne Wham If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod Thank you to Heather who recently upped her pledge and has joined us in the Rebel Slack group. 1 new patrons this week, a huge welcome and thank you to Noelle Davidson. And of course, a big to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.  

Get your copy of Mark's book Wide for the Win which is PACKED full of tips and tricks for marketing your books wide here: https://books2read.com/b/wideforthewin Find out more about Mark on his website: http://markleslie.ca/ Join the Rebel Author Facebook community here for more live events and writing support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rebelauthors/ 

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why whopping bits of paper are awesome for plotting The biggest mistakes writers make with plot How to use details to enhance your plot Tips and tricks for the middle of your book How to keep your motivation going when you’re in the trenches of writing This week’s question is:  Do you plot or pants or plants? Recommendation of the week is: The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open: Find out more here. Live Q&A with Mark Lefebvre on wide marketing:  17th March 8:00pm GMT, 1pm PST, 4pm EST, 7am AEST Find out more about Martha on: Twitter Facebook Instagram Boundless Creativity Workbook Martha's Books   Listener Rebel of the Week is: Dominik August If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod 1 new patron this week. A huge welcome and thank you to Jen Roundell. And of course, a big to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Whether it’s still possible to make a career in 2021 Core business principles a writer needs The mindset shifts a writer needs to make in order to turn their writing into a business Other ways a writer can make money with their words? Tips for running an author business This week’s question is:  What do you find most difficult about the business side of writing? Recommendation of the week is: Nobody Wants to Read Your Sh*t: Why That is and What You Can Do About It by Steven Pressfield Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: The Rebel Author Diaries Anthology Submissions are now open. Find out more here. Live Q&A with Mark Lefebvre on wide marketing: 17th March 8:00pm GMT, 1pm PST, 4pm EST, 7am AEST Kobo Writing Life talking about Prose Find out more about Jane on: Twitter Instagram The Business of Being a Writer   Listener Rebel of the Week is: Val Neil If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod 2 new patrons this week, a huge welcome and thank you to Jasmine Amaro and Giannin Viecili. And of course, a big to all my existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What the heroine’s journey is Common mistakes with the heroine’s journey The key beats of the heroine’s journey The role of side characters in the heroine’s journey Genre and reader expectations for heroine/hero’s journey. This week’s question is:  Do you write the heroine or hero’s journey? Recommendation of the week is: Your Press Release is Breaking my Heart by Janet Murray Amazon UK  Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Links or events I mentioned are: Live Q&A with Mark Lefebvre on wide marketing  17th March 8:00pm GMT, 1pm PST, 4pm EST, 7am AEST Find out more about Gail on:  Twitter   Facebook Website https://gailcarriger.com  The Heroine's Journey   Listener Rebel of the Week is: Victoria LK Williams If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod 3 new patrons this week. Welcome and thank you to Harry Brooks, Holly Flynn and Scott Kavanagh.  A huge thank you as well to all existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Surprise... I’m super excited to announce the launch of The Rebel Diaries Anthology. The call for stories is officially open. For all the submission criteria and information please visit sachablack.co.uk/rebelsubmissions   What happens when the villain wins? Sick of dashing debonairs? Fed up of being blinded by shining armor? Sometimes, all a girl wants is a villain for a hero. The Rebel Diaries is looking for stories starring characters with a dubious shade of morals. We want characters who aren’t afraid of getting what they want, causing a bit of chaos, dabbling in mischief, and mayhem and slathering on the sarcasm. We want stories that slip into the grey areas, and are bulging with villains, deviants and rebels. We’re after sassy tales littered with questionable morals and happy endings—for the villains anyway.   We are not looking for horror or gratuitous violence but dark stories that are fun, light hearted explorations of the characters usually hidden in obscurity.  We actively encourage submissions from own voices, characters or authors with disabilities or from underrepresented backgrounds, LGBTQ+ etc.   Submission deadline: June 30th, 2021 Word count: 2,500–7,500 words. Payment: royalty split 

