My clientele had many relationship issues that revolved around toxic and challenging relationship partners. As we started to put together a plan to help them either improve their situations or get out, I began to see first hand what worked and share a great deal of that in the books.
Laney Zukerman – 24 November 2016
The Back Flap
Think You Can Spot a Bad Boy? Think Again!
Bad Boys can be exciting and sweep you off your feet, but in the end it's the Hero who will protect your heart! Knowing the difference and spotting the more subtle clues can make all the difference in the world! Often times it can be difficult to spot the warning signs of the Bad Boy early on but for your sanity and well-being it's a must to learn the "red flags." Why? Because the BAD BOYS will ultimately waste your time and drain your energy. Who needs that?
If you are searching for a man with Hero characteristics and want to weed out the Bad Boys, this book is for you!
About the book
What is the book about?
The book is a spin off of a popular section in my first book Lessons for an Urban Goddess entitled "Heroes and Heartbreakers." I go much more in depth about the red flags and psychological underpinnings of a "Bad Boy." Also, I include the behaviors of the Good Guy/Hero.
When did you start writing the book?
I wrote this book fairly quickly. Had already done a great deal of research and interviewing for it.
How long did it take you to write it? I
t was about 6 months from its creation to its launch.
Where did you get the idea from?
I have seen so many people (both men and women) suffer a great deal from dangerous and difficult relationships. My clientele had many relationship issues that revolved around toxic and challenging relationship partners. As we started to put together a plan to help them either improve their situations or get out, I began to see first hand what worked and share a great deal of that in the books.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Not really. This book flowed pretty easily for me.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Many writers have inspired me over the years. Particularly the late Carol Botwin, who was a writer for the New York Times.
Do you have a target reader?
I like to think of my readers as "ageless". They are mainly female but I have had a number of men tell me they found the books helpful. You really can flip the pronoun in most cases to address either a male or female partner.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I am very big on journaling. Over the years I have sourced a great deal of information I saved in my journals. It's been a great resource to keep everything in one place for easier referral. I usually write daily, even for a short while. Most times I will write directly on the laptop but sometimes I will write first in my journal and then transfer it to the laptop. I like being organized but as a writer it's important to give yourself some flexibility.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
It depends. If I have a lot of thoughts swirling around, I just write and then make sense of it later. Usually for a book, I will begin with outlining chapters I want to include.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?
I always wait until I am finished and recommend potential authors find themselves a professional editor. You can do it yourself but it takes a great deal of time and if you are not an expert at it, you can miss some things along the way.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Often I do. On occasion, I may write quietly but music in the background is great. You can switch it up depending on your mood.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
I did in the past but in today's publishing world, self-publishing is the way to go. It's faster and you can reach a very large audience, especially on amazon.com. Once you download your edited book, it can be up and running within a few days.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I think for the reasons I mentioned above. The old fashioned way just doesn't suit a lot of people today. I have used Create Space and also checking out Lighting Source for paperback editions. There is a great deal of support and a lot of options for Indie Authors today.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
Best to have your book cover professionally done. I worked with Brian DelTurco of TruNorth Publishing. He is very creative and did a fantastic job with my books. The cover is very important. A lot of competition out there. Also most people are very visual. You want something very professional and eye-catching, otherwise potential readers may gloss right over your work.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
My marketing plan and platform are a constant work in progress. My first book, which I launched over a year ago has had a number of peaks and valleys. Just recently I sold many books within a few days due to a promotion. It's an ongoing process. You really need patience and implementing new ideas on a regular basis.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Of course! Many, many people dream of writing a book. The only difference between a published author and some one who dreams of becoming one is actually writing one. Yes, it takes work and motivation but it can be done. Get clear about you goals and what you want to write about, then get writing. It's the most important first step. Also, sign up for author blogs and writer's communities. It is really important to connect with other authors and learn from them. Many authors are happy to share their learning experiences with to-be-authors.
About You
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Brooklyn. A great place. Years ago so many people knew very little about it. As you know, today it is one of the most sought after places to live. Who would have ever thought it would be so trendy?
Where do you live now?
I live in Manhattan.
What would you like readers to know about you?
Aside from being a writer and author, I have been a professional counselor and coach for many years. I do take on private clients from time to time, specializing in empowerment and relationships.
What are you working on now?
Mainly marketing my books, doing some contributing editing and blogging and teaching as an adjunct at a college in New York. One of my goals is to conduct more workshops and groups in schools and the community on increasing self-esteem and improving communication in relationships.
End of Interview:
For more from Laney visit her website.
Get your copy of The Urban Goddess Lesson from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
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