Like so many authors these days, I find book marketing the hardest and most stressful part of the writing process.

My first novel was published in the 1980’s as a paperback original. At that time, publishers edited in-house and spent money on marketing – even for mid-list authors. They arranged book signings, TV and radio appearances, and other media opportunities.

The same was true when my second novel was published 5 years later.

But after taking a 15 year break from fiction writing to focus on my medical career, I “woke” to a very different world – except for a press release, and a few submissions for book awards and reviews, my publisher expected me to arrange all publicity from book tours to ad placement. Two more hardbacks with the same publisher and I was now expected to add book award submissions and up-to-date social media to my marketing repertoire.

Effective Marketing in Changing Times

That’s why I decided to self-publish my latest novel, Silent Survivor. It’s been a steep learning curve, but I have found some great ways to raise awareness about my title while I have rejected some of the more traditional marketing techniques and events that no longer work as well for me.

For example, spending oodles of money traveling across the country for book signings that may only attract a handful of readers, let alone buyers, has not been productive. Besides, so many indie bookstores that I used to visit, sadly, have closed.

Fortunately, I now live in South Florida where there is a wonderful indie bookstore in Delray Beach still doing well – Murder on the Beach. I am a member of the Mystery Writers of America and Joanne Sinchuk who was the owner and now manages the bookstore is terrific about supporting members. I did my book release party for friends and family there. The book sold out that night – I even made their bestseller list for 2018!

Speaking locally about my novel has been the most effective PR activity. South Florida has wonderful libraries and librarians who are more than willing to showcase local authors. Additionally, the area has literally dozens of over 55 communities, each with its own book club looking for speakers.

At each talk I collect emails from readers who want to subscribe to my monthly newsletter. That has proven to be a great way to highlight all my other marketing efforts including my website, Facebook page, and blog.

I do have Twitter and Instagram accounts, but frankly have not been able to determine their effectiveness on book sales. Ads in magazines have been a disappointment while posting in Facebook promotional groups like Book Place and Share & Promote Your Books, EBooks & Audiobooks has definitely boosted sales.

I have not done a podcast for this book yet, but plan to. I did find a wonderful woman through FIVVER who created a fantastic book trailer which I’ve uploaded to YouTube.

Finally, because “Silent Survivor” deals with some serious contemporary issues like veterans with PTSD and military sexual assault, I am targeting specific audiences including therapists who deal with PTSD, veterans groups, and organizations that help women survivors of sexual assault.