We take a two episode dive into audio books. In the first part we discuss the options facing indies, such as wide or exclusive, self produce or collaborate etc.USEFUL LINKS: Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career. https://www.indiewritersclub.com/supportSelf Publishing Launchpad Waitlist:https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/launchpad
--------
34:12
--------
34:12
051 - How to Plot Your Next Novel
There's no correct way to plot, but here are our suggestions.Mentioned in the pod were my 5 points to note during plotting - see below the links.USEFUL LINKS:Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support Novel November - a new way to write a novel in Novemberhttps://prowritingaid.com/novel-novemberFive Plotting Points to help Guide You:1. Conflict and stakes Identify the main conflict that drives your story forward Ensure the stakes are high enough to keep readers engaged Consider both external conflicts (between characters or characters and their environment) and internal conflicts (within the characters themselves)2. Character arcs Develop your main characters' journeys throughout the story Ensure each main character has a clear goal, motivation, and potential for change Consider how the plot events will affect and change your characters3. Pacing and structure Decide on the right structure for your story (e.g., three-act structure, hero's journey) Balance action, dialogue, and description to maintain a good pace Consider the timing of key events, revelations, and twists to keep readers engaged4. Causality and coherence Ensure that plot events have a cause-and-effect relationship Avoid coincidences or deus ex machina solutions Make sure all subplots and character arcs are coherently tied to the main plot5. Theme and message DO NOT WORRY ABOUT THEME IN FIRST DRAFT Consider the overarching theme or message you want to convey through your story Ensure that your plot, character arcs, and conflicts all reinforce this central theme Avoid being too heavy-handed or preachy in your message delivery
--------
44:32
--------
44:32
050 - News Round Up
Episode 50 is a good time to take stock of the industry and discuss the latest developments that can affect our indie world.Useful links:LSP Launchpad Course waitlist:https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/launchpadGet your ticket for SPS Live:https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spsliveJoin our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support
--------
47:44
--------
47:44
049 - Your First Two Years as an Indie Author
Let's talk about the author platform you need to build. This episode covers those crucial foundation months as you start out.USEFUL LINKS:Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support
--------
47:10
--------
47:10
048 - Are Facebook Ads Still Number One for Authors?
Welcome to episode 48 of the Indie Writers Club. This week Cara (spicy romance, romance) and James Blatch (thrillers) discuss Facebook (Meta) Ads. For years they have reigned supreme as the goto resource to drive readers to Amazon. But are they still working for writers?USEFUL LINKS:Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/supportAnd join James for a live webinar on book packaging with AuthorNation on Weds 6th August: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/webinar
Cara Clare and James Blatch host a weekly light-hearted chat about all things self publishing. Join the Word Count Club to be a part of the accountability partnership. We'll support each other in getting the words done :)Send in your questions, comments and talking points to our discord channel.