Ep 135: Q&A: Kirkus Reviews, Writing with AI, and Bestseller Status

Write the Damn Book Already

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Ever feel like everyone has some secret book marketing hack? Most of those “shortcuts” are just expensive detours.

In this episode, I’m calling out three distractions that keep indie authors spinning their wheels. First up: Kirkus Reviews. Are they legit? Yes. Are they worth the price for most self-published authors? Maybe. But if you're hoping a $400 review is going to move thousands of copies, well, it probably won't.

Then we dive into the Amazon Bestseller badge obsession.

Finally, we'll talk about AI. As someone who edits A LOT of manuscripts, I can spot AI-generated content from a mile away. So can readers. In publishing, the long game truly is the shortcut.

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Want to learn how to actually get your book in front of the right readers? My Amazon Ads for Indie Authors course is officially open—with early bird pricing! Now live at publishaprofitablebook.com/amazonads.

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Write the Damn Book Already is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with authors as well as updates and insights on writing craft and the publishing industry.
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فصول

1. Podcast Introduction and Core Beliefs (00:00:00)

2. Amazon Ads Course Launch Announcement (00:02:54)

3. Are Kirkus Reviews Worth It? (00:05:15)

4. The Bestseller Status Myth (00:10:24)

5. When (Not) to Use AI for Writing (00:16:52)

6. Closing Thoughts and CTA (00:23:36)