Lucy Turns Pages: Read, Write, Publish, Promote

Lucy Turns Pages

Author Interview: James Garcia Jr.



1. Introduce yourself. Who are you? What genres? What books do you have out?

I am James Garcia Jr. I write paranormal and horror fiction, usually with an edgy or crossover vibe to them. That means there’s some Bible in there; the original good versus evil. I usually use the following promotion slogan: There are things that go bump in the night. Won’t you let me show you? I have published 6 novels so far and just published my latest, entitled The Color of Sound. This one is about a 16-year-old girl who hears voices. She suddenly loses the scales over her eyes, allowing her to be able to see both angels and demons. Neither side is pleased about this. She meets her guardian angel who counsels her as she comes to grips with this special ability. Last week, one wanted her dead. This week, they all do.

I have the Dance on Fire vampire series which is currently 3 books. I have Seeing Ghosts which is my paranormal with romance; and I have Photographs which is a paranormal mystery.


2. What are your favorite books?

My favorite books are much like my favorite music – they have to hit a certain mood or emotion that I’m feeling at any particular time. In horror, Headhunter by Michael Slade; The Thief of Always, a fable by horror author Clive Barker; The George MacDonald Malcolm series of Malcolm and The Marquis’ Secret; and Beach Music by Pat Conroy. That last one always shocks my audience. They expect me to list King, Rice, Crichton, etc., but no. I defy anyone to offer a better book than Beach Music.


3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

The way I remember the series of events was I first discovered rock music in the late 70’s, early 80’s. It’s almost all elevator music now, but the early days of heavy metal caught me up. I also discovered that I was old enough to watch horror movies: Friday the 13th, Halloween, The Thing, The Fog, The Nightmare on Elm Street, etc. I soon bought an electric guitar and thought I would be a musician. When I started writing my own song lyrics, I must have realized that I needed much more space than those conventions allowed. I recall killing off all my friends in my first slasher story! That story will never see the light of day. You’re welcome! *laughs* Eventually, as late teens turned into early twenties, I realized that I had the skill.


4. What are your favorite and least favorite parts of the writing process?

My favorite part is the general outlining through the first two drafts when the thing goes from a seed to a fully grown tree. It still needs a ton of pruning, but that’s the fun part. I can tolerate the middle part when I edit and edit and edit again, think it’s damn good and then send it off to my trusty editor. My least favorite part is when I barricade myself in a closed room and read the entire thing aloud to make sure each sentence sings. By then, I’m tired of it – no matter how good it is. Yet, it works. That’s why I keep doing it. I just reserve the right to complain. *laughs*


5. What is your writing routine?

Because I work a ten-hour day job as a Safety Manager – which means I could also receive a phone call and go back to work if something bad happens, I do not write every day. I take on one project every couple of years. I like to tell people it’s like having multiple pots simmering on the stove. Once I decide which one smells the best, I push the others to the back burner, as it were. I then begin meditating on the project throughout the day until I begin to see enough. I then sit down and write a general outline. It’s about 6-10 pages of paragraphs, detailing what happens. I move those around and fill in blanks until I can see the entire thing like a film in my head. Only then do I sit and begin the writing. By then, it basically writes itself. I like to leave space for unexpected magic to occur that surprises even me during the writing.


6. How do you balance writing with the rest of your life?

It was much more difficult in the early days of our marriage when the children were young. Truth be told, I didn’t write at all. I only dreamt of being a writer. I started Dance on Fire but didn’t finish it for twenty years. I’m 55 now, but when I turned 38, I really started to feel the regret I was facing if I never finished that manuscript. So, I did. I found a home for the book and wrote the first two drafts of book 2 in the series in eight months. That publisher soon closed shop. I had a pity-party for a day and then realized it was time to self-publish. My wife will tell you that I was married to my trusty laptop for about five years at that point. I have better balance now, but we’ve also been married thirty-four years, and the children are grown.


7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

I think it’s that monster called regret again. I don’t want any. At the end - God forbid I end up in an old-folks home or banished to the rocking chair in the corner of a room, I don’t want anyone to be able to say that I didn’t try hard enough. When I retire, I look forward to getting up early, pouring that coffee and creating those worlds, every day. It sounds perfect! As for writer’s block, I feel like I always have a couple of extra ideas on that back burner.


8. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I have an editor. She’s a writer also. I found her in the writing community. When my first novel lost its home, I reached out to her, and she’s been editing everything I have done since. I don’t give it to her until I feel it’s good and all the heavy lifting has been done. I then have some beta readers who read it and let me know what we’ve got. They are still too easy with me, I feel. I’ve really got to get them to push me harder. It could be that it is clean and wrapped up well by the time they see it. Perhaps not.


9. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

No, you may not. *laughs* Sure. My latest book is actually Dance on Fire 3.5. That 16-year-old with the ability to see angels and demons is joining the team. There are a few clues sprinkled about, and then in the final chapter Jewel she meets one of the characters from that series and realizes the vampire myth in town was actually true. It’s the same town, you see. In the beginning, I was world-building a fictional town that was essentially my own. I finally realized if Uncle Stevie (King) can write about Bangor, Maine all the time, nothing was stopping me from doing the same. It turns out my town is haunted by paranormal activity. I’m really going to have to explain that one of these days!! My young character will be pivotal to helping my vampire Nathaniel and his mortal family with what’s coming in Dance on Fire 4. I’m outlining that one now because the holiday season is the perfect time for writing.


10. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers?

If you’re passionate about doing something – anything – don’t let anyone stop you. Have no regrets. Dreams do come true. With regard to writing, join the community. Family doesn’t always understand how or why we do what we do. Only other writers know this. Meet and interact with them on social networks, etc. They can encourage and also help. I’m still using the formatting notes that another dear friend of mine in the community shared with me. And I have friends that I have made and actually met a couple in real life.

Guest Post: The Birth of Windwalker and Beyond the Fifth Gate: A Journey of Reflection and Imagination by Donna Sundblad

Epic fantasy novels

I currently have three epic adventure fantasies published. The narratives are independent of each other, but two of them, Windwalker and Beyond the Fifth Gate evolved from the same seed of imagination and are uniquely tied to one another. Both emerged from the simple practice of changing perspective—transforming ordinary experiences into extraordinary narratives.

I went for a walk with purpose; looking for an idea for a story. As I walked, I studied the landscape around me and thought, what if I were one inch tall? The concept of viewing the world through this new lens sparked my creativity. This shift opened my mind to new possibilities, allowing me to see the mundane with childlike wonder. I came upon a drainage ditch. As I envisioned myself small, the ditch morphed into a mysterious cavern. This playful exercise provided the foundational imagery that inspired Windwalker.

This is what I wrote when I returned home. It is the seed that developed into Windwalker and Beyond the fifth Gate. The only thing I’ve changed for this post is the character’s name. He didn’t have a name when I originally wrote it:

Manelin slipped along the slope, using the trees to steady his hurried pace. Something big crashed through the forest not far behind him. The threat moved silently through the woods, not a hoof beat or footfall to be heard, only the rush of splintering tree trunks warned him to run. Up ahead, he caught a glimpse of a cave, half hidden by vegetation. Hand over hand; he used thick rope-like vines to pull himself up the incline toward the haven. He could hide in there.

The process of writing Beyond the Fifth Gate was fueled by reflective exercises that encouraged me to explore the “Flip Side” of this original snippet. This technique involved reversing key elements to create a fresh narrative. In Windwalker, I developed the male protagonist, Manelin, who faces dangers in a murky forest and escapes into a dark cave. On the flip side, I reimagined this story through the lens of a female character named Elita and transformed her experience from one of fear to one of calmness in a cavern filled with light. This exercise revealed the emotional depth of both characters and enriched the overall narratives.

I used these exercises as a form of discovery. Looking for new ideas to incorporate that evolved organically. It worked, but the result was two novels intertwined through this blend of reflection and imagination, but connected in no other way. The act of stepping back to consider different perspectives allowed me to uncover hidden layers within the stories.
 
In Windwalker the Stygians welcomed disease-riddled Jonnick refugees to their shores and unwittingly unleashed a curse bringing strife and division. Ancient prophecies hint at a chance for unity, but Queen Riona's paranoia threatens everything. Social outcasts Manelin and Jalil navigate a world teetering on the brink of annihilation. It’s a fantasy tale of friendship, adventure, and courage, where destiny unfolds in unexpected ways.
 
