Book Writing and Editing

Sometimes, it can feel challenging to write your story while you’re unsure of the ending, and yet, the act of wrestling with your story can be an empowering part of the journey and lead you to a surprising reward.

Excavating the story within is a laborious, intense, and sometimes painful process. This creative birth requires a certain kind of storytelling support.

Kelsey Schurer, executive editor for Round Table Companies, shares a beautifully sensory-detailed reflection on her own battle with grief after the heartbreaking loss of her grandfather. Throughout this article, Schurer transports readers into vivid scenes, eventually conjuring intimate emotions within readers. For writers eager to do the same in their next book, this vulnerable example of brutally honest storytelling serves as inspiration.

At Round Table Companies, you don’t just get a writer assigned to your book writing project. You get an entire team ready to help you from book idea conception all the way through publishing should you choose to do so. Let’s take a look at some of the members of this dynamic team.

You’ve written the first draft of your book. Now what? It may be time to invite a peer editor to your book writing team for a manuscript review. Get a fresh perspective, honest feedback, and a sense of what work still needs to be done to make your book brilliant and whole.

Once you have written a book, it is time to edit and refine the manuscript. The 10-page lifeboat editing exercise is one tool you can use to masterfully accomplish this goal. By choosing the most relevant and compelling parts of your story, you can really sharpen the points you hope to make and reach your readers where it counts.

The New Year is upon us and promises of new habits, changes, and exciting adventures swirl through the air. Have you always wanted to write a book? Why not make this year the year you start and finish writing a book?

Writing a book can feel like running a marathon. While crossing the finish line is validating, sometimes each step of the race is just as important as the final push. At RTC, we value the book writing journey as much as the completion of a manuscript. It is in this journey where we see growth, transformation, and little wonders along the way.

Many of us walk through life thinking we’re quite ordinary. The fact remains, however, that we all have unique experiences throughout our lives. There is nothing ordinary about the unique. It may be time to write a book and share the gift of your story. You may not realize just how much of a gift your story truly is and can be.

The pages are written. The manuscript is complete. What is next? You’re going to need to edit your work, but do you hire a book editor or attempt to self-edit? There are benefits and drawbacks to self-editing. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

Thanksgiving is a time to pause and reflect on all the things, experiences, and people we are grateful for in our lives. At RTC, we are so grateful for our clients and the connections we have fostered over the years. We asked our clients what they were grateful for regarding their book writing journeys.

If you want to write a book but don’t have the time or don’t know where to start, hiring a ghostwriter may be the best option for you. But it comes at a personal price. With any creation, there is partial destruction, and the very thing that may be damaged after hiring a ghostwriter is your soul.

In this insight-packed interview, Corey Blake, CEO and founder of Round Table Companies, creator of The Story Hero, and publisher of Conscious Capitalism Press, discusses the intentionality, authenticity, and transformation the book writing and publishing journey awakens. Corey asks writers a simple question: if you do not know what you want from your book, how will you know you have achieved it when it is complete?

So you want to write a book and you’re considering hiring a ghostwriter. Did you know there are other options available that can help you develop, write, edit, and even publish your manuscript? Book writing, even with an “outside” writer, can be a deeply collaborative (and healing) process.

Kelsey Schurer, executive editor at Round Table Companies, sheds some light on the very real challenges authors face when writing a book. From the initial excitement about starting something new to the apprehension and anxiety that creep over the heart as the book writing journey comes to a close, Kelsey lets readers know they are not alone and provides four tangible steps authors can take to finally finish that book.

Writing a book is a wonderful, challenging, eye-opening experience. Many authors, both new and established, face one giant foe that can stop them in their tracks. Imposter syndrome is a powerful force in the world of book writing, but is it all evil, or can it be used for good?

When writing a book, there are always going to be pieces of you found within the pages. The key to a successful, meaningful, and rewarding book writing journey is to channel your authentic voice instead of trying to mimic someone else’s.

When writing a book, your word count can serve as a guide. The key is to not allow the word count to take over your creative process. Allow it to be your co-pilot, not your captain. Let’s explore a few more myths about word count.

When you’re sharing your expertise, it may be hard for you to insert your own personal story within the lessons. You may wonder if your story is relevant to what you want readers to glean from your book. Spoiler alert: your story is incredibly relevant.

