The Tide Reclaims Takes Barbados

The second launch of The Tide Reclaims by Latoyaa Roberts took place in beautiful Barbados during the CARIFESTA XV Symposium at the UWI Cave Hill Campus. This event was not only a celebration of the book itself but also an incredible opportunity to introduce readers to the journey of Megan Rivera and James Hall. Sharing their story in such a vibrant cultural space opened the door to rich conversations, while also allowing me to learn more about the diverse pursuits and passions of those in attendance.

Watch the LiveStream

Allow me to introduce you to my latest book release, “The Tide Reclaims”:

On the lush, storm-battered island of St. Gyles, where turquoise waves crash against eroding shores and age-old traditions collide with rising tides, two souls are drawn together by a shared mission—and an undeniable spark. The Tide Reclaims follows marine biologist Megan Rivera, who returns home after years abroad to find her childhood paradise crumbling under the weight of climate change. Partnering with James Hall, a passionate and reformed business tycoon, the couple spearheads the Blue Catalyst Initiative—

The Tide Reclaims:  When Passion and Purpose Meet in the Fight for the Caribbean’s Future

Allow me to introduce you to my latest book release, “The Tide Reclaims”:

On the lush, storm-battered island of St. Gyles, where turquoise waves crash against eroding shores and age-old traditions collide with rising tides, two souls are drawn together by a shared mission—and an undeniable spark. The Tide Reclaims follows marine biologist Megan Rivera, who returns home after years abroad to find her childhood paradise crumbling under the weight of climate change. Partnering with James Hall, a passionate and reformed business tycoon, the couple spearheads the Blue Catalyst Initiative—

a groundbreaking project blending renewable energy, sustainable fishing, coral restoration, and eco-tourism to breathe life back into the island’s endangered ecosystem and fragile economy. But as the duo fights to transform St. Gyles into a beacon of green innovation, they face fierce resistance from powerful developers and skeptical villagers. Natural disasters, political sabotage, and long-buried secrets threaten to unravel both their mission and their growing bond. Still, amidst mangrove forests and sunlit bays, Megan and James find resilience not only in nature—but in each other.

The Tide Reclaims Book Launch- Re:fresh’d Café, El Socorro, Trinidad

It was truly an evening of stories, connection & celebration! When I first imagined this story, I never thought it would lead to this moment. The Tide Reclaims is more than a book — it’s a piece of my heart and my Caribbean roots, shared with the world. Thank you to EVERYONE who believed in me: family, friends, readers, and the incredible CARIFESTA team. Your love made this possible. Here’s to more stories, more voices, and more tides reclaiming their power. Grab your copy and let’s keep this wave going!

The Tide Reclaims- Interviews

The Tide Reclaims- Readings & Discussion

Why a Good Book Synopsis or Blurb Is Essential

In the crowded world of publishing, whether traditional or self-published, authors are not just storytellers. They’re also marketers, brand ambassadors, and the primary force behind the promotion of their own work. One of the most overlooked yet critically important tools in an author’s marketing toolkit is the book synopsis or blurb. This brief piece of text, usually found on the back cover or online sales pages, may be short, but its impact is profound.

First Impressions Matter

A book’s cover design may catch a reader’s eye, but it’s the blurb that determines whether the book ends up in a cart, real or virtual. In the age of instant gratification, potential readers won’t spend more than a few seconds deciding whether to buy a book. If the synopsis doesn’t grab them immediately, they move on. A well-crafted blurb has the power to hook a reader emotionally, intrigue them with the plot, and hint at themes that resonate. It’s your one chance to make that crucial first impression count.

It’s Your Elevator Pitch

Think of the blurb as your elevator pitch, that is, your 30-second chance to convince someone why your book matters. It must be concise yet compelling, informative yet mysterious, giving away just enough to spark curiosity without spoiling the plot. For authors, crafting this pitch is essential. If you can’t sell your story in a paragraph or two, convincing readers to invest hours in reading it becomes an uphill battle.

Drives Sales and Online Visibility

In an increasingly digital marketplace, the blurb serves as the front line of your book’s discoverability and sales conversion. Online retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble rely heavily on blurbs to entice customers. Blurbs also affect search engine optimization (SEO), helping books appear in relevant search results. A well-written, keyword-conscious blurb can increase visibility in online searches and make your book more appealing to browsing readers.

