Elli Hunt asked Lauren K. Denton:

did you use an agent? I'm currently looking to self-publish my novel, but it seems that promotion is going to be quite involved which will take me away from writing my next novel. Do you have any advice or tips? I enjoyed the Hideaway, looking forward to reading Hurricane Season. I do write reviews on Goodreads and on Amazon, now that I'm on the otherside of the cover, it seems daunting 2 find reviewers

Lauren K. Denton Hi there! I do have an agent. She's been super helpful in negotiating contracts, answering myriad questions, and generally acting as the go-between between me and my publisher so I'm not having to go to them for every little thing. As for marketing your book, that is such an important part of the puzzle, whether you publish yourself or with a traditional company. If no one knows the book is out there, they can't read it! Honestly, I don't have much solid advice as far as marketing a self-pubbed book except to recommend you making as many connections as you can in your local/regional community. Talk to librarians (they always have great advice for pretty much anything!), find book clubs in your area and offer visit any groups that read your novel, maybe even find some writing groups and offer to give a talk. Anything to get your name and face out into the world.

Best of luck to you and thanks for reading!!
Lauren

flag