You have a story to tell and you’re ready to write it. Should you start with your birth and work your way up to today? Or do you have a specific life event or experience you want to expand upon? These are the questions you should ask yourself when determining whether to write a memoir or an autobiography.

When writing a book you may want to dive right in to get those words on the page. However, like any epic journey, a road map of sorts will get you to your destination more efficiently. That is why a book outline is paramount when it comes to book writing.

When writing a book, you may have a specific word count or word count range in mind. While it is always important to set milestones and goals throughout the writing process, your ultimate goal should be what is physically on the pages, not how many pages you have written. The word count should be the least of your concerns. Here’s why.

What came first, the chicken or the egg? In the world of book writing and book publishing, you may ask if published content or a published book should come first. No matter where you stand on the chicken and egg conundrum, we’re here to share insight on both theories.

The fifth most common fear when it comes to book writing is credited to imposter syndrome and the need to feel “different” from all the other authors out there. While you may battle feelings of insignificance, the fact remains that your story is unique. You are the only you that has existed. Therefore, your perspective as you write your book is, in and of itself, a story yet untold.

The fourth most common fear when writing a book is that sneaky feeling that a book may not be the right way to reach your audience. Are books dying? Should you offer seminars instead? Isn’t everyone in the digital space these days? Books are not going anywhere and now is a perfect time to write your book. Additionally, writing a book is one of the most personal ways you can connect with your audience.

Almost everyone, at one time or another, worries about what others may think of us. The third most common fear when writing a book is that writing and publishing a book could change the way others view you. Before considering any negative possibilities, take a moment to imagine the positive, life changing, and impactful ways your book will alter the way others think. The book writing journey reaps great rewards for not only the author, but everyone who is touched by your book.

Let’s be honest, failure is part of the book writing journey. Like anything you learn to do, you often learn most from failing. The second most common fear when writing a book is that it will not make a positive impact. Writing a book can be messy, but it is almost always a fulfilling process both for you and your prospective readers. Do not fear your story will not impact others. Rather, fear the person you may never get to be if you don’t tell your story at all.

The number one fear when writing a book comes down to timing. Whether you’ve developed new insight after the COVID-19 pandemic, or you have a life story you’ve been dying to share, it is always the right time to write your book. The challenge lies in carving out time in your personal life to work on writing your book. There may never be a time when everything is settled, and you have plenty of time to dedicate to your book writing project. The best time is now.

Every business, like every person, has its own story. And that story becomes the connective tissue that makes us feel more emotionally drawn to both the challenges and the victories that business has experienced. The human experience is so unique for each person. That experience is the cornerstone for book writing. When it comes to determining how much you should put in your book, the answer may surprise you.

Genevieve Georget uncovers the truth behind defeating imposter syndrome and breaking out of self-limitation. Georget offers readers three tangible guidelines for writing a book as a storyteller instead of limiting oneself under “the writer” label.

One of the hardest parts of writing a book is knowing where to start. Part of the RTC process is a vision board. Find out how this exercise can help you and download a FREE worksheet to get you started.

Do you have many book ideas and are unsure which one to start with? Let RTC help you narrow them down and find the one that is burning brightest for you to jump into.

You often start out writing a book that you hope others will read. What you learn through the process, is that you write the story that you need to share with the world. Here we share three important pieces to writing your book.

It takes a lot to start writing your book. It takes a bit more to finish writing your book! We have three tips to help you not only leave the starting line, but also to help you cross the finish line.

You’ve decided to write your book. What’s next? We have five tips to help you reach the finish line and type that final punctuation mark!

You have completed your manuscript and are nearly ready to head into publishing. Cover design is a big step on that journey. Read on to see how our designer gets from a concept to a cover that will take your breath away.

Have you started writing your first book? Here are five common myths to push to the side as you go through this journey.

Thinking about writing a book and wondering what to expect? We have six tips to keep in mind as you start this journey.

Writing a book can help you personally and professionally. Here are five things to know when you are writing a book.

Ghostwriter can have many different meanings depending on who you are talking to. At RTC, we see book writing as a collaborative process and not one where the person stays in the shadows.

Thinking of hiring a ghostwriter? Here are five things to consider as you begin your search for finding the perfect ghostwriter.

Speed isn't always a good thing when you're writing a book.

