From Manuscript to Marketplace — Terry Whalin on What Authors Must Do to Succeed

In this episode of Amazing Authorities, host Mitch Carson sits down with Terry Whalin — author, acquisitions editor, publishing strategist, and educator — who has helped thousands of authors navigate the realities of the book world.

Terry reveals the truth most authors never hear: your publisher will not market your book for you. Real success comes from the author’s consistent effort — building audience, nurturing connections, and showing up every day with meaningful value. Drawing on decades of experience as a writer, traditional publisher, and editor, Terry shares how to promote your book authentically, how to leverage libraries and newsletters for long-term sales, and why relationships are the real currency in publishing.

From writing 1,700+ blog posts to building a 175,000+ audience on X, his approach proves that small, consistent actions compound into lasting authority.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

📚 Why Author-Led Promotion Matters
The real reason publishers provide minimal marketing — and how to take control of your book’s success.

✍️ Daily Habits That Build Visibility
The “Rule of Five” action system Terry used to grow his audience and sales over time.

🏛️ Selling Through Libraries
A practical, overlooked grassroots strategy that can generate ongoing interest and circulation.

🎯 How to Hit Bestseller Lists Authentically
Why newsletters and pre-sales can outperform expensive promotional “hacks.”

🌐 Own Your Platform
Why websites and email lists are more powerful (and safer) than relying on social media.

🤝 Networking for Opportunity
How connecting with other authors and thought leaders leads to bigger projects — including ghostwriting for high-profile figures.

🌍 Learn More About Terry Whalin

📖 Book: 10 Publishing Myths: Inside Secrets Every Author Needs to Succeed
🎁 Bonuses + Book: publishingoffer.com
📄 Free “11th Myth” Chapter: terrylinks.com/11thmyth
💼 LinkedIn: Terry Whalin
🐦 X (Twitter): @TerryWhalin

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The Amazing Authors of Singapore: https://a.co/d/cp9KjC1

The Silent Salesmen: https://a.co/d/b4eqa2D

If you're serious about publishing and selling more books on Amazon, you need the right data.

That’s why I use Publisher Rocket—it’s like having a book marketing expert in your pocket:

https://mitchauthor--rocket.thrivecart.com/publisher-rocket-mitch-author/5e8f51fc1dd46/