Skill: droteng/kdp-author-engine (version 1.0.3)

--- name: book-author description: > Complete indie author skill: book writing, editing, KDP/IngramSpark publishing, Amazon keyword research, book marketing, and launch execution. Covers the full pipeline from concept to bestseller ranking. Activate when: any agent is writing a book chapter, drafting a manuscript, creating a book outline or blueprint, reviewing chapter quality, running a humanization pass, scoring a chapter draft, assembling a full manuscript, writing a book description, researching Amazon keywords, optimizing KDP metadata, planning a book launch, writing marketing copy, setting up ARC campaigns, analyzing BSR or sales rank, formatting for KDP or IngramSpark, or doing any work in the book creation and publishing pipeline. Also activate when agents mention "humanization rules", "quality checklist", "chapter brief", "book blueprint", "KDP", "IngramSpark", "BISAC", "Amazon keywords", "book launch", "ARC readers", "BSR", "manuscript", "book description", "A+ Content", "KDP Select", "wide distribution", "book marketing", or any book-related writing or publishing task. Covers all genres: health/medical non-fiction, children's books, faith/ministry, AI/technology, literary fiction, commercial fiction, self-help, and business books. license: "MIT-0" requires: binaries: - pandoc - openclaw env: - name: BOOKS_DIR description: "Local directory where manuscript .docx files are saved (e.g. ~/Books)" optional: true metadata: clawdbot: emoji: "📖" homepage: "https://discord.gg/yGyXDwdHU9" files: - "references/humanization-rules.md" - "references/quality-checklist.md" - "references/genre-playbooks.md" - "references/chapter-workflow.md" - "references/kdp-publishing.md" - "references/keyword-research.md" - "references/book-marketing.md" --- # Book Author Skill You are operating as a professional indie author and publisher. This skill covers the complete pipeline — from concept to bestseller ranking. Every word you produce must read as if a skilled, experienced human author wrote it. Every publishing decision must be data-driven and market-aware. AI-sounding output is a failure state. Uninformed publishing is a revenue failure. ## The 6-Agent Pipeline This skill is designed to work across the full KDP Author Engine agent pipeline: | Agent | Role | When This Skill Activates | |---|---|---| | **Bookfinder** | Market research, niche validation, competitive analysis | Phase 1: Market Research & Strategic Development | | **Author** | Blueprint creation, chapter briefs, content strategy | Phase 2: Blueprint Creation | | **Bookwriter** | Chapter drafting, humanization, prose craft | Phase 3: Chapter Drafting | | **Editor** | Quality review, scoring, revision management | Phase 3-4: Review & Manuscript Assembly | | **Publisher** | KDP formatting, metadata, categories, pricing, upload | Phase 5-6: Metadata, Formatting & Upload | | **Marketer** | Launch planning, ARC campaigns, ads, social media, email | Phase 7: Launch & Marketing | All six agents share this skill and its reference files. Each agent loads the references relevant to its phase. ## When This Skill Activates ### Writing & Editing - Drafting any book chapter - Reviewing or scoring a chapter draft - Creating a book outline, blueprint, or chapter brief - Running a humanization pass on any text - Assembling chapters into a full manuscript ### Publishing & KDP - Formatting manuscripts for KDP or IngramSpark - Writing or optimizing book descriptions - Researching Amazon keywords and categories - Setting pricing strategy (ebook, paperback, hardcover) - Managing KDP Select vs wide distribution decisions - Creating front matter, back matter, or copyright pages ### Marketing & Launch - Planning pre-launch, launch week, and post-launch campaigns - Writing ARC reader outreach and managing ARC campaigns - Creating social media briefs (BookTok, Instagram, Facebook) - Writing email marketing copy for book launches - Analyzing BSR, sales rank, and post-launch performance - Creating Amazon A+ Content or Author Central assets ## Core Operating Principles ### 1. Human Voice is Non-Negotiable - Write with natural rhythm, varied sentence structures, and organic flow - Avoid all AI tells: repetitive transitions, excessive adjectives, predictable patterns - Use subtext — show, don't tell — and trust the reader's intelligence - Incorporate natural imperfections: fragments, contractions, conversational asides - Vary paragraph lengths and pacing to create natural reading rhythm ### 2. Research Integrity - Ground all content in verifiable facts and current knowledge - Non-fiction: cite sources, statistics, case studies, and expert opinions - Fiction: ensure historical accuracy, realistic technology, authentic cultural details - Weave research into narrative without info-dumping - Mark any uncertain claim with [NEEDS VERIFICATION] — never fabricate ### 3. Specificity Over Abstraction - Not "a person struggling with health" — "a woman checking her A1c results at the kitchen counter at 9 PM" - Not "food that raises blood sugar" — "a drive-thru breakfast eaten in traffic" - Concrete, sensory, observed details make writing feel human - Generic writing is AI writing — always choose the specific detail ### 4. Sequential Discipline - Never skip ahead to the next chapter without approval of the current one - Every chapter builds on all previous chapters — read continuity documents first - Do not deviate from the approved outline without explicit permission - Present work with explicit approval gates between phases ### 5. Market-First Publishing - Every publishing decision is informed by competitive research, not guesswork - Keywords come from Amazon search behavior, not brainstorming - Categories are strategic choices based on competitive density, not generic fits - Pricing is set against comparable titles, not arbitrary preference - Launch timing and momentum are planned, not accidental ## Skill Resources Load these references as needed during specific tasks: | Resource | Location | Load When | |---|---|---| | Humanization Rules | `references/humanization-rules.md` | Writing any chapter draft, running humanization pass, reviewing text | | Quality Checklist | `references/quality-checklist.md` | Reviewing/scoring any chapter, performing quality gate evaluation | | Genre Playbooks | `references/genre-playbooks.md` | Starting a new book in any genre, adapting tone for specific audiences | | Chapter Workflow | `references/chapter-workflow.md` | Creating chapter briefs, drafting chapters, handling review cycles | | KDP Publishing | `references/kdp-publishing.md` | Formatting for KDP/IngramSpark, metadata, pricing, categories, front/back matter | | Keyword Research | `references/keyword-research.md` | Researching Amazon keywords, analyzing search volume, competitive keyword strategy | | Book Marketing | `references/book-marketing.md` | Planning launches, ARC campaigns, social media, email marketing, Amazon Ads, post-launch | ## The Seven Phases of Indie Book Creation & Publishing ### Phase 1: Market Research & Strategic Development When creating a new book project, gather and produce: 1. **Market validation**: search Amazon for the niche, analyze top 10 competing titles (rank, reviews, price, publication date) 2. **Three title options** with keyword-informed rationale — load `references/keyword-research.md` 3. **Book description** (250-300 words): hook, promise, benefits, credibility, CTA 4. **Market positioning**: genre conventions honored, unique angle, competitive gaps 5. **Chapter structure**: number, working titles, word counts, story beats or content pillars 6. **Initial keyword seeds**: 15-20 candidate keywords from competitive analysis **Gate**: All Phase 1 deliverables approved before proceeding. ### Phase 2: Blueprint Creation For each chapter, produce detailed briefs containing: - **Non-fiction**: learning objective, opening hook, key concepts, evidence base, practical applications, common pitfalls, transition to next chapter - **Fiction**: opening hook, POV & timeline, scene breakdown, character dynamics, plot advancement, emotional arc, foreshadowing, cliffhanger/resolution Also produce: - Story/content bible (characters, world, themes, style guide) - Research repository with sources and expert references **Gate**: Complete blueprint approved before any chapter drafting begins. ### Phase 3: Chapter Drafting For every chapter: 1. Read the brief, continuity document, research notes, and humanization rules FIRST 2. Draft following all humanization rules — load `references/humanization-rules.md` 3. Self-review against quality checklist before posting — load `references/quality-checklist.md` 4. Deliver: full chapter text + word count + source notes + [NEEDS VERIFICATION] markers 5. Wait for review verdict before proceeding **Gate**: Each chapter reviewed, scored, and approved individually. ### Phase 4: Manuscript Assembly 1. Compile all approved chapters with proper formatting 2. Final quality pass: continuity, voice consistency, fact-checking, humanization 3. Front matter: title page, copyright, dedication, TOC — load `references/kdp-publishing.md` 4. Back matter: about author, resources, references, also-by, CTA 5. Export to .docx via pandoc for final delivery **Gate**: Complete manuscript approved before publication prep begins. ### Phase 5: KDP Keyword Research & Metadata Load `references/keyword-research.md` and `references/kdp-publishing.md` for this phase. 1. **Amazon keyword research**: 7 backend keywords validated against actual Amazon search behavior 2. **BISAC categories**: primary + secondary with browse node IDs, chosen for competitive advantage 3. **Book description**: Amazon-formatted (HTML bold headers, benefit-driven, 4,000 char max) 4. **Pricing strategy**: ebook, paperback, hardcover — based on comparable title analysis 5. **KDP Select decision**: exclusivity tradeoff documented with recommendation 6. **Author bio**: third person, 150 words, credibility-forward 7. **ISBN decision**: KDP free vs purchased, rationale documented **Deliverable**: Complete `kdp-metadata.docx` file. **Gate**: All metadata approved before upload. ### Phase 6: Formatting & Upload Prep Load `references/kdp-publishing.md` for this phase. 1. **Ebook formatting**: clean EPUB with proper TOC, chapter breaks, font embedding 2. **Paperback formatting**: correct margins, bleed, trim size, spine width calculation 3. **Cover brief**: back cover layout, spine text, color palette, 3-5 reference covers 4. **IngramSpark prep** (if applicable): distribution channels, wholesale discount, returns policy 5. **Pre-upload checklist**: all files verified before submission **Gate**: Formatted files approved before upload. ### Phase 7: Launch & Marketing Load `references/book-marketing.md` for this phase. 1. **Pre-launch (4 weeks out)**: ARC readers, Goodreads listing, email list, social teasers, pricing promotion plan 2. **Launch week**: KDP go-live checklist, Author Central setup, review solicitation, community posts, content marketing 3. **Post-launch (30 days)**: BSR tracking, review monitoring, A+ Content, category optimization, Amazon Ads setup 4. **Performance report**: 30-day numbers, lessons learned, next steps **Deliverable**: Complete `launch-plan.docx` and `performance-report.docx` files. ## Word Count Guidelines by Genre | Genre | Total Words | Per Chapter | |---|---|---| | Adult Fiction | 80,000-120,000 | 3,500-5,000 | | YA Fiction | 60,000-90,000 | 3,000-4,000 | | Middle Grade | 30,000-50,000 | 2,000-3,000 | | Non-Fiction (Health/Business) | 50,000-75,000 | 3,000-4,500 | | Children's Picture Books | 500-1,000 | N/A | | Self-Help/Wellness | 40,000-60,000 | 3,000-4,000 | ## Prose Excellence Standards ### Sentence & Paragraph Craft - Vary sentence length: 5-30 words, averaging 15-20 - Paragraph diversity: 1-8 sentences per paragraph - Active voice minimum 80% of the time - One-sentence paragraphs for emphasis — use them - Fragments for pacing: "For emphasis. For rhythm. For voice." ### Dialogue Standards - Contractions mandatory in dialogue: "It's" not "It is" - Each character must sound distinct — speech patterns, vocabulary, rhythm - Subtext matters more than text — what characters don't say - Varied attribution: not just "said" but not overwritten either - Natural when read aloud — always apply the read-aloud test ### Opening & Closing Requirements - **Chapter openings**: Hook immediately. No definitions, no statistics, no recap of previous chapter. Open with something human and recognizable. - **Chapter closings**: Never a tidy moral or TED talk conclusion. End with forward momentum, unresolved tension, or a quiet moment that compels the reader to continue. ## Error Prevention ### Never Do These - Start too many sentences with character names - Overuse "suddenly," "just," "really," "very" - Head-hop within scenes (POV consistency) - Info-dump backstory in dialogue or narration - Tell emotions instead of showing them - Forget subplot threads - Rush endings - Use deus ex machina solutions - Start consecutive paragraphs with the same word - Guess at keywords without Amazon search validation - Choose categories without checking competitive density - Launch without ARC readers lined up - Set pricing without comparable title analysis ### Always Maintain - Character name spelling consistency - Timeline verification across chapters - Location and setting detail consistency - Plot promise fulfillment - Voice and tone calibration across the full manuscript - Keyword relevance to actual reader search behavior - Competitive awareness in the book's specific niche ## Output Format All output files saved to your configured books directory (set via the BOOKS_DIR env variable or your agent config) must be in `.docx` format. Convert via pandoc: ```bash pandoc input.md -o output.docx ``` ## Quality Commitment Every chapter, manuscript, metadata package, and launch plan produced with this skill must meet the standard: **could this compete with professionally published indie titles in its category?** If the answer is no, the work is not done.

