The Latest Posts

• Author Pen Names – Are Noms De Plume Obsolete? June 29, 2019
  P. L. Travers, Mark Twain, Robert Galbraith – these are all fictitious names used by writers. In this case, Helen Goff, Samuel Langhorne Clemens, and Joanne Rowling. But you knew that, right? Most writers have read at least one book by an author with a nom de plume. For centuries, authors have resorted to using […]
  Matt Knight
• Paid Book Reviews – The Line Between Ethical And Illegal June 8, 2019
  When it comes to selling books in a crowded market, whether you are traditionally published or self-published, positive reviews are a must-have for boosting sales and gaining readership. How authors go about securing those reviews can be controversial. In the digital age, where over 50% of retail shopping occurs online, independent assessment is the underpinning […]
  Matt Knight
• Freelance Writing Contracts May 12, 2019
  For freelance writers accepting new projects, it is in your best interest to secure a written agreement that outlines the terms of the project. I know — most of us would rather jump from a 10-meter diving platform than sign a contract.  But a little pain over business formalities is better than a long term […]
  Matt Knight
• Trademark Tips For Writers – How To Protect Your Creative Work April 27, 2019
  Trademarks are one of the most valuable business assets for creating recognition in the market place. For writers wanting to build a brand, trademarks must become a part of your brand strategy. A few of my earlier blog posts have talked about the use of trademarks in fiction and how to avoid trademark infringement (here […]
  Matt Knight
• Copyright Basics For Writers April 13, 2019
  Writers frequently ask me at Sidebar Saturdays about copyright issues. The topic is a tad confusing but it is also one of the most important concepts a writer should understand. Why? Because copyright law provides legal protection for your creative work by preventing others from exploiting it without your permission or paying fair compensation. So […]
  Matt Knight
• How To Use Copyright Protected Images (and not violate copyright laws) March 31, 2019
  A picture is worth a thousand words, but is it worth a copyright infringement lawsuit? Using images found on-line has become common practice. Photos, graphics, book covers, illustrations, charts — people constantly use images on websites, blogs, and course materials to help enhance their writing. And why not? Technology has made it quite easy to […]
  Matt Knight
• Pre-publication Legal Review Of Manuscripts — Six Things To Consider March 16, 2019
  One of the most essential steps an author must take prior to publication is to review their manuscript for risk of liability and legally sensitive material, otherwise know as “vetting” the manuscript. Not all books require vetting. Nonfiction books almost always require vetting because the stories involve real people, events, and corporations. Fiction books, however, […]
  Matt Knight
• Contests, Giveaways, And Freebies – Make Sure Yours Are GDPR Compliant February 23, 2019
  Contests and giveaways are one of the ultimate methods authors use to build their email lists. The process is straightforward: provide people with the opportunity to win or receive for free something of value like a signed book, an iPad, or a dinner for two at that cool French restaurant your significant other owns. The […]
  Matt Knight
• Your Friend The Disclaimer February 2, 2019
  Most of us are familiar with disclaimers. As consumers, we have used umpteen products and services accompanied by a disclaimer. But when it comes to books and other publications, I often hear from writers that they are unsure if a disclaimer should be included in their own work. The answer? It depends (I know, such […]
  Matt Knight
• Legal Protection For Fictional Characters – What can writers protect and what can others use? January 26, 2019
  The Short Answer Copyright laws protect fictional characters provided the characters are sufficiently unique and distinctive. Legal protection for fictional characters is separate from the legal protection extended to the underlying creative work like the book or movie. Some characters also are well known enough to receive trademark protection too. Writers may only use copyright […]
  Matt Knight