Top Mystery Books to Read this Fall
By: Hidden Gems | Posted on October 29, 2024
One of the most amazing things about the mystery genre is that there truly is something for everyone. No matter which side of the spectrum you prefer, we can all agree that page-turning intrigue is a must. If you’re looking for a top mystery book to read this fall, then this list of books loved by our Hidden Gems ARC readers is for you. The Mystery in the Margins by L.L. Gray With 90+ ratings and an impressive 4.7 star average, The Mystery in the Margins by L.L. Gray is the first installment in the Havenwood Cozy Mystery series, a cozy paranormal mystery for those who enjoy a little magic with their mysteries. Red describes in their five star Amazon review why you should add this to your TBR list, “The coziest of mysteries. My fav part? The delicious food! Oh yeah, and the quaint, magical, New England town, its… Read More >
Analyzing the Ad Performance of AI-Generated Art
By: Ginger | Posted on October 25, 2024
As authors, we’re often balancing our creative principles with the need to embrace new technologies that might boost book sales. That’s why, after recently expressing his dislike of AI-generated art in book ads, Ginger decided to run a small experiment to see how effective these ads truly are. By comparing ads using AI-generated artwork with a similar set featuring traditional art, he was able to draw some surprising conclusions. While this sample size is small and not meant to prove anything definitively, the results could be useful for any authors still debating whether to stick with traditional imagery or explore the AI route in their marketing efforts. A couple of weeks ago, I published a rant about how much I loathed seeing ads for eBooks in my Facebook feed that used AI-generated artwork, and it seems from the responses that many of you agreed with me! However, the debate raised… Read More >
Thrilling Tales to Get in the Spooky Spirit
By: Hidden Gems | Posted on October 22, 2024
As the leaves turn and the weather changes, it’s time to carve pumpkins, pick out costumes, or read thrilling tales. In the lead up to Halloween, we’ve pulled together a list of thrillers that will keep you turning the pages. As always, we’re focusing on the hidden gems that our readers loved, and hope you will, too. Mama’s Boy by Mike Avery With over 20 reviews and a 4.8 star average, Mama’s Boy by Mike Avery is the third and final book in the Susan Sorella series. This series chronicles Susan Sorella, a defense attorney, as she attempts to save her client from life in prison. In Roxanne D.’s five star Amazon review, she raves of this installment, “A senior in high school who finally worked up the nerve to ask the girl he had a crush on out, and she said yes. Imagine his joy. Imagine going home and… Read More >
Why You Shouldn’t Leave Chekhov’s Gun Hanging On The Wall
By: Ginger | Posted on October 18, 2024
Writing is a craft, with authors employing a variety of tools and techniques to weave together their stories. One such tool is Chekhov’s Gun, a principle that essentially emphasizes that every element introduced in a story should serve a purpose, or it shouldn’t be there at all. Today, Ginger is digging into the details of this technique and how it can be used in your own work, along with examples of how it has been used in popular literature and film. Checkhov’s Gun is all about discipline, foreshadowing, and rewarding your readers for their attention to detail. Whether it’s a clue hidden in the first chapter, a character’s flaw that leads to their downfall, or a seemingly innocuous object that becomes critical later on, this tool can add layers of suspense, symbolism, and satisfaction that will transform your stories from good to unforgettable. Writing is a craft, not an art… Read More >
Heart-warming romance novels to read and enjoy
By: Hidden Gems | Posted on October 15, 2024
If you’re seeking cozy comfort and heart-warming romance this fall, we’ve curated a collection of books that have captured the hearts of Hidden Gems readers. From autumnal love stories set in quaint towns to fiery romances that ignite in the crisp, cool air, these books promise to warm your soul and leave you longing for more. The Duke of Spice by Sasha Cottman The Duke of Spice is notorious for scandal and disregarding the rules. When this morally gray hero crosses paths with the strong willed, quiet and bookish Lady Victoria Kembal, their rivalry quickly escalates into a dangerous game of cat and mouse. “I do love a good historical and this one ticks all of the boxes, a Duke who is a little different from the usual Dukes and a feisty heroine who knows what she wants,” Helen S. wrote in their 5-star review. “I did love this one… Read More >
Two Reasons Why I hate AI Art and Advertising
By: Ginger | Posted on October 11, 2024
As the summer slump fades, self-published authors are ramping up their marketing efforts once again, and if you’ve been on Facebook lately, you’ve probably noticed the surge in eBook ads. Among them, one trend is sparking a heated debate—the use of AI-generated art. Is it a smart way to cut costs and boost engagement, or does it risk coming off as cheap and impersonal? In today’s blog, Ginger leaps right into this controversial topic, sharing two key reasons why he isn’t a fan of this approach. While Ginger’s views aren’t unique among authors, the bigger question remains: how effective are these AI-generated ads? If they were proven to boost book sales and profits, would more authors be willing to embrace them despite their reservations? The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and not every decision has a clear-cut answer. Understanding the pros and cons can help you form your own opinion… Read More >
Learn Something New from these Non-Fiction Books
By: Hidden Gems | Posted on October 8, 2024
Whether you are looking to develop a new skill, or brush up on an existing one, this list of non-fiction books can help. Recently loved and reviewed by our Hidden Gems ARC readers, there is something for everyone on this list. Secure the Bag by Aroldo Filizola With 14 ratings and a 4.8 star average, Secure the Bag by Aroldo Filizola helps both parents and teens develop critical financial skills. Roberto C. describes in his five star Amazon review why you should add this to your TBR list, “Easy and entertaining read for adults and for teens for sure. This book has triggered great conversations at my dinner table with my teens on very specific topics. Since they read the book, we’ve opened Roth IRA accounts for my 2 boys and are on their way to save towards retirement. This book will change the way your teen looks at money,… Read More >
What can writers learn by studying Vaseem Khan?
By: Ginger | Posted on October 4, 2024
Success as an author can often appear to be an overnight transformation, but in reality, very few writers become household names without years of hard work. Behind every so-called “overnight success” lies a story of persistence, rejection, and unwavering dedication to the craft. Vaseem Khan is a perfect example of this. While he recently gained significant attention for being chosen to write a trilogy featuring the iconic James Bond character “Q,” his rise to fame didn’t happen out of the blue. It’s the result of a long and winding journey, built on countless words and books that paved the way for this moment. As Ginger points out in this week’s blog, Khan’s journey offers invaluable lessons for aspiring authors about the tenacity and creative vision needed to achieve lasting success in publishing. From his inventive book concepts to his talent for immersing readers in richly detailed worlds, Khan has mastered… Read More >
Magical YA Novels to Devour This Fall
By: Hidden Gems | Posted on October 1, 2024
Whether you’re a young adult or simply looking for a fun escape, we’ve rounded up a collection that includes a variety of fantastical and magical YA novels that have been popular and well-liked by Hidden Gems ARC readers recently. Spells in the Dark by Renata Riva In this well-loved dark, paranormal teen novel, Vianne’s newfound family embraces her and helps her hone her magical skills. However, danger lurks beneath the surface. As Vianne navigates a world of new allies and enemies, she must fight to survive against the looming evil forces. “The attention to detail is impressive, and it’s particularly enjoyable during the spooky season,” Lori C. wrote in their 5-star review. “It’s a pleasure to witness Vianne’s development.” “I really enjoyed book two of Vianne’ s story and I was surprised that I wasn’t a bit lost. For a thirteen-year-old half witch I marveled at her feistiness as I… Read More >
