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Beginner Author Tips: How to Build Confidence, Find Your Voice, and Finish Your Book
New to writing? These beginner author tips will help you build confidence, discover your authentic voice, and finally finish the book you've been putting off.
Holly Totten
May 116 min read


First-Time Author Advice: How to Go from 'I Have an Idea' to a Finished Manuscript
Have a book idea but don't know where to start? This first-time author advice will walk you from initial concept to completed manuscript, step by step.
Holly Totten
May 86 min read


Tips for First-Time Authors: 12 Things I Wish I Knew Before Writing My First Book
Avoid the most common mistakes with these 12 essential tips for first-time authors. From planning to publishing, here's what experienced authors wish they'd known.
Holly Totten
May 65 min read


First-Time Author? Here's Everything You Need to Know Before You Write a Single Word
Writing your first book? This complete first-time author guide covers everything — from idea to outline to publishing — so you can start with confidence.
Holly Totten
May 46 min read


Autobiography Writing Tips: How to Tell Your Life Story with Clarity and Impact
Want to write your autobiography? These autobiography writing tips will help you structure your life story, find your voice, and create a lasting legacy.
Holly Totten
Apr 296 min read


How Long Does It Take to Write a Memoir? A Realistic Timeline for First-Time Authors
How long does it really take to write a memoir? Get a realistic timeline, honest milestones, and tips to stay on track from start to finish.
Holly Totten
Apr 277 min read


Writing Memoir Prompts: 50 Powerful Questions to Unlock Your Story
Writing a memoir can feel like standing at the edge of a vast ocean, unsure where to dive in. If you’re stuck on where to start your memoir, you’re not alone. That’s why I’ve crafted this comprehensive list of writing memoir prompts designed to spark your memory, ignite your creativity, and help you uncover the moments and memories that matter most. Whether you are just beginning or looking to deepen your manuscript, these prompts will serve as gentle guides to open your stor
Holly Totten
Apr 246 min read


Memoir Writing Tips: 10 Proven Strategies to Write a Memoir That Moves People
Ready to write your memoir? These 10 proven memoir writing tips will help you craft a story that resonates, heals, and connects with readers.
Holly Totten
Apr 226 min read


How to Find the Right Editor for Your Manuscript: A Nonfiction Author's Checklist
Finding the right editor for your manuscript can feel overwhelming. Use this nonfiction author's checklist to hire with confidence.
Holly Totten
Apr 156 min read


What Is Developmental Editing? And Does Your Nonfiction Manuscript Need It?
When you finish the first draft of your nonfiction manuscript, the next big question is: what’s next? You might have heard the term developmental editing, but what exactly does it mean? And more importantly, does your manuscript really need it? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the editing process or unsure about where to start, you’re not alone. As a book coach and editor who has helped many authors refine their stories and ideas, I’m here to walk you through everything you
Holly Totten
Apr 136 min read


Manuscript Editing Services: What Every Author Needs to Know Before Hiring an Editor
If you’re an author preparing to move your manuscript from draft to polished book, manuscript editing services are an essential step. But the process of hiring an editor can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. As a professional book coach and editor, I’ve guided many authors through this journey, and I’m here to help you understand what manuscript editing services include, how to find the right editor, and what typical costs look like.
In this comprehensive
Holly Totten
Apr 106 min read


Self-Publishing Help: When to DIY and When to Hire a Professional
DIY or Hire a Professional Self-publishing your book is an exciting and fulfilling journey, but it can also be overwhelming. One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to DIY your entire self-publishing process or bring in professional help. As someone who coaches aspiring authors every day, I understand how confusing this choice can be. You want to maintain control and save money, but you also want your book to shine and reach the readers it deserves. In this post,
Holly Totten
Apr 87 min read


A Beginner's Guide to Self-Publishing: Everything You Need to Know Before You Start
New to self-publishing? This beginner's guide covers everything you need to know — from formatting to distribution — before you hit publish.
Holly Totten
Apr 66 min read


Self-Publishing on Amazon: How to Get Your Nonfiction Book on KDP
Self-Publishing on Amazon: KDP Guide 2026
Holly Totten
Apr 56 min read


Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing: Which Path Is Right for Your Book?
Wondering whether to self-publish or go traditional? Discover the pros, cons, and key differences to help you choose the right path for your book.
Holly Totten
Apr 36 min read
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