Enter to #Win cool literary toys from MamaKopp!

The Holiday Season is fast approaching, and if you're anything like me, you've got a lot of people to buy for and not a whole lot of ideas about what to get.

I'm a big fan of giving gifts made by Indies of all kinds - whether they be authors, potters, cooks, or crafters. Supporting folks who are working for themselves gives me a double dose of Holiday Spirit!

So, I thought I'd shamelessly plug one of my favorite artisans and then give away a fun Harry Potter toy set appropriate for children or decorating your writing space, which is totes what I would do with it. ;)

My friend Lorilee makes Waldorf-inspired toys and has a popular store on Etsy. Check out some of  her awesome work!

This is the Harry Potter set that is up for grabs:

The giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents only. (Sorry!)


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stacey Wallace Benefiel is the author of the Zellie Wells trilogy, the Day of Sacrifice Omnibus, Found, Crossing, the upcoming Frayed, The Toilet Business - a collection of humorous essays, and multiple short stories. She sometimes goes by S.W. Benefiel or Reina Stowe, but knows she's not foolin' anybody. Stacey lives in an orange house in Beaverton, OR with her two kids who have old people names. When she's not writing, thinking about writing, or driving the kids around, Stacey is at CrossFit, lifting heavy things and cursing the inventor of the Burpee.

Secrets to Planning a Rockin' Twitter Party

I know consider myself a Twitter Party Addict. I have managed three of my own and hopped on the bandwagon of over twenty of them.

It's a great way to spread the word about your book and to play as an 'appetizer' to a larger launch party.
 
THE LAUNCH

Who says you can only have one book launch party? Well I say, have many. This is the main event for your book. You've been building up to this for months. Doing it on multiple platforms will afford your book a lot of visibility. But even though Twitter is always hopping, you need to promo it a bit.

THE BUILDUP

I usually start my book launches that include a Twitter Party, Blog Party and Facebook Party with a mini-blog tour which includes all the authors who will be part of my Facebook Virtual Launch Party. We do this to build up the buzz.

About 6 weeks before the party all of the authors involved in the big Facebook Party event tweet about the Twitter Party coming (using a hashtag for the book title & a link to our Party Map Page).

The mini blog party kicks off 1 week before the Twitter Party. It's used to build awareness of all of the book release events coming. The Twitter Appetizer Party (which runs the Friday before the Facebook Party) is used to drive even more traffic to the book sales pages for participating authors.

The Giveaway announcement. We run a giveaway announcement on twitter (a daily tweet from each participating author) with link to Party Map Page which has the schedule of the mini-blog tour, the Twitter Party, Facebook Party, links to all books, and rafflecopter.


THE TWITTER APPETIZER PARTY

We call it an appetizer because it's the night before the big Facebook Party event (which usually last for 8 hours on a Saturday and is run by a number of authors not limited to the launch guest of honor).

These usually last 3 hours. Three hours is enough time to run 3 trivia games, intro the book, shout out for prize winners and share links to big party coming the following day on Facebook.


The trick though is to have about 3 other people who you KNOW will be there to help you keep the party going, promo the party, and invite others.

A neat way to make sure you know who's coming is to use the mini-blog tour to build an invite list and later tweet a reminder to participants.

PARTY MUST DO LIST

For a twitter party to work, you need to have the Trivia Questions, links, etc preset (you can use hootsuite or socialoomph to do this in advance). This makes things much easier and allows facilitator to just do promo, invite tweets, and personal interaction with crowd.

Announcing the party should be done 60 to 30 minutes before by the 3 party facilitators. Invites to fans who are on twitter at the time & share a party favor if they show up is a great kickoff. Have a main prize of about $25 gift card that you will give out at end of night.
 
Kick off party with party jargon, a swag giveaway like bookmarks, introduction of participating authors, book, book trailer. Then start the games. Try to stick with games that are themes of the book. In between shout out a reminder about follow-on Facebook party, shout out winners and 'thank you' to participants before running next game. Sticking to 10 questions for each trivia works.
 

Trivia ideas. Movie lines, guess that tune, caption picture contest and many more depending how creative you are.

WOULD YOU GO TO A TWITTER RELEASE PARTY?


by LM Preston, YA & MG Author, http://www.lmpreston.com/

Do Page Counts Matter with Ebooks?

Boy is this a moving target now with the rise of the ebook revolution.

Let's take a peek at what the standard word count range is for Print Books - especially if you are trying to pursue a Literary Agent then a publisher.

However, its best to break it down by genre - in PRINT Books:


Overall for Adult books:
80,000 – 89,999 words

Chick lit
70,000-75,000 words


SCI-FI AND FANTASY
90,000-100,000 words

MIDDLE GRADE
32,000 – 40,000 words

YOUNG ADULT
55,000 – 69,999 words

MEMOIR
80,000-89,999 words

PICTURE BOOKS
500-600 words

NOW with the rise of the ebook all of the above is different if you DON'T PLAN ON PRINTING the book.

Short Stories: 
25,500-45,000

With short story formats in ebooks rising many authors don't need to hit the higher word counts above for adult books in order to make the reader happy.

WHY THE STRINGENT cap on word count?

Well as authors we love to get lost in the story, but for a publisher to PRINT a book and EDIT a book the cost to benefit rises by page/word count. Therefore the Publisher has to pay more to print the books which means the PROFIT hurts with the larger word novels if the publishers wants to COMPETITIVELY PRICE the book for sale with other books in the genre.

As a SELF-PUBLISHER or SMALL PRESS does this matter?

Yep, it does, because you still want your print release prices to be competitive and the lost in prices as the page count rises isn't worth it for a small press just starting out. HOWEVER, if you only plan on releasing a book in ebook you have much more flexibility.

by: LM PRESTON
www.lmpreston.com

Making Your Readers put you in the Re-Read Pile

I want it. I would absolutely love it if my readers would treasure my book and place it in their re-read pile. But the question is, what books to you keep? Buy in paperback so you will never lose them. Or do you purchase in ebook and keep it for reading on the fly?

WELL....

I’ve been doing some downsizing lately since we moved. And I had to make some hard decisions when it came to keeping my paperback books that have to be crammed into my measly two bookcases.

So, I decided to only keep the books that I knew that I would read again. And they are quite a few that I decided I would read again. Books that I read once, had a good ride, but didn’t think I would stick with it another round, they were donated to the library.

