Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating Our Authors and Books This August

Aug 25,2025 / By Trixie Raboy / No Comment

August was filled with exciting moments for our authors! From positive book reviews to award recognitions, this month highlighted the dedication and creativity behind their work. It’s always inspiring to see stories reach new readers, gain appreciation, and earn acknowledgment for the impact they create. As we close out the month, we’re taking a moment to look back and celebrate the authors and books that made August stand out.

Awards

Tellwell author Prescilla Goraya has been recognized with an Honorable Mention at the 2025 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards for her debut picture book, Liz, in the New Author: Fiction Category.

In Liz, the story is told through the eyes of Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved dogs, gently exploring themes of grief, healing, and cherished memories while honoring Her Late Majesty’s legacy. An Australian-born author, teacher, and mother of two, Prescilla draws on her own experiences of loss and resilience to create stories that inspire compassion and hope.

Stash! Little Horse, Big City received an Honorable Mention in the 2025 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards in the Charity and Making a Difference category.

This heartwarming story follows Stash, a miniature therapy horse who brings comfort and joy to hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and more. With his gentle nature, Stash shows the power of kindness, compassion, and the big difference one small horse can make.

Written by sisters Rhiya and Aarya, passionate equestrians and community advocates, the book is inspired by the real Stash—the only certified therapy mini equine in Toronto. Along with illustrator Roksolana, they’ve created a touching reminder that sometimes the smallest among us carry the biggest hearts.

Zlata Pryudyus has been recognized on the 2025 American Book Honor Awardee list by Writers Global.

Her book, Amy and the Magic Forest, follows Amy, a young girl who stumbles into a magical realm after a fight with her best friend. Guided by Freya the fairy, she faces challenges, learns the value of teamwork, and discovers the true meaning of friendship.

Zlata, a sixth grader from Vancouver, first wrote the story as a school assignment at HongDe Elementary. With encouragement from her teachers and her mom, Roxi, she turned it into a published book. Passionate about storytelling, she hopes to inspire other children to embrace creativity and imagination.

Publicity

Local author Joe Lyons-Rising has released a heartfelt self-help book on coping with grief and loss, drawing from his own experiences to guide others through healing.

The book was recently featured in BarrieToday, where Lyons-Rising shared his hope of inspiring readers to face their struggles and find peace.

With honesty and compassion, his work stands as both a personal story and an encouraging resource for anyone navigating life after loss.

Dr. Mark Tyndall is taking a stand for tobacco harm reduction, sharing his insights in his new book Vaping: Behind the Smoke and Fear. With decades of experience in HIV care and harm reduction, he frames safer nicotine products as a “safe supply” for people who smoke.

In a feature by FilterMag, Tyndall reflects on how strict smoking bans often force patients into unsafe situations, showing the need for compassion and practical solutions instead of prohibition.

Reviews

Author Mala Khiroya received a glowing 5-star review from Reader Views for her book Pundalik & Lord Vitthala: The Man Whom God Visited Because He Served His Parents Selflessly with Love. This beautifully crafted children’s story shares the tale of Pundalik and Lord Vitthala, teaching young readers about love, kindness, and selfless devotion.

Pundalik & Lord Vitthala: The Man Whom God Visited Because He Served His Parents Selflessly with Love,” by Mala Khiroya, is more than an inspiring children’s book on the subject of respecting parents. It’s also a guide and fun workbook for children to explore, write in, and engage with to find deeper meaning in service to parents.
-Reader Views Book Review

Author Philippe Le Blanc received a glowing 5-star review from Reader Views for his book Advantage Equities: Invest Between the Lines and Win. Blending lessons from the tennis court with the world of stock market investing, Le Blanc offers readers a fresh and practical approach to building financial success.

Advantage Equities: Invest Between the Lines and Win, by Philippe Le Blanc, teaches you the ins and outs of investing and the stock market by merging two things: tennis and the stock market. This is a fascinating look at the stock market through the lens of tennis, and the world of tennis through the lens of investing. They have more to do with each other than you might think, and this big, bold book shows you how and why.
-Reader Views Book Review

Book Giveaways

Your August Reading Starts Here!

Aug 25,2025 / By Trixie Raboy / No Comment

Get ready to explore some great reads this August. From engaging read to thought-provoking tales, there’s something here for every kind of reader to enjoy.

A read that sparks thought and reflection.

A powerful, real-life journey of overcoming challenges. Honest, moving, and impossible to forget, this is a story that lingers long after the last page.

Abandoned by his mother when only weeks old, his father left him in the care of a cruel, alcoholic stepmother while he himself was in jail. Unbelievably, the child they dubbed the “*Pyjama Boy*” fought his way through life to achieve his ultimate goal. His story is a poignant and haunting one that captivates its reader from the very beginning and remains long after the book has been closed.

Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy

A Thoughtful Approach to Every Detail

This book has everything you need to know to plan your perfect unique wedding.
This is not your typical wedding planning book. Chapter titles alone will tell you what needs to be done, and the subtitles break it down further. The book includes tips, advice, stories, templates, and notebook to keep track of everything.

All the other books, magazine articles, Instagram and Pinterest timeline posts state on the “day of” to have a good breakfast. They don’t mention the people that take care of all the duties and tasks throughout the day so you can be VIP guests at your own wedding.