Beyond the Fifth Gate is also perfect for teens, young adults, and fantasy lovers of all ages but it is a different story. It features a strong female protagonist chosen to save her world. She journeys through mystical gates on a quest where she must collect key items, and return to free her people enslaved by an insectoid race. Time is limited. She has to make it through all five gates before they close. It’s an uplifting adventure that celebrates courage, friendship, and hope.

Though I didn’t intend to write two novels initially, these exercises became a powerful form of discovery. This journey taught me the value of crafting compelling fantasy adventures filled with thrilling quests, formidable foes, and the transformative power of courage in the battle between good and evil.

I’m also excited to announce the Questing for Destiny Collection*! This volume features all three of my fantasy adventure tales, spotlighting unlikely heroes who defy the odds to discover their true purpose. You can purchase these tales individually or enjoy them all together in this collection. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of Manelin’s adventures or the uplifting journey of Elita, there’s something in this collection for every fantasy lover.

I encourage fellow writers to embrace similar exercises—take that walk, change your perspective, and see what unfolds.

*Questing for Destiny Collection is a new release currently available on Google Play.

Author Interview: Gregory Alexander Sharp

 

Interview with Gregory Alexander Sharp, author of supernatural thrillers and horror.

1. Please introduce yourself (who are you, what genre/s do you write in, what books do you have out)

Hi, I’m Gregory Alexander Sharp, although most people call me Greg (or Sharpy). I’m a full time executive at a global business services company, and part-time writer and podcaster. So far my creative work has all been in the genre of the supernatural thriller, with occasional dalliances into horror. I’ve published four stories to this point, two short-stories of about four thousand words, and two novels stretching out tow one hundred and sixty thousand words in the case of IL LUPO. The short-stories have each been published on Halloween the first of which was in 2023. That was THE BRIDGE, and it told the story of Johnny, a popular boy whose life is thrown into disarray by decisions his parents are forced to take. The second short-story, THE TRAPDOOR is set in post-war Britain, and centres on a bomb-site that holds a dark secret!

My novels, IL LUPO and its sequel, KILL AND CURE, both follow the story of old friends, Charlie Mortimer and Nick Frobisher, and the misfortune that befalls them when they encounter a man named Telemaco Russo, who stands accused of being a werewolf. Definitely more supernatural thriller than out and out gore-fest, these are stories told in the style of classic horror, but in a contemporary setting.

As a writer I am also a regular contributor to A SERIAL [KILLER] DRAMA: WEREWOLF THE PODCAST, which is a weekly audio drama that goes out on podcasting platforms, telling the story of Wil The Werewolf and various other characters. This does get into true horror, but also delves deeply into both pathos and dark comedy. I am also fortunate enough that both myself and now my wife have been invited to voice act a number of the characters by the show’s owner, Fenrir Thorvaldsen, so I’m a contributor on more than one level. You’ll hear me in the voices of Simon The Professor and William Marshal among others.

2. What are your favourite books?

I’m a very big fan of the books of Glyn Iliffe, particularly the series based around the siege of Troy and the Odyssey which followed it, as well as the retelling of the stories of Heracles. I’d also have to say that Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, and Dracula by Bram Stoker are among the best works of fiction I have ever read, they are so dark and dramatic, and so emotionally evocative.

A story many people are familiar with from the movie adaptations, but I am a huge fan of from its original literary format is The Day Of The Jackal by Frederick Forsythe. I remember that being on my parents’ bookshelf throughout my childhood, and then one day as a young man I finally picked it up and started to read. I got lost in that book for days!

More recently I have also listened to a number of works in audiobook format, and my baptism of fire was the entire Harry Potter series, which I guzzled in a couple of weeks over the Christmas period at the and of 2020. Prisoner of Azkaban is one of my favourite book of all time.

3. When did you know you wanted to be an author?

I’ve always been something of a storyteller, and as a child, even when rebelling for all I was worth at school, I could be found in a private moment writing my own take on classic horrors, or Marvel superhero stories (particularly The Hulk). I had my first crack at writing properly in my early thirties, that story is still a WIP that I intend to complete one day. It is set against the London nightclub scene of the 1990s, and weaves personal experiences of mine through a cautionary fable. But I became so busy with work, that book just got parked when I was no more than a couple of chapters in (they are not bad, actually, and I might keep them).

