Frequently Asked Questions
Q
What is book coaching?
A
Book coaches work with new and established authors, meeting writers where they are in their journey to help them build better books. But we don’t stop there. We uncover what’s holding you back, carve out the path to a fully-realized work, and teach you the things you need to be a business-minded creative professional in this industry. When you come away from working with us, you’ll have those skills in your toolbox to see you forward through your career.
Q
Am I ready to be a writer?
A
This is what we believe it takes to be a writer:
- Prolific reading
- Prolific writing
- The willingness to put your writing out there and persevere through rejection
Q
What does a book coach do that a critique group or beta reader cannot?
A
Beta readers, critique partners, and helpful friends and family can be a gift. However, these partners are different from professional book coaches because they don’t have a wide-view of the industry. We find that informal partners generally read your piece, e-mail you back, and consider the task done.
When you sign up with Conquer Books, we are on your team. We will give you the honest truth about your book, backed by story theory and years of technical experience. Then we work to get the results you want.
Most writers have had less-than-ideal interactions with well-meaning, but inexperienced, readers and critique partners. The wrong feedback or guidance early in a writing career can be detrimental–to a writer’s self-esteem as well as professional trajectory.
Q
What kinds of books do you work on?
A
We are enthusiastic about working on all subgenres of science fiction and fantasy. We specialize in adult-focused work and generally don’t take middle grade or young adult projects. We are not the best fit for picture books either. We love chapters too much.
If you’re not sure if you fall into SFF, ask yourself if your manuscript has something not-of-this-world (magic, future technology, mythical creatures, etc).
Q
Hey Rebecca, what’s your favorite planet?
A
Mars has captured my heart ever since I chose Sailor Mars as my persona in our 90’s Sailor Moon fan club.
Q
Is there any content Conquer Books won’t take?
A
We have a strict policy against working on stories that perpetuate racism, sexism, xenophobia, abilism, or abuse. Do not send us these stories.
This statement is not directed at humble writers seeking to do good with the written word and strive make their work inclusive. Though we are not sensitivity readers, we regularly talk with writers about ways to make their manuscript a positive place for all peoples.
Q
Does working with Conquer Books mean I will get [a six-figure book deal / your dream agent / #1 spot on Amazon / a dragon egg]?
A
Publishing and the book industry are highly unpredictable, variable, and subjective. No book coach or editor worth her salt would guarantee such specific returns. What we can guarantee is that we will help you craft a book you are proud of and that readers will enjoy. While publishing can feel like a gamble, we know the value of determination and perseverance in this industry.
(But if we happen across any dragon eggs, we’ll definitely let you know.)
Q
Hey Nicole, what’s your favorite planet?
A
Jupiter. Ever since I was a kid. I love how BIG it is and that stormy spot the size of three Earths always fascinated me. Plus, it’s got seventy-nine known moons! That many adoring fans has got to mean it’s a pretty stellar planet.
Q
Will you feature my published book on your blog or YouTube channel?
A
On the Conquer Books blog, we only take authors of adult science fiction and fantasy, as well as select writers of nonfiction geared towards writers. As of right now, we typically feature one author a month. Your book does not have to be traditionally published, but it does have to be a quality read that we think our followers would like. For that reason, if you have not worked with a professional editor at any stage of writing and publishing the book, it’s unlikely to be chosen for a feature. We also give weight to authors that have a book out within the last 12 months.
On the YouTube channel, we only review adult science fiction and fantasy ARCs. That is, we need to read and review your book before the publishing date. The book also has to strongly connect with our own reading interests and be of professional quality.
And, yes, because we’re crazy about our clients, they get preference.
You can contact us here.
Q
What if I can’t afford your services?
A
Your financial health and well-being is extremely important. If you’re not in the position to pay for book coaching services, that’s okay. You can still grow with us.
We supply free resources on our blog, Facebook group, and YouTube page. We interact with our followers as much as we can. While our fees mirror the value we bring to literary projects, the resources we put out mirror our commitment to our community. Keep at your craft, read books from the library, join a community writing circle, and study those who have come before you.
Q
I still have questions!
A
So do we. What does 23 mean? Where is The Winds of Winter? Why doesn’t everyone love the Oxford comma?
If book coaching is something you’d benefit from, but you aren’t yet totally sure of the process, please reach out to us. We set up a 20-minute meeting or video call with prospective clients to share more about how all this works and get to know your story. After the meeting, we will send you a detailed proposal of how we can work together. Think of this initial meeting as a fact-finding mission and a way to see if we’d be a good fit for you. We’d love to meet you and be considered.