It’s very common for writers to have someone whisper-shriek in their ear, “OH! You should blog if you’re a writer!”
The question we all are obviously asking is…Well?? Is it true? Should you blog if you’re a writer? People say it all the time, BUT WHY, JOHN. What exactly does it do? Is it beneficial? Or is it another thing to make your hair spontaneously light up and explode into dozens of fiery flames?
Since I am, in fact, a blogger and an author, I feel like I’m 14% qualified to tackle this subject. So BUCKLE UP. You’re in for a mouthful of my opinions.
Now obviously I do love blogging because HELLO! I wouldn’t be here typing this and fighting with my broken keyboard * unless I really enjoyed it. But there are pros and cons. So let’s unpack them.
Also FYI: this post is from the point-of-view of a traditionally published author. I’m not speaking for indie authors as I am not one! And this is also from the point-of-view of me, which is dubious at best, and my book is not quite out yet. (73 DAYS TO GO.)
Now let’s get to it.
* Yes it’s broken AGAIN. I have had this new computer (back on warranty) for 3 months and the stupid keyboard types spaces on its own. This is not a sci-fi adventure, you frikkin’ space bar. Settle down and move oNLY WHEN I TELL YOU TO.
QUESTION #1: “DOES BLOGGING HELP YOU GET A BOOK DEAL?”
For me it absolutely did not influence whether my agent or my publisher signed with me. I don’t even think they were aware I was an established blogger until recently. So blogging has a heck of a lot of benefits but PLEASE don’t sit there thinking that if you can only scrounge up 12 followers after a hundred years blogging that you are worthless as a writer.
A publisher is not publishing your blog.
I’m also pretty sure if you said, “Should I work on my book or my blog?” that most people in the publishing world would be like: “uM YOur bOOK OBVIOUSLY.”
QUESTION #2: “SO OBVIOUSLY BLOGGING = NO BIG DEAL THEN.”
No no come back here you little fishling. I’m not finished yet.
Publishing isn’t solely about your book either: it’s about you. Having an online presence is important! Most publishers are here to sell your career, not a single book. Being successful online isn’t a make-or-break thing (I mean did you see how famous The Hunger Games got?! Suzanne Collins isn’t online at all), but it’s definitely somewhere you can:
- give updates on what’s happening with your books
- generate excitement for your books
- lure new readers in sneakily by being a stunningly fantastic person so they go “oh! I must read that author’s book then!”
- sell your books
- create hype for your books
- give teasers
- give recipes for disaster
- conjure leagues of darkness etc. etc.
One of my biggest reasons I blogged pre-being-anywhere-near-to-being-published was so that I could build an army to buy my book when it came out. I wouldn’t be UNKNOWN.
I have no idea if this will hugely affect my sales, but I HOPE! I’ve cobbled together at least 60,000 followers before I signed my book deal, so C’MON ON. If at least 10% of you buy my book, that would be amazing?! I have raised you from the darkness, work with me now, fiends.
For me, blogging = definitely has been beneficial for raising an audience. And now you’re all really curious to see what damage I can do in 300 pages. Trust me: it’s a LOT. Be excited.
Also as an author with autism and social anxiety, I knew waaaay back that I personally wasn’t going to be able to attend book signings or conferences (at least right now). So I’ve put a heck of a lot of work into my blog to try and balance that out.
QUESTION #3: “DOES BLOGGING HELP IMPROVE MY WRITING AT LEAST?”
I have heard people mention that blogging is a good way to practise writing. And my entire opinion on that is: HAHAHAHA no. I do not blog like I write novels. You’ll see bits of me in A Thousand Perfect Notes (examples include cake scenes and a 5 year old who would rather have a pink knife for her pretend-kitchen than a whisk).
But writing for a blog is sooo different to writing for a book?! For me, blogging is about visuals and writing engaging/short/witting posts and using terrible puns at every opPUNtunity. Whereas writing is about creating worlds and engaging characters and putting stories inside stories inside stories. And also using terrible puns at every opPUNtunity. They have that in common thank goodness.
Sometimes I think blogging has made my grammar worse… But that’s not for me to worry about. That’s for my copy-editors to cry over when 70% of my book is typos.
QUESTION #4: “I MEAN, I DON’T EVEN HAVE A LOT OF TIME, CAIT. HOW DO I BALANCE BLOGGING VS WRITING?!”
This is the big question. If you’re in school or work full time…you’re cramming every spare second into your manuscript. I get that! And if you have to choose: CHOOSE YOUR BOOK. In 10 years time, my readers won’t remember I wrote this post, but you’ll still have my book on your shelf.
Unless…you…ya know…let your dog eat it. Or you used it as a plate for your toast. I will try not to be mortally offended. I still love you.
What I do is:
- I do not do everything at once!!! !!! !!!
- I’ll schedule posts or go on hiatus while I focus on writing for an intense session.
- Or I’ll take time off writing to solely blog/read in my free time.
- Or I write a blog post one day —> write novels the next day.
Balance is key. Keys are like key lime pies. Pies are good. Life is a circle. Eat it.
I do personally treat blogging like a job, because I’m trying to mind-control you all into buying my book eventually. It’s a priority for me, same as writing is a priority. But I still pick: writing. If I have to choose.
QUESTION #5: “SO I SHOULD BLOG ABOUT WRITING? I’M TERRIFIED.”
SAME THO. I obviously don’t run a writing-centric blog because (a) I actually have no idea what I’m doing, (b) half the time my writing is genuinely just feeling my way around until I trip and faceplant into something successful, (c) I find it reeeeally hard to articulate what I’m thinking about my writing process, and (d) I had a much much better idea:
But if I blog about books = bookworms will read it.
And who am I trying to sell my book to?! BOOKWORMS. Boom. SOMEONE CROWN ME A GENIUS. So yes I have been infiltrating the ranks, disguising myself as a bookworm, and frolicking about with my audience. Little did they KNOW! Ha!
Okay fine you all knew. Shh, let me try to do an evil villain cape flip once in a while.
I also just really really love books. I mean OBVIOUSLY. But that is why my blog is 90% books and 10% blogging and 500% cake.
Also the benefits of book blogging as a writer?! They are HUGE. Hanging around my future audience has taught me:
- what bookworms are hungry for
- what we’re absolutely sICK OF
- I’ve learned so so so much about marginalised voices/identities from people who have experienced them
- which has saved me making a lot of DUMB writing mistakes
- I also know my competition!! AKA what other books are out there.
- I know what happens 784 times in every YA contemporary, so I know to write it differently
- I see the gaps, what kind of books we don’t get a lot of
- I’ve also learned a looot about promotion and hype
- my friends are bloggers and BLOGGERS ARE AWESOME <— this is good
- everything you write is better with cake in it
QUESTION #6: “ARE THERE ANY NEGATIVES WE SHOULD TALK ABOUT THEN?”
