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I think what works most for me are newsletters, blogs and interviews. I like to know when an author I like has a book coming out and what it’s about so then I will remember to look for it. As you say, there are a lot of books coming out all the time and I am only going to spend a certain amount of money on books. I also want to know more about the story than what is on the cover. Getting a better idea of the story can convince me that this is something I really want to read. I don’t feel manipulated by author promotions since you can’t watch television, read a magazine or even go to the movies without being bombarded by advertisements. It is simply part of life.
by Maureen
on March 15th, 2006 at 6:22 am
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I love to read the author’s bio…I like to know where they’re coming from. I love excerpts..there are so many books and way to little free time. If an excerpt captures me I’ll buy it. Free Books/ARC’s to win via blog/contests. GREAT way to promote/expose yourself. I use the magnets and bookmarks that I have but, that won’t get me to buy a book. Recommendations from other readers whose comments seem to follow my interests,will have me checking the book out at their website or through B&N. I’ve never attended an author signing. I dislike group chats. I like blogging!
Love your books!
Question- Why do you have a pen name? JUST CURIOUS!!
by Laurie
on March 15th, 2006 at 7:09 am
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I like interviews because you get a lot of background about the story - why it was written, where the ideas came from, etc. Newsletters are great because they really remind you when a new book is coming out and prepare me for updating my tbb list.
Get-togethers (like the one in June with Lori Foster) are wonderful and last year I met a lot of new writers that I never would have read before, because when you get to know the person, and a little about what makes them tick, it makes me interested in the writing.
Loops/groups are another way I’ve “discovered” new authors and gotten to know them. I like the personal touch. I admit that there are some authors I don’t really read as much because they don’t have a website (or don’t update it more than once or twice a year) or not a lot of contact with readers, so I tend to forget about their books. :( When there are so many books, so little time, it’s hard to keep track.
by Stacy ~
on March 15th, 2006 at 7:20 am
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As an oversea reader I depend on the online promotions. I discover new books/authors through loops, blogs, websites, review websites, newsletters and interviews.
Chats are a problem due to the large time differences.
The greatest experience are booksignings, because you get in contact with the authors. I was able to attend a booksigning during a vaccation in Florida and it was so much fun
by Danny
on March 15th, 2006 at 7:31 am
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Word of mouth from friends and reading a first chapter help me decide if I want to buy a book. If I win an author’s book in a contest and I enjoy it then I start buying that author’s books.
by Carol
on March 15th, 2006 at 8:39 am
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It helps when I’ve seen the name and cover of a book in various blogs for the months preceding its release. Even if it’s just someone saying they like how the cover looks. I buy a lot of authors who have online presence, but a fair amount of those who don’t (blogging isn’t for everyone, after all).
And above all, please let us know about upcoming releases. I scour Amazon for upcoming books and there’s nothing worse than knowing a title and author, yet being unable to find ANY information on the web about it. I don’t care that it’s March and your book doesn’t come out until September. I still want to know about it and be able to let friends know that I saw this upcoming book. Even a tiny blurb, or the genre. But if it’s hit Amazon, you should have something on your site.
Signings are okay. I hardly ever learn about them, though, since unless it’s an author where I’m already signed up for their newsletter, I rarely know when they are. I’m not loyal to any one bookstore, so I shop at specific ones infrequently. That means I usually miss signing notices. Newsletters I like as long as they’re out once a month, hardly ever more. And I’m beginning to really dislike yahoo groups and discussion groups like that as they never seem to be anything but a place for rabid fans.
by Nicole
on March 15th, 2006 at 8:47 am
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I get all of my information online or through snail mail. Reading newsletters and on author websites, and participating in blogs and loops gives me lots of information that helps me to decide which books I want to read.
I really enjoy all th interaction that a person can have with authors on line. It allows me to find new authors to read and to interact with ones who I read faithfully.
by Crystal B.
on March 15th, 2006 at 8:54 am
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Number one has to be Make It Easy For Us To Find Out About Your New Releases.
It’s like this. So many books are being published. Unless you are an author I buy new to keep, I’m not going to go to Amazon periodically and search your name in the hopes you’ll have a book coming out soon.
What PBW does, when she sends out books, is include a copy of her bibliography. I was already looking for all her books when I won something from her, and had a list of her books already, but I think that’s a great way of getting information to the reader. A bookmark or business card telling us when your next book is out (if it’s a series, please include the order you’d like them to be read, even if they are meant to be standalone) is the next best thing.
