How to be an Indie Author 7: 44 Marketing Tactics

This is the seventh post in a series about self-publishing from ideation through sales. To check out other posts in this series, click here.

Last time I finished up publishing by going over the special considerations of print-on-demand. This time, I'm going to talk about selling books, specifically, techniques indie authors can use to market their books.

[insert noun here] sells books.

First let me start out by saying, I have no goddamn clue what I am doing. None. I devour EVERYTHING on marketing I can find. I subscribe to a variety of newsletters for just this purpose. I ask everyone I know for advice and suggestions. So far, it remains a mystery to me.

That said, I recently decided to make some major changes to my marketing efforts and while on that journey have had some failures and made other mistakes. And I have so much more to do. One thing, which comes up again and again in marketing articles and blogs I read is know your target audience. This will make everything else either worth it or a waste of time. This is not a simple thing. You should create basically a character - as if you were writing about them. You should know everything about this person. Where do they live? Where do they hang out? Who are their friends? Gender? Age? Education? Socio-economic status? Religion? Everything.

I have been, historically, terrible at connecting with the demographics who would be interested in my books (I think). As part of my new marketing efforts, I'm going to revisit these questions and re-evaluate my current efforts. It's okay. I know I've made mistakes in every aspect of the publishing process and I've made the most in marketing.  I also have a lot of things left to try (So many options for awesome!).

Now you're wondering, why would you read about marketing from someone who has no idea what they are doing and hasn't tried just as many things?

*Smirks*

Because then you know what didn't work for me (or what I have yet to do - which is honestly a lot) and maybe you can do it better. When you go through this stuff, write to me, and tell me what worked for you. Seriously!

Please note, I am listing all these things because they DID work for some authors. They may work for you (especially if you're dialed into your target audience). You may have a better handle on things than I do or did. You may understand social media better, or have more evangelizing friends than I do, or have books in an easier to sell niche. Also, it should be stated that I am incredibly, notoriously, impatient. I may not have given enough time for things to work. Maybe I could have tweaked one thing and it would have been enough. I don't know. Regardless, in no particular order, here is the list of things you can do or places where you can go to market your book as an indie:

