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Book review of The Sure Thing: A Pleasure Practice to Revive the Spark by Elana Auerbach . ISBN: 979-8998787072 < Back The Sure Thing: A Pleasure Practice to Revive the Spark Elana Auerbach Self-help, wellness, health, intimacy, pleasure, connection Flower of Life Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest One woman's guide to reigniting desire and intimacy within her marriage, her capacity for joy and activism, by creating a customizable weekly “Sure Thing” pleasure ritual that deepens intimacy, embodiment, and connection. In a world where ”spontaneity” is often treated as the gold standard for a healthy sex life, Elana Auerbach’s “The Sure Thing” arrives like a bucket of reality. It’s a book that asks a radical question: What if the secret to a great sex life isn't magic, but a schedule? Auerbach wastes no time dismantling the myth that desire should always be an effortless lightning strike. Drawing from her own twelve-year ‘intimacy desert,’ she argues that “The Sure Thing” method, a weekly, non-negotiable ritual of connection, is the only way to safeguard pleasure against the grind of career, kids, and modern burnout. The book’s strongest asset is Auerbach herself. Her background is a cocktail of wall-street finance and West Coast somatic healing, and she writes with a voice that is both honest and deeply empathetic. She helps one navigate the shame many feel when their “spark” has faded, treating it not as a failure, but as a standard biological response to stress. Unlike many self-help books that stay in the realm of theory, “The Sure Thing” is a “playbook.” The “Love Ripples” exercises at the end of each chapter turn lofty concepts into Tuesday-night realities. Importantly, the book doesn't leave single people behind. Auerbach emphasizes that pleasure is a personal responsibility, and her “Solo Sure” sections are some of the most empowering parts of the text. Auerbach’s writing is punchy and occasionally irreverent, preventing the “somatic” and “mindfulness” talk from feeling too “out there” for the casual reader. She uses clear, vivid metaphors to describe the body's response to intimacy, making complex psychological concepts accessible. If there is a hurdle to this book, it’s the required commitment. Auerbach is clear: this isn't a “quick fix” or a “hack.” She asks for a fundamental shift in how you prioritize time. For couples deeply entrenched in conflict or severe avoidance, the initial leap into “The Sure Thing” ritual might feel daunting. “The Sure Thing” is for anyone who feels like their intimate life has become a “should” instead of a “want.” It’s an invitation to stop waiting for the mood to strike and start building the fire yourself. Previous Next

Book review of Bellosio: An Age of Miracles by John F Shekleton . ISBN: < Back Bellosio: An Age of Miracles John F Shekleton Sci-fi, Fantasy Mo Keijuk Press Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a world where three intelligent primate species vie for power, a young princess must navigate treachery and alliances to reclaim her throne and save her empire from impending war. John F. Shekleton’s "Bellosio: An Age of Miracles" is an epic fantasy that dives the reader in a world where destiny and divinity collide. Set on the planet Bellosio, the world-building story begins by introducing the creator "Cog" and the three intelligent primate species it has nurtured. This foundation sets the stage for a period of political turmoil, intellectual doubt, and looming threats that challenge the very fabric of their society. The narrative intertwines the journeys of several key characters. At the center is Princess Danaba, whose life is upended by an assassination attempt and a father paralyzed by grief. Forced to confront her destiny, she transforms from an uncertain heir into a fierce warrior princess. Her struggles are mirrored by Undiro, a mystical abbot who must navigate the political chaos of the capital while grappling with the potential "Great Withdrawal" of the Cog's power. The rising action is a complex dance of alliances and betrayals, as characters like the scheming Count Selwin and the enigmatic Bordor, a youth with special abilities, work to shape the empire's future. The book’s climax is a series of strategic maneuvers and intense battles that culminate in a dramatic confrontation. Danaba proves her worth on the battlefield, leading an assault to reclaim her home, while Bordor rises to a position of power, poised to lead his faction into a new era. The resolution finds Danaba, now empress, facing the daunting task of rebuilding the empire and forging new alliances. The story concludes with a sense of hope, as the characters embrace their destinies and look toward a new, unified future. Overall, "Bellosio: An Age of Miracles" is a blend of political intrigue, mystical elements, and character development. For the patient reader, this high fantasy novel is a rewarding read for those who appreciate more complex themes. Previous Next