Some years later, my wife, Dee, said to me, “why don’t you write about something you’re really into? You know, werewolves and all that rubbish?” Once the hurt had worn off, I found that as usual she had a good idea there, and I started to think about what a modern classic werewolf story might look like. When my father passed away I found I needed a break, and we took a trip to Rome, ultimately travelling south to the Amalfi Coast, the Bay of Naples, and the ancient city of Pompeii. At the end of that trip I said to Dee that I knew exactly what was going to happen and where I was going to set it, the rest, I asserted, should be simple enough. Well, it was, but it took me nearly ten years to find the darned time!

4. What are your favourite and least favourite parts of the writing process?

I love, just love backing myself and my characters into a corner that I haven’t planned a way out of… and then finding one! So many time in IL LUPO did I find myself blinking at the screen of my laptop wondering if I would need to delete the half-chapter that had led my into this dead-end, only to find myself punching the air in triumph when I’d figured out ‘the way’. Nailing a well-hidden plot twist is another favourite aspect for me. If you read my novels a second time (as some people tell me they have), the clues I have left become lightbulb moments, and knowing what my readers will find out is such fun.

Less fun is proofreading, not because I don’t enjoy reading my own stories, I do (they are, after all, quite brilliant… >insert genuine modesty here<), but it is so difficult to spot minor grammatical errors in your own writing. The voice in my head is highly skilled at reading what I intended to write, and not what my fumbly fingers may have inadvertently converted that to. Of course, there are other people who proofread my work before I finalise it, both of whom are editors in their own right, but I don’t like to pass drafts to them that cause frustration by being poorly polished.

5. What is your writing routine?

It’s early-doors for me. Before the Covid pandemic I was a commuter, spending between three and four hours on trains and walking each day as I plunged into and out of The City of London with all the other rats in the race, but that has changed now. My working days are now almost exclusively spend in my office at home, working in a virtual environment, and that has provided me with some work-life balance by being able to eat dinner with my wife in the evenings, and also gives me an hour in the morning where I can indulge my creative passions, and still get more time in bed before the alarm goes off. I call that win-win-win!

So, for me, the early bird does indeed catch the worm, or in this case, the creative bug.

A typical week will include recording my parts for Werewolf The Podcast, engaging with Fenrir and discussing upcoming plotlines (something we usually do via WhatsApp voice messages), and ideally some time dedicated to writing.

6. How do you balance writing (and everything else to do with it) with the rest of your life?

I have a very demanding job and I lead a team of people in quite senior positions, each with a large portfolio of responsibility, so when the demands of work demand my time, they take priority. It’s quite possible for me to have zero time to devote to the creative side of things in any given week, so I just have to suck that up and recognise the importance of my career. Beyond that, I obviously have my home life, too, and in the great scheme of things that will always come first. I love the time I spend with my wife, Dee, and I take great pleasure in the time I spend out walking with Branston, our cocker spaniel. And I’m a golfer, too, I have a 07:30am tee-time every Sunday morning. Gosh, I’m exhausted just writing all of that stuff out, how do I ever find the time? Well, the truth is that I have to be very strict, and just accept that there is more to life than telling my stories, and yet if I am to be true to my soul, I do need to find that creative outlet. So it’s a juggling act, and a work in constant process, and for now (at least) it seems to be working just fine.

7. What inspires you? How do you beat writers block?

I am inspired on a daily basis by other Indie Authors. I spend a solid amount of my ‘creative’ time marketing my wares on X, and other social platforms, and soe of the people I spend the most time with are hugely successful. I try to learn what I can from them whilst still retaining my own sense of self.

In a more general sense, I was inspired by the classic horror movies of the 1930s and 1940s and that’s something that’s been with me since childhood. Those old Hollywood films were shown on television in the UK when I was around twelve years of age and I just loved them. Something that always struck me about those iconic versions of Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Wolf Man, was that there did not need to be any blood or gore in order to shake you, it was the threat of violence rather than the depiction of it that horrified the viewer. I’ve tried my hardest to replicate that in my own work in a way a contemporary readership can connect with, especially in my novels.

Now, in terms of writers’ block, I have not yet bumped into that frustrating phenomenon, but part of the reason for that may be related to the rather staccato way in which my time is made available to me. It could very well be the case that, if I was to be a full time writer, that might be something that I would have to deal with, but for now I’m very pleased to say, when I have time to write, I write.

