Forum Posts

• Isabel Cardus

  • 2 posts
  Posted in the topic Winter Jacket Shopping - Need Advice in the forum Off-Topic Discussions

  May 23, 2025 5:31 AM PDT

  Winter's approaching fast and I need a new leather jacket that can handle both style and weather. I work in downtown Chicago, so I need something professional enough for client meetings but warm enough for those brutal Midwest winters.

  I've been looking into what makes the best leather jackets for men in terms of both fashion and functionality. My previous jacket was too thin and I froze every winter, so insulation is crucial this time.

  Should I be looking at lined jackets, or would layering work better? I'm 6'2" with a athletic build, if that matters for fit recommendations. Also, what color works best for versatility? I was thinking black or dark brown.

  Budget-wise, I can go up to $400. I'd rather buy once and have it last than keep replacing cheaper options. Any thoughts on sleeve length? I prefer mine to hit right at the wrist bone.

  Has anyone tried those jackets with removable linings? Seems like it might give more seasonal flexibility. Also curious about collar styles - stand-up collars versus traditional lapels for professional settings.

  Really appreciate any insights from folks who've been through this decision process before!

• Isabel Cardus

  • 2 posts
  Posted in the topic Need Help Finding Reliable Marketers" (Asking for recommendations) in the forum Off-Topic Discussions

  May 13, 2025 2:39 AM PDT

  Hey fellow authors! I've just finished my third fantasy novel and I'm looking to step up my marketing game this time around. My previous releases didn't get much traction despite positive feedback from the few readers I managed to reach. I've been trying to handle all the promotion myself through social media and my tiny newsletter, but it's becoming clear I need professional help.

  I'm considering hiring book marketing services but I'm completely overwhelmed by the options. There seem to be hundreds of companies promising bestseller status, but their packages range from $200 to several thousand dollars. How do I know which ones are legitimate and which are just taking advantage of desperate authors?

  Has anyone worked with marketing professionals who delivered real results? I'm particularly interested in services that specialize in fantasy fiction and can help with Amazon visibility. My budget isn't huge (maybe $800-1000), so I need to make sure I'm investing wisely.

  Also, what should I expect from a good book marketing service? Do they typically handle everything from social media to newsletter swaps, or should I be looking at specialized services for different aspects of promotion?

  I've heard mixed things about Facebook ads versus BookBub, and I'm not sure which direction to go. Any recommendations based on personal experience would be greatly appreciated! I'm tired of writing books that nobody reads, but I also don't want to be scammed.