Tag: ghostwriter

Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Friday Conversations With A Self-Publishing Writer 10/04/13

Inspiration; Encouragement; Hope; These are the topics that have the non-fiction shelves of the local bookstores overflowing and home libraries expanding.  This is also one of the areas of self-publishing that is a true gift to writers; the place where folks—ordinary folks—are finally able to tell their stories to those who wonder how they will ever survive their current circumstance.

Consider these examples:  The newly released book Oh What A Beautiful Mourning by Roderick G. Peters inspires and comforts our nation as he writes about the events of September 11, 2001—his story of life, history, horror, spiritual growth and development since that day.  Encouragement and inspiration ooze from the pages of Our Kids: Building Relationships in the Classroom by Chris Bowen—each chapter a lesson learned “from our children,” not just the lesson being taught.  And the true story/memoir of Terry Wadsworth Warne, TERRY: The Inspiring Story of a Little Girl’s Survival as a POW in WWII, that details those experiences with heart-rending accuracy while inspiring readers with the hope that they, too, can survive horrific things and live a happy life.

Are you one of those “folks” who has a story to tell?  Early in my ghostwriting efforts, a young man talked with me about an idea for a book that had been bugging him for a long time.  He had grown up on a pinto-bean farm experiencing many hardships and had an “I-almost-died” experience that made me consider the reality of Guardian Angels.  He was “going to” send me some of the handwritten pages he’d collected.  It’s been almost 20 years since then and even though I still recall his vivid descriptions and inspiring outcome—and we still keep in touch at Christmas—I doubt his story will see print.  Sad for him and for the reading public.  He made the assumption that publishing his story would be “next to impossible” and everything stopped there.

I love working with writers who are ready and willing to TELL their true stories.  Authors such as those listed from the book examples above write from the heart to touch the hurting hearts of other ordinary people—just like them.  These books become “helping hands” that reach out to lift up their neighbors, bring comfort and hope.  I applaud them, each and every one!

Then there are the writers who have been inspired by someone in history.  They have researched that person’s life, considered the results of that life-well-lived and want to hold them up as an example of excellence and success.  These stories become the Historical Novels—fictionalize, yet true—that show us the past, while engaging us with inspirational scenarios that can be carried into the present.

Are you the next author of one of these books?  I hope so!  Doing the writing work can take a bit of time, but there are lots of folks ready and able to help you along the way.  The self-publishing industry is growing—and offering more specific assistance—so do your homework when seeking writing and publishing support.  Listen for their passion to help you write and publish what is in your heart.

Royalene ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene Doyle is a Ghostwriter with Outskirts Press, bringing more than 35 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their writing projects. She has worked with both experienced and fledgling writers helping complete projects in multiple genres. When a writer brings the passion they have for their work and combines it with Royalene’s passion to see the finished project in print, books are published and the writer’s legacy is passed forward.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Friday Conversations With A Self-Publishing Writer 9/27/13

Whether you are a novice writer, experienced writer, self-publishing writer, or dreaming of seeing your name on the cover of your book—and haven’t ever submitted a manuscript, anywhere—there is one central piece of advice I was given that I share with you today: NEVER QUIT!

Years ago, when I jumped in to an unexpected teaching position—with both feet and knees knocking—my daughter gave me a poster for my classroom.  In big, bold, bright-colored lettering it read: NEVER NEVER NEVER Quit!  The miracle of learning comes when you least expect it.  The truth of that statement played out many times, and since then, I have translated it into my personal pep-talks when I’m struggling with a writing project.

Ever read any of the stats about famous writers?  Mystery writer Agatha Christie had no formal education yet taught herself to read and eventually wrote at least 66 novels plus numerous short stories, and even movies.  John Grisham’s first novel was rejected 25 times.  Frank Herbert’s science fiction novel Dune was rejected 20 times.  Even Stephen King received more rejection letters than he cares to remember.  And, it has even been documented that Rudyard Kipling received a rejection letter stating: I’m sorry Mr. Kipling, but you just don’t know how to use the English language.  J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter sagas, was turned away by 12 publishers only to be “discovered” by a very small publishing press. 

So, how do writers defeat the nay-sayers and the doubting thoughts that creep in?  We create our own, personalized, Pep Rally points:

  • Listen to your supporters!  Family, friends and other writers from your writing group who know your work and appreciate the story you’ve created can offer you the emotional support you’ll need before you publish and after you publish.Do you read the comics?  Remember when Charlie Brown was trying to kick a football and kept missing?  His good friend, Lucy, held the ball for him so that his perspective changed—just a bit—which helped him succeed.
  • Go to your first outlines and take note of the excellence in your writing! Yes, it really is okay to acknowledge that what you’ve created is well done!
  • Review the research.  If your project is based on a true story, maybe (just maybe) something slipped between the drafts. Then you can enjoy the satisfaction of enhancing the material—on your own—so that you can present the best manuscript.
  •  Re-think your publishing concepts.  If the general, mainstream publishers just don’t “get” what you’re writing, then look to the self-publishing presses. Children’s author, Beatrix Potter was not able to find a conventional publisher who would accept The Tale of Peter Rabbit.  She did not give up.  She self-published!