Reviews, even on blogs I read, rarely get me to buy a book. What will get me to buy a book is the fact that it is being talked about within the circle of blogs I read. And no, rings like Out Of The Blogosphere and Girlfriends Cyber Circuit, while fun, don’t count, unless the blogger says something like, “I read and loved it!”
PS Don’t enter me in the draw, Alison. I’ve won a lot of stuff lately. :)
by May
on March 15th, 2006 at 9:46 am
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Podcasts are awesome! You actually get to hear the author promo in their own voice and I enjoy hearing excerpts that way. It’s actually verra kewl to be able to hear the author speak the words they have written.
Newsletters are also very effective with me. Coverflats don’t do much for me, but I love bookmarks. I give my extra bookmarks to my friends for a little additional author promo, so to speak! If they include a backlist and a list of soon to be published books on the bookmark, even better.
I also very much enjoy reading blogs, message boards and loops. I have found many new authors through message board and blog posts. That is actually how I discovered your books, Alison…through a message board post! Someone had posted about the gIRL-gEAR series and I was intrigued. And as they say, the rest is history! 
by Angie
on March 15th, 2006 at 9:56 am
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I like getting my information about an author and new releases from newsletters, blogs, and snail mail. I ususally frequent my favorite authors websites regularly (including yours Alison 
)but email updates are always really helpful too. And especially when exerpts are included!
by Kathleen
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:20 am
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Good morning, everyone!
Maureen - Thanks for the input. I know a lot of authors who do worry about being in readers’ faces too much, and none of us want to do that!
Laurie - I don’t like signings either, LOL! I’ve done a few, but have never found them to be a successful way of reaching readers. They’re more about establishing a good relationship with booksellers it seems. And I have a pen name because my real name is mispronounced all the time, and because my father is a minister and I didn’t want any of what I wrote to cause him any grief! Plus, I figured if I ever got famous, I wanted to be anonymous!
Stacy - I agree that an online presence of some sort is almost necessary. There have been authors I’ve heard a buzz about and have gone to their sites - either to find no site or to find no excerpts. And I won’t buy a new author if I can’t read excerpts!
Danny - I’d think the Internet would be invaluable to overseas readers who can’t see fave authors locally at signings or conventions!
Carol - Word of mouth is what does it for me, too . . . but how to get the books into the hands of the readers to begin with to get them started talking! That’s the conundrum!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:25 am
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What helps me get updated about new releases is newsletters!! I find out what the author is up to, new projects, promotions, a new series to look forward to, and what books to look out for hitting the bookstores soon:smile::smile:
by Patrica
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:27 am
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My sources for hearing about new books and being interested in buying them are blogs, newsletters, and individual author websites. When I hear about a good book, I go buy it and then tell anyone I know about it!! I help to spread the word!!!
by Maureen E
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:31 am
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Nicole - I think a lot of authors don’t realize that it is important to let readers know about upcoming books as soon as we know when they’ll be coming out! Amazon seems to put up books (sans covers) about 6 months in advance. I also agree on once a month newsletters being enough - but I also wonder if it’s better to send them that often when nothing new is going on, or to wait until a book is coming. I guess the question is, what purpose do newsletters serve? Are they just notices of books and contests, or do readers really want to know other stuff going on with authors? Oh, and my fave “loop” is actually the RRA-L listserv that actually discusses books! It’s populated with authors and readers, but it’s never a fandom. I’ve been on there probably 10 years!
Crystal - Do you keep or collect the things you get through snail mail? Postcards and bookmarks, etc.? I’ll admit I use postcards for bookmarks as they’re usually sturdier, and tend not to pick up bookmarks themselves!
Angie - I’ve done one very short Podcast, but am hoping to do more! And you hit on something I think is very important for bookmarks. Rather than having one for a single book, I’d much rather have either cover art or the author’s personal website design look on the front, for example, and then a full list of books on the back!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:33 am
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May - Number one has to be Make It Easy For Us To Find Out About Your New Releases. You’re so right! And with all the things I send out, I’ve definitely got to get on the ball with the bibliography thing!
Kathleen - Excerpts are my number one priority! I even keep up excerpts for my entire backlist!
Patrica - Okay, I’m really going to have to rethink newsletters. I guess I find I have nothing new to say, and don’t want to be so repetitive as to turn off readers!
Maureen E - You’re an author’s dream!! We love word of mouth promo from readers!!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:39 am
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So, here’s another question I have.