1. Blog - not sure how many sales I've gotten through my blogs - I think they don't really reach the same demographics as my books. I'm not sure how I feel about that...one way or another. I think this works best if you have a devout fanbase or write specifically for your demographic/brand.
2. Tweet (has been a mixed bag for me). It's fun, and if done well, can generate interest, or at least buzz.
3. Instagram (haven't done this) - this is a good place if you take a lot of pictures and are trying to reach female millennials.
4. Tumblr (haven't done this) - some people have turned their tumblrs into book deals. Not sure exactly how this works, but tumblr has a book liaison person so, it happens regularly.
5. Google + - I get a lot of profile views and infrequently get +1s for my blog posts, but I don't know how helpful it has been as far as sales.
6. Facebook - I think this is more for people who are committed fans as opposed to recruiting new ones. Because of the way FB pushes page statuses v individual statuses, I've read it's better to go with FB ads, but that requires money, which I don't have to allocate to this right now. 
7. Podcasting (haven't done this yet but want to, especially do a series from certain character perspectives)
8. Build a quiz based on your books (just did this, not a lot of info yet). I think it's a fun idea, and it takes very little time. So, there you go.
9. Word of mouth - i.e. get a few friends who LOVE YOU and LOVE YOUR WORK to sell FOR YOU. When I find a few myself, I'll let you know how it works out.
10. Reviews - ONE OF THE SINGLE BEST WAYS TO SELL and also, one of the hardest things to get. I've heard PR reps say, give out 50 copies, get 10 reviews back. These you really need to track down - which has worked for me to get a few, but I don't have a lot of data yet on how this plays out.
11. Write reviews for similar work - haven't done this because honestly, I'm not altogether sure how I would set it up. The plus here is people funneled to your blog or post who are primed for that type of content. The downside is, well, you need to have time to read books.
12. Write guest posts and articles on related content - this is something I just started doing since May. I've been doing about a guest post every two weeks. I'm not sure how that will impact sales, but I'll let you know once I have more data.
13. Have a game or app based on your book - haven't done this yet, but I want to. It sounds fun and could definitely create some income streams depending on how you package it.
14. Blog tour - this is another one that tends not to lead to direct sales, but it does get the word out a bit more and opens you up to more guest posting opportunities. So it might not spike sales, but it tends to help in the long run...however I've never done it because most blogs in my niche do not like indie authors and or won't do ebooks. If you have paperback copies, they are more likely to review.
15. Speaking tours - this is something I'm working on for THRIVE especially, so I can't give any feedback about how it pans out because I haven't started yet. That said, I expect this to be a good way to sell books and collect email addresses. Plus, you know, you get paid after six months to a year of paying dues.
16. Newsletter - I've read this is a huge thing that you need to have, and I'm just starting now, so again, I can't say how this works. The plus to this is you can send out updates when you'll be in town or when books are on preorder making it more likely for people to purchase books.
17. Vlogging - again, something I want to do, but haven't been able to because of time commitment. I think pretty faces and funny expressions go a long way to selling books.
18. Amazon Author page - I just fixed this myself, so again, not sure how this will pan out. I think indie authors need to be on Amazon because it is such a major retailer. Whether you choose to be on KDP Select is another question (I'm not, but I'm adamant about having my work on multiple platforms). I think having this will make a big difference, but I need more data.
19. Website - This is a recent addition because until May 2015, I didn't have the funds to make this happen. If you don't have a website, you should at least have a free blog. However, there are cheap WYSIWYG HTML hosting services, like Wix, so really, even if you're tech challenged, you can have a nice site. Again, I don't really have enough data on this to make a pronouncement one way or another, but I think it is a good thing to have a central location where readers can find you online.
20. Ecourses - I am IN LOVE with this idea. I have no idea how it will impact my book sales, or anything, but I want to do this SO BAD it hurts. Especially for THRIVE and SIX DEGREES. Maybe even a writing workshop. There are a lot of platforms out there on how to do this, and honestly, I think there are so many options for format, there's no excuse not to do this *if it works with your content.*
21. Streaming video - haven't done this, but I hear it's the next big thing. Periscope seems to be winning the platform war in this, but Meerkat is another option.
22. Make art - seriously. Visual interpretations of your work, especially in sci-fi and fantasy are great sales tools. I think DeviantArt is probably the place to make this happen and or disseminate. It's something I want to do, but haven't had time.
23. Bublish - haven't been able to do this because you need to fit certain criteria, but it seems to work for a lot of people.
24. Wattpad - hasn't led to many sales for me, but I do have several first chapters up (of older editions). Some authors swear by this, however, so you may as well try it.
25. Patreon - I want this work so bad, but I'm not sure how long it takes to get anything going. I think the biggest thing for this to work is to have some seeders to give you a little social capital. Also, I think being clear about branding is important for this to be successful.
26. Serialization - I have a LOT of work in the works. *Sigh* So again, this is one thing I want to do, that has worked for a lot of authors, but I haven't tried it yet (maybe on Patreon?).
27. Giveaways - I've done a lot of different giveaways at different times. It hasn't led to many sales or reviews thus far. In fact, I'm not sure what the point is of giveaways, unless it is the first book in a series of pageturners. Use at your discretion.
28. Contests - this is different than giveaways. Contests might involve winners pitching you a story they want you to write or getting a main character named after them in the next book. I think this is a good idea, but I'm not sure how much of a fan base you need initially to make the buzz spread. This might be for people with a second or third book, or it could be for someone who has a good set of evangelist friends.
29. Fan fiction - I've been told this is a REALLY good way to go. Pay homage to a series or a genre fav, and you're golden. I think this only works if you are actually a big fan and or you're trailblazing with the book in question (see: Wicked). Personally, I'm not sure I qualify in either of those categories....
30. Book launches - this works if you have your book set on preorder like 12 months out, and you have a team of people who are committed to selling you. I didn't have either of those things, so it didn't really work out for me. Note: The biggest mystery to me is finding true believers and or evangelists. If you have that on lock down, MESSAGE ME IMMEDIATELY! We need to talk!
31. Trailers - I've heard from multiple sources this is a waste of time and money....but...some people are determined to do it. I never have because of the former.
32. Advertising - I've read this is essential. I've also read it is a waste of time and money. I have no idea who is right. Some people this works for, others it doesn't. If you have the resources to commit to this, go ahead and try it. Facebook retargeting ads are supposed to have a super high conversion rate. Do a test run and let me know how it goes.
33. Free - give out some content for free. Some people swear by this, others are adamantly opposed. I haven't had very much luck when I've done this, so I can't say it was particularly worth it. I think the goal with free is to get reviews. If you don't get those, then....that sucks (unless it's the first book in a series, but that has been overdone).
34. Author/influencer blurbs - I've read of people having some serious success with this. If you know a famous author in your genre, or have a connection or whatever, try and get a blurb for your book and PROMOTE THE HELL OUT OF THAT SHIT. Ahem. I haven't done this, but there are a couple of authors/influencers I would die to have quotes from.
35. Get in a magazine - an essay, a short story, whatever.  I haven't been able to break into this yet, and it supposedly takes a lot of effort to convince the first magazine to take a risk on you (even if you follow all the advice columns). I have gotten a lot of kind rejections. That said, I think I'm closer now than before, mostly because of the guest posting I've been doing. I'm going to cross my fingers on this one and hopefully something hits me on the head.
36. Send press kits - if you live in a place where media outlets might actually publish your press release, do this. Even if you're not sure they will, do this. I haven't had any luck with this so far, but it's worth a try.
37. Hand sell - I've heard this works really well. If you have a stack of your paperbacks in your car, and have a good pitch or charisma out the butt, this will probably work for you (Shit, I really need to get a stack of my books in my car!).
38. More books - I've read it's good to have an entire library of books available for readers. I have a ton of books published, and many more planned. I don't know how well this works if you don't have a few beloved fans in your arsenal.
39. Coverart - if your books aren't selling, redo it. I just did this, and I'll let you know how it works out.
40. Categories - if your books aren't selling, redo them. I just did this, so I'll let you know what happens.
41. Jacket summaries - if your books aren't selling, redo them. I did this a little bit, but I think other things need to be at work for this to help sales along.
42. 2nd Editions - if your books aren't selling, rewrite them. I just did this with KHLOE ALWELL and when I'm finished editing ANDREW, I'll do it for the entire ROLLINS PACK.
43. Sell your soul - write a sellout book. I think there is something to this, but I still think you need other things in place for this to be successful. I'll let you know when I finally get BELOW THE BELT onto Amazon.
44. Stop worrying about it and just write - I've read this works for some people. I'm personally unable to do this...though I've tried.

*********************
Did I miss anything? Let me know if you have any special techniques or strategies that worked for you. Also, when you try the above, TELL ME WHAT WORKED! I want all the juicy details!

THRIVE Book Launch Week 11: Blistered and Limping

Last week time sped up. Things were all timey-wimey. I experienced about two weeks in the span of seven days, and yet, got very little done for my books. Or at least, that is how I feel.