< Back New Political Thriller "Are You a Patriot?" Reimagines the American Hero July 5, 2026 at 11:03:39 AM With the United States celebrating its semiquincentennial (250th anniversary), a provocative new novel is stepping into the cultural spotlight to challenge the very definition of American patriotism. Are You a Patriot? , a high-stakes political thriller co-authored by award-winning entrepreneur Donald Thompson and acclaimed cultural historian Bob Batchelor is scheduled for release on September 15, 2026. The novel marks the debut of the Xander Hale series. Along with the announcement, the publishers have officially unveiled the book's cover, designed by eminent artist Brad Norr. At the center of the novel is Xander Hale, a self-made Black corporate titan who built an empire uncovering the truths that powerful institutions preferred to keep buried. Living in an America that has historically marginalized him, Xander's world is upended when the nation crosses a dangerous, irreversible line. Suddenly, the man who spent his life navigating a biased system is drafted to defend it. The stakes could not be higher: if Xander refuses to help, the country burns; if he agrees, it will cost him the person he loves most. The core question driving the narrative is as timely as it is heavy: Would you risk everything to save a country that never loved you back? "Xander Hale is the hero I kept looking for, but never found: a Black corporate titan asked to defend a system built to break him. This is more than a plot device. Millions of Americans are living it." — Donald Thompson, Co-Author Are You a Patriot? is being positioned as a rare breed of thriller: one that marries the propulsive, adrenaline-fueled pacing of authors like Lee Child, Mark Greaney, and David Baldacci with the profound moral weight and social commentary of Walter Mosley and S.A. Cosby. The novel represents a unique collaboration between two distinct, highly accomplished voices: Donald Thompson: An EY Entrepreneur of the Year honoree, multi-exit CEO, investor, and author of the acclaimed leadership memoir Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success , an Independent Press Award (IPA) Distinguished Favorite. Thompson infuses the character of Xander Hale with authentic corporate-titan DNA. And, Bob Batchelor: A cultural historian, Coastal Carolina University professor, and author of more than 35 books (including Stan Lee: A Life and The Bourbon King , an Independent Press Award (IPA) winner). Batchelor lends the story its deep historical framework and dramatic gravitas. "Our novel revolves around a central question that we all face: would you risk all you have to save the nation?" Batchelor noted, adding that fans of political thrillers will find a "fellow-traveler" in Xander Hale as he heads on an action-packed collision course with history. The release is a landmark moment for Market First Publishing (MFP), serving as the flagship launch for the company’s new fiction imprint. Josh Schwartz, CEO of Market First Publishing, expressed high expectations for the title's release: "Donald and Bob have delivered a provocative novel: a political thriller that matches high-octane pacing with genuine cultural substance. This is the benchmark for the kind of fiction MFP will publish." Though the book won't hit shelves until September, a passionate community is already rallying behind it. The Are You a Patriot? Facebook Group has already amassed more than 21,000 members, signaling massive grassroots anticipation for the thriller. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Learn more about Angela Harris < Back Angela Harris Finding Love in the Margins: One Author's Journey to Redefine Romance A healthy teenage passion for romance novels, Angela Harris began writing at 13. Yet, as pages turned and stories unfolded, a glaring absence became impossible to ignore: where were the stories that reflected her community? Where were the tales of love and desire that resonated with women of color? This question, posed in the heart of a young writer, would shape a lifelong mission. Early attempts to bridge this gap were met with a disheartening response. A major publishing house, Harlequin, in a moment that would define her path, asserted “that Black women were content reading about white women but the reverse wasn't true” Harris expressed, “so they didn't see a need for a novel that looked like other communities.” That dismissal, rather than extinguishing the flame, ignited a fire. It was then Harris knew she had to create the stories that represented the kinds of stories she longed to read. And so, she did. With a pen as her weapon and a heart as her guide, she embarked on a journey to craft romance novels that centered the experiences of women of color. More than mere escapism, these stories are woven with biblical principles, offering a