What we’re about
We're a lively community for independent authors from all genres. If you're an author of non-fiction, memoir, contemporary, romance, historical, crime literary, horror, sci-fi & fantasy or more, we want to meet you at one of our events.
Plans are in the works to revive this group as a hub for publishing, promotion and bookselling advice for authors who could use advice and support. Stay tuned to group announcements via email for more information.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- Indie Publishing: What's in it for you?Link visible for attendees£10.00
If you've published any part of your work independently, you must hear from Helen Lewis, prize-winning publishing entrepreneur and doyenne of indie publishing in the UK.
Helen has spent more than a decade advising, coaching and representing independent authors and publishers. Her expertise and practical advice about the best and worst ways to approach indie publishing, or finding the right indie publisher for you, is unmatched across the UK publishing industry. There are so many more opportunities than publishing your word doc to Kindle!
For those of you who want input on their indie publishing plans, this is the information you'll need and everything you need to know to feel more confident and comfortable with how it works for authors.
Helen and I will be in conversation for about 45mins where I will aim to ask her about the essentials of indie publishing but there will be plenty of time for you to ask her for specifics about your plans and projects.
We will be covering the publishing process for indies, the different types of publishing deals to be done and how to plan a winning promotional and sales strategy for your book in the lead up to publication, followed by an open Q&A where you can ask her anything.
This session will be held online (Google Meet) as Helen's based outside of London but it will still be lots of fun! Bring your favourite drink (or two) and snacks as you listen in and, most importantly, bring your questions about how to publish your own work.
HELEN LEWIS is a prize-winning publishing entrepreneur who has launched over 700 authors in the past 13+ years. As the Director and Founder of LitPR, a prize-winning publicity agency established in 2012 while balancing life as a new mother, Helen has built a stellar reputation for helping indie authors achieve long-term, sustainable success.
Today, LitPR specialises in author branding, book marketing, and PR campaigns that truly make a difference, particularly and proudly championing indie authors, and those looking to build their brand across publishing routes.
Passionate about diversity and inclusion in publishing, Helen co-founded The Diverse Book Awards and The Ink Book Prize with award-winning author Abiola Bello, as well as Hashtag Press, Hashtag BLAK, and Ink! Publishing Services.
A regular speaker at award ceremonies celebrating underrepresented voices and Helen envisions a future where her daughters—and all children—experience a broader, more inclusive range of stories than she encountered growing up.
A sought-after speaker in writer coaching communities and publishing circles, Helen’s workshops, keynotes, and mentoring empower authors to achieve success.
Helen’s expertise is sought at major industry events, including:- YALC 2024 & 2023: Chaired and participated in panels/workshops on indie publishing, diversity, and author branding.
- London Book Fair 2024: Chaired the Writers' Summit panel on Diversity & Inclusion and was a guest speaker at Author HQ.
- Self Publishing Conference: Presented multiple times on marketing and branding.
- Society of Authors in Manchester: Delivered a talk on book marketing.
- She has hosted, organised, and chaired over 100 author events, including book launches at Waterstones Piccadilly, Europe’s largest bookshop, and online panels like International Women’s Day celebrations.
Helen’s insights have been featured in The Guardian, Daily Mail, Working Mothers, Daily Mirror, Candis magazine, BookBrunch, The Bookseller, SME News, and more. She has been interviewed by The People's Friend, The Authors Show, Melan Magazine, London TV, and QX Magazine, sharing her expertise and personal journey.
Born in Yorkshire, Helen now lives in Kent, balancing her professional life as a single mum with her love of walking, travelling, yoga, and making memories with her teenage daughters, family, and friends. You can connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-lewis-literally/Location: This session will be hosted ONLINE via Google Meet link which opens in your web browser so you don't need to download any confusing software. Simply click on the link provided (see event details) and allow it use your camera/mic and you've arrived at the meeting.
Tickets: £10.00 for organising, hosting and Helen's time with us. If you buy your ticket before May 2nd, it is only £7.00.
If you're not sure if this is the right session for you, please ask below and I'll be happy to answer your questions. It's for any writers at any stage really who want advice about publishing independently.
This session was arranged for London Writers' Cafe members but I'm making it available to all indie authors who might want to join for Helen's advice and input.