Helps Define the Target Audience

A good blurb signals the book’s genre, tone, and intended audience. Is your book a dark thriller, a swoon-worthy romance, or a cozy mystery? The synopsis should reflect that clearly. This not only helps readers self-select your book but also builds trust. Misleading or vague blurbs may attract the wrong audience, leading to poor reviews and decreased credibility. On the flip side, a clear, engaging blurb ensures your book reaches the right readers, especially those most likely to enjoy it and recommend it to others.

Enhances Author Credibility

For debut authors especially, the blurb is a chance to demonstrate professionalism and writing quality. A sloppy, confusing, or cliché-ridden blurb reflects poorly on the book and, by extension, the author. On the other hand, a polished, confident synopsis suggests that the book itself is well-crafted. It reassures readers and reviewers that they’re in capable hands.

Essential for Publicity and Marketing

Book bloggers, podcast hosts, influencers, and media professionals often rely on the synopsis to decide whether to feature or review a book. Press releases, promotional copies, and social media campaigns frequently pull from or build upon the book blurb. A strong, adaptable synopsis makes it easier for others to promote your work on your behalf.

Caribbean Context

In the Caribbean, where storytelling is a rich part of our cultural heritage, a compelling book blurb can resonate deeply with readers. Whether you’re writing about the vibrant life in Port of Spain, the lush landscapes of Jamaica, or the historical richness of Barbados, your blurb should capture the essence of the Caribbean spirit.

For instance, if your book is set in Trinidad and Tobago, highlight the unique aspects of the setting that will intrigue readers—perhaps the bustling Carnival scenes, the serene beaches, or the diverse cultural tapestry. If your story involves Caribbean folklore, hint at the mystical elements that will draw readers into a world of Anansi tales or the legends of the Soucouyant.

Moreover, in a region where community and word-of-mouth are powerful, a well-crafted blurb can spark conversations and recommendations among readers. Caribbean readers appreciate authenticity, so ensure your blurb reflects the true essence of the islands, making it relatable and enticing.

Final Thoughts

Writing a good book is an incredible accomplishment, but even the best novel can languish in obscurity if no one picks it up. The synopsis or blurb is your book’s invitation to the world. It is your handshake, your promise, or your pitch. Take the time to craft it with care, just as you did with your manuscript. In the grand effort of promoting and selling a book, this small section of text may just be your most powerful ally.

After all, before readers can fall in love with your story, they need a reason to open the first page. A great blurb gives them that reason.

Unlocking Global Publishing Opportunities for Caribbean Authors

Caribbean authors possess a rich tapestry of stories shaped by diverse cultures, histories, and experiences. However, breaking into the global publishing scene can be challenging. There is no clear-cut way to break into the global market, but this article shares a few resources and platforms that seasoned and new authors can consider as they continue to expand their reach globally. This list is NOT exhaustive but by leveraging regional initiatives, participating in literary festivals or building a strong digital presence, Caribbean authors can amplify their voices on the international stage.

1. Engage with Regional Literary Programs

Initiatives like the Bocas Breakthrough Fellowships provide early-career Caribbean writers with mentorship, virtual seminars with international literary professionals, and opportunities to participate in events like the Bocas Lit Fest. These programs are designed to help writers develop their manuscripts and navigate the publishing industry.

2. Participate in Literary Festivals

Events such as the Bocas Lit Fest in Trinidad and Tobago and the Calabash International Literary Festival in Jamaica offer platforms for writers to showcase their work, engage with readers, and connect with industry professionals. These festivals celebrate Caribbean literature and provide networking opportunities that can lead to publishing deals.

3. Attend Writers’ Retreats and Conferences

The CARICON Writers Retreat offers workshops, manuscript reviews, and consultations with literary agents, providing writers with tools to refine their craft and understand the publishing landscape. Such retreats can be instrumental in preparing authors for the global market.

4. Submit to Literary Competitions

Competitions like the Commonwealth Short Story Prize and the Bocas Literary Festival Prize recognize and reward emerging talent. Winning or being shortlisted can significantly boost a writer’s profile and open doors to international publishing opportunities.

5. Build an Online Presence

Utilizing social media platforms can help writers share their work, connect with peers, and discover publishing opportunities. Writers can launch their own blogs, social media pages, promotional websites and platforms that spread information about their literary work and the interests they represent.  

