Do You Have a Book Inside Waiting to be Unleashed?

Popular Non-fiction Author Shares What its like to Write a Book and become a Published Author

Being an author is amazing.

Every day I sell books without even trying. Through my website, through Amazon and booksellers. Royalties are one of the best forms of residual income. I live life on my terms. That works when you’re an independent person.

I’ll tell you what makes it even better. Being a book author is one of the best marketing tools ever. Most people don’t realize it – when you’re an author you’re automatically given the status of an authority or expert on your topic. It’s called “leveraging your knowledge.” When I became an author requests for media interviews skyrocketed, my speaking engagements quadrupled and I raised the rates on my other services as well.

I Found a Need and Filled it. You Can, Too!

But it wasn’t always so. Most of my life I wanted to be a published author. I wrote a novel back in 1993 but decided it was more of a way to heal after a divorce. The smarter path was writing non-fiction: a “self-help” or “how-to” book. In the book world they say: “Fiction authors are interesting at cocktail parties. Non-fiction authors drive better cars.”

It’s true. Twice as many non-fiction books are sold. I used to have a coffee shop buddy who’s written a handful of fiction novels. He struggles to sell a hundred books a year – even with a marketing background. As a non-fiction, “how-to” author I sold over 2,000 copies of my book the first month it was released.

Getting the Big Idea – Working with a Bestselling Author

It took me a long time to finally have a book idea the world needed that would help my business. I wanted to make a difference – and I knew my words could help.

I was working as Executive Assistant to a bestselling author who has a $5,000 seminar program. One part of the program teaches people to become information entrepreneurs, Info-Marketers. I started doing workshops on my own time before writing my book.

I convinced him they needed a program on how to get a book proposal together. He replied, “Okay, put it together and do it.” I was shocked – I hadn’t even written my own book. He asked, “Can you teach it next month?” My jaw dropped.

As the Assistant to a hotshot author, I could get on the phone with influential people who worked in publishing houses like Harper Collins, John Wiley & Sons, Simon & Schuster, McGraw Hill and Crown Books. I called them, threw his name around and grilled them about what they wanted in a book proposal for “self-help or “how-to” books. Then I called literary agents and bent their ear with questions.

You must have a book proposal before a literary agent or publisher will look at your manuscript. Even if you self-publish, writing your book will go much faster and easier with a proposal. It’s like a plan for a book.

The Journey of 54,287 Typed Words Begins with the First One

The journey began. I began teaching. I kept writing my proposal so I could stay ahead of my students. After the four week program I kept learning and asking questions.

The class was so well-received I was invited to teach, “How to Write an Awesome Book Proposal” again. I taught it for four years.

I sent out my proposal and got a literary agent in a week. I kept writing. I’d stop and start again. I felt incredibly alive. Yet I had doubts.

I knew what I was writing wasn’t “fluffy” but I didn’t want it to be “difficult” either. It had had to strike the right balance of insight and step-by-step information. I changed the focus. I chucked three chapters. Then I wanted to throw away the whole thing. Sigh…

Writing a Book is an Emotional Journey

The emotional growth that comes from writing a book is every bit a part of the journey as the actual writing. Putting my heart on my sleeve– was challenging. Your book might be something you’ll become known for. You’re going to want it to be good.

Many times before it was finished I said, “Who gives a dang?!?” I’d go back, re-read parts and say, “This is good. The world needs to know this.” I’d start writing again. It’s crazy. Especially without support of someone who’s been there.

Writing a book is creating something out of thin air. I share my opinions when I talk with people or write an email all the time. Yet, a book it has larger consequences. You think you might be “off” because it hasn’t been done before. And you’ll be seen as an expert or authority in a big way. That takes “kahunas.”

I wished I had help or support. Was I on track? Was I wasting my time?

From Idea to Finished Manuscript – Now what?

Finally, I had a finished manuscript. It was 54,287 words long. I promised myself if I got that far I’d book a day at a fancy-schmancy spa. As I surrendered to the deep, long strokes of the masseuse I thought, “Okay, now what?”

I stumbled through the publishing process. I made mistakes and did some things right. I learned. People kept looking to me for advice. I researched their questions so I could provide answers. If I didn’t know I’d say, “Let’s figure this out together.” I’m grateful for the experience.

Certain books work while others land with a thud. To help myself and the people I taught, I gradually developed systems to make writing the proposal easier and to make the writing flow more effortlessly.

The Moment I became a Published Author

Because it was my dream since I was a girl of eight to be an author – I wanted to support others, too. I watched several students become authors. One young man got a publishing contract with a major publisher (Hyperion – owned by Disney) and a $225,000 advance. Wow!

To finish polishing the book I went to a Bed & Breakfast in the mountains (twice) for four days each time.  The logs in the stone fireplace crackled away. I wrote like the wind going over each word again. My wonderful husband Ernie brought me tea, M&Ms and carry-out Chinese. I filled in the gaps so it flowed and made sense. I got rid of anything fluffy. The writing in my book is lean and muscular like a Ferrari.

Finally one hot, July day I got a call from my local postal center.