My nutrition was off. My sleep was off. My work was off. For the last few days I've felt like I've got a hangover, and yet, I didn't have the pleasure of drinking. It's all the punishment, with none of the pleasure.

So unfair.

Needless to say, even while in the midst of this whirlwind, I've had some points of light. It has been hard to focus on them, because frankly I've had a hard time focusing on anything at all. That said, some time last week I had a brilliant idea.

I started contacting victim advocacy organizations about listing my books on their resource pages, doing blog posts, and or talking at their events. Their missions are in line with my goals for THRIVE, and that resonated. I got one that invited me to do a blog post, and one that said they would review my press kit. Seeing as I only emailed three, I felt that was a pretty good response. It seems that direction is something I need to continue to pursue. And along those lines, I need to connect with other organizations doing things on other topics within THRIVE.

It's kind of easy to find organizations working with survivors of sexual abuse. Not easy to search for the bend I'm looking working on homelessness, unemployment, and even less so with "whiteness." Hopefully I'll have some kind of epiphany of search terms this week to figure out connections for other outlets. In the mean time, I need to recover from last week. So, unfortunately, the week leading up to my digital release, is also the week I'm dragging from other things in life.

Isn't that just the way?

It is the last little bit of the marathon, and I have enormous blisters covering my feet. I'm dehydrated. I'm limping. I've got a stitch in my side. I am that stumbling runner. I'm so close, and yet it feels like every step is full of pain.

And I wonder, is the pain all worth it? When I get to the finish, will I be proud? Or just relieved that it's over?

But of course, this is just one race in a series of races. Promoting THRIVE doesn't end on June 15 with the release of the ebook. There is the speaking tour I'm gingerly putting together for next year. There are the videos I've finally prioritized with Christian to get done. There are the audio books I need to record and master. There are the organizations I need to contact, the posts I need to write... and the list goes on.

And that's just THRIVE. I have so many other writing projects this could be my full time job, plus some. It is daunting. But I'm getting ahead of myself. I can't think that far, not yet. Right now I have to concentrate on one foot in front of the other. This is the first marathon. I have to finish as strong as I can.

*****************************
LAUNCH UPDATE

Despite the craziness of everything in the past week, I was able to get the following done:

• Researched victim organizations
• Contacted victim organizations
• Wrote post and submitted to one of the above.
• Wrote first draft of submission for writing blog related to THRIVE.
• Contacted friends at universities about speaker fees
• Posted to author forum about speaker fees etc
• Did social media blitz for several days on THRIVE.
• Blog posts
• Wrote and posted exclusive story to Patreon.
• Began rewriting FAMILY FRIEND OR FOE.

 This week I'd like to do the following:

• Contact friends personally about the book - either through social media or email or both (LAUNCH DAY IS NEXT MONDAY!).
• Contact more victim organizations about resource listings, guest posts, and guest speaking.
• Follow up with friend about radio appearance.
• Follow up with contact about speaking appearance.
• Send out inquiries about speaking appearances at local organizations related to THRIVE content.
• Send out social media blast about THRIVE.
• Rewrite post for web zine/blog and submit.
• Send email blast on launch day.
• Blog.

I think that is more than enough. If I'm lucky, I'll get some videos done, but I don't know how things will go in the evening. It's one of those things that I feel like everything is so full, so intense, I'm not sure how much energy I'll have at the end of the day. And I'm pretty spent right now. I have a major case of energy drain. I have to get back on track, which considering the timing, might be difficult to do. We'll see. I'm crossing my fingers and counting on the support of many to make this happen.

When there is a good purpose, I believe things happen. This will test my belief...and that's a little scary.

THRIVE Book Launch Week 10: Help Me Fulfill My Purpose

I have a broad vision, but I need your help.

For the next few posts my format is going to be a bit different. I wanted to focus on THRIVE related stories in the blog posts and keep my update separate. That way the stories are the focus of the post. As expected, THRIVE related posts will, of course, have THRIVE in the title.

Imagine that.

This week was hard because Christian's grandma died (see my last post). It derailed my social media campaign plans and to my chagrin, the people who said they would help me with posting have completely flaked...which really sucks.

More than ever I feel the need for support, in part because of this remarkable woman's death, but also because I feel the intense need for this story to reach people. I need people to read THRIVE. I need it. I believe (and people can think what they will of this) that part of my life purpose is to share this story and change people's lives through it.

I believe the reason I suffered as much as I have is because I am not the kind of person to succumb to addiction, or to sit back, or to wallow. I really feel that my suffering is a vehicle for the healing of others and of communities. I feel at the core of my being, that lives can be transformed by this story.

I need your help.

To get this story out, I need your support. My readers. My friends. My family. My acquaintances. I need you, each and every one of you, to do the following things:

1. Buy a copy of the book - the ebook is cheap, and even cheaper before June 15 (3.99 is less than a fancy coffee!). The paperback is the standard cost for that genre - not bad and you're supporting a friend.  
2. READ it. This goes without saying, but seriously. Read it.
3. Write a review, on Smashwords, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Apple, whatever. Just do it - please. The more reviews the better.
4. Share posts from my Facebook author page, links to the book (paperback or digital), and or tweets. Talk it up to people who might need to read this story - it could help someone get through a tough part of life.
5. If you're feeling this close to your heart, then share it with organizations, media, or other outlets and contacts that would find this story interesting. I research, but I am limited. I may have missed something. I'm sure I missed something.

The thing I learned is that I am nothing without my support system. I need your help to fulfill the vision I have for this book. I have a dream about what my story can do, and I cannot realize it without you. Each and every one of you. You have come to my aid in the past, saved me from horrible fates (something I detailed in THRIVE), and I need your assistance one more time.