path: README.md
content: # KDP Author Engine 📖

**Write, Publish, and Market Books on Amazon with a 6-Agent AI Pipeline.**

From market research to bestseller ranking. 6 specialized agents. Human-in-the-loop at every gate. Built for indie authors who want a professional publishing operation.

---

## What This Skill Does

This is the methodology layer for the KDP Author Engine — a complete set of authoring, publishing, and marketing instructions that activates across a 6-agent OpenClaw pipeline.

Install this skill and your agents gain access to:
- Humanization rules (60+ forbidden AI phrases, structural tell detection)
- 6-dimension quality scoring system with weighted thresholds
- Genre playbooks for 7 book categories
- Amazon keyword research methodology
- Full KDP formatting and metadata guidance
- 12-week launch and marketing playbook

| Agent | Role |
|-------|------|
| **Bookfinder** 🔎 | Weekly Amazon scans, keyword intelligence, revenue estimates |
| **Author** 📖 | Blueprint creation, chapter briefs, pipeline orchestration |
| **Bookwriter** ✍️ | Chapter drafting with humanization rules and self-review |
| **Editor** ✏️ | 6-dimension quality scoring — minimum 7.5/10 to pass |
| **Publisher** 🚀 | KDP formatting, metadata, keywords, categories, cover brief |
| **Marketer** 📣 | ARC strategy, Amazon Ads, social media, email, performance reports |

---

## Requirements

- **OpenClaw** v4.5+ with Discord enabled
- **pandoc** — for .docx manuscript export (`brew install pandoc` on Mac)
- **Discord server** with 6 channels (one per agent)
- **BOOKS_DIR** — set in your agent config or as an env variable — the local path where manuscript .docx files are saved

---

## What's Inside This Skill

7 reference files — the complete indie publishing methodology:

| File | What It Covers |
|------|---------------|
| `humanization-rules.md` | 60+ forbidden AI phrases, structural tells, mandatory self-review checklist |
| `quality-checklist.md` | 6-dimension scoring rubric with weights and minimum thresholds |
| `genre-playbooks.md` | Playbooks for health, children's, AI/tech, faith, literary fiction, commercial fiction, self-help |
| `chapter-workflow.md` | Step-by-step chapter production from brief to approved draft |
| `kdp-publishing.md` | Formatting specs, metadata optimization, BISAC categories, pricing strategy |
| `keyword-research.md` | Amazon autocomplete mining, competitor extraction, BSR-to-sales conversion |
| `book-marketing.md` | 12-week launch timeline, ARC strategy, Amazon Ads, email sequences, performance reporting |

---

## The Pipeline

```
Bookfinder scans Amazon weekly
    ↓ 3 title recommendations + keyword intelligence
You approve a title
    ↓
Author creates blueprint + chapter briefs
    ↓
Bookwriter drafts each chapter
    ↓
Editor scores every draft (6 dimensions, min 7.5/10)
    ↓ failed chapters return with specific revision instructions
You approve each chapter → .docx saved locally via pandoc
    ↓
Author assembles full manuscript
    ↓
Publisher formats for KDP + builds metadata package
    ↓
Book goes live on Amazon
    ↓
Marketer executes launch: ARC, ads, social, email
    ↓ 30/60/90-day performance reports
```

---

## Get the Full Agent Package

This skill contains the methodology. To get the pre-configured agent workspaces, one-command setup script, pipeline workflow, and cron job for automated weekly scans — get the full KDP Author Engine package:

👉 **[Get KDP Author Engine — $149](https://oteng.link/kdp-author-engine)**

---

## Install

```bash
openclaw skills install kdp-author-engine
```

Or via clawhub CLI:
```bash
clawhub install kdp-author-engine
```

---

*Built by Dr. Leo Oteng, PharmD — pharmacist, AI builder, and indie author.*


path: references/book-marketing.md
content: # Book Marketing & Launch Strategy — Complete Reference

End-to-end marketing playbook for indie authors: pre-launch, launch week, post-launch, Amazon Ads, social media, email marketing, and long-term platform building.

---

## TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. [Launch Timeline Overview](#launch-timeline-overview)
2. [Pre-Launch (4-6 Weeks Before)](#pre-launch-4-6-weeks-before)
3. [Launch Week](#launch-week)
4. [Post-Launch (30-90 Days)](#post-launch-30-90-days)
5. [ARC Reader Strategy](#arc-reader-strategy)
6. [Amazon Ads for Authors](#amazon-ads-for-authors)
7. [Social Media Marketing](#social-media-marketing)
8. [Email Marketing](#email-marketing)
9. [Amazon A+ Content](#amazon-a-content)
10. [Performance Tracking](#performance-tracking)
11. [Long-Term Platform Building](#long-term-platform-building)
12. [Launch Plan Deliverable Template](#launch-plan-deliverable-template)

---

## Launch Timeline Overview

```
Week -6:  ARC team recruitment begins
Week -4:  ARC copies distributed, Goodreads listing created
Week -3:  Email list teaser campaign begins, social media content starts
Week -2:  Pre-order live (optional), final metadata review
Week -1:  Launch week prep — all assets finalized, ARC readers reminded to post reviews
Week 0:   LAUNCH — KDP go-live, Author Central, community posts, email blast
Week +1:  Monitor BSR, solicit reviews, first Amazon Ads campaigns
Week +2:  Category optimization, A+ Content submission
Week +4:  30-day performance report, adjust pricing/keywords/categories
Week +12: 90-day review, decide on KDP Select renewal or go wide
```

---

## Pre-Launch (4-6 Weeks Before)

### ARC Campaign (Week -6 to -4)
See [ARC Reader Strategy](#arc-reader-strategy) below for full details.
- Recruit minimum 15-25 ARC readers (target 10+ day-one reviews)
- Distribute ARC copies 3-4 weeks before launch
- Follow up at 2 weeks and 1 week before launch

### Goodreads Setup (Week -4)
- Create the book listing on Goodreads
- Add book to relevant Goodreads shelves/lists
- Author profile linked to the listing
- Begin "Want to Read" campaign — share listing with network

### Email List Preparation (Week -3)
- Write 3-email pre-launch sequence:
  1. **Teaser email**: "Something big is coming" — build anticipation, share cover reveal or excerpt
  2. **Value email**: Share a useful insight or excerpt from the book — demonstrate the book's value
  3. **Launch email**: "It's live" — direct link, launch pricing, review request
- Segment list if possible: warm leads (engaged subscribers) get early access or bonuses

### Social Media Pre-Launch (Week -3)
- Create content calendar: 3-4 posts per week across relevant platforms
- Content types:
  - Cover reveal (high engagement)
  - Behind-the-scenes of the writing process
  - Excerpts or quotes from the book (design as shareable graphics)
  - "Why I wrote this book" personal story
  - Countdown posts in final week
- Platform priorities by genre — see [Social Media Marketing](#social-media-marketing)

### Pre-Order Decision (Week -2)
**Pre-order pros:**
- Accumulates sales that all count on launch day (BSR spike)
- Creates urgency ("pre-order now, releases [date]")
- Allows early marketing to drive to a live buy page

**Pre-order cons:**
- Manuscript must be final and uploaded before pre-order goes live
- If the book isn't ready, Amazon may penalize future pre-order eligibility
- No Kindle Unlimited page reads until the book is actually live

**Recommendation:** Use pre-orders only if you have an existing audience or email list that will actually pre-order. For first books with no audience, launch directly.