PAPER BACK BOOKS I was least likely to take off my shelf were:

Non-Fiction: There is a difference here because my paperback books do take up space. The books that survived and kept their space on my bookshelf were the non-fiction ‘how to’ books and the cookbooks. They didn’t even have to compete.

Poetry: As for my fiction titles, I held on to my books of poetry, which came in 2nd place because I love reading poetry and my family does have a poetry speak talk once in awhile where we recite our favorite pieces of poetry outloud.

Hard to Find Again Books: Yep, those Conan books, and comic books turned full length novels, I held on to them.

Fiction Series Titles: Series that I enjoyed each book in the series (which meant I wanted to re-read every book in the series). If there was a series where there was even one of the books I didn’t want to re-read, I donated the series.

Picture Books and Middle Grade Fiction: I kept these since my younger kids still prefer to read with a book in their hand.

EBOOKs I was least likely to take off my shelf:

Series: Here is where I don’t mind keeping a series in which I didn’t like as much.

Fiction: All of my fiction books that I liked or thought my daughter would like, I keep on my device so I can share the book with her.

MY CONCLUSIONs

I’m more likely to hold thousands of ‘only read once’ books on my ebook device since it doesn’t cost me to keep them and I can archive them. Also, I figure if I’m bored and run out of books to read, I can always find time to read that ‘okay’ book that I haven’t read in 5 yrs.

However, I’m less likely to want to keep non-fiction books like cook books or How To’s on my reading device because I like to write in those books.

As for genre’s I’m more likely to keep my picture books and Middle Grade books on the shelf since my younger kids still prefer to have the book (only because I refuse to buy them an ereader though).

SO…WHAT STAYS ON YOUR READING SHELF? Paperback or Ebook?

by LM Preston, www.lmpreston.com 

Selling Beyond the Reader

So now you figured out you are a publisher? Well figure out ways to sell your stuff beyond just to the end reader.

YES, making money selling your books to readers is great. But the big returns also come when you sell your Subsidiary Rights! That means all the other ways to sell your book. Large publishers have been doing it for years. It's one of the main reasons having a Literary Agent and a Traditional Publisher seems appealing even to an Indie Publisher because entry into the untapped markets of Subsidiary Rights sales isn't easy at all.

Here's some tips from John Kremer, author of 1001 Ways to Market Your Book


SUBSIDIARY RIGHTS

The sale of subsidiary rights is a major source of money for traditional book publishers.


John Kremer states the reasons why publishers should pursue these:

Rights Income will help pay for printing and promos
Make money on your books even before they are released
The sales of these rights increase buzz about your books
The sales of these rights give credibility to your book
More sales create additional sales for other titles
The more sales in this area makes it easier to get booksellers to pick up the book
Movie and TV rights will increase sale of your released book and subsequent books from the author


John Kremer gives tips on selling these rights:

Create a contact list to include buyers for, serial, audio/video, reprints, book club rights and more by category.
Cold call, email, postcard mail these sources to let them know of your upcoming book
Send out review copies with marketing plans, media kits to these prospects
Approach more than one lead at a time
Follow-up with call or face to face visit
Take your time and prepare for the unexpected
Feature rights for sell on your publishing focused website
Get a rights agent that works with publishers


When an author signs a contract with a publishing house, they generally grant the publisher ‘volume rights’ within certain territories. This gives the publisher the right to publish the book in certain formats. The royalties relating to hardback, paperback and sometimes trade paperback (a larger paperback format) editions will be spelled out.

There will be clauses in the contract covering all the other rights. These are the ‘subsidiary’ rights granted to publishers and can also be referred to as sub-leases.

DO YOUR RESEARCH - THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX - and pursue other ways to sell your books.

By: LM Preston, YA and MG author, www.phenomenalonepress.com

Growing An Indie Small Press - Your Own Way

You heard that saying, "Rome wasn't built in a day."

Well it's true about ANY business and most businesses take about 3 years to show what their true potential is. Three years to know it's market, to fine-tune it's product and to be comfortable with who they are.

FIRST STEPS

When we started our small independent press I was super excited. But my partner made it clear that we would take it slow. Create a business milestone for each year. Our goals for our first year are different than many small presses or indies are that you see around on the internet who start off as mainly small or indie ebook publishers. We had big dreams of breaking into the 'trade' and establishing ourselves as a small press that had books in bookstores, libraries, and other outlets.

How did we do that? Well we joined Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) and started networking, learning how to build in that direction. We had to give our business a presence of its own and Phenomenal One Press was beginning to gain that. In addition we decided to wait before presenting our company's product to the trade via Publishers Marketplace and Foreign Rights fairs because we wanted to have more products available for presentation when bringing up our publishing page on Publishers Marketplace, PubMatch, and pursuing subsidiary rights or Foreign rights sales.

Another friend of ours started theirs small indie publishing company focused on the end consumer (reader) market and started publishing their content or books in only ebook formats since that format was cheaper for publishing. Then they waited until their books gained popularity before offering Paperbook formats. Since then she now offers her book in hardcover formats and audio books. But she added a format each year.

LEARNING TO WALK

Most serious businesses start with a business plan - or goal sheet for what they hope to accomplish. Ours was initially a tall order for our first year. Produce 2 books in non-competing genre, promote them and become known in our regional area as a small press. You know what ... we did it. Not only that, we did more. But the great part was, independent book publishers were becoming more visible and there was a realization that they all weren't bad.

Also, with being a member of IBPA, Maryland Writers Association and Mid Atlantic Book Publishers Association I began meeting people who owned small independent presses like mine or that 'self-published' like we were doing and they found considerable success and acceptance within their markets by doing so. That was the support that our small independent press needed.

WALKING UPRIGHT

This year we are starting our two-year establishment plan. We finally think we are ready to present our products more seriously to the trade. Now we are on Publishers Marketplace. And this year will be pursuing sales of our books for Subsidiary Rights and Foreign Rights. Which we've been studying up on for the last year.

Also, now I am the Vice President of MBPA (Mid Atlantic Book Publishers) and I believe whole-heartedly in sharing the knowledge. And am working with our board members to have a Subsidiary Rights Fair we are planning for June 2nd the weekend before BEA to prepare our members for the coming Foreign Rights Fairs coming up later this year. Our president, Mary Shafer did an amazing feet and invited some very knowledgeable people to our meeting to teach us about pursuing these exciting avenues towards sales.

