Heather Grace Stewart asked Caroline Clemens:

Marketing books is not easy. What have you learned that works, and what was a total disaster? Let's learn from eachother!

Caroline Clemens Hello Heather! This is a BIG question because I think I've done everything to promote my book. I have a few more tricks and then I'll let it rest. In the new year, I'm going to do what I want to do, and see what happens.

Here's a list of how I tried. I joined every social media known to mankind, and participated. Then, I made blog posts, joined Amazon KDP, did a blog tour, signed up for contests, became a journalist (not a popular thing at the moment), movie trailers, book festivals, and emails to friends and family.

What worked was the book blog tour and KDP, pure and simple, where it went out to readers and purchasers. With 600,000 new titles we have a tough, tough road to sell. I would say LUCK has a bit to do with it.

I have not tried the trail of stores, and being out there as yet like yourself. We must be aware of businesses that now want your bucks to help you publish a book, but are in it to make as much off you as possible.

In 2015, I'm going to send my new book out to reviewers, and blogs which reach readers, then, I'll do a few promotional posts on my own blog. Maybe, I'll ask you to do one for me. Third, I will send a press release to my newspapers in Atlanta, and radio programs, too. Fourth, I will send more query letters out, as I've come too far to not keep trying. Fifth, I will try to sell it to these live streaming venues that need fresh material. Sixth, I am going to write more poetry and another novel. (Not for therapy, but because, I actually do want a NEW career).

And finally, the seventh way will be to check on established mags, and papers for a part time job. Thanks for asking!

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