Well, now that you mention it yes.
For me (personally) I’ve had a few negatives already of being a book blogger x my book coming out soon.
For instance:
- Authors harassing bloggers is REALLY a problem and happens a lot. So I’m cautious about overstepping…but it’s also hard to know when to engage and when not to when it comes to my book?!
- Like I’m one of you, but I have to be aware that I need to not hover around my own book. When it’s out, it belongs to you.
- But yet the need to creep on reviews of my book is REAL.
- Someone restrain me.
- And seriously…if you read reviews of your own book either (A) the compliments are nice but now IT’S PRESSURE, or (B) the negatives are devastating and you want to go lie in on the carpet and cry your own salty dead sea.
- Reviews aren’t for authors. #Fact
- I am scared of expectations! If you love my blog, it doesn’t mean you’ll love my book. I want you to! But this is reality.
- It is overwhelming hearing opinions opinions opinions all the frikkin’ time. Who is allowed to write what. Which authors deserve to be writing and which don’t. Is your story as important as so-and-so’s. Can you talk about identities that aren’t your own. What’s good writing. What’s bad. Who gets to read it.
- EVERYONE has an opinion and SO MANY OPINIONS are terrible for an anxious heap like me. Sometimes I do have to step way waaaay back and not listen. I want to listen. But, for mental health and sanity, I can’t listen all the time.
I think you should blog if you can! But remember, you don’t have blog about writing if you don’t want. And your success online doesn’t translate to your success in landing a book-deal. If you’re busy?! Pick. your. writing. And LISTEN to the blogosphere if you’re hanging out here —> but not all the time because you’ll overwhelm yourself. You can’t ever write the “perfect” book to please everyone.
Write for you. Write for a career. Write for the people (not everyone) who NEED your work.
And it really is super fun to blog. I have met the BEST people here. (That means you.)
I write but I’m not looking at publication at all at the moment which is all good with me. I think that blogging isn’t that important to me as a writer (except to write regularly) because I don’t edit my posts that much or think about them in the same way AT ALL. But in terms of my development as a reader, a person, and an inhabitant of the world, blogging has been so helpful. I think about books in a really different way now, and can critically evaluate them. And blogging forces me to consider who I am and what I want to think all the time, and to be okay with that changing (which is why I’m not going back and changing my ratings for books because I want to have respect for my younger self even if she was wrong wrong wrong or the author is a terrible person). I also get to hear lots of perspectives which is great. I don’t know what I would do with blogging if I did ever get published but that’s not even on the horizon now so who cares. interesting thoughts though!
Yes I totally agree with that! Like blogging is great for the critical thinking, and also learning to listen and see other people’s perspectives. (Although that CAN get overwhelming if then you start to try and write the “perfect book” to please everyone. Lmao. No one should do that.)
(Also younger-me was super supppper badly wrong about so many star ratings and I try to respect her but LITTLE-CAIT WHAT WERE YOU DOING.)
Wow I feel this post so much. One of the biggest reasons I started a blog was because of all the people jumping and waving their arms shouting, “You should get a blog!!! If you want to be an author!!!!” So I did. xD And while I love how it’s taught me to write regularly, come up with ideas under time pressure, and connect with the most amazing people, it does take up a lot of time. A lot. I think you’re completely right — when it comes down to it, it’s better to focus on improving your writing over your blog. I mean, we want to be authors, not only bloggers, right? 😀
Wonderful post; loved it! <3
Exactly!! I think blogging is REALLY great about writing, but when it comes down to it: I don’t think it particularly improves our craft much.😂 Just the networking side. And it’s super fun to connect with other writers and be encouraging though, which is a huuuuge bonus.😂
I think that all bloggers are writers in a way, you know? Like, to be a writer, all you have to do is write… anything! Including blog posts. I think. It is writing practice in a way! Works for me.
Anyway, I personally really enjoy authors’ blogs, MAINLY because they write very differently to their books! Like you said! It’s just so interesting seeing their thoughts in a different way? And on different topics?? Especially if they’re your fave authors????
Oh for sure! I probably should’ve said “fiction writer” to clarify or something, because I feel blogging is technically non-fiction writing.😂 But everyone knows what I mean, I hope haha.
And yes! Blogs are super different to books, like I really hope people don’t open my book expecting a blog post, because they definitely won’t get it.😂
I love this post 😀 I succumbed to the pressure to get a blog for my writing about a year ago and I’m actually so glad that I did! It’s definitely helped a lot, but yeah, there’s been negatives, mostly the sort of ones you’ve mentioned already. Goodness, there’s SO. MANY. OPINIONS. So my conflicts! So much pressure!!!
I really enjoy reading author’s blogs, since it allows me to feel like I “get to know” the authors, I love seeing all the behind stuff and commenting, speaking directly to them (directly to you, dear Cait!) It is sad that authors feel the need to attack book bloggers, but I guess I can kind of understand it. It doesn’t mean it’s right but…goodness, negative reviews must be sooo hard.
ONLY 73 DAYS (WHOO)!!! I was also just reflecting on your “Pre-order my Debut!” button and thinking that debut is such a weird word.
It is really hard when you start listening to all the opinions and than it’s like: WHAT CAN I WRITE??!! SHOULD I WRITE?!? I WANT TO TURN INTO A MUSHROOM AND MOVE TO THE EMPTY FIELDS OF THE FORESTS. Sobsob.😂 I’m working really hard to not get overwhelmed with all of that though.
And YES agreement: it’s really fun to “get to know” authors outside of their books too!? I’ve bought books just because an author was super nice on twitter.😂
I do understand why book bloggers and authors often clash though. It’s sooo hard to see your book ripped apart and insulted, but like at the end of the day: not everyone is going to love every book.
(Also debut is kind of a weird word.😂)
I found this really interesting and although I am not a published author I totally agree with you. Building an audience is great for many reasons! Joining and building a community of like minded people thanks to the wonders of the inter webs since we aren’t all born into family and friend circles that have common interests etc. As a writer/ blogger:/ therapist I was really interested to read this as I blog with several purposes. And my creative writing is something I have always kept very separate. As I am becoming ready to share my creative work with the world I have asked myself this question and I appreciate having the wisdom of this post. The encouragement to eat cake. And the inspiration to colour coordinate my book collection! Thank you xx
Aww I’m so glad you enjoyed this post, Ashley! I think there’s lots of different angles to come at this and at the end of the day, we just have to blog if we love it (or it becomes a huge drag) but the benefits are HUGE, I think, especially if you stumble upon a really lovely supportive community!