Now we are walking taller. We've come a long way. In the next year we are hoping to add additional authors to the fold. 2013 proves to be exciting. But we still have some growth.

SO, if you SELF-PUBLISH, start a SMALL PRESS or want to,
DO YOU HAVE A PLAN?

Goals on how you are going to grow your business? If you don't join others that can help you, mentor you, and encourage your business. And remember, a PUBLISHER is someone that edits, prepares, and presents items for sale.

by: LM Preston, Middle Grade and Young Adult author, www.lmpreston.com

Being An Author Opens Doors You Can't Imagine

WRITING IS A DOOR THAT OPENS TO…

Meeting others. In my desire to do my best to write that one novel that will expose me to a larger audience I searched around my city for a writers group. I found a few and I joined them all. Maryland Writers Association, The Romance Writers (I just hang out a few of their meetings), The Columbia writers group (I found them off of www.meetup.com) , the Black Writer’s Guild, Mid-Atlantic Book Publishers, and Independent Book Publishers Association, Critique Circle, AbsoluteWrite.com/forum and YaLitchat.org. All of which I joined not to meet people but to learn about writing. But throughout the years I’ve met tons of amazing and best-selling authors who’ve further inspired the best from me.

Speaking Platforms. Did you know you don’t have to be a bestselling author to get speaking gigs? Well you don’t. Matter of fact, sometimes you don’t necessarily even have to have anything published. You can support others to becoming published and be able to speak about this. I never knew this before I started speaking and touring for my books. I have met people who have spoken at events (maybe for free or even sometimes paid) that support the art of writing by being a long standing board member of writerly organizations, being a freelance editor who edit books of other authors, or someone that organizes and promotes authors and such. Sometimes just starting to write something and exposing yourself to people in the business gains you knowledge that you can share on the speaking circuit.

Gives you something to talk about. I’ve met quite a few writers that have been writing their novel for over 5yrs or even more. They sometimes admit that they may never finish but love to just write. They often share their challenges with their writing and their triumphs and from one author to another I totally understand that writing is like putting together a puzzle. Some people like to finish it, others like to widdle at it. But in both cases, it is pleasurable and freeing.

Can Support Other Goals. There are many people in my day time career and some of my peers that love their career areas in medicine, engineering and social services. They’ve found it a necessity to have a published work to support their speaking or to give to peers on their subject matter. Many of them don’t like to write. But they’ve worked with writing coaches to help them write books, pamphlets, support documents and white papers to share. Sometimes this has turned into a profitable venture for them. Believe it or not, many of these folks self-publish their materials and make a pretty penny on speaking and selling these items to their guest.

SO….

With all I’ve shared about writing and being an author, what has just putting pen to paper have exposed you to? Or grown in you? Are you a Blogger who has a following or a writer who’ve met great friends in your journey or a student who wrote a story that moved your class. Please share.

by: LM Preston, www.lmpreston.com author of Purgatory Reign, Thundering Luv, The Pack series, Bandits series and Explorer X series.

Starting out Indie

(photo source)

I get emails from a few friends who were like me, querying for years with a lot of bites from agents, but no contract. They see my books hit the best seller lists and stellar reviews on Amazon and want to know "How does self-publishing work?"

I can't say that I recommend self-publishing for everyone, but the longer I've gone Indie, the more I don't know if I could ever go back. But after a year of doing this gig, there are some definite things I wish I knew when I started.

1.) Your book needs an editor. You may have awesome grammar skills and have had eight critique partners read your masterpiece, but another set of eyes that is attached to it never hurts. An editor doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg, you can pay anything from $100-$1000 depending on the editor and if you need a lot of editing or just some proofreading.

2.) A kick butt cover can sell your books. When looking for covers for my next New Adult book, I thought of doing it on my own, but I don't have the eye that the professionals do.  I hired the awesomesauce Steven Novak for my alien series and I'm using Mae I Design for my New Adult (since she has the market cornered on "panty dropping" covers). A cover can cost you anything from $50-$1500, depending if you also want to do print and if you are using custom photography, etc.

3.) Paying for a blog tour is worth every penny. I did do my own blog tour for How to Date an Alien and My Paper Heart, the problem? I didn't know that many bloggers who would take the book on, some didn't post on the day they were supposed to, etc. I finally decided to use blog tour organizer for my last alien book and she brought me thirty people that hadn't read my books who were interested in participating. It opened my book up to a new audience and now I can have those contacts for future book reviewing. There are many blog tours out there and you can go for as little as $30 for a few stops or even up to $300 for massive like multiple month tours with multiple stops.

4.)  Learn to format properly or find someone to format it. I learned to format my first ebooks and the paperback process took me almost a whole day to figure out. There are services that will do it reasonably, but you have to figure out what software is available and if you just can't get the right formatting to upload your word doc or epub file, then maybe it's time to hire someone. These can costs anywhere from a bout $20-$50.

5.) Stop reading reviews. It's tempting and there will be some that will gush for your books, but the ones that hate it will bring you to tears for no reason. I remember reading one for My Paper Heart that attacked me as an author and said they literally wanted to slap me. I wanted to cry, wanted to respond to the reviewer, but I held back, because nothing good ever comes from responding to a reviewer that writes something negative (as we've seen the stories).

6.) You wont be an overnight success. Yes, there are some Indie authors that do make those tremendous overnight successes, but then there are those that have a slow build up and rock it (M. Leighon had 14 books out before she made the NY Times best seller list). If your books don't sell, don't give up, just keep writing and keep on trucking.
*******************************************************************************

Magan Vernon is a Young Adult and New Adult writer who lives with her family in the insurance capital of the world. She is in a very serious, fake relationship with Adam Lambert and constantly asks her husband to wear guyliner. He still refuses. She also believes her husband is secretly an alien, disguised as a southern gentleman. You can find her online at www.maganvernon.com Or check out her awesome book covers and purchase her books at all online retailers including Amazon and Barnes and Noble

10/9/12 #indiechat transcripts - The Alliance of Indie Authors..

adrianaryansc I'm here--hi, guys! #indiechat -9:01 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Hi guys - on #indiechat and starting to talk about importance of community with indie authors. -9:01 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @Froze8 Fancypants! #indiechat -9:01 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @chandahahn it's nice to finally meet you, Chanda. I've heard so many FABULOUS things about you. #indiechat -9:01 PM Oct 9th, 2012

