Madison Michael's Blog
November 26, 2025
13 Inspired Holiday Gifts for Writers (2025 Edition)
Give the writer in your life something inspiring this holiday season. From luxe pens to personalized journals and desk upgrades, here are a baker’s dozen writer-approved gifts—most under $100—with links making it easy to shop
Spark Their Next Great Page
Writers measure time in scenes and chapters—and the right gift can turn a blank page into momentum. So, consider giving the writer in your life something inspiring this holiday season.
From luxe pens to personalized journals and desk upgrades, the list I’ve curated for 2025, mixes practical tools and software, cozy desk upgrades, with a few splurge-worthy beauties. To keep things real, I’ve tried to keep most of the list in the under-$100 price range. And be sure to check out the sale of the year for ProwritingAid, available until December 3rd!
I’ve categorized the gifts into four groups: stocking stuffers that are seriously affordable, software and courses to increase their productivity or success, gifts to make their life more comfortable, and wonderful gifts of inspiration. Any one of these will be welcomed by the writer in your life.
Come, celebrate the storyteller you love.
Inspirational Gifts for Writers:
Black Friday Offer: 25% off everything by entering code CYBER2025
Black Friday Deal Dates: On now, no end date published, but it will be soon
Great Software Gifts to Make Your Author’s Life EasierProWritingAid is my absolute favorite grammar and writing style assistant, offering in real time grammar checking, style analysis, and writing insights to help a writer with grammar, spelling, style, pacing, even those pesky dialog tags. In short, it makes writers write better books. It’s offers numerous reports that are packed with assistance, especially in the revision and polishing phase of your writing. This is their lowest price of the year!
Black Friday Offer: 50% off yearly and lifetime licenses, plus 25% off Story Credits
Black Friday Deal Dates: Nov 17 to Dec 3
Publisher Rocket is all about helping authors sell more books. It provides powerful data on how readers search and choose books on Amazon. By deciphering keywords and book buyer behavior, authors can better craft titles, subtitles, and descriptions that resonate with their idea readers, helping your books be more visible and competitive on Amazon. It’s also great in designing keywords and categories for Amazon advertising.Black Friday Offer: $80 total savings! $30 off lifetime access to Publisher Rocket software plus the Mastering Keyword and Category Course ($50 value) for free with purchase
Black Friday Deal Dates: Nov 28 to Dec 2
Travel Mug —This mug is perfect for the writer in your life saying, “Go Away, I’m Writing.” At 20 ounces, it’s big enough for the massive amounts of caffeine most of us writers need and it’s less than $25. This vacuum-insulated stainless-steel tumbler maintains the temperature of hot or cold beverages and uses food-grade stainless steel. It includes a straw, too! Amanda Walker PA—Is that author in your life complaining there aren’t enough hours in the day? Or that she hates the cover art for her books? Maybe he needs someone to help with newsletters or social media. For the last two years, Amanda Walker has made my covers, my social media, my blog posts and my newsletters look great. She’s made my life easier, and she could do the same for the author in your life. Talk to Amanda about what you want to give your writer, perhaps a gift card or a few pre-paid hours or covers? She’ll work with you, and deliverGifts to make Your Writer’s Life More Comfortable:
Great writing is part grit, part magic. Whether you choose practical everyday software or a fun keepsake, these gifts honor both. Pair one with a heartfelt note—“I believe in your story”—and you’ll give motivation that lasts well beyond the holidays.
Have your own gift ideas for the authors in your life? Won’t you share them in the comments while there’s still shopping days to spare.
15 Perfect Holiday Gifts for Readers (2025 Edition)
Whether they were naughty or nice, ‘tis the season to delight the book lovers in your life! It doesn’t matter if they’re curled up with a classic or diving into the latest bestseller, the right gift makes reading even more magical.
I have put together my annual, curated list containing fifteen gifts for the readers on your list. Most gifts are under $100 and there is something for every literary heart — from cozy comforts to creative keepsakes. I’ve even thrown in a couple of very affordable stocking stuffers.
Make Their Season Storybook-PerfectLet’s Start with four very inexpensive (under $20), handmade gifts from the small businesses and artists that operate on Etsy. I love supporting independent writers and artists and these small gifts are spot on for book lovers. They make the perfect stocking stuffers:
Jane Austen Quote Mug This mug comes in two generous sizes and offers a daily dose of literary inspiration along with a much-needed boost of caffeine.
Book Lover Soy Candle Hand poured in L.A., these eco-friendly candles offer a fragrant twist on the bookish classic. My favorite says, “smells like reading time.” Available in two sizes, and five aromas from coffee house to ocean breeze. The jars are reusable and recyclable, of course!
Mini Book Tracker Keychain Adorable pocket tracker for TBR lists or reading logs, this tracker is a thoughtful handy keychain that encourages the reader on your list to explore new stories. And at only $5, this really is the ultimate stocking-stuffer
Vintage Library Card Memo Pad These small memo pads each contain 30 sheets of assorted color vintage library cards to write your memos, notes, lists, thoughts and ideas. The memo pad measures 3″ w x 5″ h x 1″ d and makes a great travel size for a purse or backpack.
Reader Approved Gifts Under $50The sweet spot for gift giving is something affordable that the receiver really wants. Here are a number of reader friendly items that fit that bill, and offer a wow factor too. You’ll make the reader on your list know they have been seen and understood in unique and clever ways.
Fiction Mail Order a series of personalized letters to come for four, eight even fifty-two weeks from a fictional friend with a story to tell. Realistic and genre specific, choose cozy mystery, time travel, whodunit or so many other series and watch the reader in your life lurk by the mailbox waiting for their next installment.
Book Nook Reading Valet I love this valet. It keeps your reader’s essentials — book, glasses, drink, phone — neatly in one place, and does it in a really lovely way. Choose the original or opt for the new Daily Literary Quote valet that offers a fresh quote from a classic work of literature every day.
Sakura Densya Book Nook DIY Kit For the do-it-yourselfer reader, this charming Japanese-themed mini diorama fits between books as a lovely bookshelf decoration. For the reader who occasionally lifts their head from the pages, it’s a craft project and then a décor piece of a miniature house, the Tokyo streets in spring, and is even more impressive with the LED lights on.
A Book Lover’s Box An affordable curated collection of paper goods, reading accessories, and surprise stationery. Each item in this stationery box was carefully and thoughtfully curated with readers in mind: from the large journal for keeping tracking of favorite reads, quotes, and characters; ton the double-sided poster, to the mini sticker book with 50+ bookish stickers for decorating notes to friends. There’s a paper banner that says read more books; and so much more.
Glocusent Book Light A bendable neck-lap that offers three colors and six levels of brightness, recharges and lasts 80-hours on each charge? Could there be a more perfect book light for reading in bed? I don’t think so.
Set of Three Literary Prints Believe me, if I had empty wall space, I would be asking Santa for these for sure. Highly stylized, with fantastic quotes from Wilde, Bronte and Fitzgerald, they are art and inspiration rolled into one, or three, for an unbelievably affordable price.
The Ultimate Cozy Companion This stunning woven throw blanket provides warmth and literary charm for cozying up with a good read. This personalized treasure is crafted from premium materials, making it functional art that blends comfort with a love of books.
Cirzone Book Lover Throw Pillow Cover This is not a pillow but an 18 by 18 inch pillow cover presented in a gift box and made of soft velvet fabric. These are cozy and clever. I love the patterns, and there are several to choose from to fit any reader, and any décor.
Luxe Gifts Ideas for Your Book Lover
Amazon Kindle (6″, 2024) If your reader travels, as I do, a lightweight e-reader that stores thousands of books with weeks of battery life is the perfect gift. For the reader at home, it’s an eReader without the extra pounds, so it hurts less when you fall asleep reading and it hits you in the head! This one includes faster page turns, and a higher contrast ratio, for an enhanced reading experience.
Kecho 14k Gold Pendent This is a delicate, heart-shaped necklace featuring a woman sitting on books, reading a book. It is tarnish resistant and hypoallergenic 14K yellow gold and comes with its own chain.
Perigold Designer Bookends I have never seen a larger variety of gorgeous bookends in one place, from something for dog lovers to elegant pink marble. It will be hard to choose just one for the reader in your life.
