Mini-Guides for Indie Authors

Why Managing Your Money Matters as an Indie Author

Being an indie author means you’re not just a writer—you’re also a business. Managing your money well is key to staying afloat, planning for expenses like editing and marketing, and ultimately turning your passion into a sustainable career. Good financial habits help you track income, budget wisely, and make informed decisions so your creativity can thrive without the stress of money worries.

To help you get started, here’s a handy file designed to simplify your money management and keep your author business on track.

Productivity & Goal-Setting for Authors

This course is your no-fluff guide to getting words on the page—consistently, confidently, and without burnout. Whether you’re juggling a busy life or battling perfectionism, you’ll learn practical strategies to set smart goals, boost your daily word count, and build a sustainable writing routine that actually works.

Because writing your book shouldn’t take forever—and your story deserves to be told.

Book Blurbs: Your 150-Word Sales Pitch

Your book might be a masterpiece—but if your blurb doesn’t grab readers, they may never crack it open. A great blurb isn’t just a summary; it’s a teaser, a tone-setter, and your most important marketing tool. It needs to hook curiosity, spark emotion, and clearly show readers what kind of story they’re stepping into—all in just a few short paragraphs. Whether you’re writing a sizzling romance, an edge-of-your-seat thriller, or an epic fantasy, the right blurb can mean the difference between a scroll-past and a one-click buy. This guide and worksheet will help you craft blurbs that shine with confidence and sell with purpose.

Why Formatting Your Book Is Essential

Formatting is the bridge between your manuscript and a professional-looking book. It’s not just about fonts and spacing—it’s about readability, consistency, and creating a smooth experience for your readers. Whether you’re preparing for print or digital, proper formatting ensures your story looks as good as it reads. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics step-by-step—and you can use the included worksheet to stay organized as you format your book with confidence.

Getting Your Book Into Bookstores

Our free guide walks you through the essentials of getting your book into bookstores. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your reach, this resource includes a helpful PowerPoint and a customizable template to get you moving in the right direction.

Click here for an excel spreadsheet. To use: click file and make a copy. You can also edit, and copy, and paste into your own excel spreadsheet to use.

Why the Newsletter Matters

A newsletter is one of the most effective ways to stay connected, informed, and engaged. Unlike social media, where updates can easily be missed, a newsletter delivers curated content directly to your inbox—reliably and without distractions. It offers a consistent space for sharing new resources, important updates, and exclusive insights, helping you stay ahead without having to search for the information yourself. Whether you’re looking to learn, grow, or simply stay in the know, a newsletter keeps you connected to what matters most

DBA vs LLC

Choosing between a DBA (Doing Business As) and an LLC (Limited Liability Company) depends on how you plan to structure and protect your business. A DBA is simply a registered name—it allows you to operate under a business name without forming a separate legal entity. An LLC, on the other hand, is a formal legal structure that can offer liability protection, tax flexibility, and credibility. Understanding the differences between the two is key to making the right decision for your goals and risk level.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult a licensed professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Building a Street Team

A street team is a dedicated group of early supporters who help promote your work through word-of-mouth, social media, reviews, and community engagement. Whether you’re launching a book, a product, or a creative project, building a street team allows you to create authentic buzz, connect directly with your audience, and turn readers or customers into advocates. It’s not just about marketing—it’s about cultivating a trusted inner circle that grows with your brand and helps amplify your message from the ground up.

Understanding Trigger Warnings vs. Content Warnings

In today’s publishing landscape, readers crave honesty—and authors who respect their emotional safety. This practical guide is designed specifically for indie authors who want to confidently navigate the world of trigger warnings (TWs) and content warnings (CWs) without compromising their storytelling.

You’ll learn the differences between TWs and CWs, when and where to use them, how to write them effectively, and why they matter—not just for protecting readers, but for building lasting reader trust and avoiding backlash.

Whether you write dark romance, psychological thrillers, horror, or emotional contemporary fiction, this guide will give you the tools to handle heavy themes with integrity, empathy, and professionalism.