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

[L.E.]

Hi Jason,

I am embarking on book 2 in my latest series. All in all I am nearing 4000 downloads on various works (boy do I wish a bigger percentage of that was income but hey ho).

I did this journey alone for two years and it was hard and demoralising but when I released my last book The Running Game I felt that it was something I could really push and so I hired someone to do lots of promotion for me because basically I suck at it.

In fact doing this made me discuss promoting properly which has changed my perspective on things entirely. I did a blog tour (which she organised), I have an even bigger blog tour coming up next month for the new book which got me amazing exposure.

Also I've done things like a cover reveal and guest hosting for other authors.

But the biggest thing that has helped me is joining and befriending other authors like me. We share ideas, support each other and suddenly the big wide world of publishing is just as scary but there are people who will hold your hand.

I think you should keep your expectations of "success" low and just enjoy writing and giving pleasure to readers.

Also one thing that might work for you is free stories. I don't think free promos work but I have put out short companion stories out for free for my series and people love them. They pick up the freebie and want to know more, I've tacked the first chapter of the first book in at the end and hopefully if people like my work they will get hooked in.

That's my two cents. It's scary, always question yourself but remember writing is amazing and enjoy it for all it's worth.

Good luck.

[Jason]

Thanks L.E,
I recently ran a free promotion on some of my short stories. I think its a good idea to keep your expectations low, although not so lo you lose interest. Its important to keep your spirits up.