Publication - and still more on Book Signings

9 February 2012, Publication - and still more on Book Signings

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.  ...

If your books are not distributed through a standard wholesaler, you will have problems placing your books in nationwide bookstores and you will have problems getting a book signing at these kinds of stores.  On the other hand, many independent bookstores will usually be willing to support a book signing and potentially a consignment placement for your books.  You won't make much if any money this way.  Of course the point isn't making money--it is advertising.

Independent bookstores are a great resource for indies and nonstandard distributed publishing (read POD here).  The problem with indie bookstores is they are looking to get their cut, and you won't get much or you might be paying for the privilege.  Many indie bookstores will charge you to have a signing event in their stores.  You might find yourself out $50 to $250 just for the signing.  When you make a deal like this with a bookstore, you can get some great play if they advertise and market for you.  Sometimes the $50 to $250 just buys tea and cookies and you still have to run all (or most of) the advertising.
 
I'll write more about the details (where and when) of book signings 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/.