Author Archives: Alyssa Humphrey

Tellwell News

Upcoming Events

September is a busy month for Tellwell! See what upcoming events we’re attending:

National Writers’ Conference at Emerging Writers’ Festival in Melbourne

September 11–18

The National Writers’ Conference is EWF’s centrepiece weekend of conversations and workshops on craft, publishing, and the literary sector at large. Boasting both emerging and veteran authors, as well as the finest hands of the industry, NWC is for every writer, wherever you are in your journey. Tellwell publishing consultant Ashleigh is sitting on a panel on September 12. Learn more about this panel here.

Writers of the Realm, Fredericton

September 19

A yearly literary arts festival in Fredericton, NB, showcasing authors, vendors, readings, workshops, panel discussions, and guest appearances. The event closes with a spectacular fantasy ball!

The Word on the Street, Toronto

September 26 & 27

The Word on The Street is a national celebration of reading, writing, and literacy. Each year, over 100,000 book lovers attend to view workshops, meet authors, and shop bookish merch and the best selection of books and magazines in Canada. Tellwell will have a booth at the event this year featuring a selection of indie authors. We hope to see you there!

Local Workshops

Our publishing consultants are hitting the pavement to connect with aspiring authors! Check out our upcoming in-person workshops here.

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Tellwell News

Visit Our Featured Authors at This Year’s Word on the Street Festival

We are excited to be joined by a select number of authors for this year’s Word on the Street Festival in Toronto, September 26 & 27. See which authors you can expect to see below!

Dr. Devina Wadhwa

Dr. Devina Wadhwa, BSC (Pharm), MD, FRCPC, is a psychiatrist, writer, educator and photographer whose work explores grief, meaning, and the quiet ways loss reshapes how we live and love. Her perspective has been shaped by years of caring for others across different stages of her life and training, deepening her understanding of how the mind, body, and nervous system carry experience long before it can be put into words.

Author of What Lives Through Loss

MaryEllen Breckenridge

Mary Ellen Breckenridge, BDSc, is a spiritual teacher, Akashic Records practitioner, and pioneer in holistic dental care. With a background in human sciences and decades of experience in healthcare, her personal journey through loss, relationships, and spiritual awakening led her to explore the deeper patterns shaping human experience. Through her work with the Akashic Records, she now helps others gain clarity about the unseen agreements influencing their lives.

Visit maryellenbreckenridge.com for more.

Joanne Kimm

Joanne Kimm is an avid writer, book reader, and actor. She has always loved being around animals, and often had dogs, cats, birds and fish growing up. A military brat, Joanne grew up moving a lot, thus inspiring her love of travel. Her writing reflects the many people, places and things she has met over the years.

Check out more about Joanne at her website: www.exclusivelyjk.com .

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Tellwell News

The First Annual Empowered Author Summit: A Transformational Three-Day Experience

What an unforgettable three days! Our first annual Empowered Author Summit brought together an incredible community of writers, industry experts, and creative entrepreneurs, and the energy was nothing short of electric.

We set out to create a fully immersive, high-impact event designed to educate, empower, and elevate authors at every stage of their publishing journey. And thanks to all of you, it became so much more than we imagined!

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Tellwell News

Spotlight on Tellwell Authors at Word on the Street Toronto

This September, Tellwell is at the Word on the Street Festival in Toronto whichi brings together thousands of readers and writers — and this year, Tellwell authors will be right in the mix. The Tellwell booth will showcase a selection of books by authors from across Canada and beyond. Have a look to see which authors will be on display at this year’s festival.


Demetrios (Jim) Angelis

Book: The Ottawa Way: Guilty by Gender in Canada’s Capital
Demetrios Angelis’ tale is a provocative mix of true crime, personal narrative, and social critique. Convicted in 2010 of murdering his wife, Angelis argues his case through a wider lens of justice, gender, and media bias.


Denyse Wigglesworth

Book: Thy Will Be Done
In Thy Will Be Done, Denyse Wigglesworth delivers a spiritual message grounded in peace, joy, and divine love. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Denyse shares reflections meant to awaken readers to their deeper purpose. At the heart of her book is the idea that we are co-creators with God — often unaware of the powerful role we play in shaping our own spiritual journey. Through gentle wisdom and divine insight, this book offers guidance to help readers shift their awareness, better understand “the Way,” and walk a path of love and light.


Georgina Novacich

Book: For Teachers: Words to Inspire and Guide You
Teaching is more than a profession — it’s a calling. In For Teachers: Words to Inspire and Guide You, Georgina Novacich offers a heartfelt tribute to educators, recognizing the profound role they play in shaping minds, hearts, and spirits. This beautifully written book is filled with love, gratitude, and encouragement for those who have answered the call to teach. Designed as a source of daily inspiration, it reminds educators that their path is both noble and deeply impactful. Whether read at the start of a school day or in quiet reflection, this book is a meaningful companion for every teacher.


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Uncategorized

Updates to Our Publishing Packages & Pricing – Effective September 1, 2025

We’re excited to share some important updates! These will benefit all new authors who are beginning their publishing journey with us on or after September 1, 2025.

