In an era where the digital landscape is constantly evolving, authors face a unique challenge: how to effectively harness social media to connect with readers and build a lasting brand. Yet, many fall into the trap of using these platforms merely as advertising channels, missing out on the true potential of social media. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can shift from simply promoting your books to creating an online presence that resonates with your audience and enhances your writing career. Did you know that 63% of readers discover new books through social media? This statistic alone hig ..read more

As a digital marketing specialist focusing on authors and publishers, I’ve explored numerous platforms to help my clients connect with their readers and grow their brands. After extensive research and hands-on experience, I can confidently say that Substack has become my top recommendation for authors looking to engage with their audience and expand their reach. In this post, I’ll explain why I choose Substack for my clients and why it might be the perfect fit for your author platform too. Content Ownership and Control One of the most compelling reasons I recommend Substack to my author client ..read more

As an indie author, navigating the vast ocean of Amazon’s book marketplace can be daunting. One of the most crucial aspects of ensuring your book’s visibility and success is mastering Amazon book categories. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why categories matter, how to research and choose the best ones for your book, and strategies to maximize your book’s exposure. The Importance of Categories for Visibility Amazon’s book categories are essentially virtual shelves where your book is placed. Just as in a physical bookstore, the right placement can significantly impact your book’s dis ..read more

OwlCrate, a popular book subscription service, has announced the launch of four new quarterly subscriptions set to begin in Spring 2025. As someone who’s always on the lookout for interesting book subscription options, this caught my attention. Let’s dive into what OwlCrate is offering and my thoughts on this new venture. The New Subscriptions: OwlCrate is introducing four genre-specific quarterly subscriptions: Horror Romance Romantasy Sci-Fi These are adult (18+) book-only subscriptions, which means no additional merchandise – just books. How to Join: OwlCrate is offering two ways to get inv ..read more

June is an exhilarating month for book enthusiasts, as Penguin Random House unveils a stunning array of new book releases that promise to captivate, thrill, and inspire. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming tales, there’s something for every reader. Dive into these highlights and prepare for an unforgettable reading journey. Whisper of Death by David Lambkin Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure that spans from the exotic beaches of Zanzibar to the depths of the African wilderness. Follow Paul Morgan, a washed-up novelist, as he gets entangled in a deadly web of espionage and betray ..read more

Rakuten Kobo recently announced the release of the industry’s first color E Ink e-readers: the Kobo Libra Colour and the Kobo Clara Colour. These devices boast color E Ink “Kaleido S3” displays, offering “a subtle palette” for readers. Alongside these, Kobo also introduced the Kobo Clara BW, an upgraded black-and-white device. All three models hit stores and online platforms starting April 30, with prices set at $219.99, $149.99, and $129.99, respectively. [seen here] Why This Matters This move by Kobo is more than just about being the first to market with a color e-reader. While we’ve seen ot ..read more

In the indie publishing, Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) play a pivotal role in the pre-launch phase of a book. They help generate buzz, secure early reviews, and gauge reader reception. However, both ARC readers and authors must navigate this process with a clear understanding of expectations and etiquette to ensure it benefits both parties. Expectations for ARC Readers ARC readers are invaluable to authors, providing early feedback and generating momentum for upcoming releases. Here are key points every ARC reader should consider: Understand the Format: Typically, ARC readers should not expect ..read more

Navigating the world of website hosting can be daunting, but it’s a crucial step in establishing your digital presence as an author. I simplify this process for you, ensuring that your website not only goes live but thrives online. Registering and Owning Your Domain The first step in your web hosting journey is registering a domain name. This unique address on the internet will represent your brand and help readers find you easily. Registering a domain involves selecting a name that reflects your author brand and paying an annual fee to maintain ownership. This domain is your own corner on the ..read more

When you first consider building a website with WordPress, it might seem like there’s only one WordPress. However, it’s crucial to recognize that there are two distinct platforms: WordPress.com and WordPress.org. Each serves different needs, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your site’s functionality, freedom, and ability to grow alongside your authorial career. What’s the Difference Between WordPress.com and WordPress.org? WordPress.com is a hosted service—it’s user-friendly and great for beginners. It manages all the hosting hassles, but this ease comes with limitations. De ..read more

Reentering the indie publishing world after a hiatus can feel like navigating a whole new landscape. As someone who partners closely with authors to amplify their presence and readership, I’ve gathered insights that might help demystify this environment, making your comeback—or debut—as smooth as possible. TikTok and Indie Publishing: A Tactical Approach While TikTok’s influence in the book world is undeniable, its suitability for direct author promotion is limited. The platform’s algorithm typically does not favor self-promotion. Instead of pouring resources into multiple daily posts, a more ..read more