This week, Fully Booked welcomes back author Randi-Lee Bowslaugh for a thoughtful conversation about second editions and what it really means to revisit a published book. While the lifeblood of a sustained writing career often lies in sequels and new releases, there are compelling strategic and creative reasons to update and republish an older work. From expanding content and incorporating new research to strengthening earlier writing, adjusting pricing, and rethinking marketing, this discussion explores the practical and emotional considerations behind giving a book a second life.

Drawing from her own experience preparing a significantly expanded edition of her nonfiction work on grief and addiction, Randi-Lee shares how time, therapy, and deeper research reshaped her perspective and strengthened the book’s impact. She also outlines why fiction authors might consider releasing second editions, anniversary editions, or special releases of their own. If you have ever wondered whether to revise, relaunch, or simply move on to the next manuscript, this episode offers clear insight into making that decision without alienating your readers.

Randi-Lee Bowslaugh

https://www.rbwriting.ca/

Hidden Gems

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Bestselling science fiction author Rick Partlow joins Fully Booked to discuss one of the most elusive skills in publishing: sustained productivity. With nearly 90 novels written since 2011 and an average output of 3,000 words a day, Rick explains how disciplined routines, detailed outlining, and long-term series planning have enabled him to build expansive fictional universes without losing momentum. From the early days of KDP, when 99 cent pricing helped him find his first wave of readers, to building a sustainable publishing career, this episode explores what it truly takes to turn writing into a lasting profession.

Rick walks us through the practical mechanics behind his success, including why he transitioned from discovery writing to deep structural outlining, how tools like NotebookLM help him maintain continuity across dozens of books, and why partnering with specialist publishers transformed his business. He also shares candid insights on discipline, avoiding burnout, alternating series to stay creatively sharp, and making the mindset shift from hobbyist to professional. For authors seeking greater output without sacrificing story quality, this conversation offers a clear and actionable path forward.

Rick Partlow

https://rickpartlow.com/

Hidden Gems

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In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with debut author Ben Leman to discuss the long and often humbling road from idea to finished novel. What began as a deeply personal promise to a friend evolved into years of research, multiple full rewrites, and a deliberate commitment to getting the story right before sharing it with readers. Ben walks us through the realities of drafting, scrapping, rebuilding, and learning how to step back from your own work with enough objectivity to truly improve it.

While the historical backdrop of his novel presented unique challenges, the lessons Ben shares apply to authors in any genre. Drawing on his business background, he approached writing and publishing with a strategic mindset, from working with early readers and editors to developing a targeted marketing plan and retaining control of his rights. His insights on discipline, daily habits, focus, and treating authorship as a professional endeavor offer practical guidance for anyone serious about building a sustainable writing career.

Ben Leman

https://www.benlemanauthor.com/

Hidden Gems

Need our help publishing or marketing your book?

https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/

All episode details and links:

https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast