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. ...
Book signings come in many varieties, but you can categorize them broadly as two types. The first is when you sell or give away a book and you just sign it. The second is when you actually work through some venue (usually a store) and sell and sign books.
The first is the easiest--let's talk about signing books. A big bold marker that doesn't bleed through book pages is the best tool for signing. I should use that, but I don't. I use a 1mm (thick) gel tip or rolling ball. They don't bleed, and they make a thick black line (I like blue best, but I usually don't get too picky). The point is that you want the tool (pen) you use to make a dark thick mark. Pick a tool you like and keep it nearby and with your books. The reason--every time you sell or give away a book, give the person you are giving the book to an option to sign the book. I've never had anyone ask me not to sign a book for them, but you should ask--especially if they bought it from you. Remember, don't irritate your readers.
The next question is where and what. I'll write about that 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/.
No comments:
Post a Comment