---

## Launch Week

### Day 0: Go-Live Checklist
- [ ] KDP shows "Live" status (can take 24-72 hours after upload)
- [ ] Verify correct pricing (ebook + paperback)
- [ ] Verify categories are correct
- [ ] Book description renders properly (check HTML formatting)
- [ ] "Look Inside" feature is working
- [ ] Author Central profile linked and updated
- [ ] Buy link tested (actually click through the purchase flow)

### Day 0-1: Activation
- [ ] Send launch email to full list (link directly to Amazon page)
- [ ] Post on all social media platforms
- [ ] Message ARC readers: "Book is live! Please post your review today if possible."
- [ ] Post to relevant communities (professional networks, Facebook groups, online communities)
- [ ] Share in relevant Discord/Slack communities where you're a genuine member
- [ ] Personal outreach to 10-20 supporters asking them to buy + review

### Day 1-3: Momentum Building
- [ ] Monitor BSR hourly on day 1 (note your best rank)
- [ ] Share BSR milestones on social media ("#1 New Release in [category]!")
- [ ] Thank early reviewers publicly
- [ ] Run any planned cross-promotions
- [ ] Submit to book promotion sites if pricing at $0.99 (BookBub, Freebooksy, BargainBooksy, Robin Reads)

### Day 3-7: Sustained Push
- [ ] Follow up with ARC readers who haven't posted reviews yet
- [ ] Second email to list: "Early reader reactions" (share positive reviews/feedback)
- [ ] Continue social media content (reader reactions, behind-the-scenes, Q&A)
- [ ] Begin Amazon Ads campaigns (see [Amazon Ads](#amazon-ads-for-authors))

---

## Post-Launch (30-90 Days)

### Week 2-4: Optimization
- **BSR tracking**: check daily, note trends
- **Review monitoring**: respond to questions, note recurring feedback
- **Keyword optimization**: update backend keywords based on actual search performance
- **Category adjustment**: request additional categories via KDP Support
- **A+ Content**: create and submit (see [Amazon A+ Content](#amazon-a-content))
- **Price adjustment**: raise from launch price to full price (week 2-3)

### Month 2-3: Scaling
- **Amazon Ads**: review ACOS, optimize campaigns, scale winners
- **Cross-promotion**: guest posts, podcast appearances, collaborations
- **Content marketing**: blog posts, YouTube videos, social media content derived from book content
- **Backlist planning**: if this is book 1, begin planning book 2 (series effect is the strongest indie marketing tool)

### 30-Day Performance Report
Produce a report containing:
```
# 30-DAY PERFORMANCE REPORT — [Book Title]

## Sales Data
- Ebook units sold: [X]
- Paperback units sold: [X]
- KU page reads: [X] (if KDP Select)
- Total estimated revenue: $[X]

## Rankings
- Best BSR achieved: #[X] in [Category] on [Date]
- Current BSR: #[X]
- Category rankings: [List]

## Reviews
- Total reviews: [X]
- Average rating: [X.X] stars
- Key positive themes: [What readers loved]
- Key negative themes: [What readers wanted more of]

## Marketing Performance
- Email open rate: [X]%
- Email click rate: [X]%
- Amazon Ads spend: $[X]
- Amazon Ads sales attributed: $[X]
- ACOS: [X]%
- Social media top-performing content: [What worked]

## Recommendations
- [ ] [Specific next actions based on data]

## KDP Select Decision (if applicable)
- Renew or go wide? [Recommendation with rationale]
```

---

## ARC Reader Strategy

### What is an ARC?
Advance Review Copy — a free copy of the book sent to readers before or at launch, in exchange for an honest review posted on Amazon and/or Goodreads.

### Recruitment Sources
- **Personal network**: friends, family, colleagues who genuinely read the genre
- **Professional network**: colleagues in your field, community members, fellow authors
- **Social media followers**: ask in stories/posts who wants an early copy
- **ARC services**: BookSirens, BookSprout, NetGalley (for broader reach)
- **Email list**: offer ARC to engaged subscribers
- **Facebook groups**: genre-specific reader groups (follow group rules about promotion)

### ARC Campaign Timeline
| When | Action |
|---|---|
| Week -6 | Begin recruiting — post to social media, email list, personal outreach |
| Week -5 | Confirm ARC team list (minimum 15, target 25) |
| Week -4 | Distribute ARC copies (ebook format — EPUB or PDF, NOT final KDP file) |
| Week -2 | First reminder: "How's the reading going? Any early thoughts?" |
| Week -1 | Second reminder: "Launch is next week! Reviews posted on day one make a huge difference." |
| Day 0 | Final message: "It's live! Here's the Amazon link. Please post your review today." |
| Day +3 | Follow up with anyone who hasn't posted yet |
| Day +7 | Thank everyone, share review count milestone |

### ARC Best Practices
- **Never require positive reviews** — this violates Amazon TOS. Ask for "honest" reviews.
- **Provide a review template** to make it easy: "Here's the Amazon link. Even a 2-3 sentence review helps enormously."
- **Stagger reviews**: 5-10 reviews in the first 48 hours creates social proof without triggering Amazon's review fraud filters
- **Track who delivers**: maintain an ARC reader list with status (sent, reminded, reviewed)
- **Build your ARC team over time**: readers who review once reliably are worth recruiting again

### ARC Tracking Template
```
| Name | Email/Contact | Sent Date | Reminder 1 | Reminder 2 | Review Posted | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
```

---

## Amazon Ads for Authors

### Campaign Types

**1. Sponsored Products (Start Here)**
- Your book appears in search results and on competitor book pages
- Pay-per-click — you only pay when someone clicks
- Best for: driving sales and BSR, testing keywords

**2. Sponsored Brands**
- Banner ad at top of search results showing your author brand + multiple books
- Best for: authors with 3+ books, brand building

**3. Lockscreen Ads**
- Display ads on Kindle lockscreens and Fire tablets
- Best for: broad awareness, genre fiction, high-volume categories

### Setting Up Your First Campaign

**Budget:** Start with $5-$10/day. Scale after 2 weeks of data.

**Targeting Options:**
- **Keyword targeting**: your ads show when readers search these keywords
  - Use your 7 backend keywords + variations
  - Add competitor book titles and author names as keywords
  - Start with "broad match," refine to "exact match" as you learn what converts

- **Product targeting**: your ads show on specific competitor book pages
  - Target the top 20 books in your category
  - Target books with similar price/review profiles to yours

**Bid Strategy:**
- Start with Amazon's suggested bid
- Adjust after 1 week: increase bids on keywords with good ACOS, decrease or pause poor performers
- Target ACOS (Advertising Cost of Sale) below 70% for launch phase, below 40% for sustained profitability

### Amazon Ads Metrics to Track
| Metric | What It Means | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Impressions | How many times your ad was shown | Higher = better visibility |
| Clicks | How many people clicked your ad | CTR > 0.3% is decent |
| Orders | How many clicks converted to sales | Conversion > 10% is good |
| ACOS | Ad spend / ad-attributed revenue | < 70% launch, < 40% sustained |
| Spend | Total money spent | Stay within daily budget |

### Common Amazon Ads Mistakes
- Setting budget too high before understanding what converts
- Not giving campaigns 2 weeks of data before optimizing
- Using only broad keywords (too generic, wastes spend)
- Not targeting competitor ASINs (product targeting is often the highest ROI)
- Forgetting to pause losing keywords (check weekly)

---

## Social Media Marketing

### Platform Priorities by Genre

| Genre | Primary Platforms | Content Style |
|---|---|---|
| Health/Wellness Non-fiction | Instagram, YouTube, Facebook Groups | Educational carousels, short-form video tips, Q&A |
| Children's Books | Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest | Illustration reveals, read-aloud clips, parent community |
| Faith/Ministry | Facebook, Instagram, YouTube | Devotional content, Scripture graphics, testimony stories |
| AI/Technology | LinkedIn, Twitter/X, YouTube | How-to threads, demo videos, behind-the-scenes |
| Romance/Fiction | TikTok (BookTok), Instagram (Bookstagram) | Aesthetic mood boards, trope content, character reveals |
| Business/Self-Help | LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube | Key insight carousels, short-form video, case studies |

### Content Framework: The 4-1-1 Rule
For every 6 posts:
- **4 value posts**: tips, insights, excerpts, educational content from the book
- **1 soft sell**: share the book with context ("If you've been struggling with X, I wrote this for you")
- **1 engagement post**: question, poll, reader story, behind-the-scenes

### BookTok/Bookstagram Strategy
- **BookTok**: short videos (30-60 seconds), trending sounds, emotional hooks
  - "POV: you finally understand why [topic A] and [topic B] are connected"
  - Book reveal videos, reading vlogs, "books that changed my perspective" trends
- **Bookstagram**: aesthetic flat-lays, quote graphics, story polls
  - Consistent visual brand (color palette, fonts)
  - Engage with other bookstagrammers in your niche
  - Use hashtags strategically: mix large (#BookTok), medium (#HealthBooks), and niche (#[YourTopic])

---

## Email Marketing

### The Author Email Funnel
```
Reader finds book → CTA in back matter → Signs up for newsletter
→ Welcome sequence (3-4 emails introducing author + free resource)
→ Regular content emails (2-4 per month)
→ Launch email sequence for next book
```

### Welcome Sequence (Automated, Triggered on Signup)
1. **Email 1 (Immediate)**: Welcome + deliver the free resource/bonus. Set expectations.
2. **Email 2 (Day 2)**: Share your story — why you write, who you help, what drives you.
3. **Email 3 (Day 5)**: Best content or insight — one email that delivers massive value.
4. **Email 4 (Day 8)**: Soft CTA — "If you enjoyed [book], here's how to stay connected / what's coming next."

### Launch Sequence (3 Emails Over 5 Days)
1. **Email 1 (Day -2)**: "It's almost here" — teaser, cover reveal, build anticipation
2. **Email 2 (Day 0)**: "It's live!" — direct Amazon link, launch pricing, review request
3. **Email 3 (Day +3)**: "Early reader reactions" — share positive reviews, remind about review CTA

### Newsletter Best Practices
- **Frequency**: 2-4 emails per month (enough to stay top-of-mind, not enough to annoy)
- **Value ratio**: 80% useful content, 20% promotion
- **Subject lines**: specific and curiosity-driven, not generic ("5 things your {{AUTHOR_CREDENTIALS}} wants you to know about [topic]" not "Monthly newsletter")
- **CTA**: every email has one clear call-to-action, not five
- **Platform**: ConvertKit (author-focused), Mailchimp, or Substack

---

## Amazon A+ Content

### What It Is
Enhanced product page content — branded images, comparison charts, and formatted text that appears below the book description on Amazon.

### Eligibility
- Must be enrolled in Amazon Brand Registry OR have an Amazon Author Central account
- Available for both KDP and traditionally published books
- Free to create and submit

### Content Modules to Use
1. **Brand Story**: Author photo + mission statement + "why this book exists"
2. **Comparison Chart**: Compare your book to competitors (or to other books in your series)
3. **Image with Text**: Excerpt or key insight presented with a professional graphic
4. **Feature Highlights**: 3-4 key benefits with icons or images

### A+ Content Best Practices
- **Design quality matters**: professional graphics, consistent brand colors
- **Focus on conversion**: every module should answer "why should I buy this book?"
- **Include social proof**: reader quotes, review excerpts, credentials
- **Mobile-first**: most Amazon browsing is mobile — test how modules render on phone

---

## Performance Tracking

### Metrics to Track Weekly
| Metric | Source | What It Tells You |
|---|---|---|
| BSR (Best Sellers Rank) | Amazon product page | Overall sales velocity relative to all books |
| Category rank | Amazon product page | How you rank in your specific categories |
| Review count + average | Amazon product page | Social proof momentum |
| KU page reads | KDP Dashboard | Kindle Unlimited engagement (if enrolled) |
| Units sold | KDP Dashboard | Actual purchase volume |
| Revenue | KDP Dashboard | Bottom line |
| Ad spend + ACOS | Amazon Ads Dashboard | Marketing efficiency |
| Email list growth | Email platform | Long-term audience building |

### BSR Interpretation Guide
| BSR Range | Approximate Daily Sales | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| < 5,000 | 25-50+ per day | Bestseller territory |
| 5,000-20,000 | 5-25 per day | Strong consistent seller |
| 20,000-50,000 | 2-5 per day | Decent performance |
| 50,000-100,000 | 1-2 per day | Moderate — needs marketing push |
| 100,000-500,000 | A few per week | Low but active |
| 500,000+ | Infrequent sales | Needs attention or may be in a slow niche |

---

## Long-Term Platform Building

### The Author Flywheel
```
Write great book → Readers discover it → CTA drives to email list
→ Email list grows → Launch next book to engaged audience
→ Day-one sales spike BSR → Algorithm pushes book to more readers
→ More readers → More reviews → More organic discovery → Repeat
```

### Key Long-Term Assets
1. **Email list**: the only audience you own (not dependent on any platform's algorithm)
2. **Backlist**: every new book sells old books. Series effect is the #1 indie growth driver.
3. **Author brand**: consistent voice, visual identity, and reader expectation across all books
4. **Review base**: books with 50+ reviews convert dramatically better than books with 5
5. **Amazon algorithm history**: books that sell consistently rank better over time

### The #1 Rule of Indie Marketing
**The best marketing for your current book is your next book.** Backlist drives more sustainable revenue than any ad campaign. Keep the pipeline moving.

---

## Launch Plan Deliverable Template

For every book, produce a complete launch plan document:

```
# LAUNCH PLAN — [Book Title]

## Launch Date: [Date]
## Launch Price: Ebook $[X] / Paperback $[X]
## KDP Select: [Yes/No] — [Rationale]

## Pre-Launch (Week -6 to -1)

### ARC Campaign
- Target ARC readers: [X]
- ARC distribution date: [Date]
- ARC format: [EPUB/PDF]
- Reminder schedule: [Dates]
- [ ] ARC list confirmed
- [ ] ARCs distributed
- [ ] First reminder sent
- [ ] Final reminder sent

### Goodreads
- [ ] Book listed on Goodreads
- [ ] Author profile linked
- [ ] Shared with network

### Email Marketing
- [ ] Teaser email written and scheduled ([Date])
- [ ] Launch email written and scheduled ([Date])
- [ ] Follow-up email written and scheduled ([Date])

### Social Media
- [ ] Content calendar created (3-4 posts/week)
- [ ] Cover reveal post scheduled
- [ ] Excerpt/quote graphics created
- [ ] Launch countdown content prepared

### Pre-Order (if applicable)
- [ ] Pre-order live on Amazon ([Date])
- [ ] Pre-order promoted via email and social

## Launch Week (Week 0)

### Day 0 — Go-Live
- [ ] KDP shows "Live" status
- [ ] Pricing verified
- [ ] Categories verified
- [ ] Book description renders correctly
- [ ] "Look Inside" working
- [ ] Author Central updated
- [ ] Launch email sent
- [ ] All social media posts published
- [ ] ARC readers notified to post reviews
- [ ] Personal outreach to 10-20 supporters

### Day 1-3
- [ ] BSR monitored and milestones shared
- [ ] Early reviewers thanked publicly
- [ ] Promotion site submissions (if $0.99 pricing)

### Day 3-7
- [ ] ARC follow-ups sent to non-reviewers
- [ ] Second email to list ("early reader reactions")
- [ ] Amazon Ads campaigns launched

## Post-Launch (Week +1 to +12)

### Week 2-4
- [ ] Keywords reviewed and optimized
- [ ] Additional categories requested via KDP Support
- [ ] A+ Content created and submitted
- [ ] Price raised to full price ([Date])
- [ ] Amazon Ads optimized (pause losers, scale winners)

### Month 2-3
- [ ] 30-day performance report completed
- [ ] Ad campaigns scaled or adjusted
- [ ] Cross-promotion opportunities pursued
- [ ] Next book pipeline status: [Update]

### 90-Day Decision
- [ ] KDP Select renewal or go wide: [Decision + rationale]
- [ ] Keyword refresh based on 90-day search data
- [ ] Category reassessment based on ranking performance
```


path: references/chapter-workflow.md
content: # Chapter Workflow — Step-by-Step Process

This reference defines the exact workflow for creating, reviewing, and approving chapters within the book pipeline.

---

## Chapter Brief Template

When creating a brief for any chapter, produce a file (`ch[XX]-brief.md`) containing ALL of the following:

```
# CHAPTER [X] BRIEF — [Chapter Title]

## Book
**[Book Title]**
**Subtitle:** [Subtitle]

## Chapter Status
Ready for draft.

## What Previous Chapters Established (Do Not Repeat)
[Bullet list of key points already covered — writer must NOT re-explain these]

## Chapter Goal
[2-3 sentences: what this chapter must accomplish for the reader]

## Target Reader State at Chapter Start
[What the reader knows, feels, and expects arriving at this chapter]

## Reader State at Chapter End
[3-4 bullet points: "The reader should finish thinking..."]

## Non-Negotiable Chapter Purpose
[Numbered list: 4-6 things this chapter MUST do]

## What the Chapter Must Cover
[Bullet list of specific content areas]

## What This Chapter Must NOT Do
[Explicit list of pitfalls, repetitions, and tone failures to avoid]

## Opening Guidance
[How the chapter should open — what NOT to open with, and examples of good openings]

## Tone Guidance
[Specific tone notes for this chapter]

## Structure Suggestion
[Numbered sequence: rough flow of the chapter — guidance, not rigid]

## Content Notes
[Specific instructions about examples, analogies, scenarios]

## Research Requirements
[What evidence/sources this chapter needs]

## Source Handling
[Rules for citations, verification markers]

## Continuity Requirements
[What must be read before drafting, what must be maintained]

## Humanization Rules for This Chapter
### Must do
[Chapter-specific positive instructions]
### Must avoid
[Chapter-specific forbidden patterns]

## Forbidden Feel
[If this chapter sounds like X, Y, or Z — it has failed]

## Word Count
Target **[X,XXX to X,XXX words]**.

## Deliverable Format
1. Full chapter draft
2. Short source note section
3. All [NEEDS VERIFICATION] markers left in place

## Chapter Ending Requirement
[How the chapter must end — forward momentum into next chapter]
```

---

## Drafting Process (For Writers)

### Before Writing
1. Read the chapter brief completely
2. Read the continuity document — understand what has been established
3. Read the research notes for this chapter
4. Read the humanization rules (load `references/humanization-rules.md`)
5. Identify the target word count range

### While Writing
1. Follow the brief's structure suggestion as a guide, not a rigid template
2. Open with a hook — human, specific, recognizable. Never a definition or statistic.
3. Hit every item in "Non-Negotiable Chapter Purpose"
4. Cover every item in "What the Chapter Must Cover"
5. Avoid every item in "What This Chapter Must NOT Do"
6. Apply humanization rules continuously — don't save it for a later pass
7. Mark any uncertain factual claims with [NEEDS VERIFICATION]

### After Writing — Self-Review
1. Run the full humanization pass (Section 5 of humanization rules)
2. Scan for every forbidden word and phrase — rewrite any found
3. Count em-dashes — reduce if >1 per 1,000 words
4. Check paragraph openers for repetition
5. Read the last paragraph aloud — does it sound like a TED talk? Rewrite.
6. Verify word count is within target range
7. Confirm source note section is included
8. Confirm all [NEEDS VERIFICATION] markers are in place

### Delivery
Post the complete draft with:
- Full chapter text
- Word count
- Source note section listing claims needing citation verification
- All [NEEDS VERIFICATION] markers preserved

---

## Review Process (For Reviewers)

### Step 1: Read the Draft
Read the full chapter without scoring first. Note first impressions.

### Step 2: Run Quality Checklist
Load `references/quality-checklist.md` and check every item.

### Step 3: Score
Score all 6 dimensions (1-10):
- Humanization (25%)
- Continuity (20%)
- Genre Fit (15%)
- Craft (15%)
- Content Accuracy (15%)
- Engagement (10%)

### Step 4: Verdict
- **Average >= 7, no dimension < 5** → APPROVED
- **Average 6-7** → REVISE (one rewrite attempt with specific notes)
- **Average < 6** → REWRITE (start fresh with new guidance)

### Step 5: Report
Write the review report using the format in quality-checklist.md.

### Step 6: Post-Approval Actions
When a chapter is approved by the final authority:
1. Save approved chapter as `.docx` to `{{BOOKS_DIR}}/[book-slug]/manuscript/ch[XX]-approved.docx`
2. Update CHAPTER-TRACKER.md with new status
3. Update continuity.md with chapter summary
4. Write the next chapter's brief
5. Write/gather the next chapter's research notes
6. Update NEXT-ACTION.md

---

## Continuity Document Format

The continuity document (`continuity.md`) must be updated after every approved chapter:

```
# CONTINUITY — [Book Title]

## Current Story/Argument State
[1-2 paragraphs: where the book stands after the latest chapter]

## What Must Stay Consistent
[Bullet list: voice, tone, approach, recurring elements]

## Running Themes
[Bullet list: themes introduced and maintained across chapters]

## Chapter Summaries

### Chapter 1 — [Title]
**Status:** [Approved/Draft/etc.]
**Summary:** [3-4 paragraph summary covering: what happens, key elements introduced, tone set, how it ends]
**Key elements introduced:** [Bullet list]

### Chapter 2 — [Title]
...

## Unresolved Threads
[What needs to be picked up or resolved in future chapters]
```

---

## Research Notes Template

For each chapter requiring research support, produce a file (`ch[XX]-research-notes.md`):

```
# CHAPTER [X] RESEARCH NOTES — [Chapter Title]

## Research Status
[Who prepared this, how heavy the research load is]

## Key Areas to Support
### 1. [Topic Area]
[What evidence is needed, what claims must be supported, any specific data points]
[NEEDS VERIFICATION] markers for specific statistics

### 2. [Topic Area]
...

## What This Chapter Does NOT Need
[Research that would be excessive or off-topic]

## Tone Reminder
[How the research should be integrated — seamlessly, not as info-dumps]

## Bridge to Next Chapter
[How this chapter's content leads into the next]
```


path: references/genre-playbooks.md
content: # Genre Playbooks — Writing Standards by Book Category

Load the relevant section for the genre you are writing in. Each playbook defines voice, structure, research requirements, and genre-specific rules.

---

## Non-Fiction Health & Wellness

**Voice:** Warm, authoritative, practical, calm. Sound like a trusted clinician speaking to an intelligent adult — not a textbook, not a blog post, not a wellness influencer.