About author newsletters. I rarely send them, and I’ll tell you why. Each time I do, I get a bunch of subscribers who unsubscribe. Now, this isn’t an ego thing where my feelings are hurt. It’s more about wondering if these people are annoyed by getting a newsletter at all (so why sign up, you know?) or only signed up in order to enter a contest (which happens, I understand) . . . I guess the bottom line is I don’t want to put work into a newsletter (when I have books to write!) if it’s not going to be read!
Tell me what makes you read a newsletter? What do you want to see in one? Do you like contests buried in the text? What about excerpts; is it better just to point you to a link to keep the actual newsletter shorter? What else? Does anyone do a particularly fab newsletter that you love getting?
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:43 am
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Oh, and one more thing.
Reviews and ratings. I was talking to a few author friends last night after one’s new book got a “2″ in RT. She said she quit paying attention to their ratings a long time ago; but do readers pay attention? I’ve heard booksellers say that customers will come in with the Top Pick page torn out of the mag and buy all those books and nothing more. One of the other friends, however, said her best selling book ever got a “2″, which to me says readers do rely more on word of mouth and author name than reviews and ratings. Thoughts?
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:46 am
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Book ratings are like movie reviews. They may generate a buzz, but ultimately they do not influence my decision to buy or not buy. They are subjective after all, and there have been books (and movies) that reviewers have hated that I loved.
by Angie
on March 15th, 2006 at 11:17 am
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Well, I don’t really pay too much attention to the ratings. I just recently subscribed (so much so that my first issue hasn’t come) to RT, but mainly because I like the summaries of the books and having all that info in one place. I tend to take other readers’ opinions (usually from blogs or message boards) over the reviews.
I rarely read excerpts in newsletters, prefer to go to a website if I feel like reading it. I like newsletters that let me know what’s coming up, and sometimes a bit about the author’s life.
I do admit to liking newsletters and subscribe to a ton, but I don’t want them to be too long. Book info, blurb, cover. Maybe a contest somewhere in there.
I like bookmarks, but don’t make them too much bigger than the length of the book (I dislike the really long ones). I like to be able to stick them in the beginning of the book so when I do pick it up, I have the author bookmark with the book and can see what else she has going.
Sylvia Day’s Bad Boys Ahoy! bookmark is in front of me and a good example.It has the cover of the book with the ISBN and pub. website at the bottom, a few reviews (I hate ones that just have reviews scattered everywhere) and on the back is the book blurb.
I really like having the book blurb! But if there’s a decent backlist, I also want that info.
Candice Hern has some awesome bookmarks. She highlights the current book out, but also has info on the stuff you can find on her website and a Regency era print on the back. It all fits her very well and is fun. No book blurb, but it’s got lots of info about the book.
Coverflats…..dislike them. They just take up space. So I’m in the process of sending them to friends. :-)
I also like magnets, but I’m a magnet liking person.
by Nicole
on March 15th, 2006 at 11:20 am
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i like reading about authors, but i go online everyday to to check out authors websites, i don;t need newsletter really. i love contest and where authors are going to sign their lastest books. i go to chats and talk to authors, i really love that so much. please come and chat at access again alison.:lol:
by KIM H
on March 15th, 2006 at 11:25 am
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The RT review ratings don’t mean a lot to me. I have read about some books in their magazine, though, that I wouldn’t have tried any other way–I’ve made purchases after seeing e-book ads, for instance. I’ll also try books that have a premise that looks interesting, no matter what it’s rated.
by Alyssa
on March 15th, 2006 at 12:06 pm
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Excerpts, blurbs, word of mouth, and newsletters are the best way for me.
As for newsletters, I enjoy getting them. I enjoy reading about what is going on with the author, what books are out, and if there are any contests going on. I don’t always have time to visit their sites every month to find this stuff out. This reminds me to do so and gives me the important info. I like when there is an excerpt in the newsletter or a link to one. Reading an excerpt gets me interested in buying a book quite frequently. Contests in the text are a good thing too. I have found several new-to-me authors through contests on various sites (not just the author’s sites).
Book reviews do not influence my purchasing decisions. I often only read them to find out what a book is about (if I cannot find a blurb). I know that they are subjective. What one person hates or loves, I might not feel the same way about. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I don’t let the opinion of others affect my buying.
by Jennifer Yates
on March 15th, 2006 at 12:38 pm
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Kim - I’ll definitely have to do another chat sometime! They’re great fun!