Someone once told me that “an apparent failure is only an opportunity to begin again; pray, reset, restart, refocus and succeed.”  I haven’t counted the numerous times this has happened in my writing life; however, I can tell you that I’ve never been happier with this gift of writing that keeps my fingers typing.  May you feel this satisfying enjoyment, too.

Royalene ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene Doyle is a Ghostwriter with Outskirts Press, bringing more than 35 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their writing projects. She has worked with both experienced and fledgling writers helping complete projects in multiple genres. When a writer brings the passion they have for their work and combines it with Royalene’s passion to see the finished project in print, books are published and the writer’s legacy is passed forward.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Friday Conversations With A Self-Publishing Writer 9/20/13

One more thought about partnering with a ghostwriter:  Two are better than one.  When you’ve started working with a writing-partner you’ll discover that one person’s idea spawns connecting thoughts in the other person; this collaboration produces a better book.  Much like film-making where writer and director join forces, the author and ghostwriter bring their own unique histories to play in the making of your book.  Thus I have three more criteria for finding that perfect partnership:

1)    Vision:  When you (the author) have formulated your core statement about your book—what it is, what it brings to the reader—does the person you’re interviewing share that vision?  Both you and your teammate should see that picture; have that same goal.

2)    Adaptability:  Some authors think they want a “helper” who will enhance their book by following the manuscript “exactly” as the author has written it.  That is every author’s decision to make; however, they should not waste their money hiring a true ghostwriter.  Employ the Editor who will correct grammar, punctuation, sentence structure; without creative input.

  1. However, the author who wants to explore enhancing their manuscript will be as adaptable and flexible as the ghostwriter they hire.  Their manuscript may, indeed, end up being very close to the original—or—very different with improved plot, character, setting (research required) elements that bring out the author’s inspired ideas.  This is especially true for authors in the Inspirational genre: fiction and non-fiction.

3)    Passion:  Both author and ghostwriter must share a passion for the subject matter of the manuscript.  Every book on every bookshelf was written to “tell something important.”  If the level of commitment is weak, so will be the finished product.

These three criteria also hold true after you’ve written the words: THE END.  Then the search begins for the right publisher.  Notice I’ve used the word right.  From my personal perspective I see too many authors open that door of “hope-they-will-accept-it,” then send out multiple queries to the “big” houses—and wait.  If you know that your book is ready to meet its readers, then step up and employ the best self-publishing company you can find.

There are several quality self-publishers out there (and some not so great); however, this is where you’ll use the same criteria that I’ve outlined in this and last Friday’s blog.  The self-publishing staff will become your book-making-crew—the cameraman, format editor, printer, marketing director.

  • Talk with them and ask for referrals from their published list.  Search their bookstore for two or three books in your genre, then ask for referral/contact information for those authors.
  • LOOK at the books they’ve printed—either at the bookstore or on the Internet.
  • Compare their publishing packages.  This is a competitive business, so don’t be swayed by the first dollar-difference you see between companies.
  • LISTEN to the Author Representatives.  It won’t take you long to discern whether they have a true passion for their work (helping authors like you)—or not.

Bottom line:  As the author, you are creating an alliance of experts dthat starts with you and ends when you hold your finished book in your hands.  “Two are better than one;” and a team that brings all their talents and skills together to produce your book is best.

Royalene ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene Doyle is a Ghostwriter with Outskirts Press, bringing more than 35 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their writing projects. She has worked with both experienced and fledgling writers helping complete projects in multiple genres. When a writer brings the passion they have for their work and combines it with Royalene’s passion to see the finished project in print, books are published and the writer’s legacy is passed forward.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Friday Conversations With A Self-Publishing Writer 9/13/13

Today’s blog may sound a bit technical as my thoughts have turned to the importance of having your work published. The old adage is true: Everyone has a story to tell. There is another saying that is equally true: Everyone is not a writer. And, some of the books that reach the shelves and/or the internet—whether published in the mainstream or self-published—should not be there. The author may have had the best idea on the planet, but could not communicate it well, or chose a genre that does not fit the subject material. Thus the positive impact of the book is lost. Here is where a ghostwriter can make a world of difference.