MundieMoms RT @srjohannes: Hi guys - on #indiechat and starting to talk about importance of community with indie authors. -9:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @adrianaryansc welcome! glad you could make it. and thanks for spreading the word. #indiechat -9:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB RT @srjohannes: Hi guys - on #indiechat and starting to talk about importance of community with indie authors. #indiechat -9:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @chandahahn I had to send myself a calendar alert! #indiechat -9:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper Helllooo! *waves* I'm multi-tasking while watching The Voice! :) #indiechat -9:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes IN a few minutes @ornaross will stop by to talk about a great new community - the alliance of indie authors! #indiechat -9:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @JessieHarrell Thanks! :D #indiechat -9:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

HeatherSunseri Good evening #indiechat. I'll be popping in and out. Having to work tonight. -9:03 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @Stacey_WB Thanks! I'm always working to get more authors involved. Author Birthday Bash, interviews, giveaways. It's been great. #indiechat -9:03 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley #indiechat Sorry I'm late. -9:03 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom Aloha everyone! Did I miss anything? #indiechat -9:03 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @bytefulcom you're right on time. #indiechat -9:03 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Building Community and offering support and cross marketing was why The indelibles got together and started #indiechat -9:03 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley Cool RT @srjohannes: Building Community and offering support and cross marketing was why The indelibles got together and started #indiechat -9:04 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Lisa_Nowak Hey everyone! #indiechat -9:04 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper And for the record: I LOVE the indie community. I've met so many awesome peeps. Authors, readers, bloggers, etc. #MuchLove #indieChat -9:04 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell just looking at the great folks who show up for the chat, I'm feeling all community-supported right now! #indiechat -9:04 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Stacey_WB is it about a community of writers & peers or a community of fans & readers? #indiechat -9:04 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley @Karen_Hooper Hi Lisa #indiechat -9:04 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Welcome @ornaross! #indiechat -9:04 PM Oct 9th, 2012

HeatherSunseri @srjohannes And you guys are doing a great job over at The Indelibles. Thanks for that. #indiechat -9:05 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Hello all. Greetings from London where it's 2am. But v happy to be here! #indiechat -9:05 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley @OrnaRoss Hello to London! #indiechat -9:05 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @OrnaRoss Oh, wow! TY for being here! :D #indiechat -9:05 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Here is a link to Alliance of indie authors -http://t.co/XUfye1kw every1 should check it out! #indiechat -9:05 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss OMGosh - thank you so much for being awake for us in the middle of the night!! #indiechat -9:05 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Orna can you tell us why you started it and what it does? #indiechat @ornaross -9:06 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @srjohannes I'd love to get to know more groups like the Indelibles, anyone know of any other great author groups? #indiechat -9:06 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell RT @srjohannes: Here is a link to Alliance of indie authors -http://t.co/K176CU2D every1 should check it out! #indiechat -9:06 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @Lisa_Nowak Hey! #indiechat -9:06 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss We started because we felt there was a need for a nonprofit association of indies. Collaboration is so important #indiechat -9:06 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @Karen_Hooper Yay indie! #indiechat -9:06 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @KatGirl_Studio Indie Writers and peers http://t.co/rjTUHflM #indiechat -9:06 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper Aww Ü• Thanks! RT @HeatherSunseri And you guys are doing a great job over at The Indelibles. Thanks for that. #indiechat -9:07 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @OrnaRoss Thanks for coming! #indiechat -9:07 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio still hoping an Indelibles spot opens up in the future... someday... #indiechat -9:07 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes RT @OrnaRoss: We started because we felt there was a need for a nonprofit association of indies. Collaboration is so important #indiechat -9:07 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss And we wanted to offer advice from worldclass advisors. And other things that indies can't do for ourselves. Like foreign rights #indiechat -9:07 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc I'm excited because I've been a long-time follower of @janefriedman and she's part of it. #indiechat -9:07 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss what sort of support do you offer to Indies? #indiechat -9:07 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley For sure RT @OrnaRoss: Started because we felt there was need for nonprofit association of indies. Collaboration is so important #indiechat -9:08 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Stacey_WB ok, just checking because the topic could have been referencing either one #indiechat -9:08 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper @OrnaRoss Cheers! I love jolly old England. Lovely of you to join us. :) #indiechat -9:08 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes The alliance offers many benefits - potential foreign rights support, expert advice, and more! #indiechat -9:08 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom Has anyone tried CreateSpace's preview feature? Apparently it let's you share a few chapters and get feedback. #indiechat -9:08 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss I wish I'd know about you guys months ago! #indiechat -9:09 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley That's good to knowRT @srjohannes: The alliance offers many benefits - potential foreign rights support, expert advice, and more! #indiechat -9:09 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes I just started my registration process today! #indiechat. havent been on email yet though! :) -9:09 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Education, advocacy, cross-collaboration. We see ourselves too as a bridge with libraries, book clubs etc #indiechat -9:09 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @bytefulcom no, I haven't seen that. I do like their new 3D book previewer though #indiechat -9:09 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc I'm tired of supposedly helpful organizations looking to fleece indies. Alli seems v. different. #indiechat -9:10 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley Wow! RT @OrnaRoss: Education, advocacy, cross-collaboration. We see ourselves too as a bridge with libraries, book clubs etc #indiechat -9:10 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss can you give Indies some advice on the best ways to find community, be it the Alliance or elsewhere? #indiechat -9:10 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @adrianaryansc Thank you. I think we are different. All very committed to indies and working hard to make a difference. #indiechat -9:10 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell Amen! RT @adrianaryansc: Im tired of supposedly helpful organizations looking to fleece indies. Alli seems v. different. #indiechat -9:10 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio I think I've found all my web communities through twitter. #indiechat -9:11 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Our advisors are world-class, we are so lucky to have them. And everything is free to members. because we are nonprofit #indiechat -9:11 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam I'm a member of YA Indie. We all blog about publishing, and we're looking for new members to blog once a month: yaindie dot com #indiechat -9:12 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss how do you help Indies connect with libraries? #indiechat -9:12 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley RT @JessieHarrell: @OrnaRoss how do you help Indies connect with libraries? #indiechat That's a great question. -9:12 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss what's the role of the advisors at the Alliance? how do they contribute? #indiechat -9:12 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @JessieHarrell Here in the UK we work with the reading agency. We will be looking to do similar in US #indiechat -9:12 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @srjohannes I just signed up as well! What a great organization. #indiechat -9:13 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @chel_c_cam hi!! *waves :) Congrads on everything! #indiechat -9:13 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @JessieHarrell Once a month, we have a free helpline, where people can bring their personal issues. Also our blog & handbook #indiechat -9:13 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @JessieHarrell Good Q! Also, is it true that most libraries will accept donated copies of a book, even if u use a CS custom ISBN? #indiechat -9:13 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Our blog is http://t.co/sGCmVZLS. #indiechat -9:14 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam @srjohannes Thank you so much! I'm completely overwhelmed right now :) #indiechat -9:14 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss #indiechat And The Indie Authors Daily also -9:14 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @OrnaRoss Link's not working for me? #indiechat -9:14 PM Oct 9th, 2012

