In Her Own Ink

In my book, In Her Own Ink: Strategies for Creating from Author to Author, I discuss the importance of naming our book projects early on. Opposed to calling it simply “my book project,” give it a name. Fruitful Lists Before diving into any project, I create a list of titles to help create the book’s identity. During this brainstorming session I allow my thoughts to flourish. Every idea is a “success thought.” I’ll use the extra titles for chapter titles and headings. Also, I keep all lists, because I might use the title for another book down the road.  Building on Solid Rock In the beginning, your list of titles might seem of little importance. Still, your remaining titles help carry the messages in subsequent sections, especially during the development of your outline. Thus, it plays a significant role in building the foundation of your book design.  Adding Your Special Touch Personally, I like to use subtitles to bring clarity and to help the reader recognize the topic. Whil...

Which perspective will you write from? Literally. Consider different positions to share your story in order to keep your reader engaged. There are three types of point of view: first-person, second-person and third-person.  Point of View      As we know, “I” statements are first-person points of view. While a second-person stance is inclusive of the reader. For example, “as salespersons, we must explore different ways to reach our clientele. Let’s look at our ideal customer…”      However, the third-person voice is external. We see the individual from a distance as the reader does. Third-person perspectives are best implemented for the “About the Author” section.  Conclusion      Generally, using two of these points of view is an excellent way to keep our readers engaged. Let’s examine your work. Which point of view(s) will you exercise? Transform your ink into print through IN HER OWN INK. Get Inspired. Discover More. Call Tod...

For years I wanted to share my story. When my dream became reality I didn't know what to expect. Yes, my writing journey required great diligence. Yes, creating the book was a serious task for me. Yes, I enjoyed the process! Brainstorming creative ways to produce content and acquiring the finished product to become accessible online.  The Hardest Part of Self-Publishing      However, my job wasn’t done. You could write the best book and publish it on a worldwide platform and not get any recognition for your hard work. That was a hard lesson. Although my book was available everywhere, it didn't mean it would sell well online. Over time, I gained insight on strategies for marketing my books. Public Relations Strategies      I worked an internship in college which enabled me to practice my public relations coursework. I drafted a few press releases for my employer that were published in the local newspapers. After I became a published author, I returned t...

“So often, we envision beautiful, grand ideas and begin to work on them, but  unfortunately, we don’t finish. Could it be that we were unrealistic? No. Goals are attainable. We must stay motivated like we were in the beginning to complete the assignment” (In Her Own Ink: Strategies for Creating from Author to Author, Ashley Smith)      This book elaborates on different ways to stay motivated and disciplined. Here, we’ll discuss three approaches to keeping your flame lit in order to continue producing content energetically. Know Your Reasons Visualize Your Success Meditate on Your Inspiration Know Your Reasons      Whenever I start a book project I identify my reasons for publishing. - Why am I tackling this dream? Why do I deserve to publish? Accepting your publishing goals as a part of your purpose will stir your emotions and reinforce laser focus to stay on task. Let your reasons for publishing motivate you to finish drafting your book. Visualize You...

As we know, there are several advantages to using Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Studying approaches to getting your manuscript approved is beneficial to us. Therefore, I'll share a couple of my secrets to reducing the chances of getting your books denied.      My experience with the system dates back to 2014 when it was CreateSpace. I specialize in print copies which differ from ebooks. As you know, passing the Amazon KDP guidelines can be tricky because the system is highly demanding. In fact, my work was rejected twice over the years.  Guidelines & Considerations      Specifically, the errors which led my books to become rejected were based on fonts and page numbers. Here, I’ll discuss common considerations for utilizing this program to minimize rejections based on my experience. Standardize Fonts      It’s critical we use standard font styles. Standard fonts for the body text include but are not limited to Times New Roman...

Publishing on Amazon has been a fruitful experience. However, if I wasn’t familiar with the system it could be frustrating.  Publishing on Amazon My experience publishing online dates back to 2014. Before Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing there was CreateSpace. Fortunately, I had a book coach guide me through the publishing process. Likewise, I can share my insight on how you can maneuver the guidelines and rules of the Amazon platform. I published another book on Amazon: When You Look Into the Mirror. This book is a daily devotional and journal with prayers, affirmations and self-reflection questions to empower you. Designed for women, the book dissects a Biblical story of a queen to reinforce the power of our inner-strength and need for self-encouragement. Even though prayer isn’t the sole way to build a relationship with The Creator this prayer book will enhance your spiritual health. Meeting Deadlines My goal was to have a draft ready for editing by February 1st in order to have ...