“Denise, we got a couple boxes here and they’re really heavy. I think they’re books,” the clerk said.

“Thank you, I’ll be right over to pick ‘em up!”

I grabbed my keys and flew out the door. I ran into the shop. The clerk hefted two boxes on the counter and had me sign for them. Excited, I stabbed the box with a pen and tore it open.

Inside was one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen: my first shipment of books. I jumped up and down, screaming with joy. It was the most amazing feeling. I was finally a published author. I took my husband and our best friends out to dinner. We toasted with champagne, enjoyed decadent desserts loaded with fat and carbs and it was one of the happiest evenings ever.

How Becoming an Author Changed My Life

I won’t lie and tell you I live in a mansion. I haven’t been on “Oprah” but I have gotten a lot of exposure through radio, print and online. I have an Assistant. Oh, I also have a housekeeper. I’ll never scrub another toilet again. Nice.

Requests for speaking engagements quadrupled. And, I make more money when people buy my book. I get much more media exposure and I have a thriving mentoring practice – because of my book.

What’s even more important is I have a level of freedom most people can’t imagine. I go to cafes and write, sip tea or read. I go to the gym and workout anytime of day. I shop at the mall when everyone else is working. And, I have lunch with girlfriends who have to scurry back to the office. I did what I loved and the money followed. It can for you, too.

Here’s how I can Help with the Book Inside You

Most of my mentoring work helps clients with marketing.  I also support aspiring authors of “how-to” and “self-help” books get their book together. I’m a very good editor. I’ve been there. I’ve helped hundreds through this process and I can help you, too.

If you have a “how-to” or “self-help” book inside –  maybe it’s time for the world to hear your voice. Maybe it’s time to spread your wings and enjoy the benefits of being an author. It’s amazing how it helps your professionalism, credibility and helps you market more easily.

Maybe you haven’t started writing yet.  You’ve been saying, “The ideas are all right in my head.” Or, maybe you’re halfway done and feeling stuck.

I walk you through the process of getting your book together as far as you want. I help you get beyond the lumps and bumps I struggled with. I’m a mentoring muse, a brainstorming partner, a strategist, and an endless fountain of resources. I can help you edit your ideas. I’ll mentor you to get your book together so it supports you while providing helpful information to the people it’s meant to serve.

Do You Have Questions? I Have Answers.

Mentoring means getting on the phone together weekly. I help you past whatever’s in your way to becoming an author. Like Michelangelo who chipped away at everything that wasn’t David.

If you experience a “crisis in confidence” as many aspiring authors – I guide you and support you. You feel more empowered. I answer your questions, like:

• How do I get started?
• What about other books out there are on a similar topic?
• I have children and a business. Where do I find the time?
• How do I know if my book topic will be saleable?
• How do I organize my thoughts so it all makes sense?
• How do I get the nerve to say I’m an expert or an authority?
• I have more than one book idea. What should I do?
• How long will it take me to write a book?
• How many chapters long should my book be?
• Should I put the first chapter on my website to generate interest?
• Should I self-publish, or, go through a publishing house?
• Should I sell my book on my own website, or, through Amazon?
• How much should I charge for my book?
• Do I need a publicist to help promote my book?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to these questions. It depends on your situation, what you want your book to do and your vision. So, as a mentor, I’ll answer those questions based on your circumstances.

Once your book  is together if you want more support I can even help you develop your marketing strategy and a plan to get the word out.

Here’s what Others Say About Book Mentoring with Denise…

“Thank you…Thank you…Thank you! Your mentorship through the writing and sales process of ‘Are You DUMB Enough To Be RICH?’ was and continues to be invaluable to me. Our phone time together working out all the details of structure, content, design and marketing allowed this book to happen. I have no doubt; I would not be a Best Selling Author today if it were not for your coaching. Thanks again. I’m forever indebted. Yours in prosperity and friendship,”

Bill Barnett, Author
“Are you DUMB Enough To Be RICH?

“The knowledge Denise brings to our weekly calls together is stellar. But, there’s another ingredient in her vast “tool kit” I appreciate – her ability to tap into the intuitive. She helps me recognize when my “stuff” pops up and interferes! Working with Denise I’m experiencing amazing life changes. The journey is wild at times but it’s exhilarating to feel so on purpose! I’ve already referred Denise to a good friend. It’s no surprise my friend’s sending me ‘thank you’s!’ So, Denise – THANK YOU!”

Lynda Blaska, Author
“The Whole Dog”
Paws in Harmony

Ready to Discover More About Book Mentoring?

If you’re passionate about getting your book out – but feeling stumped, stuck or overwhelmed – book mentoring could be right for you.

Let’s schedule a time to talk about you and your book. There’s no obligation to just talk. I’ll answer your questions and share my fees with you. We’ll discuss how much you’ve done and how mentoring may be helpful to you.

Click here for a quick form that’s submitted to my Inbox. I won’t send you an auto-responder or more information. I won’t put you on a list. I promise. You’ll get a personal email back from me to schedule a phone meeting.

Don’t wait! Click here now!

Yours in Success and Joy,

Denise Michaels
Author, “Testosterone-Free Marketing” a Business Bestseller