A popular goal among many is to write a novel. Over the past few years, the prevalence of self published ebooks has increased along with the increased availability of ebook readers, making this a distinct possibility for anyone with the tenacity and skill.
Making a fiction e-book stand out from the crowd is still an uphill battle for many, but with the success of self published Fifty Shades of Grey ebook and book, even beginning writers can take hope. Self publishing is a viable option for fiction e-books, and using these five tips will help you develop your audience and reach that goal.
Put Together a Reading Panel
Before publishing your e-book, put together a reading panel to read through the book and give their opinions, which might include a book coach, to review and provide input. You can gain valuable feedback both to improve your book and later for reviews and endorsements. Just make sure to get permission to use their reviews publicly. To create a reading panel, you can join a writing site such as Writing.com or Critique Circle. You will need to participate in other authors’ groups, but it is well worth the time and can lead to valuable connections.
Set Up a Website
The website doesn’t have to be fancy, but it should contain important information about you and your ebooks. On this site, you can include a blog with updates on your books, sample excerpts, and promotional information. This is your official handshake with the world. If you don’t have time, hire a web designer to design it for you. You should ideally have your website up and running with a brief biography, list of published works, and synopses before your first ebook goes live.
Design a Cover That Looks Good as a Thumbnail
New authors tend to pick flashy covers thinking that will get the most viewers. However, ebook covers are often seen in thumbnail version. Too much art can leave such a small image confusing and unappealing. Make sure to balance negative space and include a single clear image or scene that captures your book’s essence and incites curiosity.
Hold a Contest
One of the benefits of ebooks is that they cost little to create and distribute, even when considering fees and taxes. As such, you can host a contest on your website in which the prize is a copy of your ebook. You could make it a random drawing or award it to the visitor who comes up with the wittiest one liner.
Hold Off Publishing Your First Fiction E-Book Until the Second is Almost Ready
The most powerful marketing tool for your fiction is your fiction. Including an advertisement for your next ebook in the back of your first ebook is a great way to start building your audience. Make sure to include all relevant information at the back such as title, release date, and cover blurb. Your first ebook will likely have the lowest number of sales, but you can use it as the foundation for later tales.