Are you serious about becoming a published author? About reaching more readers?

Coming to you from New York City, the cradle of U.S. publishing, we're BookishNYC — a community of writers, authors, booklovers — and book publishing pros.

We use our industry knowledge to help motivated writers and subject matter experts strategically amplify their efforts to get their book published and to reach readers.

Whether you want to share your storytelling, expand your subject matter influence, or engage a larger audience, our BookishNYC methodology is designed to help move you forward on the journey to a signed a book contract and to being discovered by more readers — 

No matter where you live.

BROWSE OUR PAGES TO LEARN MORE >>>
WELCOME!

I'm Valerie Peterson

I'm a writer and the author/co-author of four — and counting — traditionally published books.

Before my writing career, I spent nearly two decades working at at major book publishers.

But despite my extensive industry knowledge, when my first book was published, I learned the hard way about the author's side of the business.

I established BookishNYC to help my fellow writers better understand the publishing landscape in order to increase their chances of being successfully published. 

That landscape is also comprised of the pros who get books into the hands of readers. BookishNYC is also an advocate for those all those who love — and make a living — in the book biz. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT MY JOURNEY >>>

Ms. Peterson's knowledge of book publishing was vast and presented in a concise and entertaining manner... She answered questions with a thoughtful thoroughness, often going beyond the basic question itself to the deeper subject at hand." 

Jon Henn, Co-founder
Creative Writers Studio

Over the past year I’ve probably referenced your [advice] dozens (if not hundreds) of times! I became a bit of an “accidental” author … Since I hadn’t set out to write a book, I had very little knowledge of the publishing industry… You became my online and “go to” resource. 

"I wanted to let you know from the point of view of a newbie author, you’ve been extremely helpful! 

"Thank you Valerie!"

Amy Morin, author
International bestseller
13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do

[Valerie's] workshop helped me have a thorough understanding of the steps involved in taking your idea and putting it into print. Valerie tells it like it is regarding marketing, hot topics, and what publishers and agents are looking for; it’s tough love for writers. Writers everywhere will take away something beneficial… "

Sara, student
Book Publishing 101
Northern Connecticut Arts Council
AMONG THE PUBLISHERS WE'VE WORKED WITH:
QUICK-START CONSULTING RESOURCES

What do you need right now?

Quick, expert,  book advice."

Stuck on a publishing problem? Unsure of next steps? BookishNYC  can provide strategy and  tactical, actionable suggestions.

Book a Session

Book marketing tactics."

Need a seasoned hand with your book's website planning, strategic marketing set-up or launch? Want social content planning and creation? 

Get Strategic Help

Insight about getting published."

You've come to the right place! Check out the blog and other free resources that can help you on your journey. 

Check Out Bookish Resources
FREE BOOKLET

"The 4 Pillars of Publishing Success"

Give your book publishing journey a boost with regular guidance, tips, and resources sent right into your inbox — starting with free booklet. 

YES, COUNT ME IN
COMING SOON! ONLINE COURSES

BookishNYC Learning Center

From transforming how you show up as an author to learning how to get your book discovered by readers, these courses are your gateway to industry wisdom, practical tools, and actionable tactics to kick your writerly butt towards success.

Publishing Success Framework

Gain an understanding of how publishers think to increase your chances of signing a book contract. This course will provide foundational knowledge and tools to boost you on your journey to "published."

Get on the Waitlist

Cookbook Creation and Publishing

Get the "recipes" to overcome the unique cookbook publishing challenges to ensure yours is done to perfection — all from someone who held cookbook acquisition sign-off authority at major publisher.

Get on the Waitlist

90-Days to Your Book Proposal

For those who want to showcase their expertise in a non-fiction book, work 1:1 for expert guidance creating your most important sales tool.

Currently Fully Booked

Create an Effective Author Newsletter

Discover how to engage and grow your readership by strategically visiting their inboxes on a regular basis. 

Get on the Waitlist
LATEST FROM THE BLOG

Level up your bookish knowledge

Our blog contains a wealth of practical information and insights to help you better understand what it takes to be a successful author — with some pro guest posts, fun-with-books — and some serious book topics (literacy, book banning news) thrown in. 

Freedom-to-Read Heroes Brilliantly Address Book Bans

Mar 07, 2024