Ours is a strange and wonderful relationship. I create stories out of my imagination, and, if I do my job well, they create images in yours. That’s the primary flow of communications. I’m thrilled to death, not to mention humbled and grateful, to have readers at all. Sometimes, though I wonder about some things.
- Where did you hear about my books?
- What about the characters or the setting drew you in?
- What words do you like to see in a blurb (aka the back cover copy)?
- What draws you to a cover?
- What information do you need about a series? How do you like books in series to be connected?
- How do you find find new books to read? (What places do you look/who do you talk to/what do you consult)
- Do you read reviews?
- How can I encourage people to review my books? (readers my not care about them, but Amazon does)
- Does a contest or giveaway make you more likely to buy a book? Or does it just make you aware of an author that is new to you?
I think the most important thing an author should be doing is: write the next book. I’m going to go work on that. But first, coffee.
Caroline: I have most of the very same questions. I find I’m spending a majority of my time promotion on the social media sites that my writing has lessened. 50% writing and 50% promoting doesn’t allow a lot of time for other things. I have my fifth book ready to submit and it’s hard to find time to edit the corrections. It’s almost like a 36 hour day. But I love what I do, so I do it. SANDRA MASTERS, REGENCY WRITER
If we didn’t love it, we wouldn’t do it. We all have to be cautious of the social media swamp and remember the best thing you can do for your books sales is write another one.
I just want you to know that I answered all of these questions, but it seems to have disappeared into the ether. Maybe it was too lengthy. Anyway, I want you to know that I think you are a wonderful writer. Look forward to reading more from you.
Thanks for your support!
Sometimes the cover picture can really turn me off on a book which is a little shallow on my part. I try to read the descriptions because of this. I have looked at some descriptions and it really told me absolutely nothing about the book just how wonderful the author is. To be honest I am not sure how I hears about you, I belong to a couple of emails that tell you about free, low cost and new authors, not necessarily just new authors but people I have not heard of.
Thanks. Your answers are helpful.