Please. Help me do this. Help me reach out to people suffering in silence. Help me pull them out and show them how they might live.

Thank you.

**************************
LAUNCH UPDATE

What did I do last week? Ugh. I feel like several weeks have passed in the span of one...

• Print copy of Lilith and Ammon
• Print copy of The Brothers
• Print copy of Lovers and Rivals
• Amazon Kindle copy of Lilith
• Kindle copy of new version Brothers
• Kindle copy of Lovers
• Uploaded Thrive preorder to Kindle
• Uploaded Thrive journal preorder to Kindle
• Blogged

And this week?

• Aggressive social media campaign posts - G+, Twitter, Facebook, author forums
• Blog posts
• Solicit organizations for Thrive as resource listing
• Solicit organizations for speaking engagements
• Upload to Patreon
• Start Family, Friend, Foe rewrite (WOOHOO!)

 I think that's enough. Remember, June 15 the Smashwords price will jump on THRIVE and TRANSFORM TO THRIVE. Until that point, you get a significant savings so make sure to PREORDER NOW! Unless you want to buy the paperback, in which case...ORDER NOW (the journal too!)! :-)

THRIVE Book Launch Week 8: Indie Sadomasochism

Right now I am sitting alone, and I'm not quite sure what to do. I had to fall back on my launch plan and Monday routine to get on track.

I am actually in my room alone, without a toddler, or any immediate obligations and it is jarring in the same way a whirlwind is. I feel out of sorts. I feel off kilter. I feel...lost.

This past week was nothing short of insane. Instead of my declared plan for last week, I went in a radically different direction and got THRIVE and TRANSFORM TO THRIVE formatted and set up for print on demand. Anyone who knows anything about publishing will recognize this is a Herculean task for a creative. It is tedious. It is time-consuming. It requires intense attention to detail. It is entirely too repetitive to be considered anything less than electronic torture.

And I did this twice.

While herding a toddler.

While my parents were out of town.

Around digital pre-order day - the day when I was sending out approximately 180 emails to media and organizations that might be interested in the books.

Needless to say, the process resulted in an insane amount of temper tantrums, both mine and my toddler's. I induced several headaches. I worked to complete exhaustion. By Saturday, I was barely functional. There was a lot of Sesame Street involved, which was a shameless saving grace.

And today I get to order the proofs. Once I get those, I can approve them for print and anyone can purchase a hard copy (including bookstores and libraries).

This was the last big hurdle in my THRIVE publication process. It was the last big hill in my publishing marathon and now I can actually see the finish. While I am still a little nervous about THRIVE's reception (because it discusses many controversial topics) I know I am doing a good thing. I know this is important work. It is why I am focused on this and this alone until it is finished.

It is inspired. The whole conversation is inspired. And I am excited to help people. I am excited to make the world a better place by having this story in it. This puts all the pain and anguish of every aspect of publication into perspective. The torture was temporary. It has passed. And now I am in a time of waiting. Waiting to see - to experience - to watch. And I know, no matter what happens, at least I find fulfillment here.

My soul is at peace.

********************************

LAUNCH UPDATE:

As I said, last week took a weird and slightly unexpected turn. With that in mind, this is what I accomplished:

• Blog posts (plus an extra one)
• Located list of local media outlets
• 180~ emails sent to colleges, organizations, and media outlets about THRIVE
• POD book covers
• POD formatting
• Reviewed POD files
• Set up  POD order pages
• Set up speaking page on site
• Joined a few more author forums
• Read a few publishing articles
• Sent out social media posts on pre-order day

This week:

• Reach out to my mentor/connector
• Follow up on mail error messages from email blast
• Order proofs for THRIVE and TRANSFORM TO THRIVE
• Finish LILITH
• Finish KHLOE book covers
• Upload corrected/revamped KHLOE books
• Send out social media reminders to pre-order THRIVE & TRANSFORM TO THRIVE
• Inquiry bloggers who may be interested in guest posts etc for THRIVE.
• Pitch to sites that have followings interested in THRIVE topics. 
• Blog posts 
• Breathe

I think that's more than enough. Don't you? Especially since a family friend is visiting this coming weekend.  I'm planning on really focusing on the last point. That one is going to be the most important one to remember.

Be sure to reserve your copy of THRIVE: HOW I BECAME A SUPERHERO and TRANSFORM TO THRIVE: 32 DAYS FROM VICTIM TO SUPERHERO!

THRIVE Book Launch Week 7: Pre-order Day & Marathon Madness

I can see it, but it's still so much further....

Last week was slow. Then with Mothers' Day family obligations I ended up doing a lot less than I wanted. And my social media phone app went wonky. And my computer stopped charging consistently. And everything just felt...bleh.

Despite this, I continued to press on. I continued and I found myself talking with a fascinating person who was most unexpected. I don't know what will come of that connection, but I intend to see that through, wherever it leads.

And that is me. Try things. Screw up. Adjust. Try things. Screw up less. Adjust.Try things...ad infinitum.

To some that might seem like a waste of time. However, it is the only way that makes sense to me. I will make mistakes. I know this happens. However, I do not let this stop me from acting. I do not let this hinder my will. I do not let it keep me from reaching. I am so full of vision it is impossible to remain content with any situation. There is always more to do. There is always better. I can always be more.

Some people would just give up, but I refuse.

Is this folly? Madness? Maybe. Only time will tell. But I know that if I didn't try everything I would ache. I would know I didn't try one or two things and that would disappoint me. That would keep me up at night.