6. Collaborate with Cultural Organizations, Writers’ Group and Book Clubs

Organizations such as like Tobago Writers Guild, Rebel Women Lit, Caribbean Book Club, Book Club Corner TT, Caribbean Author’s Village, or Scribbles and Quill highlight the importance of literacy and building writing communities and associations. By participating in such initiatives, writers can gain exposure and build relationships that may lead to publishing prospects.

7. Network with Literary Agents and Publishers

Engaging with literary agents and publishers who have an interest in Caribbean literature is crucial. Attending events, submitting queries, and building relationships can lead to representation and publishing contracts. You just must be willing to take the first step and send introductory emails, messages or calls.

Conclusion

While the path to global publishing can be complex, Caribbean authors have access to a wealth of resources and communities designed to support their journey. By actively participating in regional initiatives, leveraging digital platforms, and building professional networks, writers can share their unique narratives with a broader audience and achieve international success.

If you need assistance with marketing, editing or self-publishing your book click here to learn more about our services or email us directly at booksbylatoyaaroberts@gmail.com.

Is a Book Translation Needed?

A recent question I have experienced from budding authors is – should I translate my book to another language? It seems like an interesting ask as authors are trying to tap into various resources and different clientele on the market.

So hear as some good reasons why having your book in another language will be a great opportunity for you as an author:

1. Broaden Your Audience through Access New Markets: By translating your book, you can reach readers who speak different languages, significantly expanding your potential readership. Embracing Different cultures often prefer reading in their native languages. Translation helps you tap into these markets where readers may not be fluent in the original language.

2. Increase Sales: Authors are always looking for new revenue streams, so each new language represents a potential new source of income. A successful book in one language can often find success in another, increasing overall sales.

3. International Recognition: Translating your book can help establish you as a global author, enhancing your reputation and credibility on an international scale so you can truly be seen as a global author this way.

4. Promote Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Books are a powerful medium for sharing cultural stories, values, and experiences. Translating your book can help foster understanding and appreciation across different cultures. If your book contains significant cultural content, translating it ensures that this cultural heritage is preserved and accessible to more people.

5. Language Learning Resource: Translated books can serve as valuable resources for language learners, providing authentic material for those studying a new language.In addition this book can be used in academic settings around the world, increasing its impact and significance in educational contexts.

Examples of famous books that have been translated to a variety of languages include The Bible, Around the World in Eight Days, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea or Journey to the Center of the Earth.  Translating your book into another language is not just about reaching more readers but embracing the cultural tapestry of literature and the world around you. Whether you’re looking to increase your book’s reach, enhance your personal growth, or contribute to global cultural exchange, translation offers a powerful tool to achieve these goals. Your book can be next so contact Polygot Translation Services at polyglotranslator@gmail.com today. Don’t forget to use Books by LR to get your discount on the services.

How to use a Book Award Winning to Market your Book?

Hooray, you entered a book award contest and then won!!!

What’s next? Now it’s time to share it with the world.

Many author’s enter book awards in order to help them with their marketing strategy for their book. Here is a step-by-step experience on how to use your book award winning to successfully market your book.

  1. Add to your book- Most book awards will present a seal or accolade which you can add to your book cover, or when describing your book. This becomes useful for the visibility of your book or in your bio introduction as an author. You have earned it so use it!
  2. Have a press release. Share your winning publicly by issuing a press release or a television radio interview to let more persons know about the award that was received. More people would want to know about the new celebration around your book.
  3. Update your website or social media with the award post. You can create new graphics, or some awards provide a graphic template for you, so make as many posts as you like telling your award story.
  4. Create videos giving your experience on entering the book awards, what was your journey like and how do you feel about the success.
  5. Promotional give- aways and sales to highlight the new award given to your book
  6. The idea of winning an award should not get old, so refresh and recycling your winning story as the years go by. An award title is for life, and it now becomes part of your as an author so use it as long as you like.
  7. With your book award remember, you are aiming to create a buzz and interest around your book. By leveraging the prestige of book awards, you can attract new readers and boost your book’s visibility but also re-engage old readers on the importance and interest of your book and your work as an author.

Is a book award important?

Books by LR recently congratulated one of our clients on been listed as a finalist in the Book Excellence Awards!

The Professor Book 1 - finalist in Books by LR

While we took the opportunity to praise him for his success and he now has a new accolade to add to his book…the question was asked is book awards really important to authors?

We took a while to ponder a bit on the thought and here is our take on the issue:

What is a book award?