(And colour-coding books is the besst.)😂
Cait! This was such an interesting post! I’m in the middle of writing my first novel and I am a blogger and this post came at the right time! Blogging is amazing, I started it years ago because I wanted I community, back then it wasn’t about books but still. Today I’m blogging about books and I can’t even think of a better thing to blog about for me. The fact that I’m also a writer means that sometimes it’s really hard to do both things but it’s totally worth it. I think blogging is all about community, people sharing the same interest, and when you’re also a writer, well, blogging become essential because the people you’re connected with, those are the ones who will buy your book eventually and growing a following is so important these days, for everything! If people know you from the internet, they will be more likely to buy your books or be interested in them! So yes, blogging is an important tool but it’s also something we love doing!
Yesss exactly! Balancing is HARD but worth it, and sometimes if we have to neglect one to boost the other, we can totally do that?! I think we have to give ourselves more permission not to succeed at everything 100% of the time right?!😂 (And I do hope that knowing me as a blogger will translate to sales, but WE’LL SEE.😂)
I started blogging just over a year ago I think it’s a bit of an eclectic mix of my writing journey, my human journey and what I like to read. I enjoy it it helps with some of my thoughts. I don’t have loads of visits but I’m grateful for those that do. Also I think if people who know me in real life were to read my blog they’d realise how little I show them. I enjoyed your blog and your style good luck with the book launch
haha I totally get that! My sister said recently that I was so much more outgoing online than in real life and it’s weird. 😂 But just blogging freely is really therapeutic and fun!
Cait! I love your blog and I would love to love your book too! Is there a link to a online retailer who is willing to sell to us people stuck in the USA? Amazon is being difficult and apparently has my number because it keeps informing me that I am not in fact in Australia. Please let me know!
Oh of course! It’s up on bookdepository.com with free shipping WW.
Interesting post! I’m not an author. I just scream about books on the internet. As a reader, I like author blogs. Blogs are very different from books, and blogs give me the chance to learn about the author as a human. You can’t usually tell who a person is by reading their fiction. Blogs show more of an author’s personality and passions.
Very truuuue. I love knowing things about authors (wow that sounds creepy😂) outside their books. It also kind of builds this picture of why they sometimes choose what they write?! Which is fun!
Hey! I’m a writer/blogger who has literally “scrounged up” 12 followers, though I haven’t been blogging for a hundred years yet (working on that). I loved the post. Another benefit of blogging for me is getting to connect with other writers, because I don’t know any in “real life” and I’m not great with social media, but if I go and put my opinions about writing on the internet, writers come and give me their opinions back, which can be nice.
Hey that is SUCH a good point and it should’ve been in this post haha! it is such a good way to connect with writer friends…literally all my writer friends have come about because of blogging. (Best of luck with your blog too!)
To me I really like when authors have blogs because a) you get to know them and b) of they blog about their book it’s really helpful like when Marissa Meyer wrote a post for all the character descriptions in The Lunar Chronicles so now I pretty much always win the what-ethnicity-is-Cinder debate (biracial, Caucasian\Asian). Also I haven’t even read your book yet and I already found something youish in it. I was on Goodreads looking at your new profile and came across the wonderful quote “chocolate is a substance worth existing for” 😆
Excellent points! I agree! (Also love Marissa Meyer’s blog too haha.) I think it can be a bit of a behind-the-scenes-extra-bonus-content thing too which is fun?! Like I hope to do a bit of that when ATPN comes out, although I’m envisioning myself as a very very smol author for a very long time.😂
YES. I’m so glad you like that quote! How freaking surreal is it to know people are quoting my book afjdsakldfds. (Also that line is so me omg.)
Wow, so I’m having to sit back and digest this because you made so many points that I’ve needed to hear. I work a 40+ hour a wee job, run an Etsy business for fun and to help with bills, and am married. I’m 23, and I’ve been writing for over a decade, I’d say. Seriously writing, that is. I’ve written at least three or four full manuscripts and either destroyed them (literally; oh super smart, stupid idiot lil me) or have them stashed on a computer to use for when I make the book better.
Time management is my number one issue because I have a book I’m currently working on, and it’s been my top project for the last five plus years. I’m worried I’ll never finish it. I’m worried that because it’s not diverse in what most people want that it’ll be ignored. I’m terrified to even step into the agent/publishing world once I’m done because I’m the one with the job and the health insurance that we need, and I have all this pressure on me to finish my degree (oh, yeah, I’m in college too whoot) and get a better paying job so my husband and I can one day live in our own house. And I’m just dying, lol. I want to write SO badly, but stupid school work or job work or life gets in my way and just blargh.
Uhm yeah I dun know why I just wrote all of this, but I guess what I’m trying to say is thank you because it’s making me sit bac and think about some things.
yOU ARE SO BUSY AND AWESOME. I AM IN AWE, OK. I honestly struggle with time management and I don’t have half the things on that you have…I honestly think you need to give yourself a break though! You’re in a super super busy time of your life, but you won’t always be! And if you just write like a chapter when you can you *will* eventually get that book done, even if it’s slow. (Remember, it’s not a race. It’s annoying to say that and it’s so cliche, but it is true!!)
(And seriously diversity is GREAT but good storytelling is important too. Agents don’t dismiss books that aren’t “diverse enough” or anything.)
I mean, I’ms till hoping my 3D printer in my office will one day be able to print a clone of me, because that would solve my problems.
-deep breath-
I guess maybe I do look at it as a compettion because I don’t want someone to write what I have in my head and heart and it to be “big” and then for me to be like “So I wrote this when I was 10…” If that makes sense.
I need to slow down. Or clone myself. But still slow down, lol.
I’m a writer too (obviously. I mean, have I not mentioned my projects enough? Because I can *definitely* mentioned them more), but am currently being frustrated by the fact that all of the people I ask for publishing advice are saying “Just wait for a few years and it’ll be easier for you” and I’m like “Noo? I didn’t ask for when it’d be easiest, I asked for how I could do it *now*” but AnYWAY.
Blogging is fun for me, even though 99% of the time I don’t know what to write and when I DO have ideas, I rarely get the entire post typed up (which is trend because I have a box of old ideas tHAT ARE NOT DONE), but for the most part (for me, at least), it’s a way for me to TRY and get my name out there (it’s probably failing, I have, like, less than 20 followers.).
I LOVE seeing authors blog because it lets me get to know them more and it makes the reader-author relationship a lot more personal than just reading the book and *maybe* the author bio in the back/on the jacket.
Haha that is really frustrating advice.😂 I don’t even really understand it?! I don’t think anything gets easier over time…just the more you practise and work at something, it’ll get better.😂 But hey blogging doesn’t happen overnight! I think the key to blogging is posting consistently and engaging with your audience and just keepin’ on keepin’ on even when it takes a long time haha.
