Fear and self doubt

[Jason]

Hello,
I’m about to launch the second novel in a book series I am writing. I am currently considering a number of options as to how to create an interest in what I am doing. However there are pros and cons to what I am doing in preparation of my next book release. As with all indie authors I have doubt about what I am actually doing. My last book sold roughly 800 copies. However I also say to myself that I have started something, so I have to see it through, no matter how doubtful I become. Below are a few pros and cons to launching my second book. Have I covered all my bases or could I do more to generate interest.

Pros:
1. I’ll be doing the rounds on Goodreads a few weeks ahead reminding everyone when the book will be available.
2. I will be using Facebook, Twitter, Linked in, Google+, Pinterest, and Twitpics to publicise the next book release.
3. I am starting a series of blogs giving people information what my book series is about.
4. I will be contacting different media organisations about my book release.
5. I will be having a book launch event across all my social networking events.

Cons;
1. If I put myself about on Goodreads too much I might be accused of spamming.
2. Social media doesn’t always work. Facebook ads are a waste of money because your advertisement isn’t distributed evenly amongst your friends and followers.
3. A blog is a good idea, but the question is, who will read it. (I am new to blogging)
4. Despite sending out dozens if not hundreds of press releases I’m lucky if I get one reply.

I’m sure there are some of you out there who have been through a similar experience, any advice would be greatly received.
Thank you.
Jason Chapman

[Jim]

If your 800 copies were all in the same twelvemonth/two year period you're something of a howling success as an indie author.

With regard to blogs, I think it is a good idea but frankly don't write about writing much, just cover the weird random stuff that happens to you which is far more interesting

[Karen]

Yep, I'd second what Jim says.
People aren't really that interested in your blog.
Just write 'em a good book. Job done

[David]

Karen wrote: "Yep, I'd second what Jim says.
People aren't really that interested in your blog.
Just write 'em a good book. Job done"

Quite agree -except:

'Just write 'em a good book.'

Then write 'em a better one.

Rinse and repeat.

[Jason]

the 800 copies I have managed to sell have happened over a period of 18 months.
Hopefully I now have 800 fans of my work which is a good start.

[Darren]

800 is a very good number especially for a first book.

Tell people your book is out there, but only tell them once. If they want to start a conversation about then great, otherwise walk away from that platform.

[Joo]

Be known as a person on forums. Join in with the chat and make sure your profile or, if the site has one, your signature is up to date with the new book.
If you interest someone enough for them to see if you have any books out it should be no more than 2/3 clicks away for them to purchase your book.
Some authors make it difficult to buy their books. You click on their signature and it takes you to their website. You then click on the book and it takes you to its description page. You then hunt for a link and it takes you to a page for you to select which site to go to. I've got bored by then. Keep it simple and concise and quick to get there.

[Joo]

I just went to your GR page and I can't see that you have a book out at the moment or if you have a web page.

[Jason]

Hey Jon,
I don't think I have filled out my profile page correctly. Thanks for pointing that out. I will take a look. I have an amazon page I don't know whether I'll be able to use that as a website.