Book Marketing Expert | Publishing Consultant | Speaker | Author Laureate - American Bookfest | Author of 49 books | Founder of Colorado Authors Hall of Fame
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Articles by Judith Briles
In Writing, Are You Confused with eM Dashes, eN Dashes and Hyphens?
Writing Smarts: Avoid hyphen, eM dash and eN dash Confusion The use of dashes is inconsistent in lots of writing—regardless if the writer is a newbie or veteran in the publishing ranks. The hyphen, eM dash and eN dash crop-up while you’re using Microsoft Word. Most don’t know why it’s recommended. What happens, though, is that the use is inconsistent. And a “What the heck is going on …” interrupts your editing or writing.
The Missing Response to the RSVP … Is that Your MO?
Over the years, I have created a variety of events. They may have a cost to participate … others are freebies. Some are at a location that requires me to pay a fee to use it … some are at a no cost … and some are in my own home. All ask for an RSVP … the abbreviation of the French phrase “répondez s’il vous plaît,” which translates to “please respond.” That’s a YES, a NO, a MAYBE—I’ll get back to you from the recipient. Increasing, I’ve experienced the lack of timely responses, if any.
All Authors Begin Their Authors Walk in the DUMMY Stage
All Authors Begin Their Author’s Walk in the DUMMY Stage Ouch … was that kinda of a kick in the tush when you read the headline, yes? It’s my personal truthiness from the creation and writing of 49 books. One of the most highly listened podcast that I’ve done so far this year on the AuthorU-Your Guide to Book Publishing podcast was one that quickly went through 14 tools for authors to use. I know that many of you are familiar with some … but not all.
Oh-Oh ... Authors Lose When They Snooze!
Authors Lose When They Snooze! It is summertime and the year is marching on … as in way too fast. Are you still thinking about writing a book? How about revising the one you have? Could you be thinking about doing an update? Or just getting across the finishing line? Do you want to transition from the aspiring author mode to the real thing … it is totally possible before the year ends … and definitely for gulp, the year 2026.
Create Your Author’s Inner Circle for Publishing Success
The Author’s Inner Circle Seeds Author Success Have you created a special circle of who becomes an advisory board—ready to give you pushback comments and reality checks? Authors need feedback, reality checks, and plain old-fashion butt-kicking. And they need a little kindness. Few think about putting together an “official” type of board to serve in the feedback/reality check/butt-kicking honors. A “board” that can see through clouds surrounding you that you can’t.
In Publishing … Humans vs AI
In Publishing … Humans vs AI Not a day goes by that authors are not hit with something that has an AI scam attached to it. In a conversation with Jim Cox, the CEO of Midwest Book Review, it to is being hit with a flood from the AI river. He writes in a recent blog earlier in June: AI is now firmly in the news and actively impacting business, the social culture, the economy, politics, and science—including the publishing industry in terms of writers, publishers, and publicity/marketing.
Mardi Gras Recipes Featured in New Cookbook by Judith Briles
Mardi Gras Recipes Featured in New Cookbook by Judith Briles DENVER, CO, UNITED STATES, February 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Every year, the annual Mardi Gras celebration means eating and party time globally. This year, over a million revelers start early with the big New Orleans parade on Saturday, February 28th,4 filling the streets for parades and festivities. Gather your festive masks, beads, and colors, and create a Mardi Gras fest for a multi-hour eating experience.
New Cookbook Features Easy-Peasy, Comfort Food Recipes for the Big Game
New Cookbook Features Easy-Peasy, Comfort Food Recipes for the Big Game DENVER, CO, UNITED STATES, January 29, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- A new cookbook, “Cooking with Judith,” features easy-peasy, comfort food recipes your family and friends will enjoy while they watch the Big Game. “Every winter, the annual Big Game time means eating time.
How to Dump CoPilot
How to Dump CoPilot Most of you have had Microsoft’s Copilot thrown at you—literally, it showed up within Word and became a default add to Word 365. Is it a friend or foe … and actually, what is it? Per Microsoft, it is a low-code platform used to build and customize AI-powered chatbots. These bots are now known as agents. CoPilot tells you how to create your own “standalone agents” or extend the functionality of Microsoft’s existing Copilot for Microsoft 365. It comes to you via default.
Last chance to register for the 2026 Publishing at Sea cruise for authors.
