✍🏽 Go From “Someday Author” to “Published Nonfiction Writer” — One Clear Step at a Time
These step-by-step courses guide you through every stage of your publishing journey — without confusion, guesswork, or overwhelm.
“Don't wait for permission to become an author.”
You’ve had a book in your heart for years — but between life, work, and not knowing where to start, it keeps getting pushed to “someday.”
I am Margot Starbuck and I've written over 50 books. I've also worked alongside those publishers on hundreds of major publishing projects as writer, editor, and coach! Over the last two decades, I've learned what publishers need to see to say "yes."
I’ve also helped countless aspiring nonfiction authors (just like you!) go from stuck to published.
That’s why I created the Aspiring Author’s Journey: these courses will walk you step-by-step from idea to published.
Where are you in your journey to publication?
Whether you're exploring publishing options or polishing your proposal, It's time to take the next step in your journey to publication.
Just start where you are.
Each course is a complete, actionable step that builds toward the next.
Decide which publishing route is right for you.
Traditional? Hybrid? Self?
Stop spinning your wheels and choose the best fit for your goals, timeline, and budget.
You’ll learn:
~How each publishing model really works
~A map to follow if you want a book deal
~How to set realistic expectations
Make your online presence impress gatekeepers, not distress.
Publishers will Google you — here’s how to look like the professional writer they want to work with.
You’ll learn:
~My Thrive-with-5 strategy for a great author website
~What to include (and what to skip)
~How to build one even if you’re not “techy”
Make agents and editors say “Tell me more.”
You’ll craft a clear, compelling pitch that gets attention fast.
You’ll learn:
~My signature 14-beat strategy for a successful pitch
~How to communicate your “big idea” clearly
~Common mistakes that get submissions ignored
Outline your nonfiction book from start to finish — in one focused day.
Get your ideas out of your head and into a structured, professional framework.
You’ll learn:
~The simple “chapter map” method
~How to identify your reader's need
~How to outline your book so that when you write there's a map!
And our signature ELITE offering...Book Proposal Blueprint
Your professional proposal — done right.
This is the same system my coaching clients use to get agented and published.
You’ll learn:
~Exactly what to include in each section of your proposal
~A real proposa that landed a book deal with a Big 5 house
~How to confidently approach agents and publishers
👋🏽 I HAVE SOME QUESTIONS
✋🏾 “Do I need to take the courses in order?”
Nope! You know which one you need in this moment.
👋🏽 “Can I get feedback on my proposal?”
Such a great question! Yup, learn more about getting a nonfiction book proposal review HERE.
✋🏻 "Can I get feedback on my book?"
Heck yeah! Learn more about Margot editing your nonfiction book HERE.
🖐🏿 "Should I buy these courses if I write fiction?"
Mostly...nope. (Though the Author Website course could serve you!)
🤚🏽 "Are these live or instant access?"
These are instant access. You can start learning how to dazzle a publisher as soon as you join!
✋🏾 "How long will I have access?"
Lifetime access — revisit the material anytime you need it.
✋🏻 "Is there a guarantee I’ll get published?"
Nope. But here’s the guarantee: you will know exactly what it takes to get published, and successful execution is up to you!
✋🏾 "Do you offer refunds?"
Due to the digital nature of the product, we do not offer refunds. If you have questions about whether or not this offer is for you, email us at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help you decide whether this is a good fit for you.
Where You Can Find My Clients' Books...
Listen: Here's What You Need to Do
"When I first started writing all I wanted was for a publishing veteran to sit me down and say 'Listen: here's what you need to do.' Margot does exactly that—with friendliness, savvy, humor, clarity, and grace. Gone is the foggy mystery of publishing: here is your one-stop guide to delivering what publishers are looking for."
Sarah Arthur, author of A Light So Lovely