Wow, that’s some fantastic advice! (Much better than the other stuff lol) Thank you!
I’m not really a writer, but as a bookworm I think authors having a blog is awesome. Also like, I really want you to keep blogging. But also I really think it’s cool. Maybe partly because it makes them feel a lot more human… You’re the only author I can talk to (er, write to?), and that’s awesome. Plus I spent months screaming about how I wanted to read your books, and then found out you were being published, so now I just have to read your book. (Which I have not preordered yet, but I’m definitely going to!)
Okay, so I literally have no idea what I was trying to say in this rambly comment, but I hope you could make some sense of it…
Authors blogging do make them seem more “human” and more approachable. I’d been blogging for about a year before I self-published, and people who were my first readers were drawn to my work because they felt like they already knew me from following my blog and social media. So I think it’s a great tool for authors!
I willll keep it up! Although all my plans have backfired IF SEEM HUMAN. DARN IT. I AM SUPPOSED TO BE A DRAGON. 😂😂 Just kidding, hehe. (Also omg I will love you forever if you preorder! I just hope it meets expectations!!)
What you said about everyone having opinions about who should write what, what is important vs not important and such is so true. I think about that a lot. I actually hate it haha because it puts pressure. Yes it does help writers not make dumb, offensive mistakes but, for the most part, I think that people genuinely don’t want to upset other people.
When I watched the video by Francina Simone that you posted as a point to say why you might still read Carve The Mark I was so frustrated. I didn’t want to read that book because I thought things about it that don’t seem to be there. It seemed to just be a misunderstanding that people took to be fact. I hate that that can happen to any author. I would like to be a writer and I don’t want to be misunderstood.
Where I’ll leave this comment is that if you don’t want to hurt anyone (be insensitive or offensive) I think that will come across in the writing.
What do you think Cait?
I read Carve The Mark with an open mind, and didn’t find anything racist or discriminatory about it. Some of the characters were presented as having questionable worldviews, but that was also the point of the story – one of the cultures involved is trying to take over the world, because they do find themselves superior. Veronica Roth was not in any way supporting or encouraging that perspective – in fact, she presented it as morally iffy, and one of her protagonists started to realize that as the story progressed. I think it’s worth reading if you like sci-fi and dystopias and/or Roth’s work.
Thank you for telling me this! I really liked Veronica Roth and was very much saddened by the reviews so I’m glad I can see both sides. I definitely need to read it myself!
@LEAH: I agree! I don’t think most writers INTEND to be offensive, although I do think some do such blatantly offensive things that it’s frustrating because they’re obviously not educating themselves enough before talking/typing.
And I’m annoyed by the Carve the Mark debacle too. I watched the Simone video and was basically: “what the heccccck how are people hating this book then!?” It makes me really not trust people who rant now! It also terrified me I admit. 🙈🙊I don’t want to be an author that happens to, and I’m being careful but I don’t want to make that kind of mistake.
So yes I do agree with you, but I think we STILL have to be super super on the ball about what’s offensive. Ignorance isn’t an excuse. (But the sad thing, particularly with CTM was that the racism wasn’t even in there…so all the outrage was built on lies? I mean, I don’t know. I still need to read it. But I got hate mail for owning a copy so. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯)
I really liked this post Cait! It is so truthful!
I think I consider myself a writer and a blogger 😂 I mean I am working on my first big idea right now, and I started to blog about a year ago. And I also have a bookstagram.
The thing is I am still in school, and I love to blog and I love working on my current WIP. And it is hard to balance it all, especially when you don’t get noticed on your blog as much. I do love blogging so much! And I don’t want to give it up. I hope you don’t mind me asking; Did you struggle in the beginning with your blog not being noticed? Do you have any advice to a small bloggers trying to be noticed?
I love being a part of the bookstagram community, and the bookblogging community. It is nice to have support, and just to be able to talk about things that I am passionate about. 🙂
I’m so glad you liked this, Ema!! THANK YOU!
And omg… I was a horrible blogger to start with.😂I was just 17 and I literally had no idea you even replied to comments.😂 I had about 5 followers (and they were mostly family) for my first year. So you’re doing better than me already haha. I just say keep going, network where you can (I know that’s hard with a busy life and school) and keep putting up content that you’re proud of! And you don’t have to blog an insane much either. Like I was blogging nonsense 5+ times a week. But now I just do 2-3 times and make sure it’s more quality. *sends cake* I think blogging gets more rewarding the longer you stick at it!
I am a writer/blogger, though I haven’t been doing both the entire time, I started blogging in 2014 and only wrote my first novel (like proper one, I wrote smatterings of not very good stuff when I was younger) in 2016, so I have only been doing both for the past two years. I didn’t actually start blogging to help with my fiction writing career, I started because I’m planning on doing journalism as my day job (to make money whilst I try to get published) and was told that writing a blog was a good way of getting into that. Indirectly, I think my blog has improved my writing, but not because of the writing of the blog posts, because reviewing books has given me a better idea of what I feel does/doesn’t work in books and through that my writing has improved. The only negative side, for me at least, of doing both, is that Twitter seems to be filled with bloggers getting book deals all the time and whilst I am obviously super happy for everyone, it’s a little disheartening when you’re knee deep in edits for your book and you feel like you’re never going to get there! I don’t really know many authors who blog, but I think it’s cool, I like hearing about author’s lives outside of their writing!
I went into self-publishing. I’m still a published author, and my work is being enjoyed by people out there in the world somewhere. Don’t get discouraged!
Ahh I totally agree with your point about analysing the books –> helping us figure out what we like vs don’t like. And also how people react to things?! I think it’s great to see real-time reader reactions (although obviously we have to be careful with that, because bloggers aren’t going to be our sole readers in the world😂). EXCELLENT POINTS, JO!!
I absolutely love finding blogs from authors! I’m always interested to see how other authors go about their writing process, why they made the decisions they did, what their overall journey to publication has been like, etc. Of course, I like regular book blogs as well, but I feel like adding an authors’ perspective is just another side of the same coin since most authors tend to be avid readers as well. I don’t think there should be such a stark divide between authors and readers 🙂
Personally, I’m not entirely sure what I call my blog. It feels like 50/50 on whether it an author blog or a book blog since I update a lot about my books and where am I on my writing journey, but they I also like to post about books in general and discuss issues about them floating around the community.
It’s so true! I don’t read a lot of blogs by authors but I looove knowing behind-the-scenes things. I guess I need to front up and face that I’m am author now and one day people are going to want to know my behind-the-scenes story.😂 But having a 50/50 book/writer blog is fun right?! We can do bits of everything and no one can stop us. *throws confetti*
Ahh I remember I once started a blog on writing but gave up after one post cause I didn’t know much about it lol.
