Publication - more on Emailing

31 January 2012, Publication - more on Emailing

Introduction: I realized that I need to introduce this blog a little. I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. The working title was Daemon, and this was my 21st novel. Over the last year, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, go to my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here is the list of ideas for advertising--there are more and I'll add to the list as we go along.  I'm certainly not an expert in all these, but I've dabbled in all of them.  I'll try to relate my experience and the degree of that experience to you.

1.  Have a website for your novel.
2.  Write a blog.
3.  Advertise.
4.  Literary awards.
5.  Book cards.
6.  Contests.
7.  Interviews.
8.  Blog tours.
9.  Press releases.
10.  Speaking and teaching.
11.  e-mailing.
12.  Gifts.
13.  Book signings.
14.  Book trailers
15.  ...

What should your monthly email look like?  I know some authors who provide content about writing along with a review of one of their books.  The content is like a monthly newsletter.  I know other authors who provide inspirational content.  In every case, don't miss the opportunity to advertise one of your books.  You can usually place links and some pictures in your emailing.

I like to make them simple.  Usually, I'll focus on one novel and give out a tidbit of data or information about it.  I also try to highlight information about my new books or writing.  Sending out topical information would also be a great idea.  In any case, you want to provide the recipients information and value.  When you approach any emailing keep this in mind.  You need to give the recipients a reason to keep reading.  It really helps to divide up the contents so each section is evident and the value is obvious.  In any case, remember the rule: information and value.  If you can provide this once a month to those who like your novels, you have a great chance of retaining them and getting more sales.

I'll write about gifts tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.