Wrap Up the Perfect StoryNo matter who’s on your list — the binge-reader, the audiobook aficionado, or the classics devotee — these gifts will bring joy long after the holidays end. Want to take it a step further? Pair one of these items with a favorite novel or gift card, and you’ve just written a perfect holiday ending.
Have some inspired reader-friendly gift ideas? Why not share them in the comments below.
COMING SOON: Part 2: 15 Gifts for Writers (Holiday 2025 Edition) Find fabulous gifts to show the author in your life that they have your full support with these impressive, budget-friendly gift ideas.
September 10, 2025
Crazy Steamy, Crazy Smart, Crazy Fun. A Peek at the Crazy Eights.
Crazy Steamy, Crazy Smart, Crazy Fun
A Peek at the Crazy Eights
This week I will be launching the sixth book in my All’s Crazy in Love series. For those of you unfamiliar with the series, at its core are eight books about eight women approaching forty who agree to a one-year dare to marry. The first down the aisle, wins.
Some of the eight are divorced, some have never married. One has barely even dated. But the stakes for losing are too high for a forfeit so they all dive in.
In addition, there are four books outside the dare about women whose lives are adjacent to the Crazy Eights. I created these because these women love to meddle in other people’s lives—and each other’s.
So, in this post I thought I would bring you up to date on the novels so far…
Crazy to Wed is a prequel to our dare and takes place ten years earlier. It is a chance to meet the Crazy Eights, who have been friends since they were eight years old. They are now twenty-eight and Gabriella is in love.
This petite firebrand has been outrageously successful in her career, but when she finds Brad, the love of her life, she wants to shower him with love—and gifts. The problem? Brad is already intimidated by Gabby’s wealth. When she crosses the line, he jilts her the night before the wedding!
But never fear… the Crazy Eights can’t help but get involved to save the day!
Sofia has lost her husband, and at 38, perhaps her last chance to have a marriage and a baby. But she has an exciting new sales job, unless the CEO she has a one-night stand with decides to fire her. Their chemistry sizzles, but someone in the company wants to use their desire against them.
Here’s an excerpt:
Sofia could tell he liked what he saw. It felt powerful, reciprocal, and strangely inevitable. She gave up any pretense of disinterest.
Mr. Brown Eyes got the message and sauntered her way. She loved how he moved, relaxed, fluid, and assured. He was a man on a mission. Mr. Tall, Dark and Sexy was classically handsome. He appeared serious, intelligent and thoughtful.
His face was open and welcoming, with a hint of naughtiness in his smirk along with the promise of shared pleasures. But it was his eyes, deep coffee brown and fringed with long dark lashes that were his best feature; piercing, intelligent, inquisitive and currently trained on her.
Please, God, Sofia prayed quickly, do not let this man be the new sales manager. It would be awful if she needed to keep him at arm’s length. He was the first man Sofia had ever felt this attracted to so immediately. It was enough to make her believe in love at first sight or fate.
“Hi.” He stepped closer, ignoring the empty stool beside her to halt just inside her personal space. Usually, Sofia would back up, but she savored his closeness, the power emanating from his presence. Even in this stuffy bar, he smelled good – fresh, like soap and good whiskey. And up close, his eyes were more magical, a hint of gold dancing in their depths.
“Hi,” she responded on a breath, letting the single word hang there for a moment. “You aren’t in sales, are you?”
“Nope.” If he thought it was a strange conversation starter, he kept it to himself and his lack of response increased Sofia’s tension. “But, I could be in sales for you,” he offered in a voice smooth as brandy, redolent with sexual promise and a hint of curiosity. She laughed at his offer, tense for a better reason.”
“I was thinking of what a crime it would be if you turned out to be my new boss.
He extended his hand to hers. “Is your boss named Jeremy?”
“Thankfully, not.” Sofia savored the moment as Jeremy closed his long fingers around hers, his skin soft and warm. There was no wedding band. Sofia’s relief was excessive. Everything about him captivated her. “Sofia.”
Jeremy seemed in no hurry to release her hand, but after several beats too long for politeness, Sofia retracted hers.
“Sofia.” He rolled the word around his mouth as if tasting a fine wine. “What a lovely name.” Sofia’s panties dampened. He was just saying words, but their underlying promise was undeniable. She wanted to be alone with him. She wanted to be naked with him. And all she knew was his first name.
His every emotion was transparent, especially the desire flaming in his expression right now. A passion she reciprocated. Wholeheartedly. She couldn’t fathom such an instantaneous attraction. But with Jeremy, she felt electricity and lust move through her entire body, just from the touch of his hand and the sound of her name spoken in his rich baritone.
The man would be thinking their flirtation would lead to sex. She should shut him down—she always had before. But with Jeremy, her body governed her head. She wanted more.
Jeremy spoke briefly with the bartender, passed him a fifty like it was a single, and motioned for Sofia to lead the way to the empty table. “So, spill.” Jeremy leaned forward on his elbows, putting his mouth dangerously close to hers. Just a few inches, and they could be kissing. “I am dying to hear your story. I want to know absolutely everything about you.” The way he lingered on the word ‘everything’ made Sofia wetter still. Oh man, she was in way over her head.
“Only if you reciprocate.” She wondered where she found her voice and her nerve. “In detail.”
“It’s a deal.,” he said, lowering his voice until she wondered what exactly he promised to share.
“It’s not some great mystery,” Sofia began, “I recently changed jobs, and I haven’t met my new boss yet.”
“Who hired you?” Jeremy leaned back in his chair, and Sofia caught the outline of his broad chest under an expensive fitted shirt.
She liked everything about him. His looks, his voice, the way his eyes undressed her without being vulgar. Desire flared in Sofia like an old friend, the warmth seeping through her blood slowly, allowing her time to recognize and savor it. She remembered he’d asked a question as he slid back into the seat, bending over the table, back in kissing range.
“Hired me?” She sounded like some airhead. “The sales manager, but over the phone. I have impeccable references if I say so myself. He was comfortable with a phone interview, and we hit it off immediately. I have a history of excellent results. He was smart to hire me.” Sofia wanted to impress, not brag. “You should snap me up yourself,” she teased.
Showing no sign of humor, Jeremy responded, “Maybe I will.” Sofia’s brows rose. Before she could probe his statement, he added, “If I ever need a sales rep, that is.”
Unreasonably disappointed, Sofia breathed an inward sigh of relief, and reminded herself that she had just met Jeremy. She knew nothing beyond the fact that he was an engineer, not her boss, and he was sexy as hell. “You’re here for the conference?”
“Yes, isn’t everyone?” Jeremy asked. “Have you been here before?”
“Devices and peripherals are new to me. How about you?”
“This isn’t my first rodeo.” He relaxed into the conversation, sipping his whiskey, and eyeing her openly. “But it might be my best.”
Sofia willed away the blush rising in her cheeks, reaching for the cocktail napkin then stopping herself before she started babbling. “Great, so you can teach me everything I need to know.”
“I’d be happy to teach you, Sofia.” Jeremy’s words dripped with double entendre.
The man was like water in an oasis.
“Last year I got divorced. Oh, wow, I can’t believe I just blurted that out. My divorce has been my dirty little secret for more than a year.”
“Why dirty? Or a secret? There’s nothing to hide,” Jeremy told her, stroking her hand again. “Fifty percent of marriages end in divorce these days.”
“Not in my family. I was the first and only,” Sofia confessed. “It did not sit well with my parents. Not at all. Even though they never liked my ex. Well, I mean, they liked him, just not for me.” Sofia took a deep breath and tried to calm down. Why was she so nervous? She had to stop talking, sharing so much.
“Well then, good riddance to him.”
Sofia liked this man, his dry sense of humor, his logical mind, the way he cut through the bull with her and talked about life and emotions intertwined with the usual fact-finding. She liked the way his gaze never strayed from her face, except to look at their hands, doing a subtle ‘touch—no-touch’ dance.
Jeremy was so relaxed and carefree. Sofia willed herself to stay seated although she was dying to jump across the table and kiss him. Instead, she savored the shared humor. Their fingers entwined and stayed that way.
“I love watching you laugh,” Jeremy admitted. “It makes me want to leap across this table and kiss you.” Sofia felt her heart stop, stutter, then start again.
“I swear I was just thinking the same thing.” Her voice barely above a whisper, Sofia felt her blood heat, her temperature rising until she nervously wrapped her hand around her hair, holding it away from her neck, hoping to cool her body. It didn’t help. She was on fire.
