The 12-Month Author Marketing Roadmap: A Step-by-Step Calendar for Growth There are two kinds of authors in this publishing world. Those who market by panic — launching when the book is ready and hoping momentum magically appears — and those who market by design. The first group burns out quickly. The second builds careers. A thriving writing life doesn’t happen by accident. It grows from intentional habits, consistent visibility, and steady relationship-building long before

Email Newsletters for Authors: Building Community Before Your Next Launch In a world filled with algorithms, shifting platforms, and fleeting trends, email might not feel glamorous. But if there is one tool that quietly carries author careers on its back — it’s the humble newsletter. Why? Because social media can introduce you to readers — but email builds a relationship with them. A newsletter isn’t about blasting sales messages. It’s about connection. It’s about being prese

The Art of Narrative Tension: How to Keep Readers Hooked From Start to Finish Introduction   Every writer wants the same thing: for...

Best Writing Contests to Enter in 2026 If you’re looking to sharpen your craft, gain recognition, and potentially land publication opportunities, writing contests remain one of the most powerful ways to stand out. Below is a curated list of some of the most exciting contests to enter in 2026. River Styx Flash Fiction & Poetry Contest  – Respected for pairing new talent with distinguished judges, awarding powerful short-form writing. YoungArts Writing Competition  – Celebrates

Australia’s Must-Visit Book Festivals and Literary Events in 2026 Australia has long been home to a thriving literary culture, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of its most exciting years yet. From bustling city-based festivals to intimate regional gatherings, the calendar is filled with opportunities for readers, writers, and publishing professionals to come together and celebrate the written word. Whether you’re passionate about big-name author talks, discovering new indie v

Building a Book Marketing Funnel When most authors think about marketing, they picture activities that happen in bursts—posting on social media when a book is released, running a giveaway, or sending out a newsletter when there’s something big to announce. But real marketing, the kind that steadily brings in readers and turns them into long-term fans, doesn’t work in random spurts. It works through systems.

Case Study: How One Indie Author Sold 10,000 Copies in a Year Indie publishing has opened a door that was once bolted shut. Today, authors don’t need to wait for a publishing house to greenlight their dreams—they can take their stories directly to readers, often with spectacular results. But while the opportunities are vast, the reality is also sobering: most self-published books sell fewer than 250 copies in their lifetime. That’s why stories of breakout indie success are w

United States Book & Literary Events How to use this guide Most festivals run annually; always check the current year’s dates on the linked pages (some events rotate dates or expand to multi-week formats). Libraries and city cultural sites often host Local Author Fairs  and summer reading kickoffs —great add-ons around the big festivals. Alabama

Upcoming Book Events in Canada in 2026 Canada’s literary scene has always been a vibrant reflection of its diverse culture, and 2026 promises to be no exception. From Québec’s world-class book fairs to Calgary and Vancouver’s lively festivals, the year ahead is brimming with opportunities for readers, writers, and publishers to connect. Whether you’re looking for intimate outdoor gatherings or international literary showcases, here’s a guide to the most exciting Canadian book

Upcoming Book Events in the UK in 2026 The United Kingdom has long been a powerhouse for literature, and 2026 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year for readers, writers, and industry professionals alike. From world-class publishing fairs to intimate community festivals, the UK’s literary calendar is brimming with opportunities to celebrate books in every form. Here’s a guide to the major upcoming book events across the country in 2026.

Upcoming Book Events in the U.S. for 2026 If you’re an author, reader, or literary enthusiast, 2026 promises to be a rich year for book festivals, conventions, and celebrations across the United States. From coast to coast, there are gatherings that highlight every corner of the literary world—fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, children’s literature, and more. Below, you’ll find a guide to some of the most exciting events already announced for 2026.

How to Get Your First Book Reviews For most authors, nothing feels more nerve-wracking than asking for reviews. You’ve poured your heart...