One of the biggest questions for authors is: How much is my book actually worth?   Setting the right price is part art, part business. Price it too high, and you risk scaring off readers. Too low, and you undercut your work and may never recoup your investment. Here’s how to approach pricing in the Australian market — with both industry insight and practical advice for authors just starting out. 1. Understand Your Costs Before you even think about your retail price, you need

Before you start Chapter One, or even write your first word, pause and think like a publisher. Publishing isn’t just about writing a good book. It’s about knowing exactly  where your book fits, who it’s for, and how to make it stand out. That’s called positioning , and it can make the difference between a book that gets noticed and one that gets lost in the crowd. Why Positioning Comes First: Traditional publishers don’t rely on luck. Before they even agree to publishing a ma

There’s more to beautiful book design than a striking cover or clean layout - it begins with type. Fonts are not just decorative choices; they influence how your story is read, perceived, and remembered. In publishing, typesetting, or typography, is a language of its own, one that communicates mood, tone, and professionalism long before a single word is spoken aloud. Whether you’re an indie author formatting your own book, or working with a graphic designer, understanding fon

Not long ago, getting your book stocked in a bookstore was close to impossible. Fortunately, those days are behind us. The rise of professional indie authors - and the high production standards now achievable through modern small publishing houses – like Bowerbird Publishing - has completely changed the landscape. Today, many independent bookstores welcome new titles, provided they meet industry expectations. But earning a spot on shelves isn’t just about having a great book

Happy library go-ers Helen, Veronica, Mary & Crystal Why Authors Should Support Their Local Library For generations, libraries have been the quiet champions of Australian literature - connecting readers with stories, preserving culture, and giving authors a platform to be discovered. For writers, especially indie or emerging authors, your local library is far more than a building full of books. It’s a gateway to visibility, credibility, and long-term literary relationships. H

We’re told not to judge a book by its cover, but readers absolutely do! Your cover is your first (and often only) chance to make an impression, and in a world overflowing with books, visual storytelling  is more important than ever. A well-designed cover does three things: Signals genre:  A thriller, romance, and memoir each have distinct design cues - colour palettes, fonts, and imagery that tell readers instantly what kind of story they’re picking up. Reflects tone:  Types

Copyright can feel like a legal labyrinth, but it’s really about respect - for your work and for the work of others. As an author, understanding what you can and can’t use protects your integrity and your book’s professional standing. In Australia, copyright is automatic - you own the rights to your work the moment it’s written. But when you include someone else’s  words or images, you need to tread carefully. Here’s what to watch for: Quotes:  Short quotes are often fine und

Happy authors, Sandy Davies, Regina Petra Meyer, Crystal Leonardi, Debra Gavranich, Megan Formanek Book reviews are the lifeblood of an author’s credibility. They influence buying decisions, boost visibility, and help readers connect emotionally with your story. But not all reviews are created equal. Start by seeking authentic, diverse feedback  from trusted sources: Advance Review Copies (ARCs): Send digital or print copies to reviewers, book bloggers, and influencers befor

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