When Sofia lowered her hand to the table, Jeremy clasped it, drawing lazy circles with his thumb along the inside of her wrist. The strokes sent shivers across her skin, her nerve endings dancing a merry jig. She felt the response between her legs, in her toes, and everywhere in between. Jeremy placed her hand in his and drew her closer until Sofia was leaning across the table.
“Let’s get out of here,” Jeremy suggested in a growly whisper. Wow, was he that confident that she would sleep with him? He wasn’t wrong, but Sofia was disappointed that things were moving in that direction so quickly. The man was so smooth, obviously a player, but Sofia didn’t want to be just another pickup. In her whole life, she had never been a one-night stand, and although she wanted this man like a starving man wanted food, something held her back. His assuming she was a sure thing left a bad taste in her mouth.
Jeremy was already on his feet, retrieving his suit coat and extending a hand to help her up. Sofia sat, gazing into her drink, her mind and body at war. She wasn’t ready to break this budding connection, but she wasn’t prepared to follow him to his room either. She hesitated just long enough. Jeremy got the message.
“I’m sorry. I never thought to ask if you already had dinner plans. That was presumptuous of me.”
“Dinner?” Sofia stammered out the word and raised her face to his.
“What else did you have in mind?” Jeremy’s eyebrow shot up suspiciously. “What kind of boy do you think I am?”
Ethan Howe has finally got a project of his own, and he intends to use the huge real estate development to get into his powerful family’s good graces. Willow has other intentions. She intends to build a luxury bed and breakfast on the land she just purchased, land that sits smack in the middle of Ethan’s planned development. Will Willow and Ethan choose their dream projects or each other?
After Gabby coerces Avery into her crazy ‘get married or else’ dare, Avery must do the impossible, go on a date. Confident and successful at work, Avery hates making small talk, especially with men. Give her a cat any day. But Patrick is intrigued by the reticent Avery, and they share a love of cats. When he offers to teach her how to date, she walks into his trap. Love is on the table. Patrick plans to tame this feral kitten, and keep her for his own, but Avery’s need to rescue another cat might scuttle his plan.
Leah spends one crazy night with Van, a sexy, funny, elusive man. She doesn’t even get his last name. Trying to put it behind her, she focuses on art school, and her remarkable chance to live in billionaire Fletcher Donovan’s home. The house is like a museum, the missing owner is an art collector extraordinaire, in Paris showing his personal collection. But their emails create a bond that goes beyond art, until Van returns, sparking feelings Leah is unprepared to handle.
Here’s a short excerpt:
But I’d been raised on fairy tales and he fit the bill for prince charming to a tee. Movie casting couldn’t do better. Too perfect to be factual, he was perfect for any fantasy. And there he stood, as real as could be.
Who was this magic man, you might wonder? I wondered myself, even as I considered that the alcohol and the distance might cause him to appear more flawless than he was. Cause he was dazzling. Take my breath away, make my heart explode through my chest dazzling. He was the requisite tall, dark, and stunningly handsome in a tux that framed his broad shoulders to perfection. From here, his eyes looked smoky, his smile crooked, and his chin stubborn.
The distance could have magnified his appeal, but I was not imagining or exaggerating how the nonpareil across the ballroom was staring at me as if he would devour me. I felt his eyes like a physical thing, which was why I noticed him. Who was I kidding? Of course, I noticed him. He was gorgeous, sexy, and alone.
Alone?
There was no woman clinging to his arm, not even in the vicinity. Plenty of females and many of the men were watching him, but none approached. Was he a stranger to everyone as I was? Or could they read his expression—the one that read “Go away. I am in pursuit of a woman across the room and will not be deterred?”
The man made the noise and commotion of the party fade. I saw only him and heard nothing but the sound of my breath coming swift and shallow. My feet stopped hurting; my body felt light as air. I was floating on a cloud of desire, longing for this man from fifty paces.
Unbelievable, right? He was movie-star handsome, hair glistening under the overhead lights, creating an aura about him. His skin was bronzed despite the lack of sun. Chicago. Winter. Yeah, the rest of us were pale as ghosts, but he was sun-kissed, and not with a phony spray tan. I squinted, hoping to see the size of his hands, but the dancing couples blocked my view.
It gets better. His eyes were still fixated on me. I resisted the urge to whirl around to ensure he wasn’t ogling a supermodel standing right behind me. Instead, I delved into my memory. Had we met before? He looked familiar, but I would never forget being lucky enough to share a moment in his presence.
Then he smiled at me, like a Rodin statue come to life. He had features a painter might try to capture but couldn’t. His smile was more cryptic and enticing than the Mona Lisa’s, with a touch of wickedness and a lot of invitation. Across the width of a football field, I felt him luring me into something hot and promising. It gave me goosebumps, and wet panties, and held me transfixed.
Trust me, I was picturing him naked, but not so I could draw him. The room was cool, and my dress left a significant amount of skin exposed, but I felt warm all over, hot between my thighs. My palms were sweaty. When he nodded at me with a knowing grin, my blood sizzled as if he were running his fingertips over my skin, fondling my breasts. My nipples pressed against the dress, arousing and intimate.
He broke eye contact when a gorgeous redhead stepped up and grasped his arm, clinging as if she owned it.
The noise and chaos of the room flooded back, along with my common sense. The man was taken and invited to this party. That made him rich, powerful, political, famous, or all four. I was none, and frankly didn’t aspire to traveling in that exalted world.
Not that the mystery man couldn’t change my mind. He could, no doubt about it.
“Earth to Leah.”
I needed a good fantasy. The School of the Art Institute was grueling, and until graduation, I’d sworn off men, sleep, and anything else that stole time away from class. That movie moment would have to suffice until I graduated.
“See something you like?” my friend teased.
“Maybe.” The moment was too perfect to share.
“C’mon, spill.”
“It was nothing. He’s taken. I was only looking.”
“Yeah, like the shark in Jaws was only out for a swim. I’m surprised you didn’t leave a puddle where you were standing.”
I made a classy, if pedantic, retort. “Don’t be crass.”
“Tell me you weren’t imagining a man situated between your legs, doing wonderful things to your body.” My friend saw through me. “Maybe we should find you someone to take home.”
“Who’s going home with someone?” Our host joined us, smelling juicy gossip like a bloodhound.
“No one. Can we please change the subject?” I begged.
“Yeah, talk about Donovan.” Huntley said the name like she might say “Kennedy.” “Tell her more about her potential landlord.”
“Not a chance Fletcher Donovan would let me stay in his house. You said yourself that his place is a museum.”
“Or a mausoleum, I’ll try, Leah, but he’ll likely say no. Very particular about his space. Actually, very particular about everything. Try not to get your hopes up.”
Not my night. First, my dream man had a redhead, then a man with the money of Bill Gates and an empty, rent-free house was a longshot. I felt his private art collection slip through my fingers like a physical ache.
Sofia’s cousin Veronika has bided her time at a small town daily when she lands the position of press liaison for sexy, millionaire and gubernatorial candidate Jack Cooper. The man is all charisma, but Ronni is determined to focus on her career. Then her idol, top ranked, Emmy awarding winning anchorman, Spencer Maddox implies her candidate is dirty, and asks her to help take down his campaign. Ronni is torn between staying loyal to her boss, who may not deserve it, and finding the truth in tandem with a brilliant, sexy, journalist who stole her heart.
And down the road? More from the All’s Crazy in Love series!
We still don’t have a winner for our dare, and there are six more novels left in the All’s Crazy in Love series. Four of the stories will revolve around the original Crazy Eights and lead to a winner on the marriage mart. The remaining two books will be stories involving friends and family of the Crazy Eights, giving my girls extra chances to meddle in people’s lives.
Coming next?
Melanie and Maverick’s story. The attraction between Melanie and Cubs star pitcher Maverick began in Crazy to Dream. In Crazy to Score, they balance the dissolution of Melanie’s marriage, and its impact on her two pre-teen children, with Maverick’s demanding schedule and adoring fans—perhaps too adoring?
In Acting Crazy you’ll watch widow Sydney cope with loss on a grand, and secretive scale until her sister Jules sends her away for an overdue vacation. Meanwhile, Broadway star Aron has his own reasons to hide away. When they find each other on a transatlantic cruise, they help each other to trust again, and to heal. But will the sparks only fly until the ship docks?