Generally, book awards are a way to publicly recognize and validate a book’s contribution to the literary world. They are hosted by various entities, and they aim at deeming a book well done or provides some celebration of a book’s excellence. There are some common and well-known book awards such as the Nobel Prize in Literature, Pulitzer Prize, such as but there are others that are more unknown as surface from time to time. However, for many authors they that discover then they have attested to the benefits from being a part of it.

How do you know if that’s the right route for you to market your book?

Book awards present a great opportunity for any kind of book because they have nearly every category available for you to choose from- whether you are fiction or non-fiction writer, self-published or traditionally published, a recently published book or on the market a few years to even unpublished manuscripts or stories.  So yes, because of the variety of options available, you can find one within your niche and in-line with your goals or your chances of winning.

How to you find legitimate ones to enter?

There is no one way to determine which Book awards are best. There are the crème de la crème ones that are very rigorous to enter and appeal to a lot of scholarly and well-seasoned literates. Then there are others that are relatively easy to enter and maybe more useful to the average author. Here are a few recommendations:

  1. Check the criteria and ensure your book is eligible
  2. Compare prices to see what’s affordable- whether it’s free to enter, mid-range or very expensive
  3. Check the reviews – get feedback from authors
  4. Check history and sustainability of the awards- the longer it’s been around, most likely the more legitimate it is.
  5. Check for ones that has a thematic area suitable to your niche and writing whether it appeals to Indie Authors, Black authors, women authors, etc.

My last advice is to consider how you would use these accolades when won. Does your target audience see book awards winnings or finalists as important to the value of your book? Would more sales be derived if you had a book award or not?

Tune into the next article on how to use your book awards winning to market your book.

amazon amazonkdp author authors awards book book-review Book awards book launch books booksbylr books by lr budgeting caribbean caribbean author caribbean books caribbean publishing caribbean writer caribbean writers ebook fiction first time author kleon mcpherson latoyaa roberts marketing must read new author new book poems poetry publishing publishing tips puplishing reading Self-Publishing self-puplishing self publish social media tips travel Trinidad and Tobago women writing writing coach Writing Tips

The Books By LR Writing Workshop is Back!

Think it… Write it… Publish it!

The Books by LR Intensive Writing Workshop is a small group writing program designed to get your book idea onto paper and out into the world within 3 months. You will have access to all the tools, support, feedback and expertise needed to turn your ideas into words that will then be packaged and published at the end of the program. Come write that book you’ve had in your head alongside our team of qualified and recognized facilitators and other aspiring writers with the same goal.

It’s time to finally write that book you’ve been planning for ages.

Raise your hand if:

  • You’ve got a story to tell or knowledge to share but writing that book has been a daunting and lonely process
  • You have a book idea but you’ve been struggling to conceptualize those ideas and find your writing style
  • You have a working draft but you have no idea how to go about preparing & packaging it for publishing
  • You’ve had an idea for a book for a while and you’re ready to get serious about putting it out into the world
  • You’re looking to write, edit, format, market and publish a book on a budget

Writing a book, especially your first one, can sometimes be a daunting and lonely process. The Books By LR Intensive Writing Workshop will bring together a small group of writers all with one goal: to finally publish the book you’ve been planning for ages.

At Books by LR, our core value is to foster a space where authors can find support, advice and all the tools necessary to take their literature from idea to draft and then publishing. We believe every person has a story worth telling, and that you can carve yourself into history with the right tools and guidance.

All the tools & support you need to turn your ideas into words

THE MODULES

1. Conceptualizing Ideas

In this module, we’ll focus on different tools to bring out your ideas from your mind such as mind mapping, brainstorming, Talk it out, Free Write, Storyboarding, Five whys, etc in an effort to encourage the writer to generate as many ideas or stories that may be interesting to the narrative of his/her book.

2. Types of Writing Styles

This module is developed to introduce writers to different genres of writing, both fiction and non-fiction. In addition, it gives the opportunity to analyse some authors as inspiration for their work or to see how different writing styles may be similar or different to their focused work.

3. Structuring your Book

This module introduces participants to ideas on how their manuscript can be structured based on the type of book and the target reader and audiences by going to templates and practical ideas on how to ensure the book is properly structured.

4. Structuring your Book

UMPH – Box paragraphing Method- A guest writer and educator, Deanne Whiskey-John will join us to share her writing method – a whole-brain approach to writing stories. The writer uses block-paragraphing a logical, left-brain strategy to facilitate creative writing a right-brain activity.

