Great questions. I do work a job in addition to writing…actually I work at a publishing house (so my answer to your first question may be a little biased.) I’ve been in great hands in terms of marketing and publicity for Hot Mess. They have worked really hard and came up with tons of creative ideas for the book. I consider myself very fortunate. But, you are definitely right that after you land a book deal, your work isn’t over. You are your book’s best advocate, so you should be doing some of the hustle to make your book as successful as possible. Definitely brainstorm and implement creative promotion ideas, reach out to anyone you know and ask for a favor, and also reach out to some folks you don’t know who you think would be interested in your book. That’s how I got in touch with Lindsey!

I don’t maintain a blog. But, I do take the time to sit down and write several days a week to keep up my writing rhythm. And I know that a lot of writers find blogging to be a good motivation to write frequently. So, I think it would be a helpful tool to aspiring writers.

Thanks for these questions and please don’t hesitate if you have any more.

JK

1. I’ve heard even after landing a book deal, the publisher doesn’t give much help in the publicity department. Has it been difficult for you to advertise? Are you balancing another job aside from writing?

2. Do you maintain a blog to keep up your writing?

Lindsey

I don’t belong to an official writing group for my books. However, I do go to workshops for some shorter pieces. Writing groups and workshops can be very helpful. Sometimes you’re just too close to your own writing to see what needs work and more importantly, how great it is. You’ll be so stuck worrying about that one sentence that feels awkward, that you won’t realize how wonderful the piece is as a whole…and it’s so nice to be reminded of that. Also, a writing group can be a good way to practice taking editorial criticism…which believe me, takes some getting used to.

Hope you find this helpful. Holler with anything else.

Julie

Do you belong to a writing group? In what ways is that helpful?

Thanks for taking the time to answer

I’m glad Lindsay (oops) Lendsay (oops!) Lindsey shared the interview with us.

Kristine