8. How do you keep consistent/write a lot?

IN terms of consistency within the sound and feel of my narrative, I read my work back to myself, but not necessarily in my own voice. There is typically a tone or a style I’m trying to achieve, and that will usually make it easy enough for me to tune in to that sense, that feeling. With my characters, they have their own personalities and there own way of expressing themselves, which I just allow to happen. Ernest Wainwright, for instance, who is one of the main characters in my novels, doesn’t quite pronounce his ‘R’s as ‘W’s but he very nearly does, and I have a lot of fun with that aspect. Connie, who is another character from IL LUPO and KILL AND CURE, speaks in a very different way (she is a very contemporary medical professional from the Harley Street in London), and she speaks in an entirely different idiom. It’s always been quite easy for me to rely on the personality of my characters to keep me on the straight and narrow as their chronicler.

9. Does anyone read or edit your work before publication? If so, how did you find them?

I’m very fortunate that a dear friend of ours is a publishing professional with many years as an editor on her resumé. She also happens to be a fan of my genre, so she gets to read the latest stuff before anyone else, and I get an opinion, and access to some guidance and some editorial skills that are completely invaluable.

Fenrir Thorvaldsen of Werewolf The Podcast is another editor whom I’m fortunate enough to say enjoys my work, and I just love getting his feedback, which is always absolutely on-point. And my final proofreader is my mother-in-law, Alison, who might just be my number one fan!

10. Can we have a sneaky look at your future plans?

You can indeed!

I currently have two WIPs and two WIW (that Works In Waiting). Fenrir and I collaborated on a significant storyline on Werewolf The Podcast that ran for over thirty episodes, and alongside everything else, we are currently converting the scripts to a readable format to be published in the form of a novel. It really was a great story and it’s so much fun reading those scripts back as we go through the process. Watch out for that later this year or early next).

I’m also writing a novel which is set in the 1970s, somewhere in the United States, and it based around love, loss, rivalry, and revenge! No werewolves of vampires there, but guns, booze, and disco-balls aplenty! That story I’m hoping to tell in about ninety thousand words, so a but more punchy than the grand tour of IL LUPO, more of a novella.

Next year I will embark on a third IL LUPO novel, and I also plan to write a spiritual piece about a man in an asylum who claims to be God.

11. Finally, what advice would you give to other writers (inspiring, those publishing and those published)?

First of all, writers gonna write, so you must do that, obviously. Please, don’t enter into this with any expectations of being the next Rowling or Tolkien, chances are you won’t be. It’s a lot like taking up golf and hoping to be the next Tiger Woods, ain’t gonna happen! So do it for you, or for those close to you, and do it because you love it, not because you want it to pay your mortgage.

Now, that said, you do want to be good at it, so do make sure you’re knowledge of grammar and structuring are OK, those are easy skills to brush up on, and please don’t rely on your editor, or worse, AI, to cover that off for you. You’re the writer, you do the writing.

Final bit of advice, if you attempt the traditional publishing route and find you can’t make it happen, don’t let that stop you. These days there are numerous ways to get your work published, and it’s not an either/or situation, there is a sliding scale. Part of the trick is to identify the return you’ll get on any investment you intend to make, whether that be your own time or in money you may plan to spend with individuals or companies who offer you publishing or marketing services. Whatever you are being promised, there are people who can deliver, but many more who just want your money, so be really selective and do your own research.

Above all else, throw yourself into it, be you, and have fun, I know I am!

The Best Ways to Advertise Your Book: Free and Paid Strategies for Every Author

 

A woman holds a sign that reads "Buy Some Good Books," standing in front of bookshelves filled with colorful books, creating an inviting scene perfect for promoting book advertising strategies.

As an author, getting your book into readers' hands is as important as writing it. But book promotion can be challenging, especially if you’re new to marketing or have a limited budget. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to promote your book, whether you’re looking for free options or are ready to invest in paid advertising. Here, we’ll cover some of the best free and paid strategies to get your book noticed.


Free Ways to Advertise Your Book


1. Build an Author Website and Blog

Having an author website is essential for establishing your online presence. Use your website to post updates, share insights on your writing process, and build a blog to attract readers interested in your genre. Regularly updated content can improve your SEO ranking, making it easier for readers to find you through search engines.