There is Harper’s story when she finally breaks off her very long engagement, and the question of whether Rachel can ever settle down with just one person. So much more All’s Crazy in Love to come.
Want to start at the beginning? Grab a copy of Crazy to Wed, but all the books can be read standalone, so if one tickles your fancy, start there!
September 5, 2025
Meet the heroes of Crazy Loves Crazy Lies
Meet the heroes of Crazy Loves Crazy Lies
September 12th is right around the corner, and I can’t wait!
Why? Because it is the day I finally launch the next book in my All’s Crazy in Love series. This series about eight brilliant, meddling and totally lovable women who call themselves the ‘Crazy Eights,’ is full of humor, angst, sexy and romance, tons and tons of romance.
And Crazy Loves Crazy Lies is no different. A love triangle, second chance romance set against the backdrop of a political campaign, this is a story unlike any I have written before. It has a ‘ripped from the headlines’ feeling, while remaining a timeless, enemies-to-lovers tale.
A Little of the Plot for Crazy Loves Crazy Lies
Meet Veronika, young cousin to Sofia, the hero of Crazy to Believe. Ronni has just landed a job as press liaison for rising star Jack Cooper, a millionaire who aspires to being the next governor of Illinois. The candidate is too good to be true until ace reporter Spencer Maddox begins uncovering Jack’s true self. What’s a girl to do?
Two powerful and very sexy men are pulling her in two opposing directions. Loyal to one, desiring the other, Ronni must decide if she is the journalist she wants to be, a woman in pursuit of the truth, or a loyal employee who wants her candidate elected.
And how can she choose when her heart and her head pull her in different directions?
______
An Excerpt from Crazy Loves Crazy Lies
I had it all under control—until I got the voicemail.
I mean, it wasn’t every day that Spencer Maddox, Emmy Award-winning journalist, left a voice message in that polished, anchorman voice of his, asking to spend a week with my candidate. A week! The exposure was irresistible. The same butterflies that had kept me awake all last night fluttered in my stomach just recalling it. Not in a good way.
Normally I would be beside myself at the prospect of working beside Spencer Maddox. It was every journalist’s dream. The guy was charismatic as hell, smarter than anyone in the business and outrageously successful before age thirty-five. He was a legend, one I never dreamed I’d have the chance to meet again, although I’d hoped. But not like this. He wanted something, and I knew in my gut, what was good for Spencer Maddox would be bad for my boss, and that meant it would be dreadful for me.
Spending a week working with Spencer Maddox would be equivalent to a year at a leading journalism school, maybe more. I’d be watching cable’s leading anchorman and top investigative journalist in action. Unfortunately, he would dig into my candidate. He wasn’t interested in Jack because he was a rising star; he was interested in taking him down. That’s what he did. Spencer Maddox wouldn’t be asking for a full week on the story if he didn’t already have a lead on something big enough to be Emmy Award worthy.
And there was no way I would shake Spencer. The exposure would be irresistible to Jack, and since he swore he was squeaky clean, the candidate wouldn’t be afraid of the damage Spencer Maddox could do. But I was.
I couldn’t do battle at this level. Not even close. Not with our history.
I’d been press liaison for barely a month. Jack Cooper was at the top of his game, leaving his opposition in the dust, and why not? He was the better candidate on the issues, and he excelled in public. Jack kept policy information at his fingertips and was inexhaustible despite ridiculously long days and nights crisscrossing the state. He charmed little old ladies, won over tough blue-collar workers, and convinced minorities he was their man.
He was winning over the voters, despite remaining tight-lipped about his personal life. They responded to his serious demeanor, although I felt he could use a bit more humor. He impressed them with his business acumen and his outline for improving the lives of the people of Illinois.
His brilliant mind and compassion wowed me as well. It didn’t hurt that he was too handsome to be real, always impeccably dressed, with broad shoulders, long strides, and nary a hair out of place. Coop was confident to the point of arrogance, but charming all the same. He wanted to make the world a better place. He was my perfect Prince Charming. Of course, he had my vote.
My career was on the rise, and the compliments Jack threw my way fed my pitiful requirement for positive feedback and served as my only source of a social life. He dropped vague hints of staying with the team after the election, and I considered it a possibility instead of returning to my dream of reporting.
Spencer Maddox was going to ruin all of that.
The award-winning journalist should improve my career odds by exposing me to a week spent following a master in his native habitat. I mean, the man was a big deal. But sadly, he was one I was unskilled in handling, and he was hellbent on destroying my candidate and with him, my career. Up all night, I had yet to figure out how to stop this freight train.
Until I returned last night’s phone call, until I learned more, I was at a loss. It wouldn’t matter. I wouldn’t be able to rein Jack in. If I were in his shoes, I guess I would do the same, but as his advisor, my gut warned against walking into this. Wouldn’t matter. Jack would still say yes.
Of course, he would. And that was the problem.
It was barely seven when my cell phone jangled in my pocket. I knew it was Spencer Maddox. Not a lowly staff person but the man himself.
If he were the President of the United States, I couldn’t have been more nervous. My palms grew sweaty; my heart sped up. Spencer Maddox was calling me. Again. Spencer Maddox. The reason I chose a career in communications. A god among men was calling me. A man I loathed.
I let it ring as I moved past the volunteer putting a tally board on the south wall, ready to capture today’s activity., The local story that ran last night was flattering, and we expected it to generate donor magic today.
The phone quieted, only to jangle again moments later. Even by the standards of his fast-paced world, Spencer Maddox hadn’t given me time to return his call from ten o’clock last night. Did he expect me to call him before I went to bed? I guessed journalists worked around the clock if they wanted to keep hosting the top-rated news show in America.
I reached for the handset on the office phone to dial the number displayed on my cell. I wanted my cell free for texting Coop if I needed to. I was beginning negotiations and needed to keep my head. I needed to remember this man and I were adversaries no matter how much I revered his skill.
Not quite ready to deal with him, I planted my butt on the edge of the office chair in front of me, grabbed a pencil, and opened my portfolio. The second call stopped only to start again. The man was relentless and annoying. My foot started jiggling under the desk. When I almost lost my balance, I scooted back on the seat more firmly.
Okay, Ronni, you are about to match wits with a reporter known for his investigative reporting. He’ll be digging for something. Spencer Maddox is calling for a reason, and he won’t be honest about it. Prepare yourself to play cat and mouse.
The burden was on me to read between the lines. I’d stalled as long as I could, but he continued to call. Whatever he wanted, Spencer Maddox wanted it badly. I took a deep breath and punched the numbers too hard, snapping a fingernail. I’m sure he could hear the annoyance in my voice as I spoke. “Mr. Maddox? Veronika Gorelick returning your call.”
“I’ve left you a dozen messages, Ms. Gorelick,” a deep, gravelly voice I would recognize anywhere vibrated with matching irritation. He drew out my name as if he were taunting me. My pulse sped up. I barely had time to register the fact that I was actually speaking with Spencer Maddox after all these years. I was still star-struck, and I knew it. It was crucial Spencer Maddox not know that. I could only hope he’d forgotten me.
“It’s Ronni. You’ve only left one, and we both know it.” The lie settled me down surprisingly. “What can I do for you, Mr. Maddox?”
“No pleasantries? Fine. And it’s Spencer.”
“What can I do for you, Spencer?” I asked, rolling the name around in my mouth, liking the feel and sound of it, eager to say it again.
He hesitated long enough to make me wonder what he was going to say before he finally replied. “Like I said in my message, I want a week with your candidate. Full access.” Something about the way he uttered those last two words sounded sexual.
“Full access?” I screeched. So much for calm. Sitting up too fast, I almost lost my balance, dropped the phone with a thud, and kicked my shoe under the desk. As if he could see it all, Spencer Maddox laughed, a wicked snicker that sent electricity pulsing through my nerves. There was something about his laugh that made me forget for a moment who he was, who I was, confusing me. Oh my, oh my.
There was a long pause while I worked to recall what we were discussing. I couldn’t get past that laugh and its effect on me.