This is one of my superpowers - drive. My narrative of suffering chronicled in THRIVE has this theme - my refusal to stay down. My refusal to let anything hold me back. And some people may look at my experiences and wonder how I can see lessons. Some people might wonder how I can step in a pile of shit and ask, "Where is the pony?"

But that is the thing. That is the gift I was given: to see the good and bad anywhere I look. I understand what it is like to feel complete hopelessness. I understand what it is like to feel violated and betrayed by people close to me. I understand what it is like to look at death. I have been to those places. I have walked through them, and come out to the other side to share these stories.

Some people might say this optimism is an opiate, and they would be right.

An opiate is something that helps manage pain. Yes, it could become addictive BUT fundamentally it is meant to help you endure. And so I used my optimism to endure.

I do not feel this is a crutch. I do not feel like it is a problem. When everything breaks down around me, I need to call on that deep inner strength. My optimism helps me summon that power, call it forth, and continue despite everything.

And this week, when everything is precarious...I need it more than ever. I'm almost to the finishline. Now is not the time to shut down. 

Now is the time to push harder.

********************************************

LAUNCH UPDATE

I mentioned above that I had a slow week and I did. And with everything breaking, or not at top functionality, I struggled to keep my momentum. I did. I imagine this is what a marathon runner feels like in the last few miles of a race. On the one hand, I'm excited that I can almost see the finish line. On the other hand, I wish I could sit down on an overstuffed chair, and drink a glass of red.

This is what I got done last week:

• Met with connector and brainstormed opportunities for THRIVE among other things
• Got over 150 entries in my press kit/speaking opportunity database
• Wrote cover letters
• Sent a few press kits out to connections
• Fiddled with website (and changed my mind about a few things)
• Read a number of articles about marketing
• Got to 63% in LILITH
• Tweaked revamped covers
• Finalized format for THRIVE and TRANSFORM TO THRIVE (added connect, about author etc)
• Blogged

This is what I need to get done this week:

• Upload THRIVE & TRANSFORM TO THRIVE to Smashwords and set up pre-order
• Send out press kits to media
• Send out press kits to colleges, organizations etc
• Sign up for speaking bureau at RAINN (among others?)
• Finish cover tweaks for KHLOE series
• Finish LILITH
• Upload corrected books, descriptions, and new covers for KHLOE
• Follow up with connector/mentor
• Info blast on social media about pre-order
• Consider Createspace for print on demand version of THRIVE and TRANSFORM TO THRIVE.
• Think about business cards
• Create speaking page for website (and list topics etc)
• Blog
• Patreon.... 
• Pitch THRIVE related story ideas to sites and blogs?

I'm sure there is more. I don't know when I'll get time to do videos. I want to get them done, but the problem is I need quiet time and light to do them as well as someone to watch my toddler. It has been next to impossible to get all those things simultaneously. For now, I'm going to focus on the absolute essentials and if I get the videos done, I'll be really pleased. But that is definitely icing at this point. The most important is to get the books into tip-top shape and available.

BE MY PATRON!

If you love my blogging, my books, or just love supporting creatives, I strongly urge you to become my patron on Patreon.

What is Patreon?

Patreon is a site that lets fans connect with makers of any and all stripes.

How does it work?

You sign up as a subscriber and BAM! You're a patron! You get access to an exclusive community of fans, special rewards, personal interaction, and exclusive work before ANYONE ELSE. Any time I put up a piece of writing in a given month for patronage, your account is charged your pledge. BUT you are only charged up to the limit of your budget. SO if you pledge $3 and your budget is $6, you would only get charged twice, even if I put up 3 paid pieces. It is a win-win for both of us! You get to control how much you pledge, get access to awesome stuff before anyone else, AND support this indie author.

What do you have in store for patrons?

Not gonna lie. There are some AWESOME things heading the way of my patron page. In fact, I am working on a serial story, EXCLUSIVELY for patrons. That's right. IT WILL ONLY BE ACCESSIBLE TO PATRONS.

Once a month I intend to upload one episode/chapter of the story to the patron page. As the story develops, those patrons with access to the suggestion thread are able to comment on story direction for the next chapter. While I have a general plan as to where the story is going, it is meant to be an interactive experience with my patrons.

The premise? It is admittedly in its early stages at this point, but I am committed to the main character. I'll say more after the first episode/chapter is complete.

In addition to the serial story, I have some stand-alone shorts that will be accessible FIRST on Patreon. Also artwork inspired by different novels will be available to patrons. And maybe some of that artwork will be based on fan models! Hmm. I like that idea.

So, all this is to say, patronizing your sweet indie author is awesome. You get cool stuff and help a girl out. Become my patron today!

THRIVE Book Launch Week 5: Grateful

I am jumping out of my skin because I am SO excited.

I am excited about revelation, helping people, transformation, joy, heartache, and the power and strength my journey has given me.

I am excited by the wonderful people who surround me with love and life every day. What wonderful people the world has made! How lucky I am to be blessed with them in my life!

I am so grateful for the support I have received for this project (THRIVE) already. It feels as though I am walking with arms wrapped around me, hugging me, urging me, holding me up, and pushing me ever forward - picking me up at the slightest stumble.

You, my dear friends, are what this is all about. Really. And I love each and every one of you. I really, truly do.

I would be a fraction of myself without you - a lone filament. This, I know beyond doubt, as you prove yourselves time and again. No one is alone. Each person is a moment - a point in time, in a network of relationship. Touch a thread, and ripples move across the web. And when I reach out, I see more connections than I ever expected. And this - this is glorious.