Book blogging takes up so much of my time I feel like crying 😭😭😭
And yes this is an excellent platform for promotion of your books because we could literally build you a shrine 😂
It’s hard to blog about writing lmao.😂 Like after a while what topics do you use?! And it’s hard to be secretive about what you’re working on + blog about it. LIFE IS HARD.😂
I am quite far from calling myself a “writer”, but I agree with a lot of your points! From a READER’S perspective, I’m definitely more inclined to read a book if it’s by a blogger I know of. (YOU HAVE TRICKED ME INTO BEING EXCITED FOR YOUR BOOK, CAIT!!) As for whether or not blogging improves writing–like you said, maybe it doesn’t help with grammar and sentence construction, BUT it definitely helps ~me~ express myself better in words, which I guess also means yes, it helps? ANYWAY, awesome post, lovely! I hope this encourages more future writers to blog (bc I totally need to follow 74234238 more book bloggers). <3
(I’M JUST SO GLAD MY EVIL PLANS ARE WORKING AND I’M TRICKING EVERYONE INTO READING MY BOOK.😂)
And learning how to express is a good point! I mostly do comedy posts so for me that doesn’t come into play so much (I’m terrible😂) but someone else just pointed out that blogging helps you share your work and get used to it being read by others…and that’s a REALLY good point too. I used to die showing my writing as a younger teen, but now I’m more used to getting feedback!?! Blogging is good.😂
Like, you say blogging hasn’t helped your writing, but I think reviewing books and identifying what you like and don’t like and what does and doesn’t work for you is hugely important. And why wouldn’t I like seeing authors blog? I love to know what’s going on in their lives.
That’s true! I should’ve thought of that haha.😂 Reviewing is actually really useful for us writers for those reasons!
I started blogging in part because that was the advice I got at school when I said I wanted to be a writer, and I think that combined with joining feedback groups and the creative writing society at uni has made me less nervous about showing people my work.
Actually that is a REALLY good point that I didn’t think of! I definitely think blogging has made it easier for me to be open about my work…like you get used to it after hundreds of blog posts. *whispers* You’re a geniussss.
Oh my gosh! Thank you for writing this post! I’m trying to do the final edit of my first manuscript/read/blog/uni/soccer/life and it’s all so overwhelming and I don’t know what to do (to blog or write) and I feel this has spoken to my soul. All the points you made are those I try to remind myself of, but it’s so good hearing them from someone else. Thank you!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it!! <3 And honestly i'm trying to do life + blog + read + edit and IT'S SO HARD. I think it's okay to prioritise and not do it all at once, but it's really hard not to feel behind right?!
Yeah I feel like with so much to do, I only half-arse everything! Oh well, we can only do so much, back to the editing!!!
So far, all of my paid writing work has been in the form of content creation for bigger blogs. I love that my blog brought me a career opportunity that I never would have thought up on my own. The downside to blogging for me is the time commitment and the burnout. But usually a blogging break will take care of that.
I’ve written a few (a lot) of books, but nothing worth publishing yet. I would like to focus more on that going forward. Thanks for the tips! I always love reading your blog posts!
Ahh that’s so awesome blogging is actually earning you money! I AM IN AWE, I know that’s really hard to get to. (But blogging burnout does totally suck. Bleh. Breaks are good! So long as we come back.😂)
I’m a writer, a poet, and a blogger! The pressure to balance all three plus my academics has had me tearing my hair out. So I stepped away from writing to blog because that’s the less stressful of the three for me. You’ve pretty much covered all the benefits of being a blogger in terms of writing! The pressure comes from feeling your idea is overused or similar to book X…that’s one that worries me a lot! Oh, blogging is a great resource pool for ideas also 😀
Ohh I massively admire you balancing all of those! And TOTALLY understand how hard it is to balance them. *wails* I’m currently stressing about trying to write and blog and ended up not writing the blog post I wanted for next week because noooo time. But we’ll all figure it out right?! Blogging is a lot of fun!
What a fabulous post – thanks so much for this. Your discipline is impressive. Ah I’ve been toying with doing the book reviews thing… this has made me think about it, again.
It is a lot of fun! And I actually think is kind of helpful for us writers, because we can figure out what we like vs don’t like and put that in our own books!
I love when authors blog! And it looks like balance = eat it. XD
EAT ALL THE THINGS…wait.😂
“Balance is key. Keys are like key lime pies. Pies are good. Life is a circle. Eat it.” Can I get this on a banner?? lol great post, Cait! I think I really needed it because I am one of those that’s like I like to do all of the things??? But where to prioritize when life is there and all I want is a nap at the end of the work day and food is somewhere in there? (I love food, like loads) So yeah I needed this.
YES I NEED IT ON A SHIRT TOO. Iconic. What a line. It honestly makes no sense but here we are.😂 (Also prioritising is haaard and I still have no idea how to do it properly.😂)
Ugh. Yes. EVERY other writer looking to be published has started a blog. And they’re often blogging about the writing process when they’ve not even been published!! What do they even think of themselves?? * flips hair.
Wait..
Looks over at my own blog and looks back on this comment with a shaky laugh. Okayyyyyyyyyy
On another note, absolutely LOVED this post!
😂😂 You should blog about whatever you want!! I was blogging about writing waaay before I actually published. 😛
As usual you post about the tough questions, Cait! I keep wondering if I should keep blogging if my writing ever gets me an agent or a book deal or whatever (though that may still be a long ways off… Ahem.) I don’t think I could stop reviewing or blogging if I ever do get that far, though it might be slightly less than before. I don’t know. I’ll have to see how my life is then because I’ll have a smol human to take care off soon too! (Which is so scary omg I’m going to be a mom ahhhh!!)
But yeah it depends. I think if you can and want to, you totally should blog! But don’t feel obligated because when you’re a (soon-to-be) published writer, your book is more important than your blog! THOUGH CAIT I’LL MISS YOU TOO MUCH IF YOU STOP OKAY SO DON’T??
Yes it totally depends on what life is doing right?! Like once upon a time I blogged 5 times a week and thought I’d never change aaaah haha *laughs wildly at past smol cait* BUT YOU’RE GOING TO BE A MUM THAT’S SO AMAZING AND KIND OF A BIG DEAL!! I’m sure that’s going to take A LOT of time. 😉
(I’m not planning on stopping blogging don’t worry!!)
That was a good post.
I’m not a writer or blogger. I’ve tried writing only to later cringe at my own creation and give up after 2500 words. I don’t blog either. I just like to rant about my books. To my sister.
Also, I SHOULD say that you’ve done a wonderful job of hypnotising many of us (me for sure) into buying your book! This agenda of yours really really works.
