In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeleine Cleary and Tina Strachan talk with Ruby Ashby-Orr, publisher at Affirm Press. The discussion covers topics such as Tina's upcoming book release, the importance of pre-orders, strategies for making a compelling book pitch, and insights into the acquisitions process within publishing houses. Ruby shares her journey in publishing, the types of books she finds appealing, and offers practical advice for emerging writers on how to perfect their manuscripts and navigate rejections. The episode provides a deep dive into the collaborative aspects of editing and the intricacies of launching a debut novel. 00:00 Welcome to the Book Deal Podcast00:40 Exciting News from Tina Strachan03:23 Meet Ruby Ashby Orr06:08 Tips for Perfecting Your Pitch08:09 The Importance of Query Letters12:54 The Role of Pitch Events17:31 Ruby's Journey in Publishing21:33 Understanding the Publishing Landscape25:35 Advice for Aspiring Authors27:27 Mastering Manuscript Evaluation29:35 The Importance of a Synopsis32:48 Common Mistakes Leading to Rejection35:17 What Publishers Are Looking For38:44 The Collaborative Editing Process47:10 Understanding the Acquisitions Process51:40 Top Tips for Emerging Writers53:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Links mentioned in this episode:Neeka and the Missing Key by Tina Strachan preorderRuby Ashby-OrrFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author
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54:49
How to win (or nearly win) a writing competition
In this episode, Madeleine and Tina discuss Madeleine's recent experience with the Australian Fiction Prize, including the excitement of being shortlisted and the process involved. They delve into the importance of writing competitions for emerging writers, Madeleine's unexpected phone call from Caroline Overington, the significance of mastering synopses and pitches, and how these elements can significantly bolster a writing career.00:00 Introduction and Catching Up01:22 A Surprise Call from Caroline Overington03:23 The Australian Fiction Prize05:33 Writing and Competitions07:24 The Journey of the Second Book10:16 The Importance of Competitions13:25 The Shortlisting Experience17:30 Managing Expectations and Community Support19:40 The Importance of Entering Writing Competitions19:57 Crafting the Perfect Logline and Pitch20:29 Mastering the Art of Writing a Synopsis21:00 Debate: Writing the Synopsis Before the Story23:44 Challenges of Writing the Middle of a Story24:26 Synopsis Writing Tips and Techniques30:22 The Unboxing Experience for Authors34:39 Upcoming Interviews and Future Plans37:07 Year-End Reflections and Future ExcitementLinks mentioned in this episodeThe Australian Fiction PrizeFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author
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38:11
Katherine Collette on the highs and lows of publishing and how to build resilience
In this episode of the Book Deal podcast, the hosts welcome author and book coach Katherine Collette. Known for her books 'The Helpline,' 'The Competition,' and 'The Too Tall Tales of Alma T. Best,' Katherine shares her insights on writing, pitching, publishing, and marketing. She delves into her own writing journey, discusses the role of perseverance and community, and highlights the highs and lows of becoming a published author. Katherine also offers invaluable advice for debut and aspiring authors, emphasizing the importance of resilience and enjoying the writing process. 00:00 Introduction to Katherine Collette02:44 Katherine's Latest Book: The Too Tall Tales of Alma T. Bess05:26 Transitioning from Adult to Children's Books08:38 The Story of the First Yes13:06 The Importance of Writer's Groups20:44 Navigating the Publishing World24:39 Securing a Book Deal28:07 The US Publishing Experience30:26 A Disappointing Meeting30:56 The Rollercoaster of Publishing31:14 Market Research Insights32:29 Preparing for Book Release33:22 The Emotional Journey of Debut Authors39:36 The Importance of Community44:09 Book Coaching Explained46:29 Top Tips for Aspiring and Debut Authors48:20 Final Thoughts and Personal ReflectionsFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author
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52:46
When is your manuscript ready to submit?
Madeleine and Tina delve into the challenges of knowing when a manuscript is ready to submit, sharing personal anecdotes about their own journeys to becoming published authors. Key topics include the importance of thorough editing, the patience required in the publishing industry, and the benefits of pre-ordering books to support authors. The conversation also touches on the creativity of children and the idea of doing writing workshops to nurture young writers.00:00 Introduction and Catching Up00:42 Bali Trip Highlights01:18 Writing on the Go02:54 Creative Kids and Rainbow Poo05:10 Encouraging Young Writers06:41 Personal Writing Journeys13:54 Reading to Write Better19:06 The Challenge of Writing Pre-Mobile Phone Stories20:59 Knowing When to Submit Your Manuscript21:43 The Importance of Polishing Your Manuscript23:01 Handling Structural Changes and Feedback29:03 The Role of Competitions in Getting Published34:40 The Waiting Game: Patience in Publishing37:15 The Power of Pre-Orders for Authors38:41 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author
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39:13
The Publishing Deal: Publicist Caitlin Lawless
In this episode of the Book Deal Podcast, hosts Madeline Cleary and Tina Strachan interview Caitlin Lawless, the publicity manager at New South. Caitlin shares her extensive experience in the publishing industry, offering invaluable advice to aspiring authors. Topics include the difference between marketing and publicity, building a relationship with your publicist, and preparing for a successful book launch. Caitlin also discusses her journey in the industry, the importance of persistence, and tips for leveraging social media and local festivals to enhance book visibility.00:00 Introduction to the Book Deal Podcast00:40 Meet Caitlin Lawless: Publicity Manager and Author02:07 Caitlin's Journey in the Publishing Industry06:44 Understanding Marketing and Publicity10:31 Building Relationships with Publicists20:33 The Role of ARCs in Publicity Campaigns24:18 High Profile Campaigns and Their Impact26:43 The Role of Social Media in Publicity28:26 Optimizing Your Online Presence30:52 Creating Buzz as an Aspiring Author32:58 The Importance of Community and Networking38:27 Effective Pre-Order Strategies41:14 Navigating Festival Programs45:02 Final Tips for a Successful CampaignLinks from the episode:NewSouth BooksFollow The Book Deal podcast on Instagram The Book Deal podcast (@the_book_deal_podcast) • Instagram photos and videosYou can find out more about Tina and Madeleine and follow their journeys here:Tina Strachan (@td_strachan) • Instagram photos and videosTina Strachan children's book authorMadeleine Cleary (@madeleineclearywrites) • Instagram photos and videosMadeleine Cleary | Author
Australia