A behind-the-scenes look at how I designed the book cover for Steve Perron's memoir — from the first conversation to the final layout. Includes comp research, stock image searching, typography choices, and what the author had to say about the process.

Who’s responsible for cleaning up a messy manuscript—the author, editor, or designer? After working on two poorly formatted books, I share what went wrong, what worked, and why using Word styles can save hours in the design process.

Looking for a solid book marketing plan? I’ve collected some of the best resources from trusted self-publishing experts over the years. From step-by-step guides to detailed timelines, these plans can help authors at any stage build a smarter, more effective marketing strategy.

Some self-publishing advice stands the test of time. After revisiting Peter Bowerman’s The Well-Fed Self-Publisher, I realized that many of the core principles of book marketing and publishing are just as relevant today as they were in 2007. Here are eight timeless lessons every author should remember.

A poetry collection gets a fresh new look. In redesigning the cover for The Rings of Nature by Corinne Cygan Goigoux, I explored imagery, typography, and competing poetry covers to create an ebook cover that feels modern, readable, and deeply connected to nature.

A great book doesn’t sell itself — it needs a strong presentation. Inspired by the Book Marketing Tips & Author Successpodcast, this post explores how authors can “set the table for success” with better book covers, websites, keywords, social media, and more.

A strong business book cover does more than look professional — it instantly communicates the book’s message and builds credibility. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the design process for The Control Catastrophe and how strategic typography, imagery, and layout helped create a compelling business book.

Ready to publish your first book? There are more options than you might think—from printing copies just for family to getting listed on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Here's what every first-time author needs to know about print-on-demand publishing, ISBNs, and the steps most people don't see coming.

A professionally designed book cover does more than look good—it helps your book print correctly and sell effectively. This case study shows how correcting technical errors, improving readability, and strengthening the subtitle transformed a first-time author's cover into one that was both attractive and production-ready.

Designing The Light in the Kiva was a dream project. Learn how careful planning, page sequencing, image selection, and thoughtful book design transformed an artist's vision into a beautifully printed art book.

Getting reviews is one of the biggest challenges authors face after publishing a book. In this review of The Book Review Companion by David Wogahn, I share why this practical guide belongs on every self-published author's bookshelf—and why my own copy is filled with highlights and dog-eared pages.

A poetry book cover must capture the imagination of readers while reflecting the mood of the writing. See how an author’s initial concept evolved into a professional cover design for Icarus Flees the Garden of Earthly Delights.

Your book cover is more than a design—it is the foundation of your author brand. Learn how to use your cover consistently across business cards, websites, social media, bookmarks, sell sheets, and other marketing materials to create a professional presence that connects with readers.