And I very much love the idea of writers being bloggers. They’re worlds should NOT stay separate.
Aww thank you, Aline! I really appreciate this comment and your thoughts! And I’m REALLY glad I’ve managed to hook you in and convince you to try my book.😂 Hopefully it won’t disappoint right?!
This is all lovely advice, and you’re totally … mostly … qualified to give it? I mean, it sounds legit to me, so we’ll go with that. 😀 I don’t have the perspective as a published author, but you mentioned a lot of valid points in how it totally can help your writing career. But I think if someone goes into blogging specifically for that reason, they’ll be disappointed, because OMG IT’S WORK. Fun work, but still work. The sort that sometimes makes you question your life decisions. Just like writing! Wow, that came full circle faster than I thought it would.
Yes let’s totally pretend I’m qualified. 😂 I mean I’m still authorish even if my book isn’t out yet. BUT SOON, SAMMIE, SOON. *flails quietly* And yes it is a lot of work! It’s fun and a good creative release but it’s wooooork.😂
*flails loudly with you because screw being quiet because this is EXCITING DARN IT*
Although, I’m having a weird existential crisis, because your book isn’t already readily available for preorder everywhere for Americans, and what is this? Is this how the rest of the world lives?! I’ve been horribly, utterly spoiled, and now that the shoe’s on the other foot, I find that it’s terribly awkward and I fall and flail a lot. xD Now I understand a little more when my international friends complain about waiting for releases lol.
I love blogging as an author, but I’ve been blogging since 2005, so this is no big deal for me. It’s part of my life. I was told by other authors NOT to blog, that it was a waste of time and effort, effort I should be putting into writing books. Well, shoot. I DON’T ALWAYS WANT TO WRITE BOOKS. Sometimes I want to write about the thing that I’m knitting, or some new Japanese thing I found. Honestly, I very rarely blog about the writing process. Most people don’t care. My readers want to know what I’m working on, sure, but they’d rather hear about the walks I take or the shawl I’m knitting or, yes, the cool Japanese candy I found. The one thing that I do NOT do is negatively review books by other authors. I’ve seen that go badly for too many people. I also do not do Goodreads, period. I have a PA that takes care of Goodreads for me. Otherwise, blogging is mostly about me. 🙂
We should definitely do what we want when it comes to blogging, right?!😂 And like I mean, sometimes I’m annoyed that blogging takes away from writing, but it’s also a release and a different way to be creative. Also MUCH less pressure. And you get instant results instead of waiting 5 years for someone to read your book.😂
I’m with you on the negative reviews now though…I’m stopping. I know a LOT of my followers will be disappointed because they liked my salty rants, but I don’t think it’s right for me to be an author + do negative reviews.🙈🙊
personally, i love that you have a blog. otherwise, i’m not sure i would have been as excited about your book. i mean, contemp. don’t really catch my eye so while i could see myself reading it, the fact that you are a queen and a friend that’s just like,,, WHAT MAKES ME EXCITE. i love that blog gives us a sneak peak into your lives, wow im such a creep. i think a blog can be a huge effort but it it also worth it because i love seeing book bloggers turn authors. though it does seem like a weird process, there should be a guide for all you bloggersturningauthors folks.
Awww, I’m so glad I convinced you with my DAZZLING PERSONALITY HA! 😂 *throws glitter* Also I’m forever happy (and relieved haha) that you liked it! It’s so scary to like have “hyped” up my writing for so many years and now everyone has these super high expectations and I’m moving to Peru to live with a llama.
Okay 1) I loved this post the mostest! It’s so interesting hearing your take, because I feel like people are mostly super split on whether they think authors should blog or not. 2) I laugh out loud anytime someone says “WOW you’ve been blogging a lot, your writing must be getting so good!” HAH Au contraire my friend!
I am all for authors having a blog. When I read a good book I want to know more! I love learning what authors are into, and what a day in the life looks like because I feel like it gives so much more depth to their story! Now that I know how obsessed you are with cake I will laugh every time I read a reference to cake in your book! If I see a reference to social anxiety I will understand that that’s a piece of you, shared in your story. You know what I mean? This came out weirdly sappy and sappily weird BUT I think it’s cool that you have all these people who know you AND ALSO love reading and so your army will literally be the best dragon-riding soliders around supporting you!
Also people are allowed to do more than one thing. Just because I play a lot of boardgames doesn’t make me a boardgame freak who can’t expand my identity to blogging and being a bookworm and a HarryPotterobsessedsuperfan! Writers can blog and eat cake and rule the world! We don’t have to pick just one!
AHHH THANK YOU, RACHAEL. I’m so glad you liked it!!
But omg I know right?! I feel like my writing just declines into this call-caps fangirling rant when I blog. When I write novels, I at least try to be a little more…grammatical?! A little. Omg help.😂😂
And I TOTALLY get that and agree! I think knowing bits about the author and seeing it in their work is kind of awesome. (There is such a cake scene that is SO ME in my debut.😂 All my blogging friends are going to laugh.)
Yay! That is so awesome – Can’t wait to read the book!
Weeeell your blog was successful in the case of this follower, because I’ve been following your reviews on Goodreads, and I just learned you have a blog which of course I had to also follow, and now I learned you wrote a book!!! Congratulations!!! 😀
I write but haven’t been disciplined enough so far to actually work towards publication. :/ But I do have a book review blog because I love reading and, like you pointed out, it helps me keep up with what’s out there so if I ever am able to get my head right and write a *real* book maybe I’ll know a little of the dos and don’ts. Great post, you pointed out a lot of other things I hadn’t thought of, so thank you!!
Omg thank you for visiting from Goodreads!! *sends you all the welcome cake* It’s really nice to met you!!
And YES blogging is so good for knowing what’s current. I mean, obviously if we read a book –> it was actually bought at least 2 years ago, so that’s why it’s important to not follow trends haha. But I still think it gives a good indication of what the market is doing and is helpful for sure. I hope you do get to write your book someday!!
I always have the ‘ O ‘ that breaks on my keyboards. It’s my curse.
I’m with you, writing can’t be improving by blogging. They are different mediums, they need different voices. Blogging is like a sleepover with B-movie and Oreos. Writing stories is like a tea party with imaginary friends and chip teacup.
Oh, I’m sure we’re going to be way more than 10% buying your books. Have faith in us, Cait. You brainwas– I mean tease us well!
You should ask someone to read reviews for you and sent you the safe ones perhaps?
UGH @ KEYBOARDS WHY DO THEY HATE US SO. *sobs*
And yes such different voices/mediums, although someone mentioned it’s good experience for getting your work read/out there so it makes getting critiques on your novels a bit easier, and I agree with that!
