Special Announcement: Changes to the ALLi Podcast
The Alliance of Independent Authors Podcast is undergoing some exciting changes, which Director Orna Ross reveals in this special announcement…
Substack Expands Publishing Opportunities in Bid to Value Creative Economy: Self-Publishing News with Dan Holloway
This week’s first story comes at an opportune moment for me as Substack expands its offerings. I know I need a newsletter. I love writing long-form pieces that tie in with the topics I write my books about. But somehow, I have never gotten the hang of putting together a great—or even regular—newsletter. So I was very interested to read about a new development from one of the most popular newsletter platforms out there.
Marketing Strategies for Authors in 2024: Insights and Success Stories from the Field
In 2024, the landscape of book marketing continues to shift, requiring authors to stay adaptable and explore new strategies to reach their readers. This post examines some of the most effective marketing strategies currently in use, including content marketing, webinars, TikTok, Amazon Marketing Services (AMS), and in-person events. As authors seek to build their audiences, understanding what's working now is more important than ever.
New Projects Celebrate the Analog and Artisanal: Self-Publishing News with Dan Holloway
If you have followed this column for any length of time, you will know that I am a huge fan of the “special edition,” the kind of premium physical product made possible by platforms like Kickstarter, and the focus on analog and artisanal creations. Beautifully crafted work, often in physical form, typifies the value for creators in finding a niche and building a deep relationship with true fans. It was at the heart of the 1,000 true fans right back at the start of the indie online revolution. And it’s at the heart of Self-Publishing 3.0.
KDP’s New Identity Verification Requirement and the NO FAKES Act Explained: The Self-Publishing News Podcast with Dan Holloway
On this episode of the Self-Publishing News Podcast, Dan Holloway covers Amazon's new identity verification requirement for KDP authors, aimed at preventing fraud and improving the reader experience. He also discusses the NO FAKES Act, a U.S. legislation designed to prevent the unauthorized use of people's likenesses and voices, particularly concerning AI and deepfakes. Also, Dan touches on a recent court ruling on the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and its implications for DRM and VPN usage.
Amazon’s KDP Identity Verification and NO FAKES Act Protect Creators: Self-Publishing News with Dan Holloway
You may remember that a few weeks ago, I commented on US legislators' enthusiasm for acronyms when I reported on the COPIED Act. Now they have outdone themselves with a piece of legislation with a similar intent. The NO FAKES Act aims to balance freedom of expression with protecting an individual's right to control how their distinguishing features, such as their voice and image, are used. As the title suggests, the primary purpose is to clamp down on deepfakes. That title stands, in typically verbally torturous fashion, for Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act.
Levelling Up Your Author Mindset: Self-Publishing Conference Highlight
Dive into a candid discussion with author Michael La Ronn as he unveils essential mindset strategies for fostering a lifelong writing habit and a rewarding self-publishing business. Unlock your true potential and increase your book revenue with practical, actionable advice that's simple to implement and absolutely free. Absorb valuable insights from the presentation and watch your writing and publishing journey flourish like never before!
Audio UK Survey Seeks Information to Push for Tax Relief: Self-Publishing News with Dan Holloway
Audio UK is a trade body for UK producers of audiobooks and podcasts. It seeks to create a better environment for content producers, especially small creators, to thrive. The organization's particular concern is finding ways to help UK-based audio content producers participate in the wider global market. One way they want to do this is by increasing access to training in the skills necessary to produce high-quality content.
The AI Revolution: Opportunities and Challenges for Indie Authors
The AI revolution in book publishing has become an increasingly relevant topic, particularly for self-published authors. Artificial intelligence (AI) has expanded from being a niche interest to a central point of discussion, reflecting its growing impact on various aspects of the industry. From generating text and assisting in editing to providing marketing tools and audiobook narration, AI is reshaping how books are created, published, and consumed.
Inspirational Indie Author Interview: Terry Lister. From Accountant to Adventurer: Exploring the World Through Travel Memoirs
My ALLi author guest this episode is Terry Lister, a seasoned solo traveler and author who, after retiring from a successful career as an accountant, has explored over 100 countries. Terry's love for travel began in Bermuda, where he dreamed of far-off places. His books capture not just the destinations but also the cultural and economic landscapes he encounters.
Discovered in a Bookshop and a Completed Series: ALLi Member Milestones August 2024
This regular post from the Alliance of Independent Authors celebrates ALLi member successes to inspire our indie author community. This month, our Member Milestones for July 2024 celebrates the successes of Author members Jeff Probst and Liz Cain.
Self-Publishing News: KDP Launches Identity Verification
A short but very important piece today. Amazon has just launched KDP identity verification for author publishers. I will refrain from speculation about motives, particularly around timing, and simply cite Amazon’s stated reasons.