*********************
LAUNCH UPDATE

This past week went in a slightly different direction than I anticipated, in part because I had a mini burnout, inspired partially from computer troubles. Thankfully my wonderful partner corrected that. So this is what I completed in the last week:

• 90% LOVERS & RIVALS revamped
• Author website up and running (domain and hosting purchased etc) - http://alexisdonkin.com
• Outreach to target group of magicworkers for campaign/marketing advice
• Tweaking and completion (really this time!) of THRIVE manuscript
• Developing database of contacts to receive press kit (in hopes of securing speaking engagements and possible book purchases)
• Blog posts
• Patreon posts
• Brainstormed/outlined serialized writing for Patreon subscribers (more on this later!)
• Brainstormed additional tabs for website (influences with relevant links?)
• Implemented daily back-ups of documents
• Outreach to author forums for social media boost & marketing advice
• Made social media picture posts
• Updated social media
• Linkedin
• G+
• Facebook author page
• Twitter
• Patreon

This week I hope to get the following done:

• LOVERS & RIVALS 100% revamped
• BROTHERS & L&R covers revamped
• BROTHERS & L&R revamped books on Smashwords & Amazon
• Patreon uploads (first look at me reading book excerpt? artwork inspired by novels?)
• Videos - 
• intro to author site
• intro to Patreon, 
• Patreon thank you 
• reading book excerpt?
• Blog posts (of course)
• Begin revamping LILITH & AMMON
• Continue developing THRIVE contact database
• Do social media/marketing planning with magicworkers
• Contact blogs/influencers about guest posts/blurbs for book(?)
• Finish formatting THRIVE for publication

It is a lot. I know. BUT... we're coming up on the pre-order date for THRIVE (May 15) and I need to have as much ready as I can. The more preparation, the better this whole enterprise will be.

P.S. If you want to be a part of the journey....LET ME KNOW! I need a team of committed ambassadors for THRIVE. It is an important book with an important message and I want it to help as many people as it can. With your help, its reach increases!

The Waiting Game

Watching time go by...

Lately all I do is wait. I'm just waiting. My own version of purgatory.

"A 34? Proceed to window 7. A 34? Proceed to window 7."

That is what I may as well hear. Because I'm waiting.

I'm waiting for responses to my doctoral applications. I'm waiting for those responses because I cannot make any choices without that information. Honestly, I haven't determined the choices I would make in hypothetical scenarios. So I snap at those closest to me. I curl in a ball on the couch. I hold on to the present as best as I can, as best as I ca wait.

I'm waiting for feedback on my nonfiction book. Waiting to respond to all those social media posts that clearly don't have experience in the things I do. That don't seem to understand what they are saying to people who share my secret life. Waiting to reveal myself, my history, for all its horrors and glory. Waiting to make a splash even as the waters are dark, filled with sharks and blood. Biting my nails. Donning my armor. Watching. Sharpening my sword. Waiting.

I'm waiting for someone to read book 4 in Khloe. Waiting to be ready to reread it. To rewrite it. To draw the cover that it is meant to have. To be inspired into that art. Waiting to publish it, for those fans loyal to the series. Waiting to push it against all those science deniers...waiting to connect it to the stories of the extreme things that should only be the stuff of fantasy, but are real. The drought...the storms...the insane snow...are real...and where do they come from? Waiting.

I'm waiting to get that mentor promised me. Waiting to hear back from websites. Waiting to get help recording videos - recording audio - creating platforms. Waiting to have enough time to work out. Waiting to decide what I want to do with my life. Waiting to pay off my debt. Waiting to change the world. Waiting to have people understand my deepest depths. Waiting to get a job. Waiting to be independent. Waiting to have the benefits I so desperately need - the rewards I so richly desire. Waiting. Waiting. Waiting.

I am not a patient person. I have done all that I can do to prepare. I have done all I can do to hold on to this vision in my head of a future, of a more wonderful life. I just can't wait any more. I can't stand another day. I can't stand another hour - another minute - another second. It is crushing my spirit - my mind - my heart.

I just want to hear...

"Alexis? Proceed to window 1. Alexis? Proceed to window 1."

Bootstrappers, A La Carts, and Whole Hogs

I hate the word "independent" because I feel like it's false advertising. Writers should come with labels just like vegetarians:

I'm a pesca-ova-lactarian.
I eat cheese, and chicken, but no beef.
I'm a cheese and veggie kind of girl.
No, I don't even eat honey.

Now, to be honest, I think anyone who eats any kind of animal flesh cannot call themselves vegetarian. When it comes to animal products, I think there are really three categories of food consumers: vegans (purists), vegetarians (digestively challenged?), and everyone else (see-foodists).

That's kind of how I feel about writing, but maybe there's a few additional categories.

There's the traditional writers (whole hogs), or those who went with publishers (big 6 or otherwise). Then there are the hybrid writers, which are kind of like those pesca-ova-lacta-poultry-bullshit vegetarians - trying to reap the rewards of both labels (many of them doing an excellent job, it should be noted!).

Then of course, there are the a la carts. These are people who pay someone else to do various writing services. Now, I'm not saying it isn't a good idea to involve other people, or that we don't need help...but...call a spade a spade. A. LA. CART.

And finally, there's the bootstrappers. The purists. The people who are so committed to the idea of indie, it's embarrassing. I have pictures of these people in my head - you know, that crazy straight-edge punk in your freshman dorm who wrote "straight-edge" in his own blood and then listened to the Misfits all day? Yeah. Those people. Totally bonkers. I mean, why - why - would anyone in their right mind choose to go completely DIY?!

Ahem.

*waves frantically with both hands while jumping up and down and grinning maniacally*

HIIiiiiii! That'd be me.

