Throw it at the wall and see what sticks

The latest wisdom is that trekking to bookstores with your new book isn’t the best use of time in today’s market. So, what do you think works to promote sales and get to the place where you’re receiving royalties?

by Dietrich

Getting to the place where promotional ideas turn to royalties — I wish I had some surefire ideas to share. During the past couple of years I’ve been promoting my books the same ways that many authors have — online. I update my website, write blogs and guest posts, and of course there is social media and Goodreads. I plan virtual book tours, take part in online panels, Zoom events and interviews, and so on. I think these are all worthy ways of promoting a book. One bonus is whoever is reading a post or watching an online event is just one click away from making a purchase. Another benefit, online events are less time consuming and far less expensive than taking part in live events.   

Once a book is in print, I like to put myself out there as much as possible to support it. I do stay open for new ways to promote my books to potential markets, but I think the bulk of my time is always best spent writing the best book I can. That’s what will (hopefully) garner positive reviews and get people talking — and buying. 

“I put a dollar in one of those change machines. Nothing changed.” – George Carlin

Aside from writing every day, I put a lot of thought into a catchy title, and I labor over the copy for the back cover, boiling down the story to just a few lines. I know authors don’t always have the last say here, but I think of a catchy title as a powerful headline, and the copy on the back as a memorable hook. It’s the first thing a potential reader sees when browsing the book aisles. Does the title grab? Does the cover stand out? 

It’s been far too long since I’ve gotten together with some of my author pals (some right here on Criminal Minds) for a live event. We always have such a good time whether there’s a full house or a lot of empty seats. And live events are the best way to get to know other authors and readers too. I’ve learned plenty by standing in front of a roomful of people and reading — how they reacted to the rhythm of the words. Did they seem engaged? Did they get it? Do they like it? Did they buy the book?

As we slowly get back to the way things were before Covid, I’m really looking forward to planning a launch for my next one. The Get is slated for release next June. Click to find out more. With vanishing fears and restrictions, I can’t wait to take part in an event at a favorite bookstore, a local library, a noir at the bar, a festival, conference, and to plan a book tour — hopefully all of the above.