Genevieve Georget, professional writer and photographer as well as an executive editor at Round Table Companies, shares how the process of writing a book is a transformative experience and offers beneficial tips on how to get started with book writing.

If you have a book inside of you but the pain points that pop up when you think of writing it are holding you back, it may be time for you to consider a ghostwriter. Find out more about the pros and cons of going this route.

When you bring together life and process together in collaborative book writing, the real magic happens.

Looking for a little inspiration as you write your book? Put on a little music and let it guide you!

Fiction book writing can be tough. Lucky for you we have two of the best fiction writers around on our RTC team!

When you bring your whole self to the table as you start writing your book, your readers will be able to feel that energy and give their whole selves over to you!

Writing a book takes time. Time you may not have. Hiring a book writer is the answer!

Do you want to write a book but have no idea how to start? We can help you!

You've completed the first draft of your story. Now what?! Manuscript analysis is a valuable book writing service that shows you the path forward.

We work to honor all of you. The wholeness of you. Then RTC transforms your story into a beautiful work of art with our customized book writing services that respect the way you create stories.

Wondering if you should write a book? Not sure where to begin? Corey Blake shared his thoughts with CEOWORLD Magazine to help you answer this question.

The f-word. Why must it be a part of your book writing story?

RTC believes in the collaborative team approach when it comes to bringing your story to life. Read more about how ghostwriting isn't necessarily the best option for your book.

If you want to write a book that becomes your legacy, you must start with vulnerability. Corey Blake shares with Thrive Global the benefits of vulnerable storytelling.

For many, the thought of writing a book can bring on questions, fears, and anxieties. RTC is here to guide you through the book writing process and help you unearth the story you were meant to tell.

Do you want your story to fit the usual mold? Or would you rather write a book that’s custom-fit to your needs? That's the difference between a ghostwriter and a book writing collaborator.

How long have you been saying, “I need to write a book”? Now is the time to make that dream come true!

Many clients come to us with the story that they want to write. Then, the process starts and a whole world of stories they didn't know existed comes to life.

Round Table Companies and editor Katie Gutierrez had the privilege of working with Carmen Tarleton—the first woman in the U.S. to have two face transplant surgeries—to tell her story of finding forgiveness and overcoming pain, after a brutal attack. Sit down with the editor in this special interview and see why RTC was the perfect match for Carmen’s incredible story.

Are you at a sticking point in your writing? Try this trick: Interview Yourself! Here are some starter questions to ask yourself whether you are writing a Memoir, Business or Fiction Book.

Imagine being surrounded by a team to help you write your book in ways you did not think was possible. Let's dive into our full book writing process!

How the uncomfortable year of finding her way back to herself became the inspiration for her writing her newest book.

Writing a book is much like laboring and birthing a child. There are moments of euphoria, pain, joy, and anxiety. At the end of both, you have something (or someone) that you love more than you ever thought possible.

If you are a business leader wanting to share your story or write your book, you will want to do it in the best possible form that you can. An RTC professional book editor will help you uncover your best ideas and create an experience with your audience.

Time to wipe the dust off of those book writing ideas that you tucked away. We've got five ideas to help you bring them back to life.

Change starts with one person. You should be that person when you start writing a book!

The fear of being alone often subsides once we take the scary step of sharing our story by writing a book. We realize that there are others just like us and those stories are the ties that bind us together.

If you’re looking to engage your audience by writing a book, care and craft need to be considered.

Mary Anna experienced hesitation during her first team writing assignment. What she soon learned though was that magic happens when collaboration occurs during book writing!

Don't become a literal starving artist! Make sure you find ways to take care of yourself as you write a book.

A perfect way to express your love this Valentine's Day is with a poem. We have seven tips to help you write the perfect poem for your loved one!

You're ready to tell your story and start writing a book, but how should you present it? Let a professional book editor help you!

When we are working with you to tell your story and helping you with writing a book, we get to ask the questions that no one else can!

Thinking about the five senses will help add those rich, personal details when you're writing a book or your story.

There is one thing that you need to know about finding your voice when you're writing a book: it's entirely up to you.

You chose to work in front of a screen because connection was the last thing you wanted. Grab onto these tips to make sure that all other humans stay away!

Don't let the cold, dark days of winter crush your creative spirit.

Make sure your book isn't standing out for all the wrong reasons! Check out these book writing mistakes to avoid.