The five easy steps and how they relate to each other is the foundation of this book, which will make sure you have an educational, memorable, stressless, wonderful experience throughout the whole process:

1) Timeline
2) Budget
3) “Day of” schedule
4) Duties and tasks
5) Lists and assignments

The secret is having a planned schedule that catches everything, and a specific person in charge on the “day of” that pulls it off while you enjoy with the guests. Let me show you how to perfect your wedding planning experience.
Waiting to your wedding day is just too late to realize the importance of this thought process and having a specific/special go-to-person working the “day of” on your behalf.
You will enjoy the days up to the wedding as much as the day itself, as this book helps make it all come true.

Click Here To Get Your FREE Copy

Uncategorized

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

Aug 22,2025 / By Alyssa Humphrey / No Comment

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!

Tellwell News

Join Us This November for the Empowered Author Summit!

Aug 22,2025 / By Alyssa Humphrey / No Comment

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:

Meet the Team

Meet John Henrick (JH) Abella, Sales Manager at Tellwell

Aug 21,2025 / By Mark Mionda / No Comment

Meet John Henrick Abella, better known to us as JH, our sales manager at Tellwell! He leads our book-publishing consulting team, guiding authors and connecting them with the right services to bring their publishing goals to life. As part of our self-publishing model, JH plays an important role in guiding authors on their journey with Tellwell.

Get to know more about JH and his role at Tellwell.

Getting to Know You

Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to join Tellwell Publishing?

I started out in medical sales, which taught me the discipline and consistency needed to hit tough targets. After that I moved into publishing sales, and that’s where I really found my passion for working with authors and helping them bring their books to life. I’ve now been in the publishing industry for eight years, the last six at Tellwell. I started here as a publishing consultant and grew into the role of sales manager. What drew me to Tellwell, and what keeps me here, is how the company aims to be a true platform for author empowerment. That vision really resonates with me.

Meet the Team

Building Connections: Meet Ben Belding, Our Business Development Manager

Jul 28,2025 / By Mark Mionda / No Comment

Meet Ben Belding. As Tellwell’s Business Development Manager, Ben is all about finding new ways to support authors and grow the company.

He works on building meaningful partnerships, developing new programs, and helping publishing professionals and imprint leaders connect with the right tools and support. Ben’s goal is to make the publishing journey more accessible and community-driven.

Read more to see how Ben is helping authors succeed through smart ideas and strong relationships.

About the Role

Can you tell us about your role at Tellwell and what your typical workday looks like?

As Business Development Manager, I’m focused on expanding Tellwell’s reach by identifying new opportunities and building strategic relationships that support both our growth and our authors’ success. My days vary widely—they might involve exploring a new partnership idea, course and program development, publishing consultant, organizing a conference presence, or meeting with a potential imprint leader. At the heart of it all is the goal of making publishing more accessible, guided, and community-driven for authors.

July’s Stories, July’s Storytellers

Jul 23,2025 / By Trixie Raboy / No Comment

This July, we’re happy to celebrate some wonderful moments from our authors. From being featured in the news to receiving kind words in book reviews, book awards, and joining book events, it’s been a month full of meaningful highlights.

We love seeing their stories reach more people and their hard work recognized in new ways. These moments—big or small—deserve to be shared and celebrated.

Take a look at a few of the special shoutouts and public milestones that made this month one to remember.

Awards

Jeremy Durgana’s inspiring memoir, Mighty Joe Mui, has earned two awards at the International Impact Book Awards: Autobiography: Overcoming Adversity, and Memoir: Inspirational Memoirs.

The book follows the remarkable journey of Joe Mui from a difficult childhood in rural China to playing NCAA Division I soccer and earning a place at Cornell University. It’s a powerful story of resilience, determination, and hope.

As a teacher, actor, and musician, Durgana brings depth and heart to Joe’s story, turning real-life challenges into a moving and unforgettable read.

Book Giveaways

Summer Pages, July Picks!

Jul 23,2025 / By Trixie Raboy / No Comment

Summer’s in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to slow down and enjoy a good story. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or staying cool indoors, a great book can make all the difference.

This month, we’re shining a light on a couple of standout reads that offer just the right mix of heart, curiosity, and imagination. Simple, meaningful, and perfect for your July reading list, these picks are worth flipping through.

A playful and heartwarming story for young readers to enjoy

Get ready for a feel-good story that celebrates imagination, joy, and the idea that age is just a number. A fun and thoughtful read for kids, and kids at heart.

J.C. Walker’s new way of celebrating your birthday will have
children using their imaginations and parents remembering their happiest memories.
Find out how the Nuwayble family celebrates their birthdays a little differently.
What age would you pick?

A reminder to us all: no matter how young or old, age is but a number. How you feel is all that matters.

Click here to get your FREE copy

A thought-provoking read that rewards reflection

A gripping true-to-life story about rising above the odds. Raw, honest, and unforgettable, this is a read that stays with you.

Click here to get your FREE copy

Tellwell News

Call for Speakers: Empowered Authors Summit 2025

Jul 22,2025 / By Alyssa Humphrey / No Comment

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!

Tellwell News

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

Jul 22,2025 / By Alyssa Humphrey / No Comment

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!