For the first time in two years we’ve updated our publishing package pricing, and with that comes a major upgrade in what’s included, starting with our Standard Package and above.

These updates reflect our continued commitment to supporting authors with more value, better tools, and stronger publishing outcomes.

What’s New in Our Updated Publishing Packages

We’ve expanded the core features included in all new projects starting from the Standard Package and up. Here’s what every author will now receive:

100% Net Royalties with Managed Distribution 100 (Now Included)

Authors now keep 100% of their net royalties, with Managed Distribution 100 automatically included at no extra cost. This means no hidden fees or royalty cuts, just your earnings, in your hands.

Professional Editor’s Feedback Report

Every manuscript now goes through an editorial review by a professional editor. You’ll receive a detailed feedback report outlining:

  • Strengths
  • Areas for improvement
  • Next steps

This helps you move toward publication with clarity and confidence.

Access to Marketing Workshop & Guide

Every author now gets access to Tellwell’s new Marketing Workshop and Guide, designed to help you build a launch strategy, understand your target readers, and grow your sales post-publication.

Why We’ve Updated Our Pricing

This is our first pricing update since 2023. As publishing standards and costs have evolved, we’ve taken this opportunity to:

  • Reflect the expanded value now included in our packages
  • Continue to invest in quality, service, and innovation
  • Adjust pricing to account for inflation

We remain focused on keeping pricing competitive and transparent while giving you more tools and support than ever before.

Improvements Made Since Our Last Pricing Update

Since 2023, we’ve made key service upgrades to elevate your publishing experience:

  • More robust quality-checking processes
  • Enhanced author-support systems
  • A significantly stronger baseline package, with tools previously reserved for higher tiers

Project Checkpoint Calls

In addition to the orientation call, every project now also includes a live “checkpoint” call with your dedicated project manager at the design stage to clarify the revision process and final steps before publication.

Three Final Quality Checks

Every book now undergoes three separate quality control reviews before it goes to print, to ensure it meets publishing standards and your expectations.

Complimentary Back-Cover Copy Edit

We now include a professional edit of your back cover text, a key sales tool for both print and online book listings.

Pre-order Setup and/or Proof Copy Prior to Distribution (No Extra Fee)

Want to order a proof copy prior to distribution? Now you can, at no additional charge.

When These Changes Take Effect

All new projects starting on or after September 1, 2025 will receive the updated package inclusions and new pricing.

If you’re already working with us or have locked in by making a deposit, your project will continue under your original terms unless otherwise discussed with your publishing consultant.


Have Questions?

If you’re considering starting a new project or want to learn how these changes may benefit you, our team is here to help. Reach out to your publishing consultant or get in touch.

We’re proud to continue raising the bar and helping authors like you share your story!

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Tellwell News

Join Us This November for the Empowered Author Summit!

Announcing the Empowered Author Summit: Your Free 3-Day Virtual Event to Level Up Your Author Journey

Are you an aspiring or established author looking to take your writing career to the next level? Whether you’re just starting to draft your first manuscript or ready to scale your author brand, we’ve got something for you! We’re thrilled to invite you to the Empowered Author Summit, a free, three-day virtual event designed to empower authors at every stage of the publishing journey.

What is the Empowered Author Summit?

This exclusive summit brings together authors, editors, coaches, marketers, and publishing professionals to give you the tools, insights, and confidence to succeed in the world of books. Over three days, you’ll get practical advice, insider tips, and real stories from industry experts who have been where you are and know what it takes to get your book out into the world.

Mark your calendar—the Empowered Author Summit is happening November 5–7, 2025! Here’s what you can expect each day:

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Tellwell News

Call for Speakers: Empowered Authors Summit 2025

Are you passionate about helping authors succeed? We’re looking for dynamic speakers to join us for our first annual Empowered Authors Summit, a 3-day virtual event designed to support indie writers at every stage of their journey.

Event Dates: November 5–7, 2025

  • Day 1: Plan & Write: Authors will learn how to craft compelling stories, beat writer’s block, and learn how to stay productive and inspired.
  • Day 2: Publish & Distribute: Authors will learn how to polish and publish their book like a pro, from editing and cover design to choosing the right publishing path.
  • Day 3: Promote & Profit: Authors will learn how to turn their book into a business with strategies for marketing, branding, and monetization.

We’re inviting authors, coaches, editors, marketers, publishers, and other experts to share insights that empower indie writers.

Presentation Options:

  • 60-minute webinar (including 15 minute Q&A)
  • Speaker panel
  • 10-minute TEDx-style talk

Ideal Topics Include:

  • Story structure, memoir, ghostwriting, and productivity
  • Editing, formatting, publishing models, and design
  • Author platform-building, email marketing, and branding
  • Monetization, speaking, business-building for authors

Speaker Perks:

  • Exposure to 20,000+ authors via Tellwell’s network
  • Featured on the summit website with bio, links & promo
  • Full promotional kit and 50% commission on VIP sales via your personal link
  • Complimentary VIP access to the full event
  • Recording of your session (and clips for your use)
  • Lead magnet sharing and networking opportunities

Apply now to be a speaker and inspire indie authors across the globe!