When we put others ahead of ourselves, we will fail everyone.

Storytelling allows us to let go of convention and dig for answers in the most unconventional ways.

Securing a literary agent is a milestone for anyone who's writing a book. Learn 10 tips to ensure that your pitch is agent-ready and a definite home-run!

Check out this author's first pitch to a literary agent and how a book author can prepare for the pitch.

Tap into the immense power of storytelling and build your reader's experience with your storytelling and book writing!

It's a question that Gen is often asked: How do I go about writing a book? The answer is a simple one!

Many people talk about vulnerability. Few are actually living it. Are you ready to take the steps to start living a more vulnerable lifestyle through storytelling?

There is a secret in every story and in every story a secret. How will you weave the magic of storytelling?

Our core values are meant to be the compass that points all of us on our personal journeys to our stories, and that means each of us interpret these values in our own way.

There are some things that we keep to ourselves, locked up, not ready to let them go or to allow them to be seen. But then, the knock comes and we realize that even though it is scary, it is time to set them free.

Writing sends you on an adventure of highs and lows. Expectations are surpassed as well as dashed. It is a journey of a thousand emotions, and a book writing coach can be your trusted guide.

Coaches aren't just for gym class or your favorite recreational sport. A writing coach can help you finish your book by listening, supporting, and guiding you all the way to very last page!

So, how do start writing a book where you tell the truth—the whole truth, warts and all? By unleashing vulnerability. It connects us all with the understanding that we are never alone. When we crack ourselves open, room is made for love and acceptance to be poured in.

Round Table Companies' collaborative writing model brings the best of all talents to the table when you're writing a book!

Vulnerability can leave us feeling exposed, flawed, and lonely. What we forget is that it is those moments of vulnerability that open us up to being seen and connecting, especially when we're writing a book!

The power of a story lies in the heart of it, the place where the vulnerabilities live. It is the truths that we share that allow others to relate, to build a community, to become our best and most authentic selves as we're writing a book.

Listen in as Corey explains how he feels about ghostwriting and the beautiful invitation to add a partnership to your book writing process.

If your book is an important step to your future, a writing coach is a way to ensure you make the consistent progress necessary to reach the finish line.

What do a blank screen, crumbled up papers, and chewed-up pencils have in common? They are all the signs that lead someone to think you have writer’s block. Smash the block and continue to create the story you were meant to share with the world!

Writing a great book can change the course of your life if you truly capture the essence of your voice, heart, and soul.

The story you need to tell consists of many pieces, and we often get trapped because we think we have to put those pieces together from the very start when writing a book. Like a puzzle, there are parts that stand out and missing pieces that we don't know where they belong yet. By taking the right steps at the start of the process, you will surely create a beautiful piece of art.

Suzie Carpenter speaks with Corey in this interview on the feelings around completing her first book, spreading her message, and giving a voice to her daughter.

Lori Darley, author of the new book "Dancing Naked: Claiming Your Power as a Conscious Leader", discusses planting her flag in the ground, her fear of no one wanting to play in her sandbox, and her desire to maximize her impact on the world!

In this book launch interview with Carolynn Brooks, author of the book "You Will Know My Name", listeners will hear how Carolynn had to fight through rejection to be born, how the workplace has been her ministry, and how God showed her how to open doors no man could close.

For decades, hiring a ghostwriter has been the traditional approach for a thought leader to write a book. Learn Why Ghostwriting Is Not the Solution.

How you invest in your book should relate directly to your goals and where you see your life heading in the next five to 10 years. In this video, Corey shares the questions it makes sense to ask when you're considering where to put your resources.

When you are growing as a leader, everyone you talk to tells you to write a book! The key to writing a book is making sure that it is the right one. The one that is going to bring your readers from a coffee date all the way up to the big night!

During a conversation at Social Venture Network in San Diego in 2016, Lori Darley shared how she has remained open to finding the audience for her book through the process of writing it.

Erik Harrington is finishing his book with RTC. He is also facing end of life questions because of a rare genetic lung disease that runs in his family.

When clients come to us, they are looking for brilliance. How do we give them that brilliance? By falling in love with them!

On February 14th of 2013, Carmen received the most comprehensive face transplant ever performed to date. In this rare video footage from before her transplant, she shares what she's been through.