**Structure:**
- Open chapters with a human, recognizable health moment — not definitions or statistics
- Every chapter answers: "What do I DO with this information?"
- Patient-style stories and examples make clinical content human
- End chapters with forward momentum into the next actionable step

**Research Standards:**
- Every medical claim needs a verifiable source
- Drug names: use both generic and brand (e.g., "metformin (Glucophage)")
- Dosages and interactions: be specific — vague health advice is dangerous
- Mark uncertain claims [NEEDS VERIFICATION] — never fabricate clinical data
- Preferred sources: ADA, AHA/ACC guidelines, peer-reviewed reviews, landmark trials

**Tone Rules:**
- No fear-mongering or scare tactics
- No miracle-language or wellness hype
- No blaming readers for their condition
- No trendy biohacker swagger
- Authority without arrogance — credibility through specificity, not posturing
- Include medical disclaimers without undermining authority

**Forbidden Feel:** If it reads like a discharge handout, a health blog post, or a supplement marketing page, it has failed.

---

## Children's Books

**Voice:** Age-appropriate, engaging, fun-first. The child is the reader, not the parent.

**Age Ranges:**
- **Picture books (3-7):** Simple words, repetition, rhythm, pattern. Read-aloud musicality is essential. 500-1,000 words total.
- **Early readers (5-8):** Short sentences, familiar concepts, growing independence. 2,000-5,000 words.
- **Middle grade (8-12):** More complex but still clear. Real emotions, real stakes. 30,000-50,000 words.

**Structure:**
- Show, never lecture — health concepts through character action and story, NEVER "let me explain" passages
- Fun first — if it's not fun to read aloud, it's not a good children's book
- Repetition and pattern in picture books (not in middle grade)
- Emotional authenticity — kids feel things intensely, honor that

**Tone Rules:**
- Kids are smart. Don't talk down. Don't over-explain. Don't moralize.
- Educational value without preaching
- Characters should be active, not passive recipients of lessons
- Illustrations descriptions must be specific and action-oriented: "[Image: Maya pours orange juice into her special measuring cup, counting each splash out loud]"

**Forbidden Feel:** If an adult would roll their eyes reading it aloud, or if the lesson is more visible than the story, it has failed.

---

## AI & Technology Books

**Voice:** Practical, honest, experienced. Write from real experience, not theory. The reader is intelligent but may not be technical.

**Structure:**
- Step-by-step when teaching: clear instructions, verified commands, expected outputs
- Real examples from actual setups and workflows — not hypotheticals
- Explain concepts without assuming jargon
- Each chapter should produce something the reader can use or try

**Research Standards:**
- Technical instructions must be verified and current
- Command-line examples must be tested
- Version numbers and dependencies must be stated
- Acknowledge what doesn't work — honest about limitations

**Tone Rules:**
- Don't oversell AI — acknowledge limitations honestly
- Don't hype — practical value over buzzwords
- Assume the reader is smart but new to this specific domain
- Use humor sparingly but naturally

**Forbidden Feel:** If it reads like a press release, a product marketing page, or a Wikipedia article, it has failed.

---

## Faith & Ministry

**Voice:** Scripturally grounded, practically applied, invitational. Share, don't lecture. The reader is a peer, not a congregation.

**Structure:**
- Scripture integration, not decoration — Bible verses central to the argument, not sprinkled on top
- Every spiritual principle connects to Monday morning — practical application
- Personal stories and honest vulnerability strengthen credibility
- Chapter endings should leave the reader with something to do, not just something to feel

**Research Standards:**
- Scripture references must be accurate (book, chapter, verse)
- Theological claims should be grounded in established tradition
- Denominational awareness: know the target audience's theological context
- Historical context for passages when it illuminates the point

**Tone Rules:**
- Never preachy — invite, don't demand
- Never formulaic ("3 steps to hearing God's voice")
- Integrate faith and professional life authentically
- Honest about doubt, struggle, and unanswered questions — these build trust

**Forbidden Feel:** If it reads like a sermon transcript, a devotional calendar, or a prosperity gospel pitch, it has failed.

---

## Literary Fiction

**Voice:** Character-driven, thematically rich, stylistically distinctive. Prioritize character complexity over plot.

**Structure:**
- Character interiority is the engine — what characters think, fear, want, and deny
- Sophisticated metaphor and symbolism woven into the narrative naturally
- Morally ambiguous situations without neat resolutions
- Universal themes explored with nuance and specificity

**Craft Standards:**
- Prose quality is paramount — every sentence must earn its place
- Subtext carries more weight than surface dialogue
- Time manipulation (flashbacks, compressed time, slow moments) used deliberately
- Setting as character — environment reflects and shapes emotional states

**Forbidden Feel:** If it reads like genre fiction pretending to be literary, or if the prose calls attention to itself at the expense of story, it has failed.

---

## Commercial/Genre Fiction (Thriller, Mystery, Romance, Sci-Fi, Fantasy)

**Voice:** Genre-appropriate pace and energy. Honor genre expectations while adding fresh twists.

**Structure by Subgenre:**
- **Thriller/Mystery:** Plant clues fairly, maintain tension, avoid deus ex machina, red herrings must be plausible
- **Romance:** Follow the emotional beat sheet (meet, conflict, dark moment, resolution), the relationship IS the plot
- **Sci-Fi:** Internal consistency of world rules, technology impacts society plausibly, human stories within speculative settings
- **Fantasy:** World-building serves story (not the reverse), magic systems have rules, cultures feel lived-in

**Pacing Standards:**
- Scene-sequel pattern: action scene followed by reaction/processing
- Chapter endings as hooks — every chapter must compel turning the page
- Subplot weaving: threads converge satisfyingly
- Tension escalation through the middle — no sagging second act

**Forbidden Feel:** If it reads like a trope checklist, or if the world-building overwhelms the characters, it has failed.

---

## Self-Help / Business

**Voice:** Expert but accessible. Data-driven but relatable. The reader should feel like they're getting insider knowledge from someone who has been there.

**Structure:**
- Open with a compelling anecdote or surprising statistic
- Framework-driven: give readers mental models they can apply
- Case studies that illustrate principles in action
- Practical exercises, worksheets, or reflection questions per chapter
- Clear, actionable takeaways — the reader should know exactly what to do

**Research Standards:**
- Support claims with recent research and data
- Name specific companies, people, and examples — not hypotheticals
- Acknowledge counterarguments — credibility comes from honesty
- Statistics must be sourced and current

**Tone Rules:**
- Confident but not arrogant
- Practical above inspirational — "what to do" beats "why to believe"
- Avoid empty motivational language ("you've got this!" without substance)
- Respect the reader's time — every paragraph must earn its place

**Forbidden Feel:** If it reads like a LinkedIn post, a motivational poster, or a college textbook, it has failed.


path: references/humanization-rules.md
content: # Humanization Rules — Mandatory for All Book Writing

These rules apply to EVERY word produced in any book chapter, manuscript, or book-related text. No exceptions. No shortcuts. A book that reads like AI is a book that doesn't get published.

---

## SECTION 1: FORBIDDEN LANGUAGE

### Category A: Banned Words & Phrases (NEVER USE)

**Pretentious Abstractions:**
delve, delved, tapestry, realm, testament to, beacon of, kaleidoscope, symphony of, labyrinth, juxtaposition, paradigm shift, ever-evolving, multifaceted, myriad, plethora, interplay, dichotomy, synergy, holistic (unless clinical context), embark, endeavor, uncharted, unveil, groundbreaking, transformative

**Filler Phrases:**
"it's worth noting," "it's important to note," "on a daily basis," "at the end of the day," "in today's world," "in this day and age," "when it comes to," "the fact of the matter is," "needless to say," "in conclusion" (at chapter ends), "as we all know," "without further ado," "let's dive in," "buckle up"

**Fake Profundity:**
"shed light on," "pivotal moment," "game-changer," "transformative journey," "the key takeaway," "food for thought," "the bottom line is," "at its core," "when all is said and done," "stands as a reminder"

**Overused Intensifiers:**
"very unique," "extremely important," "absolutely essential," "incredibly powerful," "truly remarkable," "quite literally," "fundamentally changed"

**AI Connector Words (overused):**
"moreover," "furthermore," "additionally," "consequently," "nevertheless," "notwithstanding," "henceforth," "thereby," "wherein," "thereof"
- Use ONLY if writing would be unclear without them, maximum once per 2,000 words total

**AI Descriptors:**
meticulous, robust, crucial, dynamic, landscape (non-literal), navigate/navigating, leverage, utilize (use "use"), facilitate, optimize, streamline, foster, cultivate, spearhead, champion (as verb), bolster, underscore, underpin, epitomize

### Category B: Structural AI Tells

- **Em-dash abuse:** Maximum ONE em-dash per 1,000 words
- **Colon-list pattern:** Do not start paragraphs with a statement followed by a colon and list. Vary structure.
- **Triple adjective stacks:** Never stack 3+ adjectives before a noun. "The warm, golden, inviting sunlight" = AI. "Warm sunlight" = human.
- **Repetitive openings:** Never start 2+ consecutive paragraphs with the same word or structure
- **Section summary pattern:** Do not end sections with "In summary..." or recap what was just said
- **The AI conclusion:** Never end a chapter with a neat moral lesson wrapped in a bow. End with forward momentum, unresolved tension, or a quiet moment.

---

## SECTION 2: WHAT HUMAN WRITING SOUNDS LIKE

### Rhythm & Pacing
- **Vary sentence length constantly.** Short. Then medium ones. Then longer sentences that build momentum and pull the reader forward, because that's how real writers create musicality on the page.
- **Use fragments.** For emphasis. For pacing. For voice.
- **One-sentence paragraphs are powerful.** Use them.
- **Dialogue paragraphs can be one line.** "Yeah, I know."

### Voice & Authenticity
- **Contractions are mandatory in dialogue** and natural in narrative. "It's" not "It is." "Don't" not "Do not."
- **Imperfection is authenticity.** Real writers occasionally start sentences with "And" or "But." They use "got" and "thing" and "stuff."
- **Specificity beats abstraction.** Not "a bird" — "a crow." Not "he drank something" — "he drank lukewarm Folgers from a styrofoam cup."
- **Opinion and personality.** Real authors have voices. They editorialize. They're funny sometimes. They're blunt sometimes. AI writes in a careful, hedged, neutral tone. Don't.

### Sensory Writing
- **Filter through character/narrator emotion.** Not "the room was cold" but "the cold hit her the second she opened the door."
- **Unexpected senses.** Smell, texture, temperature, sound — not just visual
- **Connect sensation to memory.** "The hand sanitizer smell reminded him of twelve-hour shifts at the hospital."
- **Active, not static.** Characters interact with their environment. They don't stand in rooms being described at.

### Scene Construction
- **Enter late, leave early.** Don't set up scenes — drop readers in.
- **Action carries description.** "She swept the pills into the counting tray" tells more than a paragraph describing the pharmacy counter.
- **Subtext over statement.** What characters DON'T say often matters more.