   - Tip: Use relevant keywords in your blog posts that relate to your book’s themes or genre. For instance, if you write thrillers, blog about "top thriller books," or “how to write suspenseful scenes.”


2. Engage on Social Media Platforms

Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok offer excellent opportunities to connect with readers for free. Consistent posting and engaging with followers by sharing insights, updates, and excerpts can help grow your audience organically.


   - Tip: Use trending hashtags related to your book genre (#ThrillerBooks, #FantasyReads) to increase your posts' visibility. Cross-promote by tagging authors and influencers in your genre to reach their followers as well.


3. Start an Email Newsletter

Building an email list allows you to engage directly with readers who are interested in your work. Offer a free chapter of your book or a downloadable resource as an incentive for new subscribers.


   - Tip: Send regular updates, new book announcements, and exclusive content to keep your subscribers engaged and interested in your upcoming releases.


4. Join Online Reader Communities

Websites like Goodreads and LibraryThing are ideal for connecting with readers. Join groups related to your genre, participate in discussions, and share information about your book (without overt self-promotion).


   - Tip: Offer to send free review copies to members of these communities. Reviews and ratings on these platforms can significantly boost your book's visibility.


5. Collaborate with Other Authors

Partnering with authors in your genre can amplify your reach. You can organize joint giveaways, cross-promote each other’s books in newsletters, or co-host virtual book launches.


   - Tip: When organizing giveaways or events, consider partnering with authors whose readership aligns with your target audience to maximize the potential reach.


Paid Ways to Advertise Your Book


1. Amazon Advertising

Amazon Ads can be a powerful tool for getting your book in front of readers who are already on the site. You can set up campaigns that target specific keywords or similar books, ensuring your book appears in relevant search results.


   - Tip: Start with a small daily budget and test different keywords. Amazon’s platform provides data on clicks and sales, allowing you to adjust your ads to maximize results.


2. Facebook and Instagram Ads

Facebook’s detailed targeting options let you advertise your book to readers based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. Instagram, integrated with Facebook Ads, provides a highly visual platform that’s ideal for book cover reveals and short trailers.


   - Tip: Create multiple ad variations with different images or headlines to see which resonates best with your audience. For instance, showcase the book cover in one ad and an intriguing quote from the book in another.


3. Book Promotion Sites

Many websites cater specifically to book promotions, like BookBub, Freebooksy, and Bargain Booksy. These platforms often have large audiences looking for discounted or free books, making them a good option for limited-time promotions.


   - Tip: Choose a site based on your book’s genre and pricing. BookBub, though more expensive, has an extensive audience, whereas smaller platforms like Freebooksy offer more budget-friendly options.


4. Google Ads

Google Ads allows you to target search terms related to your book, driving traffic to your website or book sales page. Ads can appear on Google search results or on relevant websites, reaching readers who are actively searching for new books.


   - Tip: Use long-tail keywords that describe your book's genre or themes. For example, instead of “thriller book,” try “psychological thriller with a strong female lead.”


5. Influencer Partnerships

Working with bookstagrammers (Instagram influencers focused on books) or bloggers in your genre can be a great way to reach a targeted audience. Many influencers offer paid promotion options, including reviews, social media shoutouts, or blog posts.


   - Tip: Choose influencers who have an engaged audience in your book’s genre. Provide them with all the materials they need to promote effectively, like high-quality book covers, synopses, and links.


Bonus Tips for Maximizing Your Book’s Visibility


-Optimize Your Book’s Metadata: Ensure your book’s title, description, and keywords are optimized for SEO, especially on platforms like Amazon. Keywords should reflect what readers are searching for (e.g., "cozy mystery with a female sleuth").


-Create a Book Trailer: A short video showcasing your book’s plot or theme can be a captivating way to engage potential readers. Share it across social media platforms and embed it on your website.


-Collect and Display Reviews: Positive reviews can influence readers’ purchasing decisions. Encourage readers to leave honest reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, or your website. Respond to reviews on Goodreads or your social media to show appreciation for reader feedback.