Nicole - Thanks for the feedback on newsletters and all the promo items! One thing that works for cover flats is to cut the spine (a bit wider on each side) and use that for a bookmark! I’ve seen authors do that.
Angie - I agree that reviews are subjective, and I didn’t mean to single out RT since there are a lot of other review sources. The conversation last night just brought it to mind. I’m more intrigued by the blurbs themselves.
Alyssa - I’ve definitely bought books after reading the write up - but never based on a rating!
Jennifer - I think since I’m online ALL the time, that I forgot most normal people *grin* aren’t, so newsletters do let them know what’s happening. I need to send one soon for Deep Breath; I think I’ll wait till it starts shipping from Amazon, too.
I love all this input. I have so little time to spend on figuring out promo stuff, that I tend to steal ideas from everyone else, LOL!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 12:52 pm
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Hi, Alison.
I love recommending authors and books. I do it in Borders, on chats and online buddies from various book groups. I have even written a few reviews on amazon. I have made up extensive lists of books and authors that I love and have given them out to fellow avid readers. Our home office is in Fla. and I got talking to the receptionist there and gave her a long list! She was thrilled.
As for what makes me choose a book - I read excerpts, back blurbs and take some recommendations. I dont base my choices on reviews - everyone has different opinions. If I read 2 or 3 by an author and dont care for their work, then I usually dont go back. But if I love an author’s book - I will read everything I can get my hands on.
I do read newsletters and like them to see what an author is up to and to see what new book is coming out. Same goes for authors’ websites and of course check for contests. Contests are a great way to promote an author and their books.
I dont mind authors promoting their books and dont consider it a nuisance or that I am being manipulated.
I have been to about 6 author signings in my area and loved them. Someday when I retire I hope to get to more and attend an author/reader convention. I have had the pleasure to meet Nora Roberts, James Patteson, Suz Brockmann, Barbara Delinsky, Stephanie Mittman and even Erin Brocovich. They were all wonderful!
Besides reading, I just love to recommend who/what I love!!! I get the word out any way I can.
by Pat
on March 15th, 2006 at 1:25 pm
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I don’t read reviews, except for plot info. Ratings don’t matter. Like I said, it’s seeing the name/book popping up on the blogosphere that matters to me.
Newsletters remind to go buy the new book, because I see the name, and I go “Oh yeah, her new book’s out!” But I don’t usually read them. I don’t mind authors who email newsletters saying “It’s out! Go pick it up!” with nothing much else inside, because that’s what I signed up to them for. I think some people feel there should be ‘real’ content though.
by May
on March 15th, 2006 at 2:39 pm
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Alison, normally I really look forward to monthly newsletters and updates…and I know you don’t have one BUT you are really great in keeping up with your blog!!! I look at your blog everyday and really enjoy what you have to say and it keeps me up to date with your new releases and what you are working on. So am I disappointed that you do not have a newsletter? Absolutely NOT!!! The work you do with your blog and website is great and informative and I know I (and I’m sure many many many of your fans too) really appreciate your efforts:grin:
by Kathleen
on March 15th, 2006 at 3:54 pm
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I agree with what Kathleen had to say. Thank you Alison for all of your hard work keeping your fans informed and entertained!:smile: I have your website bookmarked so that I look it up everyday…and therefore then know when all of your new books are coming out!
by Patricia
on March 15th, 2006 at 3:57 pm
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Pat - Besides reading, I just love to recommend who/what I love!!! I get the word out any way I can. And we love you for doing that! Seriously. Readers who talk up books are a writer’s dream.
May - Newsletters remind to go buy the new book, because I see the name, and I go “Oh yeah, her new book’s out!” But I don’t usually read them. See, that’s what I wondered. If readers really wanted news, or just reminders. How about emailed postcards? Just like a postcard set up with blurb and cover, etc. That would work, yes?
Kathleen - I do have a newsletter, but I only send it like quarterly - if that. And I often suffer huge guilt about it! But I figure I blabber so much on my blog that people get tired of hearing from me. Then again, not everyone drops by the blog, so the newsletter would be good for them. I just need to DO IT!