I remembered everything I had read, heard and knew about the man, about the trail of broken hearts forsaken wherever he worked, including mine. One laugh and my humiliation came flooding back. I knew Spencer was gorgeous, and now there was that rich, rumbling voice, that roguish laugh. I was certain Spencer Maddox knew exactly how to please a woman, and how to toy with one. My head forgot about the negotiations, already outmaneuvered. I was doomed.
“Full access,” he reminded me. It took me a second to recollect we had been discussing political news coverage.
I sat up straighter, pushing against the back of the chair, as if that would make me more professional. “You said nothing about that level of access in your voicemail. Why would you need that?” I regained my composure and finally behaved as a seasoned press liaison would. “And why would I be stupid enough to grant it?”
“Because I am offering your candidate a week of coverage on the number one cable news program in America. I know your man. We went to Brown together. We both know when you take this to him, he’ll jump at the chance for national exposure. His ego is too damn big to turn it down.”
“He doesn’t understand that you’re not here to flatter him. I do.”
“Coop’s not stupid,” Spencer replied, his tone implying that I was the fool for even suggesting it. “He knows the reporting I do. It will be hard-hitting, but it will be fair.”
I knew I was fighting a losing battle. Jack would never turn down a week with Spencer Maddox, and we both knew it. Spencer was right; his ego was too big. Jack Cooper believed nothing could touch him, doing as well as he was this close to election day, even if he had something to worry about. And the man was ambitious. A week of coverage on a show like Spencer Maddox’s would reach millions of people, businesspeople and voters. Coop would never pass up that opportunity. Pretending this was a negotiation any longer would only make me look ridiculous. I cut to the chase. “What is it you have on Jack Cooper, Mr. Maddox?”
“Spencer.” His voice was low, almost, but not quite a whisper. Definitely an invitation. Did the man do this intentionally, to keep me off balance, or was flirtation so inbred he couldn’t help himself?
I had to keep my wits about me. He was already winning the professional battle. If I allowed him to get under my skin personally as well, I’d never be able to work with this man. And I really wanted a chance to learn from him professionally.
First, I would stop calling him Spencer. I just couldn’t, not when I needed to play hardball. Even thinking of him that way conjured images of lingering smiles, smoldering looks, a gradual building of a relationship built on deep conversations about world events, a mutual love of news reporting, politics, sex, and each other. And rejection.
OMG, how did I get here so fast?
I shook my head and thought of Spencer Maddox as the man who wrote Pulitzer prize winning memoirs, won Emmys, the respected newsman sitting behind an anchor desk instead of the man flirting with me to get his way. If I wanted to be taken seriously as a journalist, as a political operative, by a man of his stature, an international superstar, a bestselling author, newsworthy in his own right and America’s number one anchorman, I had to behave like one myself, not like a love-struck groupie.
“What is the story, Mr. Maddox?” My voice was all business. “Because we both know you wouldn’t bother with the Illinois gubernatorial race unless you had something newsworthy on a national scale.”
“Rumors are swirling, Ms. Gorelick.” Ah, so he was being formal, too. It seemed we were both preparing for battle. The gloves were off. “And what is that old cliché? Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.”
Damn those butterflies. They returned to my belly with a vengeance, wings fluttering wildly. I wasn’t sure if it was from Spencer’s threats or the unmistakable flirtation in his baritone when he said, ‘There’s fire.’ He was playing with me.
I was so far over my head I might as well be at the bottom of an abandoned mineshaft.
I needed to hold it together with this man of all people. I had seen Spencer Maddox go for the jugular, night after night, on national television. He could tear me to shreds in seconds if he wanted to. But so far, he was playing footsie, flirting.
“What exactly are you thinking?”
“Right now?” he joked.
“Spencer, be serious.”
“If I must, Veronika,” he said, caressing my name. “I’m expecting an in-depth series on Jack Cooper, the candidate and the man. We would discuss his past, his present, his finances, his love life, and all his policy positions. Of course, our team would dig for inconsistencies, flip-flops, and dirt in our reporting. We would look into his business, his charity, the works.”
“Would you just call me, Ronni. Is that everything?” I asked, sarcasm dripping from my words.
“Well, I expect that somewhere we would find a chink in your white knight’s armor. A big one. And we would expose it.”
Of course, he would. A man of Spencer Maddox’s stature wouldn’t be asking for a week with Coop unless he already had something nasty on the candidate or was close to putting his mitts on it. But I couldn’t refuse.
“And that would be all?”
My job was to be one step ahead of the man, of the entire press. Yet as hard as I dug, so far, I’d found nothing to mar Jack Cooper’s unblemished image. He was perfect. In fact, I was admittedly a little in love with this man who was smart, handsome, rich, and driven, from wholesome farm-boy roots, now polished to perfection. Except for Jack Cooper’s secretive exterior, he was exactly the type of man I was looking for.
If there was nothing for the newsman to find, why was I so worried?
Maybe because Spencer Maddox was renowned for his interviewing style but was also quite the ladies’ man, dubbed the James Bond of Journalism. Killer newsman on screen, ladies’ man off. I’d just experienced him turn on a low-level flirtation with me during a five-minute phone call, and we had a history, such as it was, so I certainly believed the rumors. I’d also heard he was a spy for the CIA, using his journalism credentials as a cover.
I could envision him as a spy, a superstar, superman. I forgot the risk he posed, dazzled by his laughter and flirtatious ways. There was a long lull in the conversation. He wasn’t answering my direct question, leaving my mind time to wander. My nerves calmed, but I was back to focusing on Spencer Maddox the man, instead of the threat, while my pipedreams of a romance between us ran amok.
“You’re awfully quiet, Ronni.”
“You didn’t answer my question.”
“No, I didn’t.” Smooth. The man was so smooth. “I didn’t think I needed to. I thought we understood one another. Let’s move on.”
I chided myself to get it together. Holding the phone closer to my ear, I chose my words carefully. “Mr. Maddox, the candidate is a very busy man, and I cannot presume that this series of interviews would be in his best interest.” My voice came out snappier than intended.
The line was quiet but only briefly, and then I heard that low snicker that rattled my nerves. I was no competition for Spencer Maddox, and he knew it.
“I can almost hear those wheels turning, Ronni. What will I tell my boss, you’re wondering? After all, this is Spencer Maddox asking for access. He has the number one news show in America. How can I turn down an opportunity like this? Why would he want to follow my candidate unless he’s up to something, right? So, what is he up to?”’
Weren’t those my exact thoughts? I wanted to wipe the smug grin off this man’s face, and I couldn’t even see it. “Oh, shut up,” I groaned instead.
“Let me make this easy for you,” he continued, triumph in his tone. “I believe Jack Cooper is hiding dark secrets, and I intend to uncover them and expose him. But we also know that much as you might want to, there is no way you are refusing my request. If you take it to Jack Cooper, he’ll think he can beat me, game the system. He’ll jump at the chance to put his accomplishments on full display. He’s not as cautious as you are.”
“He should be.” I hadn’t meant to say the words out loud.
“Learning quickly, aren’t you? But your candidate insists there is nothing for me to find, right? So, he’ll get what he wants—exposure. And I’ll give you two advantages I wouldn’t give just anyone.”
“Why?” I was suspicious. Rightly so.
“Let’s just say I like you and leave it at that.” He liked me? Now I really was disbelieving. And ridiculously excited—a schoolgirl getting a note from the boy she was crushing on.
“You don’t even know me,” I blurted out without thinking.
Another long pause. “Don’t you want the deal? I think you do, Ronni. Take it or leave it.”
“Do I have a choice?”
“Ronni, relax.” I could feel myself responding to his confidence and humor. The man was killing me.
“Those wheels are churning again. You have three weeks. Imagine what you might find in twenty-one whole days.” And then he laughed, a full-bodied, deep laugh. A laugh that made you want to laugh along with him. “I’ll give you full access to me if that helps.”’
My insides turned to jelly. The woman in me responded to his voice, his laugh, his confidence, and the innuendo. The press liaison in me recognized that he’d won, and he knew it.
“Full access to you, huh? And just what would that look like?”
The line was quiet. I could hear Spencer Maddox breathing. Had I left the brilliant man of words speechless?
“Looking forward to working with you, Ronni. I’ll send over the paperwork today.”
The phone went dead. Damn the man; he never even waited for my answer.
Some extraordinarily successful and impressive men surrounded me. I was playing in the big-time now.