framework for navigating the complexities of real life with grace. The "Where the Heart of a Woman is a Taste and Touch" series is a testament to this unwavering dedication. Each page is a celebration of love, desire, and the pursuit of healthy relationships, all within the context of the unique challenges and triumphs faced by women of color. "My writing is more than just a passion; it's a calling," she explains. "I write to inspire women to believe love and desire”, to know that they are worthy of fulfilling “healthy relationships,” and to see their own stories reflected in the pages of a book. In a world where representation matters, this author's work stands as a beacon of hope and affirmation. She has taken the perceived limitations placed upon her and transformed them into a powerful platform for storytelling. By weaving faith and real life situations into her romance novels, she has created a unique space within the genre. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Book review of Clarity: When Everything Suddenly Becomes Crystal Clear by Crystal Leonardi . ISBN: 978-1763614895 < Back Clarity: When Everything Suddenly Becomes Crystal Clear Crystal Leonardi Memoir, Spirituality, Health, childhood cancer Bowerbird Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A mother's traumatic journey through her young son's brain cancer diagnosis and treatment reveals family resilience, the power of community support, and the enduring hope that emerges from unimaginable challenges. Crystal Leonardi’s memoir, "Clarity," is far more than a simple chronological account; it is a raw, deeply personal testament to a family’s fortitude as they navigate the devastating world of childhood brain cancer. Dedicated with profound admiration and love to all who fight, survive, and mourn the loss that comes with pediatric cancer, this book centers on the author's young son, Sebastian, who was diagnosed with brain cancer at the tender age of two. "Clarity" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the true impact of this disease and the incredible strength it demands. The start is the trauma of the initial diagnosis, marking the beginning of a relentless, overwhelming journey. Leonardi structures the book to reflect the rollercoaster nature of their reality, detailing the immediate move from Far North Queensland to Brisbane to access critical medical care. What makes the book particularly compelling is the inclusion of updates—messages sent by Leonardi and her husband, Sam, to their network. These excerpts provide unfiltered glimpses into Sebastian's medical procedures, capturing the dizzying pendulum swing between desperate fear and fleeting moments of hope and relief. This structural choice lends an immediate, visceral honesty to the storytelling. While focused on Sebastian's fight, Leonardi broadens the scope to examine the ripple effects of a cancer diagnosis. She is unflinching in discussing the strain on family dynamics, the monumental challenge of maintaining a sense of normalcy for Sebastian’s siblings, and the constant emotional and logistical juggling required of the parents. Here, the memoir shines a light on the crucial support systems, celebrating the tireless dedication of medical professionals and the invaluable haven provided by the Ronald McDonald House. At its heart, "Clarity" is built on the indomitable themes of positivity and resilience. Leonardi champions the power of love and community support. Her writing style ensures the story reaches a broad audience, offering both emotional solace and practical insight for other families facing similar crises. By detailing the medical complexities alongside the emotional toll, Leonardi achieves a rare level of raw honesty that makes the memoir deeply insightful and moving. Ultimately, "Clarity" is a book that transcends the genre of medical memoir. It captures the essence of love, hope, and unwavering parental determination. It is recommended not only for those connected to the world of childhood cancer but for anyone who needs a powerful reminder of the strength found in adversity. Previous Next

< Back Beyond the Page: Decoding the London Book Fair 2026 May 2, 2026 at 11:28:59 AM The London Book Fair (LBF) 2026, held from March 10–12 at the iconic Olympia London, delivered another year of the trade show for rights deals and networking. In addition, it marked a historical pivot for the industry, serving as the launchpad for the National Year of Reading and a battleground for the defining debate of the decade: the “Human-First” AI revolution. With an estimated 30,000 visitors and 1,000 exhibitors, LBF 2026 transformed Kensington into a bustling hub of literary activism and technological forecasting. The fair’s dominant narrative was dictated by the National Year of Reading (themed “Go All In”). Against a backdrop of declining literacy rates and a “reading for pleasure” crisis, industry leaders sent a clear message: books must