JOIN Me for Publishing at Sea 2026 … LAST Chance to come—only 3 staterooms left! I’m a firm believer in getting away to learn. Especially in the winter, away from the snow, ice, and cold weather—so not my thing. To surround myself with the energy and power and mingle with authors with the “like-minded” desire for success … away from home, from the office, from every day “noise” and I do it at least once a year. The Eastern Caribbean is the destination and the port we depart from is Miami, FL.
Create a Kick Butt Author Update on Amazon’s Author Central
Create a Kick Butt Author Update on Amazon’s Author Central Typically, Amazon’s Author Central is a “set it and forget it experience for authors. Don’t let it be. With TWO BILLION reader hits a year on the Amazon site checking into various author profiles … updating your author profile is a must do.
Tips for authors in dealing with the Author Fatigue Syndrome
Are You Feeling Author Fatigue Syndrome? Summertime Is Here. It’s midway in the year. For authors, it’s time to take a look back so you can breathe and go forward. How has it been for you? What have you accomplished in your book marketing? How is the writing going for your book—either the first or the next? Do you feel a bit overwhelmed? Do you need some time out … a vacation? Yep, I get it. You want to chill out. Me too. Time off. It might be overdue.
Author Summer Time Reading Delights and Eating, Too!
Author Summer Time Reading Delights and Eating, Too! I’m loving being out of winter and into the warm Summer Time. My outdoor back deck beckons to me each morning … Your back deck is calling … come to me … come to me. The final touches have been completed on the next book in the Harmonie series—The Secret Rise and uploaded to IngramSpark and Amazon’s KDP. Earlier this year, I published Cooking with Judith—50 of my favorite recipes for a variety of dishes.
Author Visibility … Are You Findable?
Author Visibility… Are you Findable? Smart authors know that they must use tools and strategies—ones that evolve with time to gain, maintain, and grow their visibility. Are you? The Internet has changed a lot of the rules of yesterday … yesteryear. It’s fast forward time … today, it’s all about being “out there”—exposed, talked about, findable. How do people find you? And connect with you? Are you visible? Or are you lost? Do you know where your book sales come from?
Final Week to Nominate CO Author Hall of Fame Candidates
Strategies Final Week to Nominate Author Hall of Fame Candidates … Who Will They Be in 2025? It’s the final week to nominate outstanding authors for inclusion to the Colorado Authors Hall of Fame. WHO would you like to see honored? If they are connected to Colorado in any way, nominate them. Who are authors that you love to read? Who are the authors who have influenced you? Who are the authors who have made a difference in your life? Authors and their words impact millions every day.
Author Success with eMail and Infrastructure Strategies
Authors Success with eMail and Insfructrature Strategies Okay, I’m on one of my soapboxes for author success—mine and yours. What’s in your Infrastructure wallet? How about your eMail list wallet? Do you even have one? Do you review it at least annually? Do you throw out the old and find the new? Are you willing to dump the so-so? For your author infrastructure … You start with your website and your branding.
From the desk of Dr. Judith Briles … I have a special ask and a gift to you of a free Unplugged with me.
From the Desk of Dr. Judith Briles Hello I have a special ASK … and a GIFT for you If you love authors … and the words they share … plus the amazing stories revealed … and the solutions they provide … Will you join me in celebrating them during my birthday month? love is for you to support the Hall of Fame and the Aspiring Authors Scholarship program. Four years ago, I founded the Aspiring Authors Scholarships where budding authors-to-be over the age of 20 submitted applications for scholarships.
Yes Virginia …There Are Publishing Predators in Your Midst
The author, publishing, writing world may have reached Peak Scam. Pitching you that their “service” is essential … and it is not. Authors must be on alert. I am a HUGE fan and supporter of the must-read blog that is produced by Writer Beware and Victoria Strauss. One that bubble up again was originally published in November of last year that at first glance, an author would think—I need this service. NO YOU DON’T … it’s a scam. With permission to share with you, I’m reprinting it in its entirety.
New blog...Is your blog M.I.A.-missing in action? 10 Tips to Restart
Author Alert: Is Your Blog M.I.A. … Missing in Action? Is your blog stumbling or limping along? Is it failing to be noticed in social media? Do you forget to use essential hashtags and media handles? Are you, as an author expert, missing in action? No more … every author needs to do a FAST blog assessment. Authors need credibility power, starting now. Today’s blog was prompted by a recent client when I decided to do a faux visitor look-over of her website that she had recently modified.
