One-Shot Book Marketing Does NOT WORK – But THIS DOES!

Thanks, Angela, for this article on book marketing. Building an audience takes time and, like you’ve stated, I think many don’t realize the effort it takes to have a gathering of faithful fans.

I agree that having your own ezine is key. Also, getting your fans involved in a contest is fun and makes them feel they are part of your writing. I had a contest last year for my fourth novel (tentatively titled “A Wedding Invitation”), asking readers to choose names for three characters. The winners received a copy of one of my previous novels, and when my fourth novel is published in 2011, will get recognition for their name selection.

Most of all, Angela, thank you for providing us with your wonderful ezine–always filled with great wisdom.

Alice J. Wisler
https://www.alicewisler.com
Hatteras Girl is coming in October!
Also by Bethany House: Rain Song (Christy Finalist 2009) & How Sweet It Is (Christy Finalist 2010)

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Regarding the promotion of the author and his/her work (the ones you list for not doing) – I agree with you as they will not even touch on your target audience. Unless your book is about listening to the radio I would not promote it there. The library has patrons that do not usually buy books, I have not been to the library in a while to borrow books, but buy over 100 new books per year. The ezine idea is good because an author needs to get an online presence.

George Arnold Hall
Writer / Developer
georgearnoldhall.ca

Readers Take Issue with Writer Who Worked Without Knowing Payment Terms

Angela:

I respectfully take issue with the piece Know Your Worth that got published in your May 19th issue. She wrote (emphasis added), “I ASSUMED that the free content had not been paid for by the website’s editor (such as reprints), and the subscription-only content had been paid for. I sent off my essay and received an acceptance the next day.”

While things worked out for the writer in the end because the editor paid for the piece, Ms. Logan lucked out…this time. The editor could’ve refused payment if there was no mention of payment in the guidelines or terms of submission.

Writers should never send anything to a publication unless they know the payment terms first. “Assuming” can cost a writer a lot of money and loss of First Rights for no money. Just because the writer got away with it this time doesn’t make the practice of “assuming” a publication’s pay terms is recommended. Once writers know the pay terms, they can submit if they choose.

Thanks,
Roy A. Barnes

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Dear Angela,

I was pleased to see an article titled Know Your Worth in this issue. But upon reading it, I was confused. I didn’t understand why the writer assumed that the articles available for free were written for free–or why reprints would be published for free.

At the same time, a writer can’t assume a publication will pay her. These things need to be discussed at the beginning. I applaud the writer for following up and getting paid.

Best regards,
Leigh Ann Otte
Freelance Writer and Editor