Patricia - You’re welcome!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 5:18 pm
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I think that the e-mailed postcard would work. It is nice to get reminders of book releases.
by Jennifer Yates
on March 15th, 2006 at 5:19 pm
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Jennifer - I think that the e-mailed postcard would work. It is nice to get reminders of book releases. I may do that soon. So everyone who’s interested, LOL, stop at my site and sign up for my newsletter - or you can do so here at Access Romance on the newsletter page!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 5:22 pm
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Alison–
I think word of mouth is your number one way to get your book out there. I also like to be able to read the first chapter or two of a book…especially on authors that I know little about. This will pretty much help me know if I will like the book. I like authors to have updated web sites and do visit them on a regular basis.
As to your question on news letters. I like them but I like them to actually have news in them…don’t just do one because it’s the first of the month. I think suzanne Brockmann and Sherri Kenyon both have very good ones. I HATE the contests where you read to find the prize type thing…those drive me up the wall. More often than not I don’t even bother with those kinds of contests.
by Barbara
on March 15th, 2006 at 5:39 pm
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Nice response here Alison. 3o plus posts. Great! I know several were yours. LOL, but mostly ours!
Just got great news. My son in law had been feeling ill and had tests today. Nothing serious showed up. Just Gastritiis. They did take a biopsy and are testing for bacteria but they did that to me when I had my colonoscopy.
So we are all very happy and hope he continues to be well.
by Pat
on March 15th, 2006 at 6:38 pm
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Barbara - I’ll have to sign up for Suzanne’s and Sherrilyn’s to see what they do with theirs, thanks!
Pat - Excellent news!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 7:02 pm
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I really only get a few newsletters and it’s usually the ones that don’t blog. I like to know what’s going on - especially for a favorite like Suzanne Brockmann. Contests aren’t crucial, though they are fun, and I actually like the ones where you have to search a little bit for the answer. I think of it as a good way to become familiar with the book/author and I only enter contests where I genuinely am interested in the prize (hopefully a book).
And I think blogging on a regular (daily?) basis is a great way to communicate - I see your link at lots of places and many readers talk about it because you really make an effort to communicate, which can’t be easy with all the writing you do. I think many readers found your books because of it. It’s one of my fave places :)
by Stacy ~
on March 15th, 2006 at 7:30 pm
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I have many author websites that I check, but I really enjoy blogs. They give an insight into the author that you can’t get from a website. I especially like multiple author blogs (like this one) as it gives different points of view.
by Joyce
on March 15th, 2006 at 7:58 pm
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Bringing up the rear here, I’m afraid! There are only a handful of blogs and message boards that I frequent on a daily basis. I do check out websites, especially those of favorites and when I’m checking out an unknown author. I like to see websites kept current, with excerpts for each of the author’s books. I don’t generally participate in chats. I have no problem with newsletters, but don’t see them as being critical. I generally only get newsletters for my fav authors, and I tend to know what is going on with them anyway. I am on several reader/author loops and enjoy most of them by email. Some get too monotonous and I go on digest, which I generally never check and eventually end up leaving altogether. I’m not at all familiar with podcasts, but they sound intriguing.
I do attend booksignings when they are doable, and have traveled a couple of hours to attend on several occasions. I very much enjoyed the reader get together that Lori Foster held last spring and loved meeting and visiting with the authors there as well as many friends I’ve made online. I’ve never been to a major convention, and frankly don’t see myself ever attending one. As a reader/reviewer, I don’t see that I would benefit from writing/industry workshops, etc. And then there is the expense. If I’m going to spend that kind of money on a trip, it will be with my family.
Bookmarks, etc. I can do with or without. I can always use a bookmark, but tend to grab whatever is nearby - a playing card, band aid, sticky note, etc. to mark my spot. Sometimes I’ll even (gasp) make a tiny fold at the bottom corner.
Contests are nice, but I certainly won’t *not* buy an author’s work just because they don’t have giveaways.
I generally check out reviews, but don’t base my book buying strictly on reviews. Reviews are simply someone’s opinion. I write reviews and take pride in setting out facts about a book, but my opinion of the book is just that, *my* opinion. I enjoy RT for the reviews as well as the articles and ads.
I have seen some epostcards and they are very nice. I always enjoy excerpts, and usually have a list of books to check out or buy based on interesting excerpts.
by Laurie
on March 15th, 2006 at 8:06 pm
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Stacey - And I think blogging on a regular (daily?) basis is a great way to communicate - I see your link at lots of places and many readers talk about it because you really make an effort to communicate, which can’t be easy with all the writing you do. I’m so glad you enjoy my blog! I do make an effort, but as much as it’s for promo, it’s just as much because I love it - and the interaction keeps me sane!
