by Harris Scott, Guest Contributor

​Thanks to the advancements in the technology of smartphones and mobile devices, Instagram has become a popular social network that is gaining more popularity by the day. As a matter of fact, when it comes to online marketing, this network is not only used by companies that have photo-driven initiatives but by everyone. All you need to do is to let your creativity run wild and focus on promoting your brand while at the same time focusing on search engine optimization.

by Mary C Long

There are no fewer than 1,500 posts circulating online around the best marketing campaigns to create to capture your share of the Super Bowl frenzy that is now upon us. This is not one of those posts.

While every other brand is sitting there, devoting thousands in marketing spend (likely more) eagerly watching the game as it happens to be ready to pounce on that million-dollar Oreo moment (remember that? They tweeted “you can still dunk in the dark” during Super Bowl XLVII's infamous blackout and won the internet?) — well instead of doing that, you can do something different. You should. Here’s why — and it will be followed by what:

by Will Viharo

For most authors (and just regular folks), the best thing about social media is networking, and not just exhaustive self-promotion; it’s the personal connections between fellow professionals that are otherwise total strangers. The bond is artistic in nature, but often feels stronger than more organically intimate ties.

Speaking of “organically intimate,” say hello to Jessica McHugh, someone I’ve never met, since I’m only familiar with her fiction, but with whom I share common inspirations and interests. ​

This is the fun part of the lonely literary lifestyle.

by ​Tom Buckland, Guest Contributor

​Since 1996, the Amazon Associates program has been an ever-evolving yet constant fixture in the lives of many affiliate writers and bloggers. While 11 years may not seem like much time, it’s actually quite impressive for a program of its type in the digital era. It takes stamina, creativity, and consistent positive results to keep a program of such magnitude and renown alive in the affiliate writing world. But as the market continues to evolve, Amazon regularly makes changes in their affiliate programs’ policies to stay abreast of trends and still remain profitable. And this year—2017—happened to be a big year for changes. If you’re a member of the Amazon Associate program, considering becoming an affiliate, or just looking to stay one step ahead in the industry.

by Will Viharo


Many writers write strange fiction, even if they’re not necessarily that strange in person. As far as the reader knows, anyway.

Meet Andrew Hilbert. He writes the type of stuff I love to read, meaning dark, twisted, and hilarious. In fact, one of his books, the literary grindhouse-pulp classic Death Thing, is a favorite of mine. It was originally published by a defunct press that also reissued some of my books. But that’s a long, strange, and sad story, and it’s buried in the past, where it belongs.

This is what’s happening with my busy former press mate now, and it's all good...