I'm a bootstrapper. I hate when someone who is only sort of independent claims this word. It's my word. It belongs to people like me. I'm the epitome of independent. I do everything myself. I'm responsible for my complete success or failure. I'm responsible for the flowery words, the typos, the turns of phrase, and the paragraph going off on someone's delicious sandwich (food centered today apparently). Me. Only me. I'm the American myth - the American legend. I am the American dream. I'm completely, beautifully, gloriously independent. Those other guys are posers! Pretenders! They say you need to have an editor. You need to go to conferences. You need to have a cover designer. But that's bullshit. I don't need these things. I can do it myself.

Be precise with your language people! I mean, we're frickin' writers here!

I imagine this is what being vegan must feel like.

Sort of.

Except, the thing is, help is nice. I don't actually begrudge people for paying for services. I just hate feeling like everyone has a sugardaddy footing their service bill. I mean, those conference tickets are expensive. Hundreds of dollars could pay my monthly loan payment (one of them anyway). As my starving artist indie self, I really can't purchase entry to a writer's conference. I can't justify spending hundreds of dollars on editing services when I need to buy clothes for my baby and tools so my husband can do his job.

I'm not in the same league as these other "indie" authors. We're not in the same league because we have different levels of support. Living on one income, while being a stay at home mom, and writing...it's not easy. Granted, I was forced to develop a bunch of skills. I was forced to research things on my own. I was forced to do things that if I'd been in a comfy big 6 situation, I would never have done. You know, like figuring out how to make beet burgers, kale chips, or baking with agave nectar.

There's a reason why bootstrappers are so tough. It might take us a while to get where we're aiming, but we'll get there. We stumble and we trip, and we take detours. But we do our own course correction. We figure it out on our own. I mean seriously, how much more American can you get.

My Cell Phone Changed My Life

I'm a little bit of a gadget person - just a little bit. Still I never expected I would be so shaken by a change in my cell phone.

Remember how I wanted to wait for Blackberry to get their act together? Well, I couldn't. I couldn't because my battery was expanding and not holding a charge. In short, if I waited until a company decided to release their latest and greatest, I could have had acid burns on my cheek from my phone exploding.

Not ideal.

It helped that my husband's phone was some crazy Chinese knock-off that refused to stand up to his regular abuse (His pants and his phones last half as long as other people's - I swear!). So we both got new phones.

Because I have crazy personal goals that require a revamp of my social media presence, I started downloading apps that I hadn't even dreamed of.

I finally committed to Hootesuite, which has been somewhat of an improvement, though if I had the money to pay for the service, I think it would be better. But beyond the expected, I also downloaded Sparksfly, Konnect Social, and ShoutOMatic.

So far, Sparksfly has upped the ease of engaging with my Tweeps (though not as much with Facebook...). I've done more retweeting in the last few days than I have done in a 48 hour period EVER. I started to fool around with Konnect Social, but I have yet to really dive into the possibilities with this app. The possibilities do appeal, especially because I want to engage more with people who will be interested in my content (duh! Who doesn't?!). ShoutOMatic seems really cool and would help me put up greater variety of content, but again, I have yet to use it. Often times I have a sleeping baby around when I have time (like right now) and trying to fool with extra sounds doesn't seem like a good idea.

This is just the beginning.

I've started taking videos of related things and am looking forward to revisiting my YouTube account and creating a few channels (one per blog?). This is in part because of some super easy video editing apps that I can put on my phone, as well as the GoPro and my husband's amazing tech skills. I'm both anxious and excited about these prospects.

And I wouldn't have ventured down this crazy path without my new phone. While it's not the new hotness, it is enough of a change from my previous phone that the improvement is marked. The possibilities have grown exponentially. Doors have opened.

I'm a kid in a candy shop.

Come stuff your face with me. It's amazing.

What are some social media apps that have changed your online life? What are some tech gadgets that opened doors for you? Leave a comment below!

The Indie Author Shake-down

Did you know that "Indie Author Services" are like the biggest shake-downs ever? Well, besides King's Candy Crush of course (p.s. I'm exceptionally lazy and NOT linking to that goofy game because my internet is being slow, so sue me!). I mean, even the social media sites that have popped up EVERYWHERE and the membership organization sites that are ALL OVER are just INSANE.

It makes me want to slap someone.

I keep picturing people with greasy slicked back hair, gold chains, and too much chest hair poking out of their button shirts.

Gross!

I do not understand how people are able to pay for all these services, and think they are even worth the money. No one KNOWS if they're actually worth the money. No one knows what works at selling books and what doesn't.

Surprise! There is no magic formula. Let me repeat myself - there is no magic formula.

And just in case you didn't know what that means - it means, don't waste your money on jerk-offs trying to charge you to join their websites. And what about the other thing indie authors have in abundance? Yeah, don't waste your time if it seems like there aren't enough people USING the site or it doesn't offer you tons of things you actually will use and need.

I know there are a ton of people like me out there or even worse (In fact, I would say I'm concerned more about people who are just starting out.). All those people may want to publish books, and they could, if they had the right support at an affordable price. Sorry, but $300 is not affordable for most indies. It's crazypants.

CRAZYPANTS I TELL YOU!

How about free? I'm just saying that your best bet as an indie is to find another indie with the skill set you need and to trade services. You edit for him, and he designs a cover for you. True indies wear many hats. It's like working at a non-profit (and believe me, most indies are familiar with non-profit! Badumcha!). You will find someone with the skills you need who wants the skills you have. I'm positive.

This business might be a business, but it's not about making money. It's about sharing passion. I think a lot of indies forgot that along the way.

My Stay-at-home Mom Plan

Okay. It's official. I have a plan on how I can make staying at home work for me and for us.