screennamesbite RT @srjohannes: Hi guys - on #indiechat and starting to talk about importance of community with indie authors. -9:14 PM Oct 9th, 2012

naty79r RT @OrnaRoss: Our blog is http://t.co/sGCmVZLS. #indiechat -9:15 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @adrianaryansc which link? #indiechat -9:15 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @OrnaRoss The blog link #indiechat -9:15 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley RT @adrianaryansc: @OrnaRoss The blog link #indiechat Didn't work for me either. -9:16 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @Stacey_WB Thanks Stacey! We do our best! #indiechat -9:16 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes here is the link again to check it out! #indiechat http://t.co/UZIPApRV -9:16 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @adrianaryansc http://t.co/PRPaZxkO #indiechat -9:16 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley RT @srjohannes: here is the link again to check it out! #indiechat http://t.co/B4yWDpDL Thanks, got it! -9:16 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @OrnaRoss TY! #indiechat -9:17 PM Oct 9th, 2012

HeatherMcCorkle Hey all, what's the topic tonight? #IndieChat -9:18 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @JessieHarrell I think now community for indies is about finding your niche. Twitter is a great place to start. #indiechat -9:18 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio I think cross promotion is a great idea. I got a few indie friends together this past spring and we made a sampler eBook #indiechat -9:18 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc Is Alli targeted at beginning indies or those already published? #indiechat -9:19 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio ...and distributed it for free across the internet. #indiechat -9:19 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @JessieHarrell Being open to giving is the key. This really is a learning-by-doing-and-sharing community. #indiechat -9:19 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley RT @KatGirl_Studio: ...and distributed it for free across the internet. #indiechat That's great! -9:19 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @HeatherMcCorkle Indie community #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BrinaCourtney just lurking, but wanted to say hi #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss The indies who do best are the indies who work together for each other. Like the indelibles. #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @BrinaCourtney Hi right back at you! #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

HeatherMcCorkle @Stacey_WB Ah, excellent, thank you. #IndieChat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes i think you have to have published one book but look at the membership choices RT @adrianaryansc: #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @BrinaCourtney hey there - feel free to lurk away! #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

HeatherMcCorkle @KatGirl_Studio Great idea! #IndieChat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell RT @OrnaRoss: The indies who do best are the indies who work together for each other. Like the indelibles. #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam @BrinaCourtney Hi Brina! #indiechat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

HeatherMcCorkle RT @OrnaRoss The indies who do best are the indies who work together for each other. Like the indelibles. #IndieChat -9:20 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @srjohannes We also have an associate membership for studients and those preparing a book for publication #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio we took a 2-7 chapters from each member's book and gathered them together in one eBook. #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @OrnaRoss Are you then hiring people here in the US to do this work? #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

ericalindquist I've been in my own little corner of self pubbing for a while and am interested in reaching out. What is a good way to do that? #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @JessieHarrell Can I give a shoutout to a link to a book excerpt if I'm looking for feedback? Still relatively new to #indiechat :) -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes awesome! @srjohannes We also have an associate membership for studients and those preparing a book for publication #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @KatGirl_Studio A sample of each of your novels, you mean? #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Professional membership is for those who make their living from their indie writing #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell excited that I'm now signed up for Alliance e-mails. LOVE when info comes to me. :) #indiechat -9:21 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam @ericalindquist This chat! Great way to meet new people :) #indiechat -9:22 PM Oct 9th, 2012