Tips for Authors for Signing Their Books
Tips for Authors for Signing Their Books Forty-four years ago, I had my first book signing. It was at a local bookstore in my home town and I was clueless at what to expect … and really what to do—just show up. Thankfully, the store was a pro at having events and went all out to support me. Is there a right way … or a wrong way to sign a book for an enthusiastic buyer? Or for a gift from the buyer to another?
Ask Judith ANYTHING about Book Publishing and Book Marketing
Ask Judith ANYTHING about Book Publishing and Book Marketing The Book Shepherd is YOURS for 60 Minutes! The Book Shepherd, Judith Briles is YOURS for 60 minutes on Friday, August 21 to ask any question you have about book publishing, book marketing, writing a book … or just getting a “little juice” to start your engines after the Holiday rush from the past few weeks.
2025 Literary Calendar for Authors and Writers
I wish I had created this long ago… my own day for annual calendar It’s time to step up to your influence building plate. Why not do it by having a special day, or week, or even a month each year that’s all about you and/or your book … or your expertise? Create one for 2025. You can attempt to register it with Chase’s Calendar of Events. The odds won’t be great in your favor … at least early on. Why not claim it? Push forward and use it.
Author and Writer Warning … If You Snooze, You Lose!
Your words matter … your ideas, your solutions, and your stories. Are you ready—really ready—to get them out? Your book … your next book … can do amazing things … it’s time to bring the amazing you to the party and invite the pros in for the journey so you will shine. 2025 awaits you. Are you a snoozer? Are you looking for the perfect phrase, word, idea? Are you stuck? Wouldn’t getting unstuck and moving forward be a fantastic goal for the end of the year and the beginning of next?
9 Tips to Embrace Your Writing Feeling
Dr. Judith Briles is a book publishing expert and coach. Often, she must roll up her writing sleeves and become a Book Doctor, juicing up storylines and author words. She empowers authors and works directly with authors who want to be seriously successful and has been writing about and conducting workshops on publishing since the ’80s.
Celebrate Writing and Always WRITE about what YOU care about
My blog today is short, simple, chewy. It’s this: YOU should all be so lucky to do what YOU love to do. I loved the tribute to Stephen Sondheim’s life and work at the Kennedy Center Honors three decades ago. Sondheim died in November 2021, and this being the time of year, when thoughts of gratefulness beginning to fill our thoughts and definitely social media, I thought it would be ideal to share the segment honoring him at the event in 1993.
No author plans to fail … Get 8 tips for reaching your goals
No author Plans to Fail … here’s 8 tips for reaching your goals Goals—identify them—they are your friends … a good thing to have and do for any author who wants to be seriously successful! A few “authoring and publishing” years ago, I expanded my original Snappy Sassy Salty and published Snappy Sassy Salty Success: Wise Words for Authors and Writers. The new edition added another 200. Why? Because it is woven with quotations to kick-start and propel authors and writers forward.
I just want to write my books … dream on!
I just want to write my books … dream on! Sometimes the best of an author’s plans go kaput. The question that should be asked: was it a plan, a real plan … or a fantasy … or a wish? We authors are good at creating the “what ifs” during the germination of a book; during the writing of a book; during the production of a book; during the marketing of a book; during the life of a book. Books are exciting … and when it’s in hand and available, euphoric. It’s your newborn.
Banned Books Baker's Dozen Giveaway
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For Authors only … don’t miss out
Calling all Authors and Writers … Is There a Book in You? Does It Need Help or a Massive Makeover? Are You Ready to Start Your Next Book? Do YOU want practical book marketing guidance and tips? Then it’s time for you to become a member of AuthorU.org … a membership organization based in Colorado that has members in multiple states and internationally. New website … New programs. AuthorU® is a non-profit membership community of authors, writers and publishers and registered as a 501(c)6 with the IRS.
Book Publishing Options ... what's an author to choose?
Dr. Judith Briles started writing notes to her classmates in first grade … and got into “disruptive trouble” from her teachers. She’s now the author of 47 books and counting, still being a disrupter. Her books have won over 55 book awards and been Amazon bestsellers. You can follow her professional side at www.TheBookShepherd.com where she works with writers to become published authors. Listen in to her weekly podcast: AuthorU: Your Guide to Book Publishing at https://bit.ly/AuthorUPodcast
Writing Self-Sabotage and Traps
There are times not to look back as you write. I’m a strong believer in writing from your heart and get the story out so that I can come back and do the overview of missing pieces and holes still exist. Then put my thinking, analytical hat on … ready to start rewrites and the first round of editing with my head. But it’s about timing … when the time is right.