Granted, my plan is loose and fancy free, and I haven't worked out all the kinks, but it's there. It is undeniably present in my head.

My plan is comprised of different parts, which over time will work together. It is a process and I expect it to take some time to lead to any consistent revenue, but I'm not going to let impatience blow me off course. I'm also not absolutely certain I will follow this plan. I may decide to throw out huge chunks of it in favor of focusing on one thing over another...we'll have to wait and see.

So what is this much lauded plan? Here goes nothing:

1. I will complete my Summer Writing Challenge. The books from said challenge will be promoted (Look for giveaways and sneak peaks in the future - that is FOR SURE!). I'm hoping to have some book tours involved, or blog hops, or something. This portion of promotion will take a little bit of work, because I need to connect with a few bloggers to make it happen, but I've been researching blogging networks and I feel confident I'll be able to find a few people interested in hosting something.
2. I am seriously considering an email/subscriber list type deal, which may involve some free tips/stories/and if I can make connections with products etc, possibly discounts (that would be AHmazing!). I'd like this to be more connected to my writing as opposed to other topics, as first and foremost I am a writer (though my readers seem to be most interested in my perspective on pregnancy...hmm).
3. I will begin looking for brands/services etc to review (as they relate to content on my blog ONLY - so possibly parenting related, possibly writing related, possibly politically/socially/environmentally related - this is a little open and will depend on how my interests continue to develop.).
4. I will attempt to connect with products and services that may interest visitors to my blog and possibly sell advertising space in the sidebar.
5. I am working with another writer/editor to start a webzine type of site which will hopefully lead to another consistent revenue stream through reviews and affiliates.

Already I've started looking into these different areas and I have a few ideas on how to get started. I know it will take some work to get things going, and I know I will probably have some trial and error before I'm able to find things that work well consistently.

As I work through this plan, you'll continue to get updates about my books (SWC posts), see changes to the blog (likely in the next few months), and hear about different articles on other sites. As part of the book launches, I'm also considering putting together some swag (totes...shirts maybe?).

A secondary consideration is separating my blogging into different sites (one for pregnancy and parenting and one for writing and related issues). This is something I am seriously considering because I'll be able to better tailor my posts to my readership (I know this will be annoying at first for those of you who have gotten used to reading pregnancy posts here, but I think it might work better to help to build brands.).

So here are those questions - (and *please* comment!) - would you rather see my pregnancy posts on a purely pregnancy/parenting blog? Would you rather my writing posts were separate? And, how do you feel about swag? :-)

A final question, what kind of giveaways would be exciting to you?

I can't wait to read your comments (twitter mentions are good too!)!

Why Twitter Bugs (Along With All Social Media)

This is a post I have longed to write for some time. It is only now after an interesting rejection letter from an agent that I was finally motivated to do it (it feels like I'm trying to be unpopular these days...sigh...but work with me).

The rejection was fine. I'm not mad about that at all. I even understand this agent's reasoning. He didn't want to work with a new writer who didn't already have a huge following in social media. He didn't want to gamble. I get that.

Of course, the whole reason why I'm after an agent is because I'm terrible at this whole sell-yourself-thing. I want someone else to do it for me so I can focus on the thing I *am* good at - you know, *writing.*

So once again, I thought about all the reasons I struggle with social media and why I have come to my current decisions about it and independent publishing. Let me give you the run-down:

1. Most of the stuff on social media is just self-aggrandizing advertising. It is time consuming and frustrating to sort through all the muck to find the few interesting articles and comments. This leads me to look at websites like Twitter and Facebook *only * when I am extremely bored. Needless to say, this means rarely. I'd much rather read random journal articles than sort through fluff. When I have something witty to say or someone has said something interesting only seconds before, then I will post. Otherwise...forget it.

2. I have never been much for technology. As I have explained in previous posts, I can break toaster ovens. My phone regularly does things that my technopath hubby cannot explain. Spending hours on websites that yield little psychic reward (see above) when I might crash my phone or computer just to do so (and therefore turn into a female Hulk which can be ugly) is not my idea of a good time. Believe me when I say, *everyone* loses.

3. I am sort of manic. Or artsy. Or flaky. I have trouble consistently posting on anything and everything. I get feeling anxious and so I will avoid doing it - even on phones (ironic considering I've worked in many call centers). I will purposely avoid my computer in order to avoid corresponding with people. I get anxious when I've let something go for a while...which leads me to avoidance...which leads me to feeling guilty...which leads to more avoidance (Note: I'm working on this cluster, but it's an uphill battle. Thus the manic modes when I post ridiculous amounts...).

4. I like real life but I am incredibly obsessive - stupidly obsessive. When I get swallowed by something, it is complete. Because I know this about myself, I try to avoid (ha!) letting it happen whenever I can. If I got really involved in social media, I would (and have before) retreat(ed) from real life. I'm reclusive enough as it is. I need to get out of the house and soak up vitamin D, not worry about how many people have viewed my blog or followed my fan page.

All this is to say, I am not the cyber wonder child many agents dream of having. I know it might help. It might make me more attractive. Obviously those agents aren't a good match for me. I'm looking for someone who is willing to take a chance on a new writer who has plans and substantial portions of over 8 books in the works (I know...I know. They *will* be finished. Never fear! Artsy, remember?). I'm looking for someone who can see through my little mistakes and appreciate my obscure references and research.

Because frankly, I want to write...not waste my time wading through penny stock recommendations and people advertising themselves without saying anything else of substance. It's just not my bag. If it's yours, enjoy. I'll stick to my green silk Tibetan drawstring with my writing and my research.

There. I feel so much better now.

Published with Blogger-droid v2.0.10