Yesterday, I would have said Jack Cooper hung the moon. Now, I wondered if Spencer Maddox might hang the stars. And how was I lucky enough to travel in their exalted orbits?
Then reality smacked me between the eyes. I hung up the receiver and dug for my shoe. I wouldn’t travel in their circle. Instead, I would search for a new job after I got fired from this one.
Spencer Maddox was going to dance circles around me and then sink my candidate somehow, and I only had three weeks to stop it. I needed to get help fast. If I didn’t get Coop to open up to me further about his past, I wouldn’t know how to prep him. Without that information, Spencer Maddox would eat him alive.
I had no clue where Spencer Maddox was digging, and less than a month to find out. It was time to stop being swayed by their good looks and allure — time to concentrate on my job for five minutes.
Why did powerful men have to be so damn sexy and delicious while they held the ability to destroy my life?
______
Ready to Read More?
Crazy Loves Crazy Lies is available for preorder on Amazon. Order your copy here.
Prefer a paperback? Watch this space for an update on availability later this year.
To start the All’s Crazy in Love series from the beginning, begin with Crazy to Wed, and meet all the Crazy Eights.
May 23, 2025
4 Proven Successful Book Launch Timelines
Book Launches. As I said in part one of this two-part series, they come is as many flavors as there are authors, depending on the author’s timing, budget and even purpose. Purpose, you might ask? Is this a debut novel launch for a first-time author? The launch will certainly roll out differently than one for a series that is being rapid released.
But just as there are some foundational strategies to every launch, if you study author’s launch timelines, you will find a lot of overlap, especially the closer to actual launch day you get.
So here are a few launch timelines that have been published and shared by some of my favorite experts, followed by a timeline recommendation of my own. I hope you find them helpful.
Bestselling author Debbie Macomber has been launching books successfully long enough to have tested what works and what doesn’t and she uses a six-month book launch checklist that she shared with Bookbub.
Pre-launch includes: At 6-months she posts a cover reveal and synopsis to her website, email her list about the upcoming book and updates her author profile. At 3-months, Debbie creates bonus content and artwork, creates giveaways for Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) and shares early reviews in marketing materials. This is also when she sends ARCs to major publications. At 1-month pre-launch, Debbie pumps up her social media including countdown social posts, Pinterest boards and book trailers.
Launch day Debbie sends a newsletter, updates her social media headers and posts celebratory social posts and then after the launch she runs multi-author promotions, book tours, giveaways, and ongoing she’ll celebrate with her readers.
What can you take away for your launch from Debbie?
SELF PUBLISHING ROADMAP’S 2 MONTHS, GUESTING
Joel Friedlander of Self Publishing Roadmap used a different approach and timeline for launches than Debbie, relying more on guest posting and podcasts. In only two month’s he suggests a complete launch rollout.
Two months before launch he recommends you plan your email campaign, put out your requests for reviews and start posting on social media. Note, this is a full month sooner than Debbie is on social media, just for comparison. This is also when Joel suggests you design your giveaways, write guest posts and begin booking with media.
One month before your launch, Self Publishing Roadmap recommends you start submitting those guest posts, decide if you will use KDP Select (see my wide or KDP blog post here) and send out invites for your launch event—yep, you read that right. There is a launch event in this rollout.
In the next few weeks, this launch timeline includes continuous emails and arranging or beginning blog posts, podcasts, and blog tours. Ideally, you will kick these all off with an event on launch day itself, which is announced with a lot of social media.
Jami Albright Does the Ninety Day LaunchRomance writer Jami Albright, author of Running from a Rock Star and one of my favorite authors, wrote a countdown to launch that she did in only 90 days, perfect for people like me, who wait too long to get started on their launch.
Three months before launch day she put her latest romance on Goodreads, suggesting you can do the same with a temporary cover if necessary. Then one month later she did a romance specific release blitz. Jami used Give me Books.
At 21-days, Jami posted teasers, at two-weeks she did a cover reveal and giveaway on social media, put the book up for preorder and sent ARC copies on to her Advanced Reader Team. Note, there is nothing here about building her advanced reader team because Jami is already a successful author. Likewise, there is nothing about building an email list. Obviously, a first time author can’t skip those steps and expect a plan like Jami’s to succeed the first time they attempt it.
Ten days before until release day, Jami posted a countdown with a catchy graphic like this one and she ASKED for likes, shares, and comments. So many of us forget to ask our readers for help when we need it. Jami asked her readers to make the book at TBR on Goodreads or add it to their Bookbub wishlist. Smart!
The week of the launch Jami got those ARC copies to her early readers and set up a Goodreads giveaway, looking for early reviews and momentum. She kept that going on launch day with an Amazon gift card giveaway and advertising and followed up after the launch with her email list.
Maddy’s 90-Day Book Launch Timeline – Wishlist and RealistHaving studied these and so many other launch timelines, and knowing myself what I can and cannot get done ahead of time, here is my own recommended 90-day launch timeline. It’s a combination wishlist and realism, with a limited budget.
This assumes I already have a list and a plan to keep building my list regularly. That’s important because I will use that list to build an ARC team.
60-90 Days Lay the Foundation
Finalize launch date and distribution platforms (Amazon, IngramSpark, etc.) Build your launch team (beta readers, ARC readers, influencers) Prepare media kit (book blurb, author bio, headshot, cover image) Update website book page Plan your content calendar for emails and social posts Decide and if appropriate set up your pre-order Create a teaser campaign (e.g. quotes, aesthetic reels, character intros) Reach out to book bloggers/bookstagrammers for potential features
30-60 Days Build Anticipation
Send ARCs to your launch team and early reviewers Begin pre-order promo (if available: run giveaways or offer bonus content) Announce your book publicly with a launch date Start countdown posts (e.g. “60 days until…”) Secure guest blog posts, podcast interviews, or local media coverage Schedule and draft newsletter content for the next month Set up Goodreads page and add your book to relevant lists Start scheduling ads (Facebook, Amazon, BookBub if budget allows)
0-30 Days Before Launch Hype the Book and Engage
Host a cover reveal (or repost if already done) Post book quotes, character art, and sneak peeks Schedule your virtual launch party or in-person event Send reminder to ARC readers for reviews Start TikTok/Instagram reels with bookish trendsOffer newsletter-exclusive bonus (like a deleted scene or extra chapter)Run multi-author promotions and swaps Confirm logistics: ebook and print files uploaded, distribution checkedLaunch Week Celebrate, and keep the momentum going.
Launch Day! Post everywhere: socials, newsletter, book groups Engage and ask for comments, shares, and DMs all week Ask for reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub Run a limited-time promo or giveaway Share user-generated content (screenshots, reels, unboxings) Go live or do a story Q&A about the book Thank your launch team and ARC readers publicly7–30 Days After Launch Sustain Interest, Build long-term fans
Send follow-up newsletter with thank-you note and next steps Offer sneak peek of your next book Reshare great reviews or influencer shoutouts Submit to contests or book review sites Multi-author promos and swaps, ads where budget allows Plan long-term content (monthly newsletters, fan Q&A, exclusive shorts)May 9, 2025
Crush Your Book Launch: 12 Tips You’ll Want to Try
There are as many ways to launch a book as there are books, as many budgets, as many reasons. Is this your first book launch? You’ll have different needs than someone launching book five of a series that has a strong following. Are you launching with the help of a PR firm or influencers? Do you have incredible social media savvy? All of this will matter.
But if you have none of this, then your best friend is time. Which is why this post is about launch strategies, but part two, my next post, will be about recommendations for launch schedules.
Fifteen is a lot of suggestions, so don’t expect to tackle them all. Pick the ones that resonate with you and your needs, and of course, your budget. Maybe three or four to begin with? For example, you may not be starting early, but you can still create a timeline, or you might combine your cover reveal and teasers. You might not have the bandwidth to run a street team early in your career. Fine, table that one for a future release.
With the notion that this isn’t one size fits all, let’s dive into some of the proven strategies that help a book launch succeed.
1. Build an Author Platform EarlyIf you have the time, start your launch activities at least 6–12 months in advance. If you haven’t already, create a professional website with a blog or news section, or begin a newsletter on Substack. Start growing your email list with a compelling lead magnet (like a short story, a chapter or sneak peek), and choose one or two social media platforms where you feel comfortable. This is important because you will need to post and respond consistently. This is all about networking, about building genuine connections, and not just selling. If you can connect with other authors, great, but this is about finding readers and getting them interested in you and your book long before it hits the shelves.