Create Sizzling Press Releases Unplugged - APR
Online 12 pm to 3 pm (11 PT, 12 MT, 1 CT, 2 ET) 3 ½ hours of your time online via Zoom or In-Person with Judith Briles on a Saturday morning. This is not a webinar, it’s live, coaching to get it done. An “I can do this attitude” and commitment to do the work during our workshop. and post-work each work.Your laptop computer. Do not use an iPad or your Mobile. Register HERE: https://bit.ly/PRUnplugged Time: Online 12 pm to 3 pm (11 PT, 12 MT, 1 CT, 2 ET) Online Session is recorded.
Author Success for Infinite Impact
Joining the AuthorU-Your Guide to Book Publishing podcast host Dr. Judith Briles is Amber Vilhauer, a multi-bestselling author, speaker, and Founder of NGNG Enterprises (No Guts No Glory). Get ready with a variety of strategies and tips for your author success. Your takeaways include: · How to implement custom marketing strategies · Why redefining the “WHO” “helps readers feel seen, valued, and heard. · ID the ONE thing to launch your book and see results.
Build and Celebrate Your Author Confidence and Move Forward
Has the invisibility cloak of lack of confidence ever enveloped you as an author? Has it slowed you down? Thirty-seven years ago, was a big publishing year for me—three books were published by three different New York publishing houses. The year was 1987. All books did well and continued to add to my education as an author and future publisher to be in my own right … something that wouldn’t happen until the year 2000.
Don’t be a RSVP ghost.
Busy ...Most people I know are. Working. Occupied. Overwhelmed. Overloaded. Engrossed. Have many irons in the fire. I get it ... I can mark them all.I have a full calendar with appointments and activities every day. Often, months ahead. Yet ... when there is an invitation to come to an event ... a happening ... a whatever that requests a Yes or No, it takes me less than 15 seconds to check my availability and decide. Yes or No and let the host know. To RSVP yea or nay.
Book Acknowledgments: Who’s in Your Village? … Who Are You Going to Thank?
ACHKNOWLEDGMENTS Who’s in Your Book Creation Village? … Who Are You Going to Thank? Everyone … That’s Who! One of the last items on the book publishing “to do” list is to create the Acknowledgment Page … the Thank Yous to the team that assisted you in creating your baby. These are the people who got you here … don’t ignore them. Think in the narrative … let your readers know what your team did to get your book birthed. And check your spelling.
Calling all Authors who want author success!
Calling all Authors! If you are a member of AuthorU.org … a past member … and/or an author who desires to be seriously successful with your publishing efforts … read on: Lots has been happening since the first of the year with a FULL revamp of the AuthorU.org website on a new platform and membership participation. 1.
Mastering the Art of Book Festivals and Crafts Fairs
The Authors’ Guide to Mastering the Art of Book Festivals and Crafts Fairs No matter where you live … when the weather officially turns to sunshine, craft fairs multiple along with book festivals. Are you ready? Do you know that you can sell caseloads of books and build new fans? What’s and author to do if there is a Book Festival or Crafts circuit in the midst? To master the crowds and create sales?
Discover Judith Briles Books New Website
WELCOME to my special website dedicated to my current books. It’s new … it’s different … and long overdue! www.JudithBrilesBooks.com Totally separate from my primary TheBookShepherd.com site … it’s just about my books and what and why I write—ones that I’m connected to and have authored. On Fridays, I’ll share a blog—always on the short side. As in my life, what I write and publish are a mix. Inspiration and overcoming adversity is found between the covers of my memoir, When God Says NO.
Passion … It’s the Core Factor in the Author’s Belly
I Without passion, authors can’t move their words. Without passion, it’s tough for authors to visualize what’s coming and where their words can go. Wihout passion, writing energy evaporates. Authors can’t write a good book without the Passion Factor. It’s how the book in the belly gets out. Do you have one in yours?Authors can’t write a good book without the Passion Factor. It’s how the book in the belly gets out. Do you have one in yours?