I HOPE MY BRAINWASHING WORKS. 😂😂
(Also I kind of want to do that for the reviews but also am nervous to bother anyone haha.)
Oh, I’m sure someone would be happy to read reviews for you! Playing human shields is the vocation of many people.
Alriiiiiight. My opinion as…
– a writer: I do believe it’s really important to have a blog, perhaps not to make a book deal easily, but it’s a great way (and the only way) to make a wide audience, or better: an army, while you keep consistent and post regularly. Although, in Spain, publishers look up to work with booktubers who are like “famous” in the booktube community, which sometimes is not good bc they don’t even edit the right way whatever the book they’re writing, besides they don’t care if the book’s good or a cliche 100%, they just wanna sell. This has caused a lot of debates in the blogosphere. And no, it doesn’t help to improve grammar aT ALL. But it’s AMAZING to make new friendships with people who love to do the same thing you do (though I still gotta work on losing panic when I have to talk to somebody).
– a bookworm: I blog bc I had to share my love for books, and I LOVE IT when an author blogs, ‘cuz you know him/her better. The thing I don’t understand is why people think authors can’t blog about books and give their opinions. I don’t know if my brain is wrong or something cuz I don’t see any problem there. Btw, I saw in goodreads someone asked you if you’d keep blogging (wow, that sounds as if I was stalking u) and u said you would keep doing it and I was like ‘YAAAYYYYYYY’ XD
I mean…I can’t actually talk with any certainty about booktubers, as I’m not one and I don’t know any, but I feel like it might not be true that they’re getting the book deal because they have the audience?? IDK! But like I’ve had people indicate to me that I got my deal due to my following and it’s soooo not true. I got my book deal because of hard work, a bit of luck, and (hopefully for lots of people lmao!) good writing. So yep.
But yes I’m definitely going to keep blogging but I probably won’t do negative reviews. 😉 I think it’s a respect thing. Like it’s rough to be insulting your peers?! And I also am finding it super tough to see my book getting 1-stars hahaha, so I don’t feel like writing them for other books anymore. My choice. 😜
This is SO good and SO true! Writing is important in any form but first and foremost people should blog for themselves because nothing else is guaranteed. Thanks for sharing, Cait!
And blogging quickly gets to be a huge drag unless you like it!
I love this post! I have a blog, but I currently just post writing snippets and book reviews. Too young to get a book published, but maybe an “online face” might make it easier for me to get books published someday.
And, Cait, you don’t need to worry about book signings. They are incredibly overrated. It’s just someone repeatably writing their name.
I also think posting online is good practise for having our work read! Makes it easier when we get to the submission stage of writing too!
I’m working on writing projects while also blogging while also working full time. Let me tell you: it’s hard. I never know how to balance it or what I should really focus on, which can make it super frustrating. But I decided I’m just going to take one step at a time and do what I can because that’s all I really can do. I think authors blogging is great! If it’s a passion of theirs, let them do it. They’re still working on their writing, so why not?
It is hard to find the balance and to know if you’re doing the right thing giving one thing more time over the other.😫 We honestly don’t get enough cake for our agony.
HEcK YeAH!!!! I have recently started blogging, and writing…. but am far to scared to share any of my writing??? Because people are scary, 😀 .
It’s all pretty much great, buuuuuuuuut I find that I am now procrastinating my actual writing because I wanna post stuff and talk to people about books more than I want to actually write…
I am using it as an excuse….
I am disappointing nobody but myself XD
Although this post now has me inspired and I really should try to complete another chapter without crying XD
it can definitely be scary but DO IT!! BLOGGING IS SO GREAT! And I think it’s easy to be caught up in blogging over writing, but make sure you do both. 😉 The actual writing will be the book you want someday, not the blog. *sends encouraging cake*
I think being both a blogger and writers is useful like you said, as we get to see what readers what more of in books. What things they’re sick of, but we also get to engage with like minded people who read and hopefully will one day want to see how much damage we can do in a book. For any writer – its a lot – I still get way too much fun out of causing drama in my stories (I need to even that out eventually, too much drama isn’t good all at once haha)
As and when/if I get to a point where I want to try and get published the blog will help as you’re part of the book community (arguably the BEST community) meaning you can literally just subtly yell about your upcoming book to get people interested. As far as blogging goes though I do have plans to launch a new series of posts called Writers Den (guess who its for!? xD) which is just me offering advice to writers from what I’ve learned. I always feel like a kid within this community due to being 17 *laughs* and a lot of bloggers are older than me in and around their 20’s usually. But I’ve been writing since I was 11 and I somehow juggled school (don’t ask how I don’t know I think we should all go to the circus for our juggling acts) and I know that many people may want to write but for some reason they don’t. Thinking they won’t be good enough or they’ve got too much going on. The story won’t write itself (we all wish it would though)
Agreed! I think it’s helpful to sneak around our intended audience and like just get to know what life is like from a reader perspective! (Although I think we have to be careful with that, because blogger-bookworms are still a small percentage of overall readers who’ll end up picking up our novels.😂)
Hey your new project sounds awesome and I’ll be excited to read it!! i think age doesn’t have to define whether we’re “qualified” to give advice or not, right?! I mean sometimes I feel really young (although I’m 24 lol loool) in the writing realm but I’ve been at it since 15 so NEARLY 10 YEARS and I think I know what I’m doing a bit.😂 Although still have endless amounts to learn haha. But YES. Encourage all the writers!! You’re wonderful!
ah thank you 🙂 I’m going to make myself outline this project this month otherwise I’m going to want to strangle myself at the end of month. Been meaning to plan this book since February ooops. True I think the best thing to do is write from the heart, write the story you want to tell and read. It’s not good writing a story that you think is what ppl want but you hate it. It’ll show in the work.
No age doesn’t have to ‘qualify’ us but it is something that creeps up on us all at certain points reminding us how young/old we are etc. I mean you said you feel really young, even though you’re 24. I feel kinda old even though I’m 17 – I don’t really connect with many people my own age. I also prefer talking to adults, ever since I was a kid but I am an only child xD
There’s always something to learn, writers can always learn things from one another, and yes I shall encourage all the writers xD I try to be wonderful – I have moments the rest of the time I’m just sarcastic
*raises hand* I AM A WRITER/BLOGGER. #woot. But I’m not a super cool author wizard like you, unfortunately. Not YET, anyway. XD
BUT THIS POST. CAIT. THIS POST WAS SO NICE. I’ve been having a bit of a blogging rut lately because I’ve had so much on my plate, and the weird thing was, I was constantly feeling GUILTY for working on my novel instead of my blog? LIKE WUT EVEN. This should not be. SO THANK YOU. Thank you for reminding me that my book is the most important thing here. THANK YOU. I must give you cookies.