2. Create a Launch TimelineIt is super important to think about and map out a detailed launch calendar, especially if you plan to use several of the strategies listed in this post. I will offer more about recommended timelines in my next post (part 2 of this launch post special). You will need to consider pre-launch, launch week and post-launch activities and note the deadlines required for tasks like distributions to your Street Team, making sure you have teasers and covers ready for your reveals, and social media posts and videos are set for your campaigns. Launches include a lot of moving parts, and keeping a timeline keeps all of these in order.
3. Create Bonus ContentBonus content makes readers feel special and gives them a reason to subscribe to your mailing list. Ideas include a prequel short story, character playlists, maps, artwork, or behind-the-scenes content. Make it easily downloadable or deliver it via an automated welcome email. Remember that your readers are bombarded by emails and you need to stand out. Get creative.
4. Use a Pre-Order StrategyDecide if you plan to offer your book for pre-order. Many authors believe that a pre-order can help with sales that count toward your launch day rankings on platforms like Amazon. If you can, include bonus content or an incentive to encourage early buyers, should you choose to go this route.
5. Run a Cover Reveal EventYou can make a big deal out of revealing your cover. Turn it into an event by planning a coordinated release across multiple accounts, offering a giveaway tied to the reveal, and by hyping it up in the days leading up to the announcement on social media, on your website and in your newsletter Consider using a cover reveal tour service to amplify reach.
6. Create a Teaser CampaignLike your cover reveal, you can hype your story by teasing it out to your readers in advance. I like to share character descriptions, quotes and snippets from the book, the book description or blurb and teasers as far in advance as I can, beginning with my newsletter, for preferred readers and ending on social media for a wider audience. Remember to use consistent branding and hashtags as you spread teasers across social media, your email newsletter, and even your website banner.
7. Build a Street TeamDo you want to get early readers and reviewers for your book? I love when this comes together, but I’ll be honest, managing a street team is a lot of work. First, you must invite people to join, more people than you expect to actually participate. Then you must send them regular correspondence, as well as provide them with exclusive materials: early access to the book, quote graphics, promotional images, and sample social media posts. Keeping them engaged via a private Facebook group is another option, but again, it takes a lot of your attention.
There are other ways to get reviews besides using a street team. You can send ARCs (Advanced Reader Copies) 4–6 weeks before launch to key reviewers on Goodreads, book blogs, TikTok (BookTok), and Instagram (Bookstagram), podcasters and book bloggers. Include a call to action in your ARC email asking for an honest review on Amazon, Goodreads or Bookbub (or all three) right after release.
Similarly, you can reach out to micro-influencers in your genre for partnerships. Offer them free copies in exchange for honest reviews or aesthetic content. Some may agree to interviews, reels, or TikTok vlogs. Be respectful of their time—build relationships, not just transactions.
Pick a date and promote it widely. During the event, do a live reading, host Q&As, run giveaways, and share behind-the-scenes stories. Use platforms your audience already uses (Instagram Live, Facebook Live, Zoom, etc.), and record the event for those who can’t attend live. Invite other authors and friends to help you launch. Wear festive clothing. Be sure to keep that party vibe going.
10. Tap into Book Communities, Book Bloggers, and PodcastsGet active before you want to promote your book in communities like Reddit’s r/books, Goodreads groups, and Facebook genre groups. Share your writing journey, ask for feedback, and participate in conversations. When the time is right, announce your book to an audience that already knows and trusts you and you will not appear self-promoting.
Create a media kit (author bio, headshot, book blurb, and sample questions) and use it to pitch yourself to book bloggers, local newspapers, and podcast hosts whose audiences align with your book’s genre or themes. Offer a unique angle—like a personal story or how your book relates to current events. Don’t limit yourself to book sites. If your book is about food, consider food bloggers, about gardening, gardening podcasts. You get the idea.
11. Use Book Promotion SitesI love using paid promotions around launch week or shortly after. Sites like BookBub (especially Featured Deals), Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, and BookSends help me expose my book to thousands of readers. Consider stacking promotions across multiple sites for maximum impact. Choose the promotion sites that best fit your book’s genre and your budget.
Gold Cup is standing on a pile of books. Stock vector illustration.12. Submit to Awards or ListsConsider applying for awards like the Indie Book Awards, Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards, or genre-specific contests or submitting to curated book lists on blogs, magazines, or platforms like BookLife and Kirkus. If you win or are shortlisted, it will increase your credibility and visibility, opening additional doors for your launch.
After the LaunchAfter launch week, don’t go silent. Remember, there are post-launch phase activities too, that are just as important as launch phase activities. Don’t overlook them!
Send thank-you notes to your street team, influencers, and early reviewers. Continue posting about reader reactions, new reviews, or awards. Tease your next project and keep engaging your audience with fresh content like Instagram Lives or serialized fiction. Remember, it’s about connecting with your readers, and that means you cannot always be in sell mode. Keep connecting with news and updates about this book and your upcoming works, sharing the successes of people in your network, give a shout out to your readers. Keep the momentum going.
Additional Reading: How to Market Your Romance Novel: Strategies for AuthorsThis comprehensive guide from Lulu.com emphasizes the importance of author branding and community building.
14 Book Launch Strategies to Build Buzz and Excite Readers
Authorversity,com outlines a 14-step plan to generate excitement for your book launch, many of which I included above.
April 25, 2025
KDP Select Versus Wide Distribution? Best to Try Both!
If you’ve been following my newsletter (subscribe here) the last month or so, you know that I have been evaluating my options with regard to Amazon’s KDP Select Program, and wide distribution through platforms like Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and so many others. I sent a survey to my readers asking them which platform they preferred. Of course, they were divided right down the middle. So, I am making a change, shifting some of my books from Kindle Unlimited to wide distribution. This is a big risk for me, since most of my sales today are in fact on KU.
That led me to wonder, if I look at it dispassionately, what are the pros and cons of KU vs wide?
Because, let’s be honest, which an author chooses can shape their career, and most authors I know agonize over this decision at one time or another in their career. To help reduce the distress, here is my list of the pros and cons of each choice, to help you make an informed decision.
KDP Select is Amazon’s exclusive program for eBooks. The key word in that sentence being exclusive. By enrolling, an author is committing to distributing their digital book only on Amazon for 90-days. Every 90-days they are asked to recommit or renew and Amazon defaults to having an author auto-renew, forcing them to remember to opt out. Amazon is very strict about their exclusivity rules, but the rewards are worth it to authors who go this route.
During that period, the writer gets access to some terrific promotional tools as well as Amazon’s subscription service, Kindle Unlimited (KU). And without a doubt, Amazon remains the biggest retailer for books in the world.
✅ Included during the 90-day Enrollment Period:
Access to Kindle Unlimited: This is critical, since many readers purchase a Kindle Unlimited Subscription and books can earn royalties through pages read by KU subscribers.Promotional Tools: Including Kindle Countdown Deals and up to 5 days of free book promotions.Increased Visibility: Amazon often boosts KU books in its rankings and recommendations.Simplicity: Managing one platform can be easier than handling several, especially for new and busy authors.❌ Disadvantages to being in KDP Select:Exclusivity Clause: You cannot sell your eBook anywhere else—not even on your own website. You cannot even give your book away for free in a promotion, or as a reader magnet.Dependence on Amazon: If Amazon changes its policies, your revenue could be impacted.No Presence on Other Major Retailers: You miss out on audiences who read on non-Kindle platforms, although admittedly, Amazon has the lion’s share of the market presently. 🟩 Should You Consider Going Wide?When we use the term ‘wide distribution’ we are talking about an author offering their book across multiple platforms such as Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, or libraries as well as direct sales from your own website.
The short answer is that you need to look at your own goals, your own abilities and decide what is best for you. Some short answers:
GoalBest OptionMaximize short-term revenueKDP SelectBuild a long-term author brandWideSimplify publishing & test watersKDP SelectReach global + non-Amazon readersWideTap into Kindle UnlimitedKDP SelectRetain full publishing controlWide
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. KDP Select can offer explosive exposure and convenience, while going wide lays the groundwork for long-term success and independence. Consider your priorities—speed vs. sustainability, reach vs. simplicity—and don’t be afraid to pivot as your career evolves.