There are 6 steps to author and book publishing success and become a true
6 Steps to Authorpreneur Success Author success evolves around being an entrepreneur. My raw definition of an entrepreneur is someone who creates, organizes and operates a business or multiple businesses. Financial risks are incurred in order to do so. The authorpreneur spends uncountable hours in the process. Often, it’s a solo act … with assist/help from others who are engaged along the journey. Yup, that sounds like the path of a successful author.
15 Tips for Authors to Create Successful Book Signings
15 Tips for Authors to Create Successful Book Signings Forty years ago, when I had my first book signing, I just showed up at the bookstore. All I knew was that there would be a table that I would sit at and books to sign. Oh, I invited friends to come … but it was up to the bookstore to let their customers know. And they did. No one … NO ONE … prepared me or offered tips and suggestions on what to do before or during the event. Ideas for how to enhance it … to make sure it was successful.
Unique Daily Hashtags to add to your social media posts
Unique Hashtags Every Day of the Week Use Hashtag Pushes for Social Media … always post EARLY in the am or late the night before on your social media platforms. TIP: Posts limited to 80 or fewer characters receive 65% more engagement—less is more. What are your regular hashtags? … have at hand for copy/paste when you are posting to bring more eyes to your posts. # what? # what? # what? # what? # what? # what? # what? Sample: For writers … Don’t think like everyone else. Read something different.
WOOT...5 authors with get HUGE scholarships in CO in September
Tic … Tic … Tic … for Aspiring Authors -the Last 12 Days to Submit Your Application Do you know someone who is? You? Calling Aspiring Authors … Are you one … Do you know someone who is? All submissions must be received by March 31, 2024. It will be a BIG day … and five amazing authors-to-be will be awarded scholarships with a combination cash and intensive 12-month mentorship program. Who will they be? Will it be you … or someone you know? It’s time to submit applications.
A few short Writing questions for you from #TheBookShepherd
A few short Writing questions for you … Is it a calling? Or is it a job? Could it be a fool’s errand? Or a real and unbelievable possibility? Is writing your dream? Or will it be become your reality? It’s time for you to discover an all-new happening … Writing at Sea … In the Beginning Are you ready to take your writing, your book development, and move it forward?
From the desk of Dr. Judith Briles … I have a special ask
From the Desk of Dr. Judith Briles I have a special ASK … If you love authors … and the words they share … plus the amazing stories revealed … and the solutions they provide … Will you join me in celebrating them on my birthday TODAY? In supporting them? No cards, or flowers, or gifts. What I would love is for you to support the Hall of Fame and the Aspiring Authors Scholarship program.
Calling authors in Colorado. Teas are great places to sell books. If that’s YOU, join me.
It’s that time of the year for many of my favorite people: Authors! If that’s YOU, my question is: are you interested in being featured at my annual Author’s Tea slated for Saturday afternoon, APRIL 27th will be in my home. The Annual Authors’ Spring Tea will be held on: Saturday, April 27, 2024 I will be hosting the gathering in my home within the Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club in Aurora, Colorado. Will you and your books be featured at the Authors’ SPRING Tea?
Should Authors Seek Endorsements and Forewords for Their Book?
Should Authors Seek Endorsements and Forewords for Their Book? Not a week goes by that I don’t get an email or a call from an author asking how to get an endorsement or a foreword for the forthcoming book. So, the immediate answer is: Maybe … maybe not. After their ask, I always respond with, “Why do you want it?” It’s a valid … and important question for every author to be asked in their quest … and to be answered, by the author. Not me. Why do you want … need one, or them? It will sell more books.
Author Tip... Add a Moment of Delight to Your Day ... Every Day this Year!
When FALL falls in, common words many use are GRATEFUL and GRATITUDE. Two wonderful words. Grateful for others, for work, for life … you name it. Throughout the year, major holidays scoot to the stage for their annual celebrations. Fall and early winter are dominant. As Thanksgiving and November nudges in, we are continually reminded to be grateful for others, work, life, the gifts and skills you have, food on the table, shelter … you name it.
I wish I had created this long ago …
I wish I had created this long ago … … my own day for annual calendar It’s time to step up to your influence building plate. Why not do it by having a special day, or week, or even a month each year that’s all about you and/or your book … or your expertise? Create one for 2024. You can attempt to register it with Chase’s Calendar of Events. The odds won’t be great in your favor … at least early on. Why not claim it? Push forward and use it.
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