Page by Page: Writing the Book in Real Time

From fonts to story formula, branding has a huge impact on how readers perceive authors.Whether an author presents a chipper personality or offers a stark website, every interaction with readers fosters a future relationship.As an author, it's your job to create a consistent brand that clearly tells your readers what to expect. As a reader, you (often subconsciously) interpret these cues to decide which books to adore and which to pass over.Peek inside the making of an author brand in this week's episode of A Book and A Dream. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

700 years ago, the Great King of Inisvarden did...a bunch of stuff you won't need to know about until book six, but the author is dumping the information in the first part of book one.If you've ever come across moments like this while reading, you're not alone. If you've ever come across moments like this while writing...you're NOT alone. The good news? There are many ways to avoid these info dumps.Learn the tell-tale signs of a dreaded info dump and how to avoid them in this week's episode of A Book and A Dream. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

To free, or not to free...Offering the first book in your series for free can be a powerful marketing tool, but the method is neither foolproof nor danger-free.From negative stereotypes to being lost in the chaos, this episode of A Book and A Dream will give you a crash course on navigating the free-books waters. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

Reviews can make or break a book, but how does an author capture these illusive unicorns?From searching for help to begging online, there are many mythical paths to reviews. But the way is dangerous. Take the tale of my woe with you. It's dangerous to go alone! Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

Are you beginning to build your writing career?Do you find humor in the unfortunate mistakes others have made?Either way, this episode of A Book and A Dream is right for you. From learning what advice invites chaos to the importance of building a digital home base, these are the top five things Megan O'Russell wishes she'd know when she was just beginning her journey as an author. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

From sacrificial bleaching to rebellious chopping, hair changes have long been a way of outwardly displaying internal transformations.From the sexist to the meaningful, it's time to dive back into a discussion full of tropes and truths. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

Nurturing readers from buyers into fans is a long process filled with many perils.But those special fans who become advocates for their favorite books can help keep authors from feeling like they're screaming into the void.From Bookstagramming to creating social proof, dive into how unicorn readers can change an author's outlook and career. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

When travel isn't possible, technology can save the day.From virtual reality to obscure documentaries, there are many possibilities for doing worthwhile research from home and exciting possibilities for readers who want to dive further into their favorite stories. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

Legacy. What is a legacy?The words of an author can last long after they are gone, continuing to resonate with readers for generations. Or centuries.The concept can seem surreal. But the passing of an author, reminder of copyright law, and durability of print books can make the question of a legacy panic-inducing and immediate. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe

Feeling a little trapped?Staying safe has meant locking ourselves away from the world. But maybe our cages are cocoons. From publishing new books to learning new skills, in this episode of A Book and A Dream, Megan O'Russell explores the transformations to carry with us as we break back out into the world. Get full access to Page by Page Podcast Substack at meganorussell.substack.com/subscribe