Two years ago, when I decided I would self-publish my first novel, I had no idea what was in store for me. I researched things on the internet and muddled my way through the process the best I could with a lot of trial and error. Fortunately, and with a ton of support from my friends and family, I was able to figure things out. I counted the result as a success. Now, as I publish my third novel, some steps in the process have become much easier... but there's still one walnut I haven't been able to crack. How do I maximize my novel's exposure? This is one area where I think traditionally published authors enjoy a huge advantage. Publishing houses can devote their resources to create timely advertising campaigns, they can ensure that novels get reviewed by well-read critics, and that books get prominently displayed in brick and mortar bookstores around the country. In a very real sense, self-published authors can't compete. Even so, there is one tool left in my arsenal to level this playing field... AND IT DEPENDS ENTIRELY ON YOU!!! Amazon.com, the juggernaut of electronic retail, already has a system in place to market my book to potential customers. This is great news for me because Amazon is really, really good at selling stuff. They use a complex algorithm that is mostly shrouded in mystery, although it undoubtedly draws on both advanced calculus and dark elven magic to find the most likely consumers of certain products. No one can say for sure how it all works, but what we do know, beyond any shadow, of a doubt is this: BOOK REVIEWS ARE GOOD! So this is what I'm asking... if you've read Kira and the Rat Queen please (PLEASE!) consider leaving an HONEST review of the book on Amazon. It is the single most important thing you can do to help me succeed as a writer. Writing a book review is easy. You don't have to be witty, or insightful, or long-winded. Just be honest. If you like the book, that's great! Tell people why you like it. If you didn't like the book, that's okay too. Let people know what didn't sit right with you. Your review will let the Amazon Algorithm know that people are interested in my book, and it is more likely to suggest Kira and the Rat Queen to potential readers. It's that simple, but the benefit to me is immeasurable. Other than that, I hope you all enjoy my newest entry in the Rainbow Princess Chronicles. Please plan on joining us Saturday, December 16th from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Pitman Gallery and Art Center for our launch party. You can find out more details about the launch party here. |
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