When I tell people I’m an author, they often blurt out, “I’ve always wanted to write a book!” At which point I smile politely and urge them on. Why? Because writing books is fun and exciting. One gets to meet all kinds of people and travel to interesting places for research. And we live with fascinating characters, ones we can see and hear and chat with, which sometimes has loved ones questioning our sanity.
That said, the dark side of publishing is the part that comes moments after we slice open that delivery box and cuddle our baby in our arms, because then we must let them go. Like children we raise to grow up and head out into the world, we must also send our books away, hopefully to people who will love them as much as we do.
The question is how do we get readers to buy our books?
The marketing and selling of books has become multifaceted and complicated since the advent of the Internet, which sometimes makes writers want to toss their laptops out the window in frustration. In the old days—pre Amazon’s birth in 1995—an author could hand over a manuscript to a publisher, sit back, and wait for others to promote their book. But no more. Authors are now involved in every aspect of marketing, and if they don’t take it seriously, it won’t matter how brilliant their novel is. Did you know that before accepting a manuscript publishers will often scour the Internet to check an author’s digital footprint? And if they find the author is without a website, blog, podcast, proper social media links, and masses of followers, that manuscript—no matter how award-worthy—just might end up in the nearest digital trash bin.
I’ve done my best to follow book-marketing guidelines. I have a website where I blog weekly. I share reviews and promotions and am active on various social media platforms. I’ve engaged publicists at my own expense and held book signings. I give book talks and offer myself as a guest on podcasts. And despite all of that, let’s just say I’m delighted to be receiving those monthly Social Security and pension checks, because there’s no way I could live on my royalties. (This is where I generally tell aspiring young authors that they should never, ever quit their day jobs to be writers.)
The thing is, authors need to find promotional avenues that work for them. And here is where I’ll mention the humble business card. I have always believed in that wee slice of paper, though I sense many feel that “technology” is outdated. But even today, in our digital world, business cards are perfect conversation starters, especially if one puts a little effort into their design. And then there’s the rather shocking idea that when one hands out a business card there’s a living, breathing human being reaching out to grasp it. Yes, I know when one hits the send button on our blogs and ads and posts they have the ability to reach lots of people, but there’s something special about looking someone in the eye and talking about your book.
Today, I rarely leave the house without a few business cards tucked in my pocket. I always have my latest book cover on the front and relevant contact information including my email address and website link on the back. I also list the titles of all my published books. Then I watch and listen. When I see someone with a book, I ask what they’re reading, which often leads to a conversation. Two strangers talking about books can be magical. If you don’t believe me, try it sometime.
As for all the other marketing approaches, the best advice is pick a few and stick with them. Try not to spread yourself too thin, and choose promotions you enjoy. For example, as a former TV sports reporter, I never met a microphone I didn’t like, so I enjoy being a guest on podcasts. However, Instagram always had me fumbling for something to post. It was almost a relief when someone from TikTok took over my account. (I know I should start over, but I just haven’t been able to make myself do it. Here’s hoping my publisher hasn’t noticed.)
So, get out there, fellow authors. Find what works for you. And always have a few business cards in your pocket.
Your Forgotten Sons
Inspired by a true story
Anne Montgomery
Bud Richardville is inducted into the Army as the United States prepares for the invasion of Europe in 1943. A chance comment has Bud assigned to a Graves Registration Company, where his unit is tasked with locating, identifying, and burying the dead. Bud ships out, leaving behind his new wife, Loryane, a mysterious woman who has stolen his heart but whose secretive nature and shadowy past leave many unanswered questions. When Bud and his men hit the beach at Normandy, they are immediately thrust into the horrors of what working in a graves unit entails. Bud is beaten down by the gruesome demands of his job and losses in his personal life, but then he meets Eva, an optimistic soul who despite the war can see a positive future. Will Eva’s love be enough to save him?
Release Date: June 6, 2024
Bookstores, libraries, and other booksellers can order copies directly from the Ingram Catalog.
Find Anne Montgomery’s novels wherever you buy books.
Author Anne Montgomery 