be treated as a public good, not just a commodity. Joanna Prior, CEO of Pan Macmillan and Chair of the National Literacy Trust, delivered a stirring “Reading Crisis” keynote arguing that the decline in reading is a more immediate threat to the industry than Artificial Intelligence. Tom Weldon, CEO of Penguin Random House UK, outlined a vision for the industry to “seize a once-in-a-generation opportunity” to re-engage the public through schools, libraries, and local communities, with the aim to refill a pipeline of readers. If 2025 was about the fear of Artificial Intelligence, 2026 was about its application. The Tech Theatre was the most crowded corner of the fair, focusing on “Practical AI” that reduces friction in editorial workflows and improves accessibility. In one of the fair’s most talked-about moments, the “Don't Steal this Book” initiative saw 10,000 authors “publish” empty books. This silent protest targeted tech companies using copyrighted works to train Large Language Models without compensation. Audible CEO Bob Carrigan celebrated 20 years in the UK, showcasing how AI-powered alt-text and intelligent sound design are making literature more accessible to the visually impaired and neurodivergent audiences. Other notables were authors Alice Oseman, Jo Nesbo, and Mike Gayle on the continuation of the “YA Boom”; and still readers are craving “human-centric” storytelling. For sustainability, Mary Glenn (UN Publications) maintained that decarbonizing the supply chain is no longer optional; Net Zero by 2040 is the target. In the area of emerging voices, Sanjee de Silva (Sweet Cherry) offered a poignant reminder that independent presses are at the forefront of regional and diverse representation for emerging voices. As the fair concluded, three trends emerged that will likely dominate the global publishing circuit through 2027: Publishers are moving away from “AI-generated content” and toward AI-supported production (automated metadata, alt-text for images, and rights management). A significant focus on Georgian literature and indigenous languages (Gaelic, Welsh, Irish) signaled a shift toward hyper-localism in a globalized market. Led by the UN, there is a renewed push to use books as tools for climate literacy, ensuring that sustainability isn't just about paper and ink, but the content itself. LBF 2026 proved that while the tools of the trade are shifting toward silicon and code, the heartbeat of the industry remains the “human-first” connection between an author and a reader. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Indie Bookstores Gain Ground in Audio Ecosystem with Bookshop.org Expansion July 9, 2026 at 9:32:53 AM Independent bookstores have officially widened their battlefront against big-tech retail dominators. Bookshop.org , the online marketplace built to support local booksellers, has launched a native audiobook subscription service. The rollout represents an aggressive move into a digital audio sector traditionally dominated by Amazon’s Audible. Under the new model, readers can purchase and stream audiobooks directly through the native Bookshop.org app via a credit-based subscription priced at £12.99 per month. Crucially, independent bookstores again receive a dedicated share of the profit margin from every credit purchased, transforming what was once a threat to physical storefronts into a regular, recurring digital revenue stream. "Audiobooks are a vital part of the book industry’s growth, and we are excited to give readers a better, more ethical way to buy them," said Nicole Vanderbilt, Managing Director of Bookshop.org UK. "There is no reason for them to turn to Amazon now." To bridge the gap between digital convenience and the tactile appeal of brick-and-mortar browsing, the launch features physical audiobook "listening stations" piloted in select independent shops. These installations allow customers to sample digital audiobooks in-store, bringing a highly digital format directly onto the physical high street. This native platform expansion complements the company's broader digital ecosystem push. In the U.S., Bookshop.org maintains its long-standing partnership with Libro.fm , an independent platform that channels 100% of its audiobook profits directly to local shops. Additionally, Bookshop.org recently partnered with Spotify to integrate an in-app "get the printed edition" feature for audiobook listeners, pulling digital traffic back into physical bookstore economies. The move into proprietary audiobooks follows an impressive growth trajectory for the B-Corp certified organization, which reported just under $70 million in revenue last year—a 55% increase over the previous year. With over $46 million distributed to local stores since its 2020 inception, Bookshop.org ’s new audiobook platform closes a crucial loop, allowing local, independent retailers to finally capture market share across print, e-book (announced early 2025 ), and audio formats simultaneously. Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Book review of A PANGOLIN SLEPT ON BUDDHA'S LAP: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conservation by Madeleine Dale . ISBN: 979-8889105695 < Back A PANGOLIN SLEPT ON BUDDHA'S LAP: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conservation Madeleine Dale New Fiction Austin Maccauley - US Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest The meticulously worded title - A Pangolin Slept on Buddha’s Lap: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conversation - contains everything the reader needs to know about this book. Its beautiful cover filled with oranges and greens invoke the naturalism on display throughout the story. In short, it prepares the reader for a timely discussion of our relationship with nature and the perils that await us. A Pangolin Slept on Buddha’s Lap: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conversation by Madeleine Dale juxtaposes the importance of wildlife conservation with the ambitious drive so often associated with human nature. The protagonist, Wolf Vandengetz, is good at his job as a research scientist. Unfortunately, he’s too good and his talent for blending into the landscape - both literally and figuratively - earns him a promotion, taking him away from the pride of lions that he has built his life around. In his place is Moira, a postdoc, who makes a bad impression immediately upon her arrival to replace him as she shares a few changes she wants to make after Wolf leaves. This opening dovetails nicely with Wolf’s new obsession as the book opens: a new male lion is trying to take down the old sire and become a new leader of the pride. Moira’s arrival gives Wolf a similar taste of this as she tries to usurp not only his research but his place studying the Serengeti. Shortly after, Wolf leaves his beloved lions behind and heads to Nepal to head a program that works to save endangered pangolins. Wolf’s new environment may be different physically, but the same problems abound - reminding the reader of the complexity that comes with raising awareness for threatened species using capitalist methods. Establishing these opposing dichotomies early on in the novel works beautifully throughout the rest of the narrative, as it invites the reader to consider the answer isn’t as easy as we believe, which is a lesson Wolf learns as well. EcoWild, the organization Wolf works for that claims to center its resources toward environmental activism, is constantly in the background as the reason for Wolf’s globe-hopping adventure and the lurking presence of gala benefits, donors, board members, and pseudo-celebrity researchers. Wildlife conservation costs money, yet Wolf struggles with the performative aspects needed to keep the research alive. The novel carries a hint of intrigue worthy of a good thriller as Wolf begins to unravel the politics and players that threaten the pangolin and its future: corruption, greed, and poachers. Wolf is a worthwhile protagonist for the novel’s complex narrative. He represents the traditional, natural way to approach conservation - as a collaborative effort for the greater good. Wolf makes numerous attempts to decolonize conservation efforts - the reader is introduced to his value system at the beginning as he tries to maintain natural methods of tracking the lion pride while working with the Maasai - but is constantly at odds with those trying to advance their own ambition. We see Wolf at odds with Armand Barda, director of EcoWild, when he remarks to himself that Armand is motivated by the prestige of the organization rather than the wildlife. Later on, when Wolf is called to help defeat the poachers, he struggles with the idea of using force when his true motivation lies in putting the pangolins first before the needs of people, including those wanting to help. Visceral language and powerful imagery are the highlights of this novel. Madeleine Dale’s talent for descriptive narration and strong character development are the perfect match for a story that emphasizes the delicate balance between humans and nature. This book is a fascinating exploration into the fragile ecosystems that bind us together as the reader and Wolf serve as both participants and observers throughout the book. The idea that fortune changes quickly, for both human and animal, is not lost on the reader as uncomfortable conversations surrounding conversation efforts disguised as personal pride take center stage. A Pangolin Slept on Buddha’s Lap: A Novel about the Wonders of Wildlife and the Trials of Conversation by Madeleine Dale is a passionate call to action to be proactive in a world that emphasizes survival and reactive behavior. Previous Next