Spots are limited—don’t miss this chance to make your mark at the Empowered Authors Summit 2025!

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Tellwell News

Showcase Your Book at Word on the Street Toronto 2025 – Even If You Can’t Attend!

Calling all Tellwell authors! The Word on the Street Festival is Canada’s largest celebration of storytelling, drawing over 100,000 book lovers each year to downtown Toronto. This year, the 2025 festival will be held September 27–28 at David Pecaut Square, featuring hundreds of publishers, authors, and literary organizations—and we want your book to be part of the action!

We’re offering showcase-only display spots at the Tellwell booth—perfect for authors who want to get their book in front of readers without attending the event.


Showcase-Only Display – $250 CAD

This package includes:

✔️ Display of 10–25 copies of your book at the Tellwell booth on both days
✔️ Tellwell staff handling all sales or giveaways on your behalf
✔️ Personalized signage with your book cover, name, and tagline
✔️ 5–7 event photos + 1 video featuring your book, sent to you post-show
✔️ Feature in Tellwell’s blog and newsletter recap
✔️ Optional giveaways of remaining copies (books not returned unless arranged)
✔️ Sales subject to 8% transaction fee


*You cover the cost of printing & shipping; books must arrive by September 21. Toronto authors may hand-deliver books the morning of Saturday, September 27.

Want us to take care of printing and shipping for you? Just let us know—we’ll coordinate everything to ensure your book is ready and on display.


Optional Add-On: Promotional Materials – $300 CAD

Make a bold impression with customized, professionally designed materials:

  • 25 printed bookmarks
  • 25 printed business cards
  • One 8.5″ x 11″ poster
  • Digital files of all designs for your future use
    Prefer more of one item? You can mix and match (e.g., 50 bookmarks instead of a combo).

Spots are first come, first served—and they’re selling fast!

To secure your showcase-only display spot, fill out the sign-up form here, and we’ll send over your invoice and next steps.

Let’s get your book in front of thousands of readers at Word on the Street Toronto 2025!

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Tellwell Author Updates

Elaine Alec on Healing, Authentic Storytelling, and the Power of Self-Publishing

In this inspiring conversation, Alyssa sits down with Elaine Alec, Indigenous author, speaker, and thought leader, to explore the powerful journey behind her books Calling My Spirit Back and Coming of Age. Through deeply personal reflections, Elaine shares insights into the creative process, the self-publishing journey, and the healing power of storytelling—especially within Indigenous communities.

Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or someone navigating your own healing path, Elaine’s wisdom offers valuable guidance on how vulnerability, authenticity, and connection can shape both personal and collective growth.


The Journey of Writing ‘Calling My Spirit Back’

Elaine Alec opens up about the writing process behind Calling My Spirit Back, a memoir that blends personal experience with cultural storytelling. For Elaine, writing wasn’t just about sharing her story—it was a deeply healing act. From confronting intergenerational trauma to reclaiming her voice, every chapter was a step toward spiritual and emotional restoration.

“Writing was a way to bring myself back to myself,” Elaine shares. “To call my spirit back.”

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Author of the Month

Author of the Month: Gary Cox

From consultant to thought leader: Gary Cox shares the journey to his book Cultivating Champions of CI : A Leader’s Toolbox for Creating a Continuous Improvement Culture

One thing I have acknowledged and accepted is this fundamental truth: we all experience the same challenges in leadership and business success. 

Before we get started, tell us a little bit about yourself!

Born in England, my family immigrated to Canada in the fall of 1969. I was 10 years old. I have lived in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, ever since. I married my high school sweetheart and this year we’ll celebrate our 46th wedding anniversary. We have two daughters, both with families, each having two children. They live close so we spend lots of time with our grandchildren. I am very blessed by my family and circle of close friends. I retired from Canada Post Corporation after a 38-year career. I started that career as a letter carrier delivering mail and ended in the position of National Director of Process Engineering, Innovation and Integration. I was responsible for our Continuous Improvement Lean Six Sigma training and improvement projects. I had an amazing team and colleagues. After retiring I joined Barrington Consulting as their lead CI trainer and we started a new line of business, Operational Performance Services (Barrington OPS), servicing public and private sector clients in training, mentoring, and coaching leaders and frontline staff in the continuous improvement of their business processes. I’m very passionate about supporting people in their growth and achieving their business and personal goals.   

What inspired you to turn your experience in CI into a book?

The last sentence of the previous question really sums up why. A book is one way to help others learn and grow in their leadership and in development of others, and I accept that helping others succeed is a measure of my own success. If I can share my 25-plus years in what I’ve learned as a leader, mentor, coach and continuous improvement student and advocate, and make a positive contribution to the growth of others, I consider it an honour. 

My business mission statement, which I share in my book is: “To be recognized as a leader with integrity in operational efficiency by utilizing proven methods and practices. My mission is to coach and mentor others in their self-development, helping them increase their knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward achieving both personal and business goals.” I wrote that statement a decade into my career and it remains a guiding mission for what I do. I have a personal mission statement too, which overarches my business mission statement.

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