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why you need to write a business plan The main components of an author business plan What to include and what not to include in your plan Mistakes to avoid with your business plan How to improve your money mindset This week’s question is:  Do you have an author business plan? Recommendation of the week is: Your Author Business Plan by Joanna Penn Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Joanna's Links https://www.thecreativepenn.com/resources/  https://twitter.com/thecreativepenn  https://www.thecreativepenn.com/author-business-plan/ Links and Events I mentioned are: Live Q&A with Mark Lefebvre on wide marketing  17th March 8:00pm GMT, 1pm PST, 4pm EST, 7am AEST DO YOU LOVE WRITING FANTASY? CALLING ALL FANTASY WRITERS ProWritingAid are running a fantasy writing week in February and holy crap am I personally excited for this. Just look at the line up!  With live sessions from bestselling fantasy writers TJ Klune, Angela J. Ford, David Farland and Stephanie BwaBwa, a world-building workshop, and a complete World Anvil software walkthrough, you don't want to miss this event! Please note, I am an affiliate of ProWritingAid, but that's because I personally use their software.    Listener Rebel of the Week is: Mark Lefebvre If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod 1 new patron this week. Welcome and thank you to Stanley B Trice. A huge thank you as well to all existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  Why swearing is good for you The gender difference between men and women and swearing Regional swearing and what this means for characterisation  Why swearing helps you manage pain How swearing works in different areas of the brain This week’s question is:  what is your favorite swear word? Recommendation of the week is: The Heroine’s Journey by Gail Carriger Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA  **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and Events I mentioned are: Live Q&A with Mark Lefebvre on wide marketing 17th March 8:00pm GMT, 1pm PST, 4pm EST, 7am AEST DO YOU LOVE WRITING FANTASY? CALLING ALL FANTASY WRITERS ProWritingAid are running a fantasy writing week in February and holy crap am I personally excited for this. Just look at the line up!  With live sessions from bestselling fantasy writers TJ Klune, Angela J. Ford, David Farland and Stephanie BwaBwa, a world-building workshop, and a complete World Anvil software walkthrough, you don't want to miss this event! Please note, I am an affiliate of ProWritingAid, but that's because I personally use their software.  Find out more about Emma on: Bookshop Twitter Instagram Listener Rebel of the Week is: Stacy L Frazer If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Jackson Hollingsworth. A huge thank you to all existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack  

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What the 80/20 principle means for your marketing The ultimate book marketing formula  How to balance writing what you want versus giving the market what it wants Common marketing mistakes  What to cut out of your marketing in 2021 This week’s question is:  What marketing tactic would you like to be better at? Recommendation of the week is: Alix E Harrow’s A Witch’s Guide to Escape: A Practical Compendium of Portal Fantasies HUGO award winning short story Links and events I mentioned are: Live Q&A with Mark Lefebvre on wide marketing  17th March 8:00pm GMT, 1pm PST, 4pm EST, 7am AEST Patron only Poison and Prose is 10th Feb. The Dialogue Doctor Episode with me! On voice, narrator voice, character voice, sharpening dialogue and more. DO YOU LOVE WRITING FANTASY? CALLING ALL FANTASY WRITERS ProWritingAid are running a fantasy writing week in February and holy crap am I personally excited for this. Just look at the line up!  With live sessions from bestselling fantasy writers TJ Klune, Angela J. Ford, David Farland and Stephanie BwaBwa, a world-building workshop, and a complete World Anvil software walkthrough, you don't want to miss this event! Please note, I am an affiliate of ProWritingAid, but that's because I personally use their software.  Find out more about Nicholas on: Website Amazon Page Listener Rebel of the Week is: Rebecca Pursell If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod 1 new patron this week, welcome and thank you to Ryan Simmons. A huge thank you to all existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   This Show is Sponsored by ProWritingAid Find out more about ProWritingAid here. DISCOUNT CODE: REBEL25 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What is a scene? Mistakes to avoid when creating scenes How to end a scene and leave readers wanting more How to layer action, emotion and theme into each scene How to use side characters to create the most impact in your scenes This week’s question is:  Recommend a craft, business or marketing book Recommendation of the week is: Writing Your Story's Theme: The Writer's Guide to Plotting Stories That Matter by K.M. Weiland Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA  **This podcast uses affiliate links Links and events I mentioned are: Live Q&A with Mark Lefebvre on wide marketing  17th March 8:00pm GMT, 1pm PST, 4pm EST, 7am AEST Patron only Poison and Prose is 10th Feb. Find out more about Jordan on: Twitter Website   Listener Rebel of the Week is: Helen Scheuerer If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod 1 new patron this week, thank you Martina JG. A huge thank you to all existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: https://www.patreon.com/sachablack

Episode Show Notes In this episode we cover:  What the fuck copywriting is and why we need to worry about it Top tips for copywriting How to keep your branding consistent with your voice Common copywriting mistakes This week’s question is:  Describe your author voice in 3 words Recommendation of the week is: Untamed by Glennon Doyle Kobo Apple Amazon UK Amazon USA **This podcast uses affiliate links Find out more about Jo Watson on: LinkedIn Website   Listener Rebel of the Week is: Lauren Mullis If you’d like to be a Rebel of the week please do send in your story, it can be any kind of rebellion. You can email your rebel story to rebelauthorpodcast@gmail.com or tweet me @rebelauthorpod No new patrons this week. A huge thank you to all existing patrons. If you’d like to support the show, and get early access to all the episodes as well as bonus content you can from as little as $2 a month by visiting: www.patreon.com/sachablack   THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY KOBO WRITING LIFE Visit Kobo Writing Life here, read the Kobo Writing Life blog here, and listen to their podcast here.