Book review of Where Despair Comes To Play by Clifton Wilcox . ISBN: < Back Where Despair Comes To Play Clifton Wilcox Mental illness, paranoia, isolation, psychological torment Windward Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest Haunted by the voices of his own mind, a man spirals into madness within the confines of prison, where paranoia, delusion, and dissociation turn his reality into a deadly game that threatens not only his sanity but the lives of those around him. This is a book that doesn't just explore the dark corners of the mind—it builds a harrowing, inescapable cell within them. An introspective psychological thriller, the narrative follows Malcolm Rowe's terrifying descent into madness, characterized by a raw, unvarnished style. The story begins in the suffocating confines of his apartment, a setting that perfectly mirrors Malcolm’s growing mental isolation. The core conflict is externalized through the introduction of internal voices: Paranoia, Delusion, and Dissociation. These personifications are more than mere symptoms; they are active antagonists, systematically eroding Malcolm’s reality and self-trust. The initial stages, detailing his futile attempts to silence the noise with routine and logic, create a truly nightmarish sense of claustrophobia. The narrative takes a sharp, compelling turn with Malcolm's arrest, transitioning the action to a prison. This new setting functions as a powerful physical manifestation of his inner turmoil. Here, the voices thrive, manipulating his interactions and perceptions, escalating his torment into a deadly game orchestrated by his fellow inmates. The book’s strength lies in its unflinching depiction of this psychological warfare, pushing Malcolm to the brink of self-harm. The climax offers a crucial turning point, moving beyond mere survival to a moment of profound self-awareness. Malcolm realizes the voices are not external entities but rather crystallized forms of his own deepest fears and hopes. This realization is the catalyst for his fight back, marking the beginning of his journey toward reclaiming control. Ultimately, this is a powerful exploration of the fragility of the human mind and the devastating impact of mental illness and isolation. Yet, the resolution transforms the book from a tragedy into a testament to resilience. Malcolm’s determination to fight the persistent whispers, grounded in his newfound clarity, provides a hard-won glimmer of hope amidst the oppressive darkness. Recommended for readers who appreciate an intense, deep dive into the human psyche. Previous Next

< Back Independent Publishing and Industry Insiders Convene at BookCAMP 2026 for Multi-Day Publishing Conference June 4, 2026 at 8:47:04 AM On April 24–25, 2026, authors, publishers, and literary professionals gathered at the DoubleTree by Hilton near Newark Airport for BookCAMP 2026. Hosted by Printed Word Reviews and publisher Ted Olczak, the multi-day educational conference and networking event aimed to give independent creators the corporate-level strategies as well as the guerilla techniques needed to compete in a rapidly evolving book market. The intensive weekend offered attendees a highly focused curriculum broken down into three specialized learning tracks: The Business Track: Sessions provided deep dives into scaling author brands, licensing global rights, navigating book-to-screen adaptations, and breaking through the logistics required to land independent books onto the shelves of big-box retail giants. The Marketing Track: Industry leaders focused heavily on modern visibility tactics, including building publicity and marketing frameworks, Artificial Intelligence, pitching to independent bookstores, securing national media spots, and capturing market share in the booming audiobook space. The Writing Track: Craft workshops centered on mastering deep point-of-view, structuring sustainable book series, and understanding the specific elements required to secure a traditional or hybrid publishing deal. Beyond the lecture halls, the event served as a high-value networking hub. Authors took advantage of dedicated "Meet the Expert" sessions, scheduling one-on-one consultations with literary agents, printers, marketers and publicists to get direct feedback on their current projects. The weekend’s main event took place on Saturday night, April 25, with a joint gala dinner celebrating the winners of the Independent Press Award and the NYC Big Book Award . Held in the hotel's Garden State Ballroom, the evening featured a cocktail reception, red-carpet photography, and an awards banquet honoring standout independent literary achievements from creators across the globe. Attendees were from four different continents; and countries such as Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Sweden, United Kingdom, and across the United States. With social media feeds on LinkedIn and Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/independentpressaward/ , still buzzing with photos of award wins and shared marketing frameworks, BookCAMP 2026 cemented its reputation as a vital annual accelerator for the indie publishing community. BookCAMP 2027 