Joyce - I agree that group blogs can be a lot of fun. So many personalities!
Laurie - Thanks for the great response! You’ve given me a LOT to think about!
by Alison Kent
on March 15th, 2006 at 10:42 pm
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Sherri’s newsletter is chockful of info, but there’s always a personal note from her. And she’s got a personable voice that comes through. Plus people sign up for it because she has a DarkHunter of the Month Club, with a new page every month, so people do actually glance inside.
I wanted to chip in on the bookmark thing. I don’t really think it’s useful. I collect the ones I do get though–they are all in a box somewhere.
What you could do, and this is too late for Deep Breath, is have your newsletter subscribers give their address as well. Each time before the release of a book, pick say, a dozen and send them maybe a cover flat, a bookmark and a short note talking about the book and how you hope they’ll enjoy it.
Sending a postcard handwritten and signed might be a cheaper option. Or have your own postcards made up which pictures of your books on the other side. You could send one out with your books too, and hope the reader will send it to pal.
If you already have a newsletter contest, and an entry form that requires addresses as well, this is really great, because it would be a surprise.
The way I see it, most readers have friends, whether in real life or online, who are readers too. If you received something like that, wouldn’t your tell your girlfriends?
by May
on March 16th, 2006 at 1:32 am
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Alison, one offline thing you didn’t specifically mention but that has gotten me to buy a book in the past is an excerpt booklet. Sometimes, publishers will put out booklets of excerpts from an author and give them to bookstores for inclusion in the customer’s bag when they make a purchase. Several years ago, I got one for Jodi Picoult, whom I’d never read. It was featuring her upcoming novel My Sister’s Keeper. The excerpt hooked me. I’m a primarily romance reader and this was women’s fiction, which I normally avoid. But I HAD to have this book after reading the excerpt. I actually got my hands on an ARC, read the book (inhaled it, lol) and proceeded to wax poetical about it up until its release and for a good six months after, when people asked for a good read. It’s a GREAT book, I still highly recommend it, but I would never have found it or picked it up if not for that promo booklet of excerpts. I know that’s a hugely expensive promo tool, but I thought it was worth mentioning as something I found effective on me :)
As for other things, while I agree an online presence is a huge marketing tool, I also think there’s a large portion of the buying public who’s not online, doesn’t pay attention to online happenings. Of course those of us answering are going to think online tools are effective, but the results are a bit skewed for that reason, eh? lol. But I love blogs, I buy books based on other bloggers reports (such as Nicole’s) and I know for a fact that a handful of people buy books based on my recommendations. An updated website is a MUST (it irritates me when a website is out of date.) Even if you’re doing nothing else online, keep your website updated because that may be the only way for people to get info on your releases and spread the word for you.
Like Nicole, I don’t like cover flats. I don’t understand the point, actually. I like bookmarks and pens, oh how I love pens ;) And I use the pens, pass them on, leave them places. I agree with May, I was impressed with PBW’s inclusion of the bibliography with the ARC/book giveaway. I think that iss a very savvy marketing tool for backlist titles.
As for RT, I think that is actually a way to read some of the buying public who doesn’t have an online presence. Whether by advertisement or review. I believe those of us online are somewhat jaded to reviews, and have lumped RT in with that category, but for others, RT is a tool to find out about upcoming books and get feedback about how good a book is. I think their reviews still count to the buying public (just my opinion, of course) and I’d be interested to hear how many issues they sell each month via subscription and in store sales.
by AngieW
on March 16th, 2006 at 7:18 am
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Its a lot of different things with me as well. Email loops and conversations with friends get me to try new authors. I love the little trinkets you can pick up from an author, pens and the like. I do have a ton of bookmarks but tend to just pick whatever one I can find.
I went to Lori Fosters get together last June and I think that is as far as I would go as a gathering. RT and RWA just don’t appeal to me and like Laurie there is that money factor. I do attend several signings a year, mostly for authors I know but it has gotten me to try new authors.
I love contest and getting arcs. Winning is like an extra payday for someone like me who is on a very tight budget.