HeatherMcCorkle @ericalindquist Joining this chat is a great start! #IndieChat -9:22 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @bytefulcom no not just my books. 6 of us together. #indiechat -9:22 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @KatGirl_Studio Was this before you each had published? If not, how much did it affect your sales? #indiechat -9:22 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @chel_c_cam Absolutely. It's always great to meet new indies. #indiechat -9:23 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @bytefulcom is the book published already or are you looking for a beta or CP? #indiechat -9:23 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley RT @KatGirl_Studio: @bytefulcom no not just my books. 6 of us together. #indiechat How did it do? -9:23 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @ericalindquist I think you've come to the right place. And we'd love to see you in the Alliance. #indiechat -9:23 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio You can see the sampler here and download it free for Kindle http://t.co/WURmNBQK #indiechat -9:23 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @chel_c_cam What @ericalindquist & @heathermccorkle said ^_^ This is my 2nd or 3rd #indiechat and I learn something every time. -9:24 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @OrnaRoss @srjohannes What about those working in publishing but not planning on publishing (though maybe it will happen) #indiechat -9:24 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell RT @KatGirl_Studio: You can see the sampler here and download it free for Kindle http://t.co/OuuPYPCe #indiechat -9:24 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @Froze8 We work mostly with volunteers, because we are nonprofit. many of our advisors and community builders are in US already #indiechat -9:24 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam My book Whisper is in there RT @KatGirl_Studio: You can see the sampler here and download it free for Kindle http://t.co/fi2IW1tA #indiechat -9:24 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @ericalindquist #Indiechat! :D -9:24 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @bytefulcom no this was after. Just released it this past June. #indiechat -9:24 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc One thing that's been challenging for me has been finding non-YA authors to cross-promote. :D #indiechat -9:25 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @Froze8 They can join as partner members. This is for service providers etc. #indiechat @srjohannes -9:25 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BrinaCourtney @chel_c_cam hey! #indiechat -9:25 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @chel_c_cam yep yep it is. I even updated it recently with my new book cover. #indiechat -9:25 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @adrianaryansc What genre is your book? #indiechat -9:26 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio Jessie & Chelsea are both in it too. #indiechat -9:26 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss RT @JessieHarrell: excited that I'm now signed up for Alliance e-mails. LOVE when info comes to me. :) #indiechat -9:26 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @OrnaRoss Adult dystopian. It will be out in December. #indiechat -9:26 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @adrianaryansc try WLC - they are for everyone but they have a large adult group http://t.co/rP5rzNhu #indiechat -9:26 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley @adrianaryan #indiechat I write MG and just released a chapter book. What genre do you write? -9:26 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio I'm hoping to put together another one for this winter in time for x-mas #indiechat -9:27 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley RT @adrianaryansc: @OrnaRoss Adult dystopian. It will be out in December. #indiechat Congrats. Well, we can't cross promote each other then! -9:27 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @OrnaRoss My mom is a director of a non-profit so I understand the importance of volunteers! #indiechat -9:27 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @OrnaRoss Neat! #indiechat -9:27 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss RT @chel_c_cam: @ericalindquist This chat! Great way to meet new people :) #indiechat -9:28 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @srjohannes TY for the recommendation. I'll check them out. #indiechat -9:28 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @LynNerdKelley No, unfortunately not! :'( #indiechat -9:28 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @KatGirl_Studio I loved not only being in the sampler, but reading everyone else's stories 2. of course, it added to my TBR list #indiechat -9:28 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley RT @adrianaryansc: @LynNerdKelley No, unfortunately not! :'( #indiechat I hope you find some others in your genre to cross promote with. -9:29 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @Froze8 yes, we could not exist without our volunteer advisors and community builders. And MeetUp organizers. Always seeking.... #indiechat -9:29 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell do you have another book you'd like in sampler 2? #indiechat -9:29 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss I'd love to hear more about the MeetUps. how do those work? #indiechat -9:30 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @OrnaRoss Do you do meetups in the States, too? I'm joining Alli as soon as I can! #indiechat -9:30 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BrinaCourtney @JessieHarrell can you explain this sampler to me? sorry I missed the beginning... #indiechat -9:30 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss RT @JessieHarrell: @KatGirl_Studio going indie adds massively to your TBR list! :All good! ) #indiechat -9:30 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio Other cross -promo events I've participated in were launch parties and cover reveals. #indiechat -9:30 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @JessieHarrell Not released yet. What's a CP? I was looking for feedback on my final revision draft. #indiechat -9:31 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Im doing 1-"Jingle all the YA " sampler w/group of YA authors. trying some new stuff with it. Comes out in Nov! @KatGirl_Studio #indiechat -9:31 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @BrinaCourtney @katgirlstudio put it together. it's a comp of the start of 6 stories from 6 authors in a free download #indiechat -9:31 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @adrianaryansc Yes. We've been piloting this and now welcoming new groups. Florida got organised today. #indiechat -9:31 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB RT @OrnaRoss: RT @JessieHarrell: @KatGirl_Studio going indie adds massively to your TBR list! :All good! ) // ha ha sooooo true #indiechat -9:31 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell I know right. I still need to read everyone's books, I'm so behind. #indiechat -9:31 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @OrnaRoss How awesome! #indiechat -9:31 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @srjohannes coolness. If you'd like to be included in ours too just let me know. #indiechat -9:32 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @bytefulcom CP = critique partner. sounds like what you need. go ahead and ask if anyone is looking. give genre & link ok. #indiechat -9:32 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam @KatGirl_Studio You're not alone :) #indiechat -9:32 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @adrianaryansc My book is basically YA, but I'm pretty new to cross-promotion. What are some ways you're cross-promoting? #indiechat -9:32 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss RT @srjohannes: Im doing 1-"Jingle all the YA " sampler w/group of YA authors. Comes out in Nov! @KatGirl_Studio #indiechat -9:32 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell SQUEE! I'm in Florida. RT @OrnaRoss: Florida got organised today. #indiechat -9:33 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @chel_c_cam lol I'm sure the wedding didn't help either. Only 18days left to go. Eeek! #indiechat -9:33 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @adrianaryansc It truly IS awesome. Seems like every day something wonderful happens. Just love the indie community. So giving. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @JessieHarrell There's a lot of acronyms in this business, aren't there? :) Cool, I'll tweet it out next. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @OrnaRoss Hmm, I run Pacific NW YA Authors in Portland, OR/ Vancouver, WA - we could work together? We get together often. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @JessieHarrell Do you know @duolit? #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes eek whe and where! :) RT @JessieHarrell: SQUEE! I'm in Florida. RT @OrnaRoss: Florida got organised today. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @KatGirl_Studio 18 days??? So excited for you. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley @KatGirl_Studio How exciting! #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Froze8 @bytefulcom @adrianaryansc RTing other authors things can be a form of cross-promo #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper ME TOO! #FLgal sRock RT @JessieHarrell SQUEE! I'm in Florida. RT @OrnaRoss: Florida got organised today. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc @bytefulcom I'm doing excerpt in back of my book with another dystopian author. Also will be hosting on my blog. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes agree! RT @OrnaRoss: seems like every day something wonderful happens. Just love the indie community. So giving. #indiechat -9:34 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BrinaCourtney @JessieHarrell very cool idea #indiechat -9:35 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @OrnaRoss I follow them on twitter. they did a chat with us a few weeks back. are they in Florida?? #indiechat -9:35 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom Is anyone looking for a critique partner? I'd love to get more feedback on my upcoming SF adventure novel. http://t.co/2JLv5bLl #indiechat -9:35 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @srjohannes: @JessieHarrell: It will be organised by @duolit Venue to be confirmed. Was in Orlando but likely to move #indiechat -9:35 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell had my first dress fitting today. They still have to take more out of the waist so I have to go back next week. #indiechat -9:35 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @Karen_Hooper you and I need to have our own conference. at Disney. With penguins and cocktails. #indiechat -9:36 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam This, so much this. RT @OrnaRoss: seems like every day something wonderful happens. Just love the indie community. So giving. #indiechat -9:36 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes they are in st augustine! RT @OrnaRoss: @srjohannes: @JessieHarrell: It will be organised by @duolit Venue to be confirmed.#indiechat -9:36 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @JessieHarrell @duolit are indeed in Florida. Nice synchronicity there! #indiechat -9:36 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @KatGirl_Studio make 'em get it right. I had to cry to get them to do the alterations I wanted, but it worked. #indiechat -9:37 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc I love @duolit...they're so helpful. #indiechat -9:37 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @srjohannes how did I not know that? that's right around the corner from Jacksonville. #indiechat -9:37 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes For those just joining we R talking on importance of community as indie author. @ornaross is founder of Alliance of indie authors #indiechat -9:37 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @srjohannes Is St Augustine good for you? Are you in florida too? #indiechat -9:37 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell can I come? I mean Disney, penguins and cocktails, who could say no? #indiechat -9:37 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper @JessieHarrell YES! conference at Disney. With penguins and cocktails. I am SO there. #indiechat -9:37 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @OrnaRoss no atlanta but it is not far. Jessie is about 5 hrs from me :) #indiechat -9:38 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell oh this place is pros. they are one of the affiliate shops of the bridal store. #indiechat -9:38 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @OrnaRoss i can helo with Hotlanta GA! :) #indiechat -9:38 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @KatGirl_Studio heck yeah! although only @karen_hooper has exclusive penguin access. #indiechat -9:38 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @srjohannes I love you guys. 5 hours is not far! That takes us to the end of our little island and into the ocean! #indiechat -9:38 PM Oct 9th, 2012