has been announced for April 9-10, 2027. Tickets available at https://www.ipabookcamp.com/tickets . Reported by Printed Word Reviews Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Learn more about Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing < Back Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing Engagement is key. With an ever increasing number of digital tools available, writers must actively self-promote. The “Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing” panel at Tech Theatre on March 11th offered invaluable insights into the evolving digital landscape. Five industry experts’ discussion explored how writers could leverage emerging platforms and refine their strategies on established ones to build a sustainable and authentic audience. Matt Trinetti and Parul Bavishi, co-founders of the London Writers' Salon, emphasized the power of community building through platforms like Discord and Substack. Their success with the daily Writers' Hour, gathering over 20,000 writers, showcases the effectiveness of creating dedicated spaces for engagement and collaboration. Emma Gannon, a Sunday Times bestselling author, highlighted the significance of Substack newsletters, exemplified by her own popular “The Hyphen.” She stressed the importance of fostering direct connections with readers through curated content and exclusive insights. Her experience also showed how hosting retreats can create a physical community. Georgia Henry, a digital marketing expert and founder of The Pitch Agency, shed light on the transformative impact of BookTok. Her work with major publishers underscored the platform's potential for reaching new audiences and driving book sales. She advocated for an “audience-first” approach, tailoring content to resonate with specific demographics. Rosie Kellett, author of "In For Dinner," demonstrated how personal storytelling and culinary expertise can converge to build a thriving online community. Her journey, from sharing recipes and communal living experiences on social media to launching a bestselling Substack newsletter, illustrates the power of authenticity and relatability. Her upcoming North American publication signifies the reach digital connection can achieve. The panel collectively emphasized the need for writers to embrace adaptability and experimentation. They highlighted the importance of choosing platforms that align with their personal brand and content, fostering genuine connections, and staying abreast of emerging trends. As writers navigate the complexities of modern marketing, these insights offer a roadmap for building a loyal readership. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Read about traditional, independent and self-published authors and books. Contact the publisher Ted Olczak at Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com for questions, comments or solicitations. Printed Word Reviews CLICK LOWER RIGHT HAND ICON (4 arrows symbol) to see the magazine full screen; click again to return BUY PRINT COPIES of a SINGLE ISSUE: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/UPBAJWGCT6KFU Title: Printed Word Reviews, ISSN: 3067-011X (previously 2836-9157) * Frequency: Monthly in 2026 By the professional, for the professional: Title: Book CAMP by Printed Word Reviews, Library of Congress ISSN: 2994-4406 Frequency: Five times annually, Quarterly plus extra issue Issue Dates: Every February; May; August; November Annual print subscription: $79.99 for 12 print issues Annual subscription: $39.95 12 digital issues BookCAMP by Printed Word Reviews Library of Congress ISSN: 2994-4406 Book CAMP by Printed Word Reviews Past Issues 2026 Editorial Calendars, Publisher Ted Olczak, Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com Printed Word Reviews 2026 Editorial Calendar with space deadlines January: Martin Luther King / Preview of Black History Month: POITIER, space due 12/20 February: PWR's Special Issue: SELIMI, space due 1/20 March: Independent Press Award 2026, space due 2/20 April: Discover Indie Books, space due 3/20 April: Awards Ceremony BookCAMP Program, space due 4/1 May: Summer Reads, space due 5/1 June: ALA Preview: DAHER, space due 6/1 July: ALA Special / Awards Photos: FANFARILLO, space due 6/15 August: Down Under Publishing / ALA Wrap-up: FORD, space due 7/25 October: NYC Big Book Award Announcement 2026, space due 10/1 November: Holiday Gift Guide 2026, space due 10/30 December: Last Minute Gifts / Author Interviews, space due 11/20 BookCAMP magazine 2026 Editorial Calendar with space deadlines February: BookCAMP Feb-April 2026, space due 1/12 April: Awards Ceremony BookCAMP Program, space due 4/1 May: BookCAMP May-July 2026, space due 5/1 August: BookCAMP Wrap-up Book Fairs Aug-Oct 2026, space due 7/25 September: BookCAMP, MFA programs / Fall Book Fairs 2026, space due 9/1 November: BookCAMP Nov 2026-Jan 2027, space due 10/5 Contact us. Find out more about: Book Awards Sales & Marketing