I only go to a few blogs every day, its just to hard to keep up with working two jobs. But I do enjoy visting them.
by Judy F
on March 16th, 2006 at 7:38 am
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May - The way I see it, most readers have friends, whether in real life or online, who are readers too. If you received something like that, wouldn’t your tell your girlfriends? Believe it or not, I’ve never had friends who’ve been readers, except for my writing friends. When I was working, there were 2 or 3 women who read, but only 1 read romance. My best friends don’t read at alll, so this kind of pass the word promo is nothing it would ever have occurred to me to do - simply because I would never have anyone to pass things along to myself! Now all my reading buddies are online, though my local independent bookstore has a romance reading group that meets once a month. I ought to go hang out! I do, however, have a lot of snail mail addresses from various contests I’ve run, so I’ll think about this for the future!
by Alison Kent
on March 16th, 2006 at 10:15 am
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Angie - Chapter booklets are a super selling tool, but most publishers won’t do them until you are in Jodi Picoult’s league, and unfortunately, I’ve yet to see “homemade” ones that are as striking. (BTW, I’ve a totaly JP fangirl!) I do love them, tho! Also, I remind myself constantly that the biggest bulk of readers are not online - where I concentrate most of my promo efforts. One thing RT does that is good is sending out bulk promo items in their Bookstores That Care (I think) program for a nominal fee.
by Alison Kent
on March 16th, 2006 at 10:29 am
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Judy (and Angie) - PENS! I love them, too! That’s one thing I definitely want to have made up as I have always used any I’ve gotten my hands on at conferences, etc. Since I actually handle the Goodie Room for Access Romance, I’ve had a look-see at so many things our authors do. Keychains, magnets, mirrors, letter openers, sticky note pads . . . lots of fun stuff!
by Alison Kent
on March 16th, 2006 at 10:32 am
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Another thing to think about is pins or magnets. I work part time in a bookstore and we were pins on our apron. Right now I have two from Cherry adair and one from Dianne Castell. Now Cherry’s are just fun sayings “The older I get the better I was” and “there is nothing that Chocolate won’t fix” and has her website addy on it. Dianne’s is an upcoming promo for her April book. I have had customers comment on them.
About bookmarks. I really like the ones that list upcoming or recent books on the back. Recently a customer was buying 3 Lori Foster books so I slipped her next books bookmark in her back.
by Judy F
on March 16th, 2006 at 11:06 am
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Judy - That’s another great idea! I’ve got to get on the ball with getting promo items to romance friendly bookstores!
by Alison Kent
on March 16th, 2006 at 11:20 am
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Websites. One of the biggest things for me when I discover an author I like is the website.
If they don’t have one~well, even if I loved one book, chances are I’ll end up forgetting to look for others, unless I can find a website to investigate more.
And it needs to be a good website, not some freebie deal with pop ups and drop downs, and out dated info.
I don’t really go to chats much, although I do if I have to… mine, or if I know a friend is having one and I want to say hi.
I send stuff into RT~it’s been my experience the reviews do help boost sales for my ebooks. But I can’t say I’ve ever bought a book because any review I’ve read anywhere.
Bookmarks, pens, other promo items, I do know a lot of people love, so when I’m doing a signing/convention, I take them with me.
And I don’t much read newsletters, although I do have one and I know my hits go up every time I have a newsletter put out.
Not much help, am I? Only thing that majorly important to me is a decent website and you’ve got an awesome one.
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Shiloh - What’s interesting is that except for my blog, my website isn’t all that extensive. It’s just a silly bio, and then info on all my books. I have always admired authors whose sites are packed with extra information, but I just don’t have the energy or time to devote to that. Ergo, I stick to what I think is most important - the book info (complete on all of them back to 1993) and the blog!
by Alison Kent
on March 16th, 2006 at 12:58 pm
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but that’s the thing… your website is simple, up to date and fun. 
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guh… i hate it when it posts before i’m ready. damn keyboard.
anyway, you have the info readers are looking for the most… the BOOKS… the bio for those who wanna read it, and the blog.
I’d rather see a simple, well done site then try to navigate thru fifteen pages just trying to find a backlist book and have way too many graphics, flashing banners and a million and two different awards.
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Shiloh - Agreed on keeping it simple. I hate music (as do most viewers) and slower machines/connections have so much trouble downloading heavy graphics and animated banners. I figure the books are what matters!
by Alison Kent
on March 16th, 2006 at 6:07 pm
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Simple is often a lot better! I agree that the books are what matters. If I am visiting an author’s site that is usually the reason: to find out more about their books!
by Jennifer Yates
on March 16th, 2006 at 11:26 pm
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A fabulous website can get people talking about a new author, or your new series though.
