Just some basic steps to marketing your book, whether historical or for any genre!
Here at The Historical Fiction Company, we believe that writers should do what they do best, and that is write... and leave the marketing to us.
You can learn all about our marketing plans here: https://www.thehistoricalfictioncompany.com/book-marketing
Plus, if you want your name and book promoted in front of some of the biggest newspapers, magazines, and news shows, learn more about our press releases here: https://www.thehistoricalfictioncompany.com/press-releases
You are the first marketing tool to the reader. Connection, content, and accessibility creates interest and your first loyal fans.
Your book cover is the second marketing tool to the reader. Don't opt boring or unprofessional covers. Look at the market and see what is selling, what other successful historical fiction authors are going with, and INVEST in a designer who will care about the success of your book. After all, a designer who cares is also putting their reputation on the line, so it is in your best interest to work with someone who will take the time to create magic for you, taking your story and rendering it in one spectacular image for customers to see. Think about what draws your eye when you walk into a book store. If you want readers to do that for your book, then this is a critical step for a writer.
Edit, edit, edit. Developmental editing is just as critical as copy editing.
Create a social media presence to create a fan-base.
Create an author website.
View this as a long-term business, not a short-term 'get-rich-quick' effort.
With any business, you get what you put into it. Investment is key no matter who you are.
Network, network, network. Again, refer to #6.
Never give up, even if you aren't getting sales. Patience is a virtue many writers do not have.
Keep writing, give your fans a reason to come back to you again and again. The more books, the merrier, with a caveat - NEVER sacrifice quality for quantity. Treat each book like a baby that you are sending out into the world.
If you have any questions about marketing, press releases, book cover design, editing, facebook ads, creating an author website, or more... reach out to us at The Historical Fiction Company! We are here for you, the amazing community of historical fiction authors!
Dee Marley
HFC CEO