overdunne Hi everyone! Sorry I'm reeeeeally late. :( #indiechat -9:38 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell they already had to take a huge chunk out of the dress. somewhere in the 7-9 inches range. #indiechat -9:39 PM Oct 9th, 2012

AverysBookNook Butting in. If any YA authors would be interested in being featured on my blog (interview, guest post) feel free to contact me! #indiechat -9:39 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @OrnaRoss my husband's family is from Westham #indiechat -9:39 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @AverysBookNook aw you are sweet! #indiechat -9:39 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley @OrnaRoss Do you have a lot of children's writers in the Alliance? #indiechat -9:40 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc I could do Atlanta! I'm about three hours from there. #indiechat -9:40 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @AverysBookNook sure. have any spots in mid to late Nov open? #indiechat -9:40 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @AverysBookNook thanks, Avery! that's very generous of you. I'd love to take you up on that offer. #indiechat -9:40 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Lisa_Nowak @AverysBookNook Okay, how about a blog link? :P #indiechat -9:40 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @srjohannes @adrianaryansc I think I feel an Atlanta MeetUp coming on! #indiechat -9:40 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Ok lets refocus - any more questions for @ornaross on ALLI? Also what other communities are helping you as indie? #indiechat! -9:40 PM Oct 9th, 2012

overdunne @AverysBookNook That would be fun! Fellow Canadian here... #indiechat -9:41 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @KatGirl_Studio dear God. you are a brave woman. I'd be a sopping puddle of tears on the floor. #indiechat -9:41 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell RT @srjohannes: Ok lets refocus - any more questions for @ornaross on ALLI? Also what other communities are helping you as indie? #indiechat -9:41 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell why? #indiechat -9:41 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Battista_j @AverysBookNook Love to be included. #indiechat -9:42 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper @KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell Don't wear expensive shoes. Penguins poop like every 15-20 min. #DownfallsOfPenguinsAtWriterCons #indiechat -9:42 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @srjohannes ... *thinking* #indiechat -9:42 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell @KatGirl_Studio that much cutting? I'd be nervous. and I don't do nervous well. #indiechat -9:42 PM Oct 9th, 2012

ericalindquist I have a question. I *always* needs more editors for my novels. Copy and content. Is that something ALLi can help with? #indiechat -9:43 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell I just want to thank @ornaross so much for coming and sharing her great community with us. I can't wait to join! #indiechat -9:43 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @Karen_Hooper lol. I don't own expensive shoes. mostly i like boy's Vans & $20 sandles. #indiechat -9:43 PM Oct 9th, 2012

adrianaryansc Yes, a big thank you to Orna! #indiechat -9:44 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell Oh.. it's because I had to order a big size to fit my chest. But my waist is so much smaller. #indiechat -9:44 PM Oct 9th, 2012

overdunne RT @JessieHarrell: I just want 2 thank @ornaross so much for coming and sharing her great community with us. I cant wait to join! #indiechat -9:45 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @JessieHarrell basically they chop it off, then reattach all the decorations. They do it all the time. #indiechat -9:45 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Also we have a member event next week with @victoriastrauss about indies choosing good service providers. #indiechat -9:45 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley I'll let all my indie friends know about the Alliance. Thanks so much, Oma. #indiechat -9:45 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chandahahn Thanks @OrnaRoss. Definitely going to check out the link! #IndieChat -9:45 PM Oct 9th, 2012

JessieHarrell awesome! RT @OrnaRoss: Also we have a member event next week with @victoriastrauss about indies choosing good service providers. #indiechat -9:46 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @ericalindquist you can also use @bibliocrunch as a resource #indiechat http://t.co/NH95BC09 -9:46 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @srjohannes I'm pretty good now. have more communities than I can handle really. #indiechat -9:46 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Thank you folks, I enjoyed it. Look forward to linking up. @LynNerdKelley @overdunne #indiechat@adrianaryansc @JessieHarrell #indiechat -9:47 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes RT @OrnaRoss: Also we have a member event next week with @victoriastrauss about indies choosing good service providers. #indiechat -9:47 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @KatGirl_Studio never too many :) #indiechat -9:47 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Addison_Moore Here, very late. Sorry! #indiechat -9:47 PM Oct 9th, 2012

overdunne RT @OrnaRoss: Also we have a member event next week with @victoriastrauss about indies choosing good service providers. #indiechat -9:47 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes @OrnaRoss thank you! #indiechat #indiechat -9:47 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @srjohannes my email box would say otherwise. #indiechat -9:47 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Our twitter handle is @IndieAuthorALLI . So keep in touch. #indiechat -9:48 PM Oct 9th, 2012

