The No Bullsh*t Guide for Writing (& Selling) Your First Book: An Author's Hustle is a straightforward writing guide for those with a story to tell, self-starters and late bloomers, and anyone willing to gain practical expertise without the snobbery or advanced degree. Whether you're a creative gunning for best-seller fan-fiction, an entrepreneur giving advice, or a family member preserving history, the goal is to write something worth reading.

Executive Producer of The Sandlot, Chris Zarpas, says "DeFonzo's considerable ability as a writer is matched only by her ability to sell."

"Award-winning author and professor Alicia DeFonzo delivers a clear-eyed, brutally honest guide for aspiring writers with her latest release" -- Medium

"Essential reading for anyone even thinking about becoming an author in the 21st century world of publishing," states Peter Adams of The Insurrectionist

This accelerated guidebook doesn't just kickstart your writing journey, it prepares you for the last leg: how to position your work, build credibility, and grasp the modern publishing landscape. The No Bullsh*t Guide contains 10 condensed lessons, recommended readings, podcasts, author resources, assignments, and checklists which streamline the writing, research, and creative process.

Inside, you'll discover:

• The importance of strong plotting and character development
• How to revise your manuscript like a pro
• Strategies for handling rejection-and using it as fuel
• Key differences between traditional publishing and small presses
• What literary agents are really looking for
• Curated checklists, podcast recommendations, and essential author resources