---

## SECTION 3: THE HUMANIZATION PASS

After every chapter draft, run this check before submitting for review:

### Automated Scan
1. Search for every word in the FORBIDDEN list. Flag and rewrite any found.
2. Count em-dashes. If >1 per 1,000 words, reduce.
3. Check first word of every paragraph. If any word appears 3+ times as an opener, restructure.
4. Check for triple-adjective stacks. Reduce to 1-2 max.
5. Check for "In summary," "In conclusion," "As we've seen" — remove all.
6. Read the last paragraph. Does it sound like a TED talk ending? Rewrite.
7. Check dialogue. Are contractions used naturally? Does each character sound distinct?
8. Check AI connector density. Count "moreover/furthermore/additionally/consequently" — if total exceeds 1 per 2,000 words, replace most with simpler transitions.

### Human-Feel Checklist
- [ ] Would a real person write this sentence this way?
- [ ] Does this paragraph have varied rhythm?
- [ ] Are the details specific enough that they feel observed, not generated?
- [ ] Does the writing have personality, or could any AI have written it?
- [ ] Is there at least one moment per chapter that surprises or delights?
- [ ] Would this be enjoyable to read aloud?
- [ ] Does this chapter make me want to read the next one?

### The Nuclear Test
Read any random paragraph from the chapter. If your first reaction is "this sounds like ChatGPT," the entire chapter needs rewriting. Not editing. Rewriting.


path: references/kdp-publishing.md
content: # KDP Publishing & Formatting Reference

Complete reference for Amazon KDP and IngramSpark publishing — formatting, metadata, categories, pricing, front/back matter, and upload preparation.

---

## TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. [Manuscript Formatting — Ebook](#ebook-formatting)
2. [Manuscript Formatting — Paperback](#paperback-formatting)
3. [Front Matter](#front-matter)
4. [Back Matter](#back-matter)
5. [KDP Metadata Package](#kdp-metadata-package)
6. [BISAC Categories & Browse Nodes](#bisac-categories--browse-nodes)
7. [Pricing Strategy](#pricing-strategy)
8. [KDP Select vs Wide Distribution](#kdp-select-vs-wide-distribution)
9. [IngramSpark](#ingram-spark)
10. [Cover Requirements](#cover-requirements)
11. [Pre-Upload Checklist](#pre-upload-checklist)
12. [Amazon Author Central](#amazon-author-central)

---

## Ebook Formatting

### File Format
- KDP accepts EPUB, DOCX, or KPF (Kindle Create output)
- EPUB is preferred for control — DOCX works but may introduce formatting artifacts
- If using pandoc: `pandoc manuscript.md -o manuscript.epub --toc --toc-depth=2`

### Formatting Standards
- **Chapter headings**: H1 for chapter titles, H2 for sections within chapters
- **Page breaks**: forced page break before every chapter heading
- **Font embedding**: embed fonts in EPUB to preserve design intent
- **Images**: 72 DPI minimum for ebook, JPG or PNG, max 5MB per image
- **Table of contents**: auto-generated from headings, all links must work
- **No headers/footers**: ebooks don't use page headers or footers
- **No page numbers**: Kindle generates its own location system
- **Hyperlinks**: internal links (TOC, cross-references) and external links (author website, resources) must work

### Common Ebook Mistakes to Avoid
- Hard page numbers left in from print formatting
- Manual line breaks instead of proper paragraph spacing
- Inconsistent heading styles (mixing H1/H2 randomly)
- Images that are too large (slow loading, file size rejection)
- Smart quotes that don't render properly (test on Kindle Previewer)

---

## Paperback Formatting

### Trim Sizes (Common for KDP)
| Genre | Recommended Trim | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-fiction | 6" x 9" | Industry standard, professional feel |
| Fiction | 5.5" x 8.5" | Common for novels |
| Children's | 8.5" x 8.5" or 8" x 10" | Landscape or portrait depending on illustration style |
| Business/Self-help | 6" x 9" | Professional, shelf-compatible |
| Poetry | 5" x 8" | Compact, intimate feel |

### Margins (KDP Minimum Requirements)
For 6" x 9" trim with 200+ pages:
- **Inside margin (gutter)**: 0.75" minimum (increase for thicker books — 0.875" for 400+ pages)
- **Outside margin**: 0.5" minimum
- **Top margin**: 0.5" minimum
- **Bottom margin**: 0.5" minimum

### Bleed
- **No bleed needed** if no images/color touch the page edge
- **With bleed**: add 0.125" on top, bottom, and outside edge. Trim size becomes 6.25" x 9.25"
- Background images and full-page illustrations MUST use bleed

### Spine Width Calculation
Spine width depends on page count and paper type:
- **White paper**: page count x 0.002252"
- **Cream paper**: page count x 0.0025"
- Example: 250-page book on cream paper = 250 x 0.0025 = 0.625" spine

### Paper Color
- **White**: best for books with images, charts, or color content
- **Cream/off-white**: best for text-heavy fiction and non-fiction (easier on eyes, traditional feel)

### Page Numbering
- Front matter: lowercase Roman numerals (i, ii, iii...) or no numbers
- Body: Arabic numerals starting at 1 from Chapter 1
- Right-side (recto) pages are odd numbers
- Chapter opening pages: no page number displayed (standard convention)

---

## Front Matter

Required and optional elements, in order:

### Required
1. **Half-title page**: book title only, no subtitle or author name (recto page)
2. **Title page**: full title, subtitle, author name, optional publisher imprint (recto page)
3. **Copyright page** (verso page — back of title page):
   ```
   Copyright (c) [Year] {{AUTHOR_NAME}}
   All rights reserved.

   No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted
   in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the
   publisher, except in the case of brief quotations in reviews and certain
   other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

   [Medical/legal disclaimer if applicable]

   ISBN: [Paperback ISBN]
   ISBN: [Ebook ISBN]

   First edition: [Month Year]

   [Publisher name or "Published by {{AUTHOR_NAME}}"]
   [City, State/Country]

   www.[author-website].com
   ```
4. **Table of contents**: auto-generated, linked in ebook

### Optional (in order, after copyright)
5. **Dedication**: brief, one page
6. **Epigraph**: opening quote, one page
7. **Foreword**: written by someone other than the author
8. **Preface/Introduction**: author's framing, why this book matters

### Medical Disclaimer (Required for Health Books)
```
The information in this book is intended for educational purposes only and
is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before making
changes to your medications, diet, exercise routine, or health regimen.

The author and publisher disclaim any liability for adverse effects arising
from the use or application of the information contained herein.
```

---

## Back Matter

Elements in order:

1. **Acknowledgments** (optional)
2. **About the Author**: 150-200 words, third person, credibility + personality
3. **Also By {{AUTHOR_NAME}}**: list of other published titles with links
4. **Resources**: recommended tools, websites, organizations (for non-fiction)
5. **References/Bibliography**: sourced citations (for non-fiction)
6. **Discussion Questions**: for book clubs (optional, strong for non-fiction)
7. **Index** (optional, non-fiction only — rare in indie publishing)
8. **Call to Action**: newsletter signup, website, social media, next book preview

### CTA Best Practices
The last thing a reader sees should invite continued engagement:
- "Want the companion workbook? Visit [URL]"
- "Join [X] readers getting weekly [topic] insights: [newsletter URL]"
- "If this book helped you, a review on Amazon helps other readers find it too."

---

## KDP Metadata Package

For every book, produce a complete metadata document containing:

### Title & Subtitle
- **Title**: keyword-aware but not keyword-stuffed. Must sound like a real book title.
- **Subtitle**: can be more keyword-rich. This is where SEO lives.
- Example: Title: "The Complete Guide to [Topic]" / Subtitle: "A [Professional]'s [Timeframe] Plan to [Benefit 1], [Benefit 2], and [Benefit 3]"

### Book Description (4,000 character max)
Amazon allows basic HTML formatting. Use it:
```html
<b>Your [pain point]. Your [symptom]. Your doctor says "watch it."</b>

This book gives you the plan your 15-minute appointment couldn't.

<b>Inside you'll discover:</b>
<ul>
<li>Why [problem A] and [problem B] are the same conversation</li>
<li>Which [metrics] actually matter (and which are noise)</li>
<li>A [timeframe] plan you can follow without quitting your life</li>
<li>What your [current approach] helps — and what it misses</li>
</ul>

Written by {{AUTHOR_CREDENTIALS}} who has helped thousands of readers...
```

**Rules for book descriptions:**
- First line is the hook — must create emotional recognition or curiosity
- Bullet lists for scanability
- Benefits, not features — "you'll discover" not "this book contains"
- End with credibility statement and/or social proof
- Write to the reader's pain, not the book's contents
- Test against top 5 competitor descriptions in the niche

### 7 Backend Keywords
See `references/keyword-research.md` for full methodology.
- 7 keyword phrases (not single words)
- Each phrase max 50 characters
- No repetition of words already in title/subtitle
- Based on actual Amazon search behavior, not brainstorming

### Author Bio
- Third person, 150 words
- Lead with credibility relevant to the book topic
- Include personality — not just credentials
- End with location or personal detail that humanizes

### DRM Setting
- **Recommendation**: DRM OFF for most indie authors
- DRM does not prevent piracy but does limit legitimate reader flexibility
- Exception: if publisher or institutional requirements mandate DRM

---

## BISAC Categories & Browse Nodes

### How to Choose Categories
1. Search Amazon for your book's main keyword
2. Look at where top-selling comparable titles are categorized
3. Check the competitive density — how many reviews does the #1 book in that subcategory have?
4. **Target subcategories where #1 has fewer than 500 reviews** — your book can rank here
5. Choose one competitive category (where the readers are) and one niche category (where you can rank)

### Browse Node Strategy
- KDP allows 2 categories at upload
- Request up to 8 additional categories via KDP Support after publishing
- Always request additional categories — this is free ranking surface area

### BISAC Code Format
Example: `HEA039150` = Health, Fitness & Dieting > Diseases & Physical Ailments > Diabetes > Type 2
- Always provide the full browse path AND the BISAC code when documenting

### Category Research Process
1. Find 5 comparable titles on Amazon
2. Note their categories (visible on product page under "Product Details")
3. Check BSR in each category — lower BSR = more competitive
4. Choose categories where your book can realistically reach top 10-20

---

## Pricing Strategy

### Ebook Pricing
| Price Point | Best For | KDP Royalty Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $0.99 | Launch promotions, reader magnets, short content | 35% |
| $2.99 | Permanently low — acceptable for short books (<30K words) | 70% |
| $3.99-$4.99 | Non-fiction, genre fiction sweet spot | 70% |
| $5.99-$7.99 | Established authors, premium non-fiction | 70% |
| $8.99-$9.99 | Max 70% royalty tier — expert non-fiction only | 70% |
| $10.00+ | Drops to 35% royalty — rarely justified for indie | 35% |

**The 70% royalty tier requires**: price between $2.99-$9.99, enrolled in KDP Select OR price at least 20% below print price.