Finding the right ghostwriter to assist you is likened to finding the right marriage partner. Although this writing relationship may not exist for a lifetime, the connection between writer and ghostwriter must be compatible. Here are a few things to look for when discussing your project with a potential writing partner:

1) It is preferred to meet with and interview the ghostwriter in person. However, if this is not possible, telephone conversations can provide you with enough information to make your selection. I have successfully worked with several clients long-distance yet we have never met in person.
2) Ask for information about their past projects. If referrals are available—authors who will talk with you about their experience with this ghostwriter—this is the best resource.
a. Responsibility and reliability are two key components in a writing partner. When talking with referrals, ask about the timeliness of the ghostwriter’s production work.
b. Your budget is important, too. Although the former clients may not choose to reveal their personal payment plan, you can ask them if they felt they received poor, fair, good or excellent value for the amount paid.
3) As you talk about your project, listen carefully to the ghostwriter’s responses.
a. Are they knowledgeable about your genre of choice?
b. Do they actually hear what you are saying?
c. Do you find it easy to talk with them—as if you are already friends?
4) As the author of your project, you have a distinct writing voice. If you have quickly established a comfortable rapport with the ghostwriter, chances are good that they will be able to identify your voice and use it to enhance your project. This is vital to the authenticity of your book. When you are asked to a book signing and/or speaking engagement, it is essential that you speak in the voice of the book.
5) Your writing partner must have an excellent “handle” on the English language.
a. Grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation all hold a valuable place in communicating with the reader. However, I’m one of those people who believe that the concept of communication is the key component in the use of grammar and spelling skills. This skill must be used in maintaining the author’s voice throughout the book.
b. If you are writing a technical document for publication at the university-level of academia, you definitely need a ghostwriter who has that experience.
c. If you are writing in the genre of historical fiction, romance, mystery, science fiction, memoir, pet stories, cookbooks, etc. then the ghostwriter who loves language for its communication value is the preferred choice.

Bottom line: Harmony between author and ghostwriter is essential and produces excellence.

Royalene ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene Doyle is a Ghostwriter with Outskirts Press, bringing more than 35 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their writing projects. She has worked with both experienced and fledgling writers helping complete projects in multiple genres. When a writer brings the passion they have for their work and combines it with Royalene’s passion to see the finished project in print, books are published and the writer’s legacy is passed forward.
Conversations with a Self-Publishing Writer, Royalene Speaks, Uncategorized

Friday Conversations With A Self-Publishing Writer 9/06/13

Today I’ll step a little aside from speaking with self-publishing authors to encourage all writers—whether published, not published yet, or who never plan to publish yet seem to find themselves “writing little things” all the time.

Last week one of my very, very best friends (yes, I know, it’s not quality writing to use the word very, let alone use it twice; but the truth of it stands as is) passed from this earth. She was one of the people I consider to be an extraordinary writer; one who could write with great empathy whether she was developing a children’s novel, poetry, or creating magazine articles. Her gift of writing extended beyond the written page as she used those intricate, intuitive skills to bring out the best in all the people she knew—whether a writer or not.

I will give my friend the name Annie, so this will read more smoothly.

Annie never wanted to stop learning. This desire sent her back to school in later adult years, where she graduated from college the same year as one of her sons. Of course, her favorite class assignment was writing essays, and she was often acknowledged for the excellent work.

This love and passion for writing was what drew both Annie and me to the same creative writing summer class, which eventually spun itself into the cocoon of our own writer’s workshop. We both fed off the high energy of our eclectic group of writers and were inspired through the many hours of weekend critique and work sessions.

Over these many years, being privileged to know numerous writers, I’ve developed a great appreciation in the uniqueness of each individual. But it was Annie who taught me how to listen to their writing voices and see their unique perspectives—ideas that must be put forth. Yet, that won’t happen—can’t happen—until the writer becomes the author who releases their work for publication.

Much of Annie’s work has been published, especially in her magazine editorial years. But she always returned to her prose writing. At one point Annie became a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers, which helped her hone this specific genre. One story in particular carried such intensity of emotion, woven with the power of colliding circumstances, that I have not forgotten it—in twenty-plus years. The characters were alive and the workable resolutions were clearly demonstrated; inspiring to all of us who were privileged to read the manuscript. However, she never published that novel.

So it is that I dedicate my writings today—in honor of my very, very best friend Annie—and to all those writers out there who are holding tightly to a manuscript that needs to see the light of day. Don’t hold back! If you need help to complete it, call a writing friend, join an active workshop, or find a ghostwriter who shares the passion for your topic, and GET IT PUBLISHED!

Royalene ABOUT ROYALENE DOYLE: Royalene Doyle is a Ghostwriter with Outskirts Press, bringing more than 35 years of writing experience to authors who need “just a little assistance” with completing their writing projects. She has worked with both experienced and fledgling writers helping complete projects in multiple genres. When a writer brings the passion they have for their work and combines it with Royalene’s passion to see the finished project in print, books are published and the writer’s legacy is passed forward.