Conclusion


Both free and paid book advertising strategies offer distinct advantages, and a balanced approach can be highly effective. Start with free methods to build an audience and establish a presence. Once you're ready, invest in paid advertising to further expand your reach and visibility. By understanding your audience and combining these strategies, you can effectively promote your book, gain more readers, and grow your author brand.

Bruised Melodies: A Quotes/ Poetry Collection


Synopsis:

"No, I am not an artist

But sometimes, art spills through me

Sometimes, when it's all too much

I become a pained artist at that time."

Inside this book, you'll find a reflection of my life, experiences, thoughts, and feelings, captured through poems/quotes written during a challenging period in 2023.

These poems are infused with honest and heartfelt emotions, offering a glimpse into the magic of life as I have lived it.

They explore themes of love, heartbreak, mental health, and many other aspects of life.

Thank you for choosing this poetry collection. I hope you find something relatable and meaningful within these pages.



Mastering A+ Content on Amazon: A Guide for Indie Authors

Person holding a book with the Amazon logo displayed above and the blog post title 'Mastering A+ Content on Amazon: A Guide for Indie Authors'

As an indie author, you understand the importance of standing out in a crowded marketplace. Amazon, as the largest book retailer globally, offers a powerful tool to enhance your book listings and attract more readers: A+ Content. In this guide, I'll explore what A+ Content is, why it's crucial for indie authors, and how you can create compelling content that boosts visibility and sales.

Optimal Posting Times on Social Media for Indie Authors: Maximise Your Book Promotion

Indie author engaging with social media on laptop and smartphone, showcasing open books and social media apps, promoting book visibility and reader interaction.

Are you an indie author looking to promote your latest book? Navigating the vast world of social media can be daunting, but knowing the best times to post can dramatically increase your visibility and engagement. Each social media platform has its unique audience and peak activity periods. By aligning your posting schedule with these times, you can enhance your book promotion efforts effectively. Here's a guide to help you leverage timing for optimal impact across various platforms. (Times mentioned are in Eastern Timezone).

Dominate the KU Charts: Proven Strategies for Indie Authors to Score More Reads on Kindle Unlimited

Image of a person holding a Kindle eReader displaying the text "Amazon Charts Most Read in Kindle Unlimited" with a title overlay saying "Dominate the KU Charts: Proven Strategies to Score More Reads"

Kindle Unlimited (KU) offers a fantastic opportunity for indie authors to reach a massive audience of readers hungry for new content. But with millions of books vying for attention, how do you make yours stand out and get those coveted page reads?

Here are some battle-tested strategies to supercharge your KU visibility and attract a dedicated readership:

Tweet Triumphs: Sell More Books with Winning Twitter/X Strategies (2024)

Close-up of hand holding phone. Phone screen displays "Social Networks" folder with Twitter app icon highlighted. Text overlays include a hashtag symbol and retweet icon. Overall text: Unlock Twitter's Power to Sell More Books (Indie Author Guide).

Calling all indie authors! Feeling lost in the Twitterverse? Don't worry, because Twitter can be a goldmine for promoting your book and connecting with readers. But how do you stand out in the sea of tweets? Here's your ultimate guide to crafting winning Twitter strategies that will skyrocket your book sales!

Facebook Fanatics: Sell More Books with Indie Author Facebook Power!

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The Facebook landscape for authors is ever-changing, but its potential for indie authors remains strong. With strategic planning and engaging content, you can transform Facebook from a social space into a powerful sales platform. So, buckle up, book warriors, let's dive into the art of converting Facebook fans into book-buying fanatics!

Indie Author Powerhouse: Attract Readers & Boost Sales with Instagram Magic

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Calling all indie authors! In today's digital landscape, social media is a battlefield for book promotion. But fear not, for Instagram can be your secret weapon.

This captivating platform allows you to connect with a massive audience of bookworms, showcase your creativity, and ultimately, drive sales. But how do you cut through the noise and get your book noticed? Here's your ultimate guide to mastering Instagram and skyrocketing your author brand.

Indie Author? How to ROCK TikTok for Book Promotion in 2024

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The world of book promotion is ever-evolving, and for indie authors, keeping up can feel like a whirlwind. But fear not, word warriors! There's a new sheriff in town, and its name is TikTok.

This short-form video platform isn't just for Gen Z dance trends anymore. It's become a powerful tool for authors to connect with readers, build a buzz, and sell more books.