### Paperback Pricing
- **Formula**: (printing cost x 2.5) rounded to nearest $0.99
- **Minimum**: printing cost + $0.01 (but never price at minimum — signals low value)
- **Typical ranges**: $12.99-$16.99 for standard non-fiction, $14.99-$19.99 for premium

### Launch Pricing Strategy
1. **Pre-launch**: set ebook at $0.99 for first 5 days (volume + rank momentum)
2. **Week 2**: raise to $2.99 (still accessible, start building royalty base)
3. **Week 3+**: raise to full price ($4.99-$7.99 depending on genre)
4. **Paperback**: full price from day one — no discount on print

### Competitive Pricing Research
Before setting price:
1. Check the top 10 books in your target category
2. Note their ebook and paperback prices
3. Price within the range — never dramatically above without strong brand
4. If your book is shorter than competitors, price slightly below

---

## KDP Select vs Wide Distribution

### KDP Select (Exclusive to Amazon)
**Pros:**
- Kindle Unlimited (KU) page reads — significant revenue for fiction
- Kindle Countdown Deals (scheduled promotions with countdown timer)
- Free Book Promotions (5 days per 90-day enrollment period)
- Higher visibility in Amazon algorithm during promotions

**Cons:**
- Cannot sell ebook ANYWHERE else (Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Google Play)
- 90-day auto-renewing commitment
- Dependent on Amazon's KU page-read payout rate (fluctuates)

**Best for:** Fiction (especially romance, thriller, sci-fi/fantasy), books targeting heavy Kindle readers

### Wide Distribution (Non-Exclusive)
**Pros:**
- Sell on all platforms (Apple, Kobo, B&N, Google Play, libraries via OverDrive)
- Diversified income — not dependent on one platform
- Library distribution (growing market)
- International reach (Kobo strong in Canada, Australia)

**Cons:**
- Loses KU page reads (major revenue stream for fiction)
- No Kindle Countdown Deals
- Harder to build momentum — split across platforms

**Best for:** Non-fiction (readers buy, not borrow), established backlist, authors building long-term platform

### Decision Framework
| Factor | Choose KDP Select | Choose Wide |
|---|---|---|
| Genre is fiction (especially romance/thriller) | Yes | |
| Genre is non-fiction (health, business, self-help) | | Yes |
| First book, need visibility | Yes | |
| Building long-term backlist | | Yes |
| Heavy KU readership in your niche | Yes | |
| Want library distribution | | Yes |

Always document the decision with rationale. This can be changed every 90 days.

---

## IngramSpark

### When to Use IngramSpark
- Wide print distribution (bookstores, libraries, academic)
- Hardcover option (KDP does not offer hardcover in all markets)
- International distribution beyond Amazon
- Returns-eligible status for bookstore shelf placement

### Key Settings
- **Trim size**: match KDP paperback or choose standard bookstore sizes
- **Paper**: 50# white or 70# cream (standard trade)
- **Cover finish**: matte (literary/non-fiction) or gloss (commercial/genre)
- **Wholesale discount**: 55% is standard for bookstore returnability
- **Returns**: "Yes — Returnable" if you want bookstore placement (increases cost risk)
- **Distribution**: "Global Connect" for widest reach

### Spine Width (IngramSpark)
- **Black & white, white paper (50#)**: page count x 0.002252"
- **Black & white, cream paper (70#)**: page count x 0.0025"
- **Color, white paper (70#)**: page count x 0.002347"

### IngramSpark vs KDP Print
| Feature | KDP Print | IngramSpark |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon distribution | Automatic | Requires opt-in |
| Bookstore distribution | Limited | Excellent (with returns) |
| Hardcover | Limited markets | Available globally |
| Setup cost | Free | $49/title (watch for free promo codes) |
| Print quality | Good | Excellent |
| Expanded distribution | Available but limited | Industry standard |

**Recommendation**: Use both. KDP Print for Amazon sales (better royalty). IngramSpark for everywhere else (turn OFF Amazon distribution in IngramSpark to avoid conflict).

---

## Cover Requirements

### KDP Cover Specs
- **Front cover**: trim width + bleed (0.125") on each side
- **Full cover (paperback)**: front + spine + back, single PDF
- **Resolution**: 300 DPI minimum
- **Color space**: CMYK for print, RGB for ebook
- **File format**: PDF (print), JPG or TIFF (ebook)

### Cover Brief (What to Provide a Designer)
When writing a cover brief, include:
1. **Genre and tone**: what visual language does this category use?
2. **3-5 reference covers**: comparable titles with successful covers in the niche
3. **Title, subtitle, author name**: exact text for front cover
4. **Spine text**: title + author name (confirm spine width)
5. **Back cover elements**: description block, author bio, barcode placement, tagline
6. **Color palette guidance**: based on genre conventions and competitive analysis
7. **What to avoid**: specific visual cliches that signal amateur design in this genre

### Common Cover Mistakes
- Font choices that signal amateur (Comic Sans, Papyrus, overly decorative fonts)
- Too much text on the front cover
- Low-contrast text that's unreadable at thumbnail size
- Generic stock photos that look like every other book in the category
- Not testing at Amazon thumbnail size (the most common viewing context)

---

## Pre-Upload Checklist

Before uploading to KDP or IngramSpark:

### Content
- [ ] Full manuscript proofread (no typos, formatting errors, broken links)
- [ ] Front matter complete and correctly ordered
- [ ] Back matter complete with CTA
- [ ] Table of contents links work (ebook)
- [ ] Page numbers correct (print)
- [ ] All [NEEDS VERIFICATION] markers resolved or removed
- [ ] Medical/legal disclaimers included (if applicable)
- [ ] ISBN assigned and included on copyright page

### Metadata
- [ ] Title and subtitle finalized
- [ ] Book description written and HTML-formatted
- [ ] 7 backend keywords researched and documented
- [ ] 2 BISAC categories selected with browse node IDs
- [ ] Author bio written
- [ ] Pricing set (ebook + paperback separately)
- [ ] KDP Select decision documented
- [ ] DRM setting confirmed

### Files
- [ ] Ebook file (EPUB or DOCX) tested in Kindle Previewer
- [ ] Paperback interior PDF with correct margins, bleed, page count
- [ ] Cover file meets spec (resolution, dimensions, color space)
- [ ] Spine width calculated and verified
- [ ] All files named clearly: `[book-slug]-ebook.epub`, `[book-slug]-interior.pdf`, `[book-slug]-cover.pdf`

---

## Amazon Author Central

### Setup Requirements
- Create or claim Author Central profile at author.amazon.com
- Upload professional author photo
- Write "Biography" section (can differ from book bio — more personal)
- Add "From the Author" section on each book's product page
- Link all books under one author profile (critical for discoverability)

### Ongoing Maintenance
- Update bio when new books publish
- Add editorial reviews when available
- Monitor and respond to reader questions (if Amazon Q&A is active)
- Check that all books are properly linked to the author page
- Update "From the Author" sections seasonally or with new releases


path: references/keyword-research.md
content: # Amazon Keyword Research for KDP — Complete Methodology

This reference defines how to research, validate, and select the 7 backend keywords for any KDP book, plus how to optimize title, subtitle, and description for Amazon search discoverability.

---

## TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. [How Amazon Book Search Works](#how-amazon-book-search-works)
2. [The 7 Backend Keywords](#the-7-backend-keywords)
3. [Keyword Research Process](#keyword-research-process)
4. [Title & Subtitle Keyword Strategy](#title--subtitle-keyword-strategy)
5. [Book Description Keyword Integration](#book-description-keyword-integration)
6. [Competitive Keyword Analysis](#competitive-keyword-analysis)
7. [Keyword Research Deliverable Template](#keyword-research-deliverable-template)
8. [Common Keyword Mistakes](#common-keyword-mistakes)

---

## How Amazon Book Search Works

Amazon's book search algorithm (A9/A10) considers:

1. **Exact match in title/subtitle** — strongest signal
2. **Backend keywords** — 7 keyword fields, up to 50 characters each
3. **Book description text** — indexed but weaker signal than title or backend
4. **Category placement** — books in relevant categories rank better for related searches
5. **Sales velocity** — books that sell rank higher (flywheel effect)
6. **Review count and rating** — social proof influences ranking

**Key insight:** Amazon is a search engine first. Readers find books by typing queries. If your book doesn't appear for relevant queries, it doesn't exist to those readers. Keyword research is not optional — it is the foundation of discoverability.

---

## The 7 Backend Keywords

KDP provides 7 keyword fields during book setup. Each field accepts up to 50 characters.

### Rules
- **Use phrases, not single words.** "blood sugar control" not "blood" "sugar" "control"
- **No repetition of words in title/subtitle.** Amazon already indexes those. Using the same words wastes keyword slots.
- **No competitor names or trademarks.** Amazon may suppress your listing.
- **No subjective claims.** "bestselling" or "best" are not allowed.
- **No temporary statements.** "new" or "on sale" are not allowed.
- **Use all 7 fields.** Empty fields are wasted discoverability.
- **Separate concepts with spaces, not commas.** "diabetes guide" not "diabetes, guide"

### What Makes a Good Backend Keyword
- **Real search term**: actual phrase people type into Amazon
- **Relevant to your book**: the reader searching this would genuinely want your book
- **Not already in your title/subtitle**: no duplication
- **Moderate competition**: some search volume but not dominated by massive brands
- **Specific over generic**: "insulin resistance diet plan" beats "health book"

---

## Keyword Research Process

### Step 1: Seed List (15-20 candidates)
Generate initial keywords from:

**A. Amazon Autocomplete**
- Go to Amazon.com > Books
- Type the beginning of a relevant phrase and see what Amazon suggests
- Each suggestion is a real search term with actual volume
- Example: typing "blood sugar" might show "blood sugar solution", "blood sugar diet", "blood sugar monitor", "blood sugar cookbook"
- Capture ALL relevant suggestions — these are gold

**B. Competitor Analysis**
- Find the top 5-10 books in your niche
- Look at their titles, subtitles, and descriptions
- Note which words and phrases keep appearing
- Check their categories (these suggest related keywords)

**C. Reader Language Mining**
- Read 1-star and 3-star reviews of competitor books
- Note the exact words readers use to describe what they wanted but didn't get
- These are unmet search terms — your book can rank for them
- Example: readers complaining "no practical meal plan" suggests the keyword "practical meal plan for diabetics"

**D. Related Searches**
- After searching Amazon for your main keyword, scroll to "Related searches"
- These are algorithmically connected search terms with real volume
- Capture relevant ones for your seed list

### Step 2: Validation
For each candidate keyword, validate:

1. **Does it return book results?** Search Amazon > Books for the phrase. If few or no book results appear, readers aren't searching this in the book context.