overdunne @OrnaRoss sorry I was so late...reading over the feed now. Always looking for more info. :) #indiechat -9:48 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley @OrnaRoss Thank you for all the valuable info and your link. #indiechat -9:48 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper @OrnaRoss Thanks so much for joining us! :) #indiechat -9:48 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes I have also heard of IBPA http://t.co/JDaa107k for self published & indie pubs I believe @lm_preston is a member and loves them. #indiechat -9:49 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley TY, just followed. RT @OrnaRoss: Our twitter handle is @IndieAuthorALLI . So keep in touch. #indiechat -9:49 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Karen_Hooper RT @OrnaRoss: Also we have a member event next week with @victoriastrauss about indies choosing good service providers. #indiechat -9:49 PM Oct 9th, 2012

jclillis @OrnaRoss @ericalindquist Erica, I'm right there with you; definitely want to reach out more. Will check out the Alliance! #indiechat -9:49 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Goodreads has a good self pub community as well http://t.co/SyPdIkDK find what is best for you #indiechat -9:50 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom A final question for all the Indies: If you could start over again, what piece of advice would you give yourself? #indiechat -9:50 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes RT @OrnaRoss: Our twitter handle is @IndieAuthorALLI . So keep in touch. #indiechat -9:50 PM Oct 9th, 2012

srjohannes Here is a list of groups on Goodreads that may be helpful! http://t.co/9CqNVaMT #indiechat -9:51 PM Oct 9th, 2012

jclillis @BrinaCourtney Hi Brina -- nice to meet you! I love anything with the word "cryptid' in it, so I have to check your books out. #indiechat -9:51 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @bytefulcom I don't know about most. I belong to such a wide range of them. #indiechat -9:51 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chandahahn @bytefulcom Get lots of beta readers and a good editor. #indiechat -9:52 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BiblioCrunch @srjohannes @ericalindquist If you have any questions, let us know! #indiechat -9:52 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BrinaCourtney @jclillis sweet! my whole series is about cryptids, or my take on them- I love when I find someone who knows what they are #indiechat -9:52 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB Also, the Indie Book Collective: http://t.co/0cpiA5tR #indiechat -9:52 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss Fantastic! Let's talk @Stacey_WB: @OrnaRoss I run Pacific NW YA Authors in Portland, OR/ Vancouver, WA. We could work together? #indiechat -9:53 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Addison_Moore @bytefulcom Vet a good editing team/Betas right from the beginning. #indiechat -9:53 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley Cool, thank you! RT @srjohannes: Here is a list of groups on Goodreads that may be helpful! http://t.co/lVJo1RLm #indiechat -9:53 PM Oct 9th, 2012

ChristinaFarley RT @srjohannes: Here is a list of groups on Goodreads that may be helpful! http://t.co/9CqNVaMT #indiechat -9:53 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam Amen @bytefulcom Get lots of beta readers and a good editor. #indiechat -9:53 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @bytefulcom Hire a cover professional cover designer and get beta readers. #indiechat -9:54 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BiblioCrunch RT @bytefulcom: A final question for all the Indies: If you could start over again, what piece of advice would you give yourself? #indiechat -9:54 PM Oct 9th, 2012

jclillis @BrinaCourtney I am FASCINATED by them. Okay, following you; we'll need to talk! #indiechat -9:54 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @OrnaRoss Sure thing. I'm signing up for Alliance right now. Gotta write my e-mail. :) #indiechat -9:55 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chandahahn I agree with @Stacey_WB about covers. Don't do the cover yourself, hire someone good. Find a cover that looks good as a thumbnail #indiechat -9:55 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss They are great celebrators of indie books. RT @Stacey_WB: The Indie Book Collective: http://t.co/rdJcTAW6 #indiechat -9:55 PM Oct 9th, 2012

MaganVernon Will not be at #indiechat because I am busy getting spliced. -9:55 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @MaganVernon Heh heh, you missed it kid! #indiechat -9:56 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @Stacey_WB Good advice. Also, I just looked at your site. I'm gonna have to make a "request review copy" page. Good idea! #indiechat -9:57 PM Oct 9th, 2012

BiblioCrunch And if you are having trouble finding an editor, cover designer, or other professional http://t.co/dMshhdZm can help :) #indiechat -9:57 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @bytefulcom I stole that idea from @MaganVernon The only problem is I forget to check it very often. lol #indiechat -9:58 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam You CAN do your own covers, but you have to be willing to put in time to learn how to do it. It's not a weekend project. #indiechat -9:58 PM Oct 9th, 2012

KatGirl_Studio @BiblioCrunch hey hey. i need help with my account. #indiechat -9:59 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chandahahn @bytefulcom You do get what you pay for. Use an editor that other indie authors recommends. #Indiechat -9:59 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @Addison_Moore Yep. & I have friends who are very literary & have been reading. Should I still spend the big $ for a pro editor? #indiechat -9:59 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @Addison_Moore I was also thinking about hiring a local english teacher or something. #indiechat -9:59 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chandahahn @bytefulcom Also I learned there is a huge difference between proffessional editors and fiction editors. I've been burned. #Indiechat -10:00 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB @chel_c_cam Yes! I was not and never will be capable, but lots of authors are great at making their own covers. Know thyself. :) #indiechat -10:00 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam @bytefulcom Pay the money for an editor. You will not regret it. You will regret NOT having a professional. #indiechat -10:00 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @chandahahn So avoid editors that only edit fiction? #indiechat -10:00 PM Oct 9th, 2012

LynNerdKelley #indiechat I need to go. Launching my chapter book tomorrow! Last minute deets. This was a great chat. Thanks! -10:00 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @bytefulcom No, you need a pro. An english teacher or literary friend does not understand the needs of book business #indiechat -10:00 PM Oct 9th, 2012

Stacey_WB Gotta go bust out the word count and start listening to the proofs for the Glow audiobook. Fun chat! Thank you @OrnaRoss #indiechat -10:01 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss @bytefulcom Make sure also that they know your genre and come highly recommended. It's worth every penny. um, cent. #indiechat -10:01 PM Oct 9th, 2012

chel_c_cam Just a good thing to remember that all these tips are just that, tips. They're not iron-clad rules. #indiechat -10:01 PM Oct 9th, 2012

bytefulcom @OrnaRoss I thought the needs of my readers came first. If I'm self publishing, shouldn't their enjoyment of the book come first? #indiechat -10:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012

OrnaRoss So true RT @chel_c_cam: @bytefulcom Pay for an editor . You will not regret it. You will regret NOT having a professional. #indiechat -10:02 PM Oct 9th, 2012