Something else you could do is have a printable list of your books on your site. A friend of mine printed out Sherrilyn Kenyon/Kinley MacGregor’s and went shopping. I don’t think she read anything other then those books for a month! I know you already have all your books on the site, Alison, but I think this is especially useful for those of us who don’t buy books online.
by May
on March 17th, 2006 at 12:18 am
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I do have a printable list of my books on my site! When you click on the bookshelf, it’s there at the very top!
by Alison Kent
on March 17th, 2006 at 9:58 am
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I love to browse an author’s website to find out what’s new and what books are coming out soon. Waldenbooks/Borders have monthly e-mails to announce new releases. Waldenbooks also has a bimonthly newspaper (called Romantic Reader) that shows you what is coming out for the next two months. I also love getting newsletters from authors to announce new releases. I’m very new to blogs (this year) and they are fun, but I’m not online all the time so I like ones that you can check once a day or so and post a comment. My most favorite thing to do on my day off is to go to the bookstore and browse. I could spend hours there. I like to get bookmarks (available sometimes in bookstores) that advertise new book or releases for the entire year. I have a small collection of them. I really love contests on authors websites because I love to get a signed copy of my favorite author’s book plus any extras (bookmarks, magnets, pens, etc.) are great! Note: Alison’s April contest for “Deep Breath” is very clever! Great idea! I’m buying “Deep Breath” as soon as it comes out and entering the contest. Shameless - no! Creative - yes!!
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Thanks, Carolyn! I hope the contest works out; I think it’s kinda fun!
Okay, the winners of the copies of Deep Breath are: Kathleen, Shiloh, and Pat - I’ve emailed all of you for your addresses!
by Alison Kent
on March 18th, 2006 at 1:57 pm
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Big congrats Kathleen, Shiloh and Pat!!!!!!!
by Danny
on March 18th, 2006 at 2:07 pm
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Congrats to the winners
by Judy F
on March 18th, 2006 at 2:24 pm
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:smile:Thanks again Alison; I have emailed you my addy.
by Pat
on March 18th, 2006 at 3:51 pm
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wtg
by KIM H
on March 18th, 2006 at 6:58 pm
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Whoohoo, congrats, Shi, Pat and Kathleen!
by Jenny
on March 18th, 2006 at 9:08 pm
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[...] As I’ve mentioned a couple of times, I recently did a post on author promotion at Access Romance. [...]
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[...] Check out some great blog posts from Romancing the Blog and Alison Kent! [...]
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[...] How to do it successful and cheap [...]
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[...] http://www.accessromance.com/blog/2006/03/15/promo-whoredom/ http://www.alisonkent.com/blog/?p=1541 http://leegoldberg.typepad.com/a_writers_life/2006/04/joe_konrath_ant.html http://bethciotta.blogspot.com/2006/05/13-letter-word.html http://mjroseblog.typepad.com/buzz_balls_hype/2006/04/small_steps.html http://jakonrath.blogspot.com/2006/04/am-i-evil-yes-i-am.html http://www.romancingtheblog.com/blog/?p=598 http://www.romancingtheblog.com/blog/?p=580 http://pbackwriter.blogspot.com/2006/05/musty.html http://mjroseblog.typepad.com/buzz_balls_hype/2006/05/picking_a_publi.html http://helenkaydimon.com/blog/2006/04/death-of-the-book-party/ http://shannonstacey.com/2006/04/12/promo-from-under-my-desk/ http://karentempleton.com/blog/?p=224 http://joleigh.com/wp/?p=353 http://pbackwriter.blogspot.com/2006/03/head-scratch-ten.html http://www.alisonkent.com/blog/?p=1565 http://jakonrath.blogspot.com/2006/05/promotion-biased-account-of-cost-vs.html http://dianapeterfreund.blogspot.com/2006/07/talkin-about-promo.html http://helenkaydimon.com/blog/2006/07/final-question/ [...]
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[...] The past few months a favourite topic in the author blogger world has been how to do promo on a budget and what for promo for readers actually work: http://www.accessromance.com/blog/2006/03/15/promo-whoredom/ http://pbackwriter.blogspot.com/2006/03/ptc-3.html http://vampsandscamps.blogspot.com/2006/03/promo-on-budget.html [...]
A contest with a twist, and a viral blogging blitz. I’ve been blogging for over three years, so my blog gets a lot of reader traffic. It seems to be the best way for me to reach my readers who are active online - though I’m sure there are many who stick to review sites and message boards who I don’t reach at all!