2. **Are the results relevant to YOUR book?** If the results are all cookbooks and your book is about medication management, the keyword attracts the wrong readers.

3. **What's the competition level?** Check the top 3 results:
   - BSR under 10,000 = very competitive (established books dominate)
   - BSR 10,000-50,000 = moderately competitive (achievable with good launch)
   - BSR 50,000-200,000 = low competition (easier to rank but lower volume)
   - BSR over 200,000 = very low search volume (may not be worth a keyword slot)

4. **Is the intent right?** "Diabetes" alone is too vague. "Diabetes management plan" shows clear purchase intent.

### Step 3: Selection (Final 7)
From validated candidates, select 7 keywords that:

1. **Cover different search intents** — don't cluster all keywords around one phrase
2. **Include both broad and long-tail** — mix "heart health" (broader) with "{{AUTHOR_CREDENTIALS}} guide to lowering A1c naturally" (long-tail)
3. **Don't duplicate title/subtitle words** — every word must add NEW discoverability
4. **Reflect reader language** — use words readers use, not clinical jargon (unless your audience is clinical)
5. **Target achievable rankings** — include keywords where you can realistically reach page 1

### Step 4: Document
Produce a keyword research deliverable (see template below).

---

## Title & Subtitle Keyword Strategy

### Title
- The title should be compelling and memorable FIRST, keyword-aware SECOND
- Never stuff keywords into a title at the expense of it sounding like a real book
- **Good**: "The [Topic] Reset" (contains primary keyword naturally)
- **Bad**: "[Keyword 1] [Keyword 2] [Keyword 3] [Keyword 4] Book" (keyword stuffed, sounds like spam)

### Subtitle
- The subtitle is where you can be more keyword-intentional
- Include your highest-value keyword phrase naturally in the subtitle
- **Good**: "A {{AUTHOR_CREDENTIALS}}'s [Timeframe] Plan to [Benefit 1], [Benefit 2], and [Benefit 3]"
- This naturally includes credential keywords plus benefit-oriented search terms
- All of those become indexed search terms

### Combined Strategy
- Title + subtitle together should cover your 3-5 most important keyword concepts
- Backend keywords then cover the remaining search terms not in title/subtitle
- Zero overlap between title/subtitle words and backend keywords

---

## Book Description Keyword Integration

Amazon indexes book description text, but at a weaker signal than title or backend keywords. Still important.

### Rules
- Weave relevant keywords naturally into the description
- Front-load the most important keyword in the first sentence or two
- Use keywords in bullet points (high visual weight and possibly indexed more strongly)
- Never keyword-stuff the description — it must read as compelling sales copy first
- The description sells to humans, not algorithms — if the keyword doesn't fit naturally, leave it out

### Example
```html
<b>Your [pain point] is getting worse. Your energy is crashing. And [serious consequence] is starting to feel less theoretical.</b>

In <i>[Book Title]</i>, {{AUTHOR_NAME}} delivers a practical <b>[keyword phrase 1]</b> designed for adults who want to <b>[keyword phrase 2]</b>, reduce [risk], and rebuild <b>[keyword phrase 3]</b> — without extreme diets or confusing medical jargon.
```
Keywords are integrated naturally into compelling sales copy.

---

## Competitive Keyword Analysis

For every book project, analyze the top 5 competitors' keyword strategies:

### Process
1. **Find 5 top-ranking books** in your target category/niche
2. **For each book, record:**
   - Title and subtitle (extract keyword themes)
   - Categories they appear in
   - BSR rank in each category
   - Number of reviews and average rating
   - Publication date (recent books ranking well = active niche)
   - Price (ebook and paperback)

3. **Extract keyword patterns:**
   - What words appear in 3+ competitor titles/subtitles?
   - What categories do they share?
   - What phrases appear in their descriptions?

4. **Find the gaps:**
   - What keywords do readers search that NO competitor title contains?
   - What categories have low competition but relevant readership?
   - What reader complaints (from reviews) suggest unmet search demand?

### Competitive Analysis Template
```
| Rank | Title | BSR | Reviews | Price (e/p) | Categories | Key Phrases |
|------|-------|-----|---------|-------------|------------|-------------|
| 1    |       |     |         |             |            |             |
| 2    |       |     |         |             |            |             |
| 3    |       |     |         |             |            |             |
| 4    |       |     |         |             |            |             |
| 5    |       |     |         |             |            |             |

Gap Keywords (not in competitor titles):
1.
2.
3.

Underserved Categories:
1.
2.
```

---

## Keyword Research Deliverable Template

For every book, produce a complete keyword research document:

```
# KEYWORD RESEARCH — [Book Title]

## Research Date: [Date]

## Title/Subtitle Keywords (Already Indexed)
Words in title: [list]
Words in subtitle: [list]
→ These are EXCLUDED from backend keywords

## 7 Backend Keywords (Final Selection)

| # | Keyword Phrase | Characters | Source | Competition Level | Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | [phrase] | [XX/50] | Amazon autocomplete | [Low/Med/High] | [Why this keyword] |
| 2 | | | | | |
| 3 | | | | | |
| 4 | | | | | |
| 5 | | | | | |
| 6 | | | | | |
| 7 | | | | | |

## Keyword Candidates Considered but Not Selected
| Keyword | Reason Excluded |
|---|---|
| [phrase] | [Already in subtitle / Too competitive / Wrong intent / etc.] |

## Competitive Analysis Summary
[Top 5 competitors, their keyword strategies, and gaps identified]

## Category Recommendations
- Primary: [Full browse path + BISAC code]
- Secondary: [Full browse path + BISAC code]
- Additional (request post-publish): [2-3 more categories]

## Search Intent Coverage
- Broad awareness: Keywords [X, Y] cover readers browsing the general topic
- Specific need: Keywords [X, Y] cover readers with a defined problem
- Alternative phrasing: Keywords [X, Y] cover synonyms and alternate terminology
- Long-tail: Keywords [X, Y] cover very specific, low-competition searches
```

---

## Common Keyword Mistakes

1. **Using single words instead of phrases.** "Diabetes" wastes a keyword slot. "Insulin resistance meal plan" targets a real search.

2. **Repeating title/subtitle words.** Amazon already indexes your title. Repeating those words in backend keywords adds zero value.

3. **Brainstorming instead of researching.** Keywords you think readers search are often wrong. Amazon autocomplete shows what they actually search.

4. **Choosing only competitive keywords.** If every keyword has BSR < 5,000 competitors, you'll never rank. Include winnable long-tail keywords.

5. **Ignoring reader language.** Clinical terms ("glycemic variability") may be accurate but readers search "blood sugar spikes after eating." Use their words.

6. **Not updating keywords after launch.** Keywords can be changed anytime in KDP. Review and optimize at 30, 60, and 90 days post-launch based on actual search performance.

7. **Stuffing the description.** If the description reads like an SEO article instead of compelling sales copy, readers bounce. Humans buy books, not algorithms.

8. **Skipping category research.** The right subcategory can make a book a #1 New Release with 50 sales. The wrong one requires 5,000 for the same badge.


path: references/quality-checklist.md
content: # Quality Checklist — Chapter Review & Scoring

Run this checklist on every chapter before presenting for approval.

---

## Language Quality
- [ ] Zero forbidden AI phrases found
- [ ] Em-dashes: max 1 per 1,000 words
- [ ] No repetitive paragraph openings (check first words)
- [ ] No triple-adjective stacks
- [ ] No "In summary/conclusion" endings
- [ ] Contractions used naturally in dialogue
- [ ] Active voice dominant (passive <15% of sentences)
- [ ] Adverbs (-ly words) minimized
- [ ] Specific details over generic descriptions
- [ ] No repeated words within same paragraph (except articles/pronouns)
- [ ] No overuse of "suddenly," "just," "really," "very"

## Continuity
- [ ] Opens with forward momentum (no chapter recap)
- [ ] Builds on previous chapter events/arguments
- [ ] Characters show development from earlier chapters
- [ ] No facts/explanations repeated from prior chapters
- [ ] Running themes/metaphors maintained
- [ ] Unresolved threads from earlier chapters acknowledged
- [ ] Timeline consistency with prior chapters

## Genre Compliance
- [ ] Age-appropriate language (children's books)
- [ ] Medical claims sourced (health non-fiction)
- [ ] Scripture properly integrated (faith books)
- [ ] Technical instructions verified (AI/tech books)
- [ ] Tone matches target audience throughout
- [ ] Genre conventions honored (romance beats, mystery clues, etc.)

## Engagement
- [ ] Chapter ending creates forward pull (not a neat conclusion)
- [ ] At least one surprising/delightful moment
- [ ] Pacing varies appropriately (tension > release > tension)
- [ ] Dialogue feels natural and distinct per character
- [ ] Would pass the "read aloud" test
- [ ] First paragraph hooks immediately

## Structure
- [ ] Word count within target range for this chapter
- [ ] Follows approved outline for this chapter
- [ ] No tangents or deviations from blueprint
- [ ] Proper scene breaks where needed
- [ ] Front matter references correct (if applicable)

## Final Check
- [ ] Read one random paragraph — does it sound human?
- [ ] Read the opening — would you keep reading?
- [ ] Read the closing — do you want the next chapter?

---

## Scoring System

When reviewing a chapter, score on these 6 dimensions (1-10):

| Dimension | Weight | What It Measures |
|-----------|--------|-----------------|
| Humanization | 25% | Absence of AI tells, natural voice, authentic feel |
| Continuity | 20% | Builds on previous chapters, no repetition, forward momentum |
| Genre Fit | 15% | Matches target audience and genre conventions |
| Craft | 15% | Sentence variety, imagery, pacing, dialogue quality |
| Content Accuracy | 15% | Factual correctness, proper sourcing, no misleading claims |
| Engagement | 10% | Would a reader want to keep going? |

## Verdicts

- **8-10 average**: APPROVED — proceed to approval gate
- **6-7 average**: REVISE — specific notes back to writer, one rewrite attempt
- **Below 6**: REWRITE — writer starts the chapter fresh with new instructions

**Minimum requirement: 7 average with no single dimension below 5.**

## Review Report Format

```
# CHAPTER [X] REVIEW — [Chapter Title]

## Verdict: [APPROVED / REVISE / REWRITE]

## Scores
- Humanization: X/10
- Continuity: X/10
- Genre Fit: X/10
- Craft: X/10
- Content Accuracy: X/10
- Engagement: X/10
- **Weighted Average: X.X/10**

## What Works
[2-3 specific strengths]

## What Needs Improvement
[Specific, actionable notes — not vague feedback]

## Specific Rewrite Instructions (if REVISE/REWRITE)
[Exact passages, sections, or patterns to fix]
```


Security scan verdicts — ClawScan: clean | static analysis: clean | VirusTotal: clean | SkillSpector: suspicious (MEDIUM)