Unlike a copy editor who focuses on grammar or a proofreader who catches typos, a developmental editor works at the big-picture level. Their role is to strengthen your manuscript’s structure, pacing, character development, and thematic clarity so that the story resonates with readers and meets the expectations of your genre.
If you’re weighing hybrid publishers, two names you’ll inevitably see are Atmosphere Press and Greenleaf Book Group. Both are reputable and both serve authors who want more than the do-it-yourself route — but the experience, cost structure, and community offerings are very different.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to write a compelling book synopsis that captures the attention of agents and publishers. We’ll cover length, structure, common pitfalls, and I’ll even share an example so you can see what a professional synopsis looks like in practice!
If you’re aiming for traditional publishing, securing a literary agent is one of the most important steps you can take. But with so many agents out there—and each one specializing in particular genres—the search can feel overwhelming. The good news is that finding an agent who not only represents your genre but also believes in your work is absolutely possible with the right strategy.
When it comes to writing a mystery novel, the detective character is often the heart and soul of the story. How you write your detective character can make the difference between a forgettable mystery and one that hooks readers from the first page!
Red herrings are one of the most powerful tools in a mystery writer’s arsenal—and one of the easiest to misuse. If you’ve ever tried to keep your reader guessing only to leave them confused, frustrated, or (worst of all) unimpressed, you’re not alone.
If you’re looking for novel rewriting tips, you already know one truth of the writing life: the first draft is never the final word. Finishing a draft is a huge achievement—but it’s only the beginning. The real work of shaping your story into something publishable happens in the rewrite.
For years, authors have been told, “The gatekeepers are gone, and publishing access is open to all!” Thanks to self-publishing and digital platforms, it’s easier than ever to get your book online. But true publishing access—getting your book into readers’ hands and building a lasting career—is far more complex.
So: You’ve just polished off your manuscript, and you’re buzzing with excitement. Your first instinct? Probably to celebrate (as you should!) and then jump into pre-publication book marketing—because the most successful authors know that marketing their books 6 to 12 months before publication is key to building buzz and momentum.
In an age filled with writing software and digital tools, there’s something timeless—and surprisingly powerful—about notecard novel planning. Mapping your book by hand using physical notecards lets you see your story’s structure in a tactile, flexible way. This low-tech approach frees you from screen distractions and helps you engage more deeply with your plot, characters, and pacing.
When it comes to crafting a compelling story, many novelists can learn a lot from filmmakers. Screenwriting techniques focus on clear structure, precise pacing, and vivid storytelling—all essential elements that can elevate your novel to the next level. By borrowing tools from the world of film, novel writers can create tighter plots, more dynamic scenes, and characters that leap off the page.
Finishing a book is an incredible achievement, yet many writers find themselves grappling with writer’s self-doubt the moment they type “The End.” Instead of feeling proud and accomplished, it’s common to experience uncertainty, disappointment, or even frustration with your work. These conflicting emotions can be confusing and discouraging, but they are a natural part of the creative journey.
Marketing your book can feel overwhelming or even uncomfortable—especially if you worry about coming across as pushy or “selling out.” But it doesn’t have to be that way. Authentic marketing is about sharing your story and passion in a way that feels genuine and respectful to both you and your readers.
Writing the ending first is a technique that many writers overlook, yet it can be a powerful way to bring clarity and focus to your storytelling. Endings are often the hardest part of a story to write because they must resolve conflicts, deliver emotional impact, and leave readers satisfied. Starting with the ending gives you a clear destination, helping you avoid getting lost in plot tangents or rewrites later on.
If you’re an author wondering how to get your book in bookstores, you’re not alone! Securing shelf space—especially in indie bookstores—is a valuable way to reach local readers, build your audience, and boost sales. But pitching your book to bookstore owners can feel intimidating, and the last thing you want is to come across as pushy or desperate.
If you’ve ever searched how to run a book giveaway, you already know the promise: more visibility, more readers, and maybe even a burst of reviews. But too often, authors end up spending money on prizes, shipping, or ads—only to attract freebie hunters who never engage with the book at all.
Cassandra (she/her) graduated from Indiana University in December 2020 with a bachelor’s in English literature and minors in creative writing and psychology. She has experience in many aspects of book publishing, but she found her passion in interior book design with Atmosphere Press. Now, she loves her job of helping every Atmosphere author perfect their book before falling into the hands of readers – and new fans!
Eco-fiction is literature that places the environment at the heart of storytelling—not just as a backdrop, but as an essential force. These are novels and short stories that engage directly with ecological themes: climate change, biodiversity, sustainability, and the fraught, fascinating relationship between humans and the natural world.
Writing Slow Burn Romance: Patience + Passion Writing slow burn romance is one of the most rewarding yet challenging endeavors in the romance genre. This beloved subgenre is known for its gradual, simmering build-up of attraction and emotional connection between…
As writers, we are the architects of worlds, the creators of dreams and nightmares alike. And in the realm of dark fantasy, our pens become the wands that summon forth demons and dragons, witches and warlocks, heroes and antiheroes locked in an eternal dance of light and darkness.
Your Book. Launched by us.
Atmosphere Press was founded in 2015 on the principles of Honesty, Transparency, Professionalism, Kindness, and Making Your Book Awesome. We hold true to those principles today.
© Atmosphere Press, all rights reserved 2024.
7107 Foxtree Cove, Austin, TX 78750
© Atmosphere Press, all rights reserved 2024.
7107 Foxtree Cove, Austin, TX 78750