Pro Tip: Start with one book in KDP Select while planning your series or backlist for wide distribution. That way, you can test the waters without missing out on either opportunity.
Some authors, including me, use a hybrid approach—starting with KDP Select to build momentum, then going wide after gaining reviews and visibility, or going between the two regularly, or putting some of their books in KU but releasing others wide.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. KDP Select can offer explosive exposure and convenience, while going wide lays the groundwork for long-term success and independence.
I considered my readers and my priorities and decided to do a pivot, to take a chance. I am taking my backlist, my Beguiling Bachelor series wide, and leaving my All’s Crazy in Love series, which is current and still in the works, on KU.
By going wide with the Bachelors, I get to announce their release, almost like a new launch, and potentially reach a new audience. I am able to run a test of sorts, and I can always pivot back to KU down the road.
That’s the nice thing about this choice—it’s not carved in stone.
Pro Tip: Start with one book in KDP Select while planning your series or backlist for wide distribution. That way, you can test the waters without missing out on either opportunity
KDP Unlimited Versus Wide Distribution? Best to Try Both!
KDP Unlimited Versus Wide Distribution? Best to Try Both
If you’ve been following my newsletter (subscribe here) the last month or so, you know that I have been evaluating my options with regard to Amazon’s KDP Select Program, and wide distribution through platforms like Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and so many others. I sent a survey to my readers asking them which platform they preferred. Of course, they were divided right down the middle. So, I am making a change, shifting some of my books from Kindle Unlimited to wide distribution. This is a big risk for me, since most of my sales today are in fact on KU.
That led me to wonder, if I look at it dispassionately, what are the pros and cons of KU vs wide?
Because, let’s be honest, which an author chooses can shape their career, and most authors I know agonize over this decision at one time or another in their career. To help reduce the distress, here is my list of the pros and cons of each choice, to help you make an informed decision.
🟦 Let’s Start with KDP Select
KDP Select is Amazon’s exclusive program for eBooks. The key word in that sentence being exclusive. By enrolling, an author is committing to distributing their digital book only on Amazon for 90-days. Every 90-days they are asked to recommit or renew and Amazon defaults to having an author auto-renew, forcing them to remember to opt out. Amazon is very strict about their exclusivity rules, but the rewards are worth it to authors who go this route.
During that period, the writer gets access to some terrific promotional tools as well as Amazon’s subscription service, Kindle Unlimited (KU). And without a doubt, Amazon remains the biggest retailer for books in the world.
✅ Included during the 90-day Enrollment Period:
Access to Kindle Unlimited: This is critical, since many readers purchase a Kindle Unlimited Subscription and books can earn royalties through pages read by KU subscribers.Promotional Tools: Including Kindle Countdown Deals and up to 5 days of free book promotions.Increased Visibility: Amazon often boosts KU books in its rankings and recommendations.Simplicity: Managing one platform can be easier than handling several, especially for new and busy authors.❌ Disadvantages to being in KDP Select:
Exclusivity Clause: You cannot sell your eBook anywhere else—not even on your own website. You cannot even give your book away for free in a promotion, or as a reader magnet.Dependence on Amazon: If Amazon changes its policies, your revenue could be impacted.No Presence on Other Major Retailers: You miss out on audiences who read on non-Kindle platforms, although admittedly, Amazon has the lion’s share of the market presently.🟩 Should You Consider Going Wide?
When we use the term ‘wide distribution’ we are talking about an author offering their book across multiple platforms such as Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, or libraries as well as direct sales from your own website.
✅ The Pros of Going Wide:
Diverse Income Streams: Reduce risk that comes with relying on a single platform, Amazon. There has been some backlash against large corporations, including Amazon, and going wide helps manage your books in that political climate. Reach Global Markets: Kobo is big in Canada and parts of Europe; Apple Books has a strong iOS user base, going wide reaches those audiences.Control and Branding: Going wide allows an author to sell directly, build an email list, and create a consistent reader experience, while better retaining control over their books Access to Library Markets: Libraries can be a steady source of revenue through digital lending, but an author must be off KU to access libraries.❌ But there are disadvantages too:
More Complexity: You’ll need to manage multiple platforms or use an aggregator like Draft2Digital, which means handling more pricing, promotions and suchLess Instant Visibility: Unlike Amazon, other platforms don’t offer the same level of organic traffic or KU perks.Slower Growth: It can take longer to build an audience wide, especially without Amazon’s algorithmic support.
⚖️ So How do You Choose Which is Right for You?
The short answer is that you need to look at your own goals, your own abilities and decide what is best for you. Some short answers:
GoalBest OptionMaximize short-term revenueKDP SelectBuild a long-term author brandWideSimplify publishing & test watersKDP SelectReach global + non-Amazon readersWideTap into Kindle UnlimitedKDP SelectRetain full publishing controlWideSome authors, including me, use a hybrid approach—starting with KDP Select to build momentum, then going wide after gaining reviews and visibility, or going between the two regularly, or putting some of their books in KU but releasing others wide.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. KDP Select can offer explosive exposure and convenience, while going wide lays the groundwork for long-term success and independence.
I considered my readers and my priorities and decided to do a pivot, to take a chance. I am taking my backlist, my Beguiling Bachelor series wide, and leaving my All’s Crazy in Love series, which is current and still in the works, on KU.
By going wide with the Bachelors, I get to announce their release, almost like a new launch, and potentially reach a new audience. I am able to run a test of sorts, and I can always pivot back to KU down the road.
That’s the nice thing about this choice—it’s not carved in stone.
Pro Tip: Start with one book in KDP Select while planning your series or backlist for wide distribution. That way, you can test the waters without missing out on either opportunity
🔄 What did I Decide and Why?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. KDP Select can offer explosive exposure and convenience, while going wide lays the groundwork for long-term success and independence. Consider your priorities—speed vs. sustainability, reach vs. simplicity—and don’t be afraid to pivot as your career evolves.
Pro Tip: Start with one book in KDP Select while planning your series or backlist for wide distribution. That way, you can test the waters without missing out on either opportunity.
April 11, 2025
How to Keep Writing Fiction When Life’s Chaos
Writing is hard. It takes creativity, commitment, perseverance, and a lot of luck. And that’s on a good day.
Not every day is a good day—Chaos Rules
In fact, many days seem designed specifically to derail us as writers. There are the days when the kids are sick, or we are, or weeks of family vacations, or in-law visits. Let’s not forget the days when we stare at a blank page and nothing comes. Yep, writer’s block. It’s the worse.
But the pandemic taught most authors that we had yet to come face to face with the worst anti-writing force that life could throw at us. A sustained world on fire like the one presented by Covid, or the news-cycles since it would seem with the ups and downs of politics, markets, weather and literal fires burning miles of Australia, Hawaii or California, created a situation where authors had to find a way to write or pack it in.
I wasn’t going to pack it in, and I am surrounded by authors who refused to throw in the towel either. How did we do it?
Remember Your Why Despite the Chaos
When the world goes crazy the first thing that grinds me to a halt is second-guessing myself. I mean, how important is it to create romance novels when people are sick or dying, when businesses are closing, and friends are out of work? I didn’t have this problem when the pandemic started, I had it long before from the first page of my first novel, Bedazzled.
Until I got in touch with my why. I write romance novels, not mysteries, or fantasy, or thrillers. I made that choice because I love romances—romance movies from the classics to this Saturday night’s Hallmark movie and romance novels—from the raciest dark romance to a sweet small-town romance. I even grew up reading romance comics. I can’t get enough happy endings, and I know there are a lot of people out there like me.
I believe in romance novels. I don’t think they are simply escapist, although they can be. I think they bring positivity into our lives, and happiness. The loving relationships in our lives are what give us joy, and purpose. They matter. And if real love matters, why not increase the amount of love that surrounds us all? The more uncertain our world, the more we need it.
In fact, I believe there is a perfect romance novel for every man and woman out there, for the most stringent feminist, for the hard-core tough guy, for the mystery lover and the Harry Potter afficionado. Why? Because no matter what genre a reader loves, there is an element of romance in every story.
Remembering that I want to bring that to life in books, share that with readers is my why and when I stay in touch with it, I can write through anything. So, I focus on the love, on the romance, on the happily ever after.
Find Calm Amidst