Tim McConnehey's Blog

Why Most Manuscripts Fail Before Editing Even Begins By the time many authors hire an editor, the most expensive mistake may have already happened. Not because they chose the wrong person. Because they gave the right person the wrong assignment. The manuscript may not need cleaner sentences first. It may need a clearer thesis, a […]

Publishing does not make a manuscript credible. It makes credibility visible. That is why so many serious authors misread their moment. They assume readiness begins when the draft is complete, when the prose sounds smoother, or when they are simply too tired to keep revising. But completion is a milestone of endurance. Publishability is a […]

Where creativity meets precision - and ordinary authors become extraordinary.

“Depth makes a character believable. Change makes a character inevitable.” A dynamic character changes in a meaningful way—beliefs, values, or choices—by story’s end. A static character stays fundamentally the same. Both belong in strong books. The craft is choosing which serves your theme and market—and then making that choice visible on the page. Below, you’ll […]

Want Readers to Rave About Your Book? A polished manuscript separates great books from average ones. At Izzard Ink, we’ve discovered meticulous editing is the key ingredient behind successful, acclaimed publications. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, this comprehensive editing checklist guides you from raw draft to refined manuscript. Editing Stages Editing Stage Primary Goal […]

Want Readers to Rave About Your Book? A polished manuscript separates great books from average ones. At Izzard Ink, we’ve discovered meticulous editing is the key ingredient behind successful, acclaimed publications. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, this comprehensive editing checklist guides you from raw draft to refined masterpiece. Editing Stages Editing Stage Primary Goal […]

What is an eBook? An eBook is a digital publication designed for reading on devices like Kindle, tablets, smartphones, or computers. Unlike traditional print, eBooks offer portability, instant delivery, interactive features, and global accessibility, enhancing the reader’s experience and convenience. Are eBooks in Demand? Absolutely. In 2023 alone, U.S. eBook sales surpassed $1.1 billion, with […]

A coffee table book is more than a collection of images—it’s a timeless piece of art that tells your story. Whether preserving family history, showcasing achievements, or elevating your brand, it becomes a powerful expression of what matters most. At Izzard Ink, we meticulously bring your vision to life with precision and purpose. Every element—from […]

Introduction: Why Every Author Needs a Strategic Marketing Plan Publishing a book is a significant achievement, but in today’s oversaturated market, writing an excellent book isn’t enough—it must be discovered, read, and recommended. Whether you’re a thought leader expanding your influence, an established author keeping up with digital trends, or a first-time writer navigating the […]

How Many Words Should a Novel Have? Understanding the ideal length of a novel, which is influenced by genre, audience expectations, and publishing standards, is crucial for authors. Most novels fall between 50,000 and 100,000 words, but different genres have distinct norms. For instance, novellas are usually 20,000 to 50,000 words, while epic fantasies often […]