Back on track – kind of . . .
I’ve been neglectful for the past few months on meeting my posting deadline. At least I’m consistent when it comes to meeting deadlines.
My research trip to Ireland, the inaugural Mystery Writers Key West Fest (I am one of founders of that event) and finishing my new book, all took time and had me focusing on them instead of the blog. Sorry.
The new book, Nobody Wins, is about 67,000+ words. Since most of my sales have been eBooks, page numbers aren’t important (250 to 260, if you’re wondering).
Writing THE END brings many emotions to me and probably any writer. I am thankful and that quickly turns to dread. What if the editor doesn’t like it? What if the reader doesn’t like? What if sales suck? Will I ever come up with another story idea?
Well, you guess what I’m getting at. While finishing a book is a great accomplishment, there’s so much to follow (not counting the dread).
As an independently published author, who left his mainstream publisher, the responsibility of everything from cover design to promotion falls on my lap. Today, as compared to only a few years ago, there are more outlets opening up for the independent author. Radio stations that feature writers have reached out, other bloggers have offered me space and a book reviewer or two have said they’d like to read the book.
Good Reads is another way to reach readers. By giving away copies of my book, in exchange for reviews on Amazon, in Good Reads’ free book contest, I decide how many copies to give away. It has worked well for me in the past.
Of course, I have my Face Book friends, but that baffles me. If 10% of my “friends” bought my book, my sales would be good for a month or two. I do see a sales bump when I use Twitter to announce the book.
I also get more than 20,000 hits on my website and wouldn’t I like 10% of them to buy the book. But, I realize most of those 20,000 are interested in Key West and my website pops up in the search engine (whatever that is). I always hold on to the idea that one or two of those searching for Key West vacations may check a book by me out.
Being a member of Mystery Writers of America, Florida Chapter, is also helpful because other members help with ideas and websites that have helped their sales.
I will have a signing in Key West, date to be determined. I will also be at the Kilkenny House Irish Pub in Cramford, NJ on September 20, with books to sign. The pub is mentioned in the new book!
If you have any suggestions that I can use to promote the book, please contact me.
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