As for benefits of being a writer blogger person (when I’m not feeling guilty, of course XD) – I’d say that the biggest benefit I’ve found is how much writing I actually get done, simply because I’m able to talk about my goals and dreams across Cyberspace. Having my blog has been a HUGE motivator to keep writing. Not to mention the fact that after starting Smudged Thoughts, I’ve actually been able to stick with a single story for over a year. (Which is something that I don’t think I’ve ever, EVER done. So.) So yes. Blogging has been very beneficial to me, but also slightly time-consuming. XD
AND I AM TOTALLY BUYING YOUR BOOK. Well, I’m going to be asking for it for my birthday, but BASICALLY IT’S LIKE I’M BUYING IT, YES??? XD
YOU WILL BECOME A WIZARD EVENTUALLY, KENZIE, I BELIEVE IN YOU.😂 And aww I’m so glad you liked the post! And pfft, i do understand the guilt. I’ve had years where I felt guilty for not reading for a while because I wanted to write intensely??? like Cait. NO CAIT.😂 It’s hard to balance everything, but at the end of the day nobody cares if we skip a week of posting because we want to work on our book. THEY WILL CARE ABOUT OUR BOOK WHEN THEY GET IT!!
And yes to the blogging helping to keep you motivated! I totally agree with that. There are so many times I’ve been so done with writing and then all the epic writing community shouted me on. I loooove that.
(EEEP, I will be so happy if you read it!)
AWWWWW!!!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH, CAIT!!!!!! 😀 That honestly means the world to me… THIS. THIS IS SO TRUE. XD Ugh, I am SO bad at balancing things, but I’m slowly beginning to realize that writing my books is more important than writing a blog or scrolling through Pinterest or Youtube or Twitter… XD Of course, I OBVIOUSLY still do these things, but whatever. XD
Right??? I never knew that the writing community was so supportive until I started my blog! It’s so crazy to find so many like-minded people in one place, ESPECIALLY since I live in an area where there are like…no writers. At all. XD The writing community is the best. XD
(I’m gonna be extremely happy TO read it!! I cannot wait!!!!)
As a blogger/reader who doesn’t write, I say DEFINITELY blog! I have so so many awesome writer/author friends, and I love being able to support them on their journey. It also provides a way for people with similar interests to connect (I think I know approximately one writer irl and like two bloggers? But through the blogosphere, there are sO MANY awesome people that I’ve known through social media and blogging.
I don’t think anyone is disagreeing with anything I said lol but hey XD
Agreed and agreed! It’s fun to know what writing people are up to as well?! (And let’s face it, it’s just fun to make writing friends.😂)
Thank you for the great advice, Cait! I especially love the life is a circle metaphor. I agree sometimes it can be a struggle finding time to blog.
It totally works right?! My metaphors are golden.😂😂
this is such a big topic and I think you’ve done a great job condensing this kind of topic down into a single blog-post. I don’t want to comment too much, least my comment turns into a great big rant (let’s just say I have strong feelings about this topic), I’m planning on doing a blog-post myself on this topic and this post has been helpful for me, so thanks for that 🙂
Oh wow I really want to hear your opinion then!! haha! I’m glad you liked my post, but very curious to what your stance on this all is. 😉
I just realised I said topic way too much in my last comment (sorry about that). I think there are a lot of factors that go into this kind of thing. I know authors who have self-published 7 books on a niche topic, they’ve been successful enough with their blogging and writing that they’ve been awarded a traditional publishing contract. While i’m sure the writer in question is talented and works hard, however, imo talent isnt difficult to find (if you know what you’re doing). Talent is the “easy” part. Publishers are a business, their interest is their bottom line not talent, and only get involved in these types of projects because of an established audience. This writer would never have been offered a deal in the first place if it wasn’t for her blogging. But, by the same token, there’s your situation, which is very different from the example I used. I think your situation is a very interesting case study
Ohhh well I did clarify at the very beginning of my post that it wasn’t about self-pubbed authors! And I’m glad it worked out for that author tho! Although I’ve seen that situation backfire with publishers being unwilling to take on an already established audience because they’ve already “read” it, if that makes sense?
Your case example does make sense, I can see that happening, the writer has already blogged the story, and they haven’t been able to add something new to it, so naturally, the Publisher isn’t interested.
In that regard, I can see why a publisher would make that decision (depending on context and the information you’ve given me), however, from my research and from my former teachers my writing course, is that publishers are rarely willing to take risks on an unknown.
Then there’s the Australian publishing industry, which isn’t like the USA or UK publishing industries (as I’m sure you’d know), the AUS industry is not as big as UK and USA, so they don’t have the same level of resources, which means they’re not as willing to take the same risks or make the same exceptions.
I have an article here:
https://publishingperspectives.com/2018/04/fewer-debut-novels-editors-talk-to-authors-london-book-fair/#.WtkTvC1TUH4.facebook
Damn it Cait, you got me ranting.
I also don’t want you to think this is a sour grape thing either, I’m super happy for you, and I’m also glad you got your book deal without your blog having to be a factor. The thing is that (in my opinion), regardless of whether an author is self-pub or traditional, most writers are going to have to market themselves, they’re going to have to set up some variant of an online platform.
As I said before, your post is balanced, and you’ve done an excellent job of listing the pros and cons, And well, at the end of the day, people have to do what works best for them.
Oh I didn’t mean to sound like authors SHOULDN’T have to market themselves or blog!! Haha, I do agree that it’s important to do it. And obviously there are sooo many different ways this could go for sure. (And I honestly can’t say anything about the Aussie market since I went totally UK. So I’ll take your word for it!)
I just think if you have limited time, definitely put it into writing instead of marketing! But ideally, do both. 😉
Don’t worry too much about it, it’s probably just me misinterpreting. I completely agree, if time is a factor, working on your writing should be a priority. There’s also other factors that are rarely talked about, such as mental health problems and disability. If you only have the energy or motivation for one, it can be difficult to choose.
Wow! I really like this post. I’ve been searching the web for answers and so far, yours is the only post saying “blog if you want to” and not “you must absolutely blog if you’re a writer!” Plus it’s funny! I’m just starting out as a writer (got an article accepted and am working on a book a publisher liked but needs polishing) and I also just started a parenting blog (how original, right?). Anyway, I’m rambling now. Thank you for writing this post. I will most certainly keep on blogging!
“It is overwhelming hearing opinions opinions opinions all the frikkin’ time. Who is allowed to write what. Which authors deserve to be writing and which don’t. Is your story as important as so-and-so’s. Can you talk about identities that aren’t your own. What’s good writing. What’s bad. Who gets to read it.”
THIS. Beyond writing and blogging, too – it’s spilling over into general life (in some good ways, and bad), and if you’re an “overthinker” it can be :/