5. Writing Enhancement

A guest author and writing coach of Ideas to Ink, Jenelle Jack, will speak about the writing process through her lens and her tips and advice to budding writers to move along their work to completion.

6. Putting Image to your Words

This module focuses on visualization and graphic elements that can be included in your book. Tips and techniques relating to illustrations, graphics and visualization elements will be explored.

7. Getting Ready to Publish

(Adding finishing touches, Formatting, Cover, ISBN) This module will focus on all the essentials needed to ensure your book is completed and ready to be published by focusing on all the auxiliary services and items needed to complement a finished manuscript.

8. Marketing

This module focuses on introducing your book to the world by discussing book launch ideas, getting shelved at a bookstore or sales outlet (physical or online), marketing opportunities and activities that every writer should engage in to ensure they are getting the most engagement out of their book.

All the feedback & expertise you’ll need to package & publish your work

You will have access to:

Editors to edit, format & provide invaluable feedback on your work,

Graphic designer for book cover design,

2 individual consulting sessions,

Publishing to Amazon once the book is completed in 3 months,

Guidance on securing ISBN number, book registration etc., and

Insider information on how to Marketing & selling your book in the Caribbean & Globally.

Your Roadmap to Self-Publishing

Disclaimer

Careful consideration should be given to the timeline above. Authors are responsible for all printing and publishing costs of books created during the Books by LR Intensive Writing Workshop. Self-publishing through Amazon will depend on the timely completion of the book, securing of ISBN number, complete course payment & writer’s readiness to publish. One additional month has been added to the workshop timeline to allow for persons to complete final preparations and publish their book under the guidance of our team. Books by LR reserves the right to terminate projects after the 3-month period, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.

BONUSES

Free advance copy of ‘The Self-Publishing Road Map’

You’ll get a free copy of our intense writing workshop guide, ‘The Self-Publishing Road Map’ by Latoyaa Roberts. This interactive guide will be your companion and book of reference throughout the course and can be used as a standalone guide for your future writing projects.

Bonus Lecture by Guest Facilitator, Deanne Whiskey-John

Guest writer and educator, Deanne Whiskey-John will join us to share her writing method, UMPH Box Paragraphing Method– a whole-brain approach to writing stories using block-paragraphing a logical, left-brain strategy to facilitate creative writing a right-brain activity.

Bonus Lecture by Guest Facilitator, Jenelle Jack

Guest author and writing coach of Ideas to Ink, Jenelle Jack, will share her expertise on the writing process through her lens as well as her tips and advice to budding writers to move along their work to completion.

PICTURE THIS:

  • Writing your book is no longer a daunting and lonely process because you’re writing alongside our team of qualified and recognized facilitators and other aspiring writers with the same goal
  • You’ve finally gotten that book idea that you’ve been struggling to conceptualize down on paper; you’ve explored and found your preferred writing style(s)
  • You have taken your book draft and made adjustments, and it’s been edited, formatted, packaged and self-published with the guidance of our team
  • You’ve got all the insider information on how to market & sell your book in the Caribbean & Globally both from our team and guest facilitators

It’s time to finally write that book you’ve been planning for ages.

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Your Main Facilitator

Meet Latoyaa Roberts B.A, M.Sc

Latoyaa Roberts-Thomas is the owner & lead consultant at Books by LR. She is a social entrepreneur, communications and development consultant and an avid traveller. She is a Member of the Artist Registry of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago as well as the Caribbean Creative Network and possesses a B.A in Communications Studies with Linguistics and International Relations (First Class Honours) and a M.Sc in Global Studies (Distinctions) from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. After becoming a self-published author, Latoyaa has since assisted many other Caribbean authors with the preparing, packaging & publishing of their work through Books by LR. Learn more about Latoyaa here

Guest Facilitators

Deanne Whiskey-John

The author of UMPH is an expert educator, educational administrator, business consultant, entrepreneur and author with a proven 31-year track record. Certified to teach preschoolers, primary and secondary students. She taught creative and essay writing to both primary and secondary students for more than twenty years with a 100% pass rate. Served as an Administrator in Trinidad and Tobago and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Founder, Director & Training Consultant at the I-sparK Leadership Centre.

Jenelle Jack

Jenelle Jack helps professionals, subject-matter experts, and entrepreneurs write and self-publish a book to spread their message, make an impact, and build their brand. She is a published author and book coach who works with women who want to create impact, influence, and income with a book. To put it simply, she’s here to teach our participants how to streamline their writing process to help achieve your goal of becoming a published author.

Let’s help you create your story for the world to see.

Your journey to self-publishing begins April 3rd, 2023

Copyrights and Non-Disclosure Clause

All participants will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement with Books by LR before the commencement of the workshop to ensure that all confidential information shared between both parties, as a necessary part of doing business together in this 10-week intensive writing workshop, will be guarded with the utmost responsibility to avoid litigation.

All materials generated during the workshop will remain the copyright of the authors for their individual works generated during this programme.

All materials provided by Books by LR or its affiliates will remain the property and copyright of said parties. The materials should only be used by the participants registered in the workshop. No duplication of materials or sharing to third parties are encouraged without the written consent by Books by LR or its authorised representatives.

Let’s Connect @booksbylr

4 Journaling Prompts for Writers to Start 2023

The end of the year is fast approaching, which means it’s time to reflect on your writing goals for 2022, celebrate your accomplishments and start planning for the year ahead. Here are four journal prompts that writers should answer before the start of the new year:

👉🏾What has 2022 meant for my writing and what have I learnt?

👉🏾What are my writing goals for 2023?

👉🏾How can I (realistically) achieve these goals? (Make a plan)

👉🏾What can I do now to set myself up to accomplish these goals?

While you are reflecting, be sure to check out The Books By LR Intensive Writing Workshop to learn about how you could take your book from idea to published in the first 3 month of 2023 alongside our team of qualified and recognized facilitators and other aspiring writers with the same goal.

Happy writing!

If you need assistance with marketing, editing or self-publishing your book click here to learn more about our services or email us directly at booksbylatoyaaroberts@gmail.com.

Introducing the Books by LR Intensive Writing Workshop

The Books by LR Intensive Writing Workshop is a small group writing program designed to get your book idea onto paper and out into the world within 3 months. You will have access to all the tools, support, feedback and expertise needed to turn your ideas into words that will then be packaged and published at the end of the program. Come write that book you’ve had in your head alongside our team of qualified and recognized facilitators and other aspiring writers with the same goal.

It’s time to finally write that book you’ve been planning for ages.

Raise your hand if:

  • You’ve got a story to tell or knowledge to share but writing that book has been a daunting and lonely process
  • You have a book idea but you’ve been struggling to conceptualize those ideas and find your writing style
  • You have a working draft but you have no idea how to go about preparing & packaging it for publishing
  • You’ve had an idea for a book for a while and you’re ready to get serious about putting it out into the world
  • You’re looking to write, edit, format, market and publish a book on a budget

Writing a book, especially your first one, can sometimes be a daunting and lonely process. The Books By LR Intensive Writing Workshop will bring together a small group of writers all with one goal: to finally publish the book you’ve been planning for ages.

At Books by LR, our core value is to foster a space where authors can find support, advice and all the tools necessary to take their literature from idea to draft and then publishing. We believe every person has a story worth telling, and that you can carve yourself into history with the right tools and guidance.

All the tools & support you need to turn your ideas into words

THE MODULES

1. Conceptualizing Ideas

In this module, we’ll focus on different tools to bring out your ideas from your mind such as mind mapping, brainstorming, Talk it out, Free Write, Storyboarding, Five whys, etc in an effort to encourage the writer to generate as many ideas or stories that may be interesting to the narrative of his/her book.

2. Types of Writing Styles

This module is developed to introduce writers to different genres of writing, both fiction and non-fiction. In addition, it gives the opportunity to analyse some authors as inspiration for their work or to see how different writing styles may be similar or different to their focused work.

3. Structuring your Book

This module introduces participants to ideas on how their manuscript can be structured based on the type of book and the target reader and audiences by going to templates and practical ideas on how to ensure the book is properly structured.

4. Structuring your Book

UMPH – Box paragraphing Method- A guest writer and educator, Deanne Whiskey-John will join us to share her writing method – a whole-brain approach to writing stories. The writer uses block-paragraphing a logical, left-brain strategy to facilitate creative writing a right-brain activity.

5. Writing Enhancement

A guest author and writing coach of Ideas to Ink, Jenelle Jack, will speak about the writing process through her lens and her tips and advice to budding writers to move along their work to completion.

6. Putting Image to your Words

This module focuses on visualization and graphic elements that can be included in your book. Tips and techniques relating to illustrations, graphics and visualization elements will be explored.

7. Getting Ready to Publish

(Adding finishing touches, Formatting, Cover, ISBN) This module will focus on all the essentials needed to ensure your book is completed and ready to be published by focusing on all the auxiliary services and items needed to complement a finished manuscript.

8. Marketing

This module focuses on introducing your book to the world by discussing book launch ideas, getting shelved at a bookstore or sales outlet (physical or online), marketing opportunities and activities that every writer should engage in to ensure they are getting the most engagement out of their book.

All the feedback & expertise you’ll need to package & publish your work

You will have access to:

Editors to edit, format & provide invaluable feedback on your work,

Graphic designer for book cover design,

2 individual consulting sessions,

Publishing to Amazon once the book is completed in 3 months,

Guidance on securing ISBN number, book registration etc., and

Insider information on how to Marketing & selling your book in the Caribbean & Globally.

Your Roadmap to Self-Publishing

Disclaimer

Careful consideration should be given to the timeline above. Authors are responsible for all printing and publishing costs of books created during the Books by LR Intensive Writing Workshop. Self-publishing through Amazon will depend on the timely completion of the book, securing of ISBN number, complete course payment & writer’s readiness to publish. One additional month has been added to the workshop timeline to allow for persons to complete final preparations and publish their book under the guidance of our team. Books by LR reserves the right to terminate projects after the 3-month period, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.

BONUSES

Free advance copy of ‘The Self-Publishing Road Map’

You’ll get a free copy of our intense writing workshop guide, ‘The Self-Publishing Road Map’ by Latoyaa Roberts. This interactive guide will be your companion and book of reference throughout the cost and can be used as a standalone guide for your future writing projects.

Bonus Lecture by Guest Facilitator, Deanne Whiskey-John

The author of UMPH is an expert educator, educational administrator, business consultant, entrepreneur and author with a proven 31-year track record. Certified to teach preschoolers, primary and secondary students. She taught creative and essay writing to both primary and secondary students for more than twenty years with a 100% pass rate. Served as an Administrator in Trinidad and Tobago and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Founder, Director & Training Consultant at the I-sparK Leadership Centre.

Bonus Lecture by Guest Facilitator, Jenelle Jack

Jenelle Jack helps professionals, subject-matter experts, and entrepreneurs write and self-publish a book to spread their message, make an impact, and build their brand. She is a published author and book coach who works with women who want to create impact, influence, and income with a book. To put it simply, she’s here to teach our participants how to streamline their writing process to help achieve your goal of becoming a published author.

PICTURE THIS:

  • Writing your book is no longer a daunting and lonely process because you’re writing alongside our team of qualified and recognized facilitators and other aspiring writers with the same goal
  • You’ve finally gotten that book idea that you’ve been struggling to conceptualize down on paper; you’ve explored and found your preferred writing style(s)
  • You have taken your book draft and made adjustments, and it’s been edited, formatted, packaged and self-published with the guidance of our team
  • You’ve got all the insider information on how to market & sell your book in the Caribbean & Globally both from our team and guest facilitators

It’s time to finally write that book you’ve been planning for ages.

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Your Main Facilitator

Meet Latoyaa Roberts B.A, M.Sc

Latoyaa Roberts-Thomas is the owner & lead consultant at Books by LR. She is a social entrepreneur, communications and development consultant and an avid traveller. She is a Member of the Artist Registry of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago as well as the Caribbean Creative Network and possesses a B.A in Communications Studies with Linguistics and International Relations (First Class Honours) and a M.Sc in Global Studies (Distinctions) from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. After becoming a self-published author, Latoyaa has since assisted many other Caribbean authors with the preparing, packaging & publishing of their work through Books by LR. Learn more about Latoyaa here

Let’s help you create your story for the world to see.

Your journey to self-publishing begins January 16th, 2023

Copyrights and Non-Disclosure Clause

All participants will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement with Books by LR before the commencement of the workshop to ensure that all confidential information shared between both parties, as a necessary part of doing business together in this 10-week intensive writing workshop, will be guarded with the utmost responsibility to avoid litigation.

All materials generated during the workshop will remain the copyright of the authors for their individual works generated during this programme.

All materials provided by Books by LR or its affiliates will remain the property and copyright of said parties. The materials should only be used by the participants registered in the workshop. No duplication of materials or sharing to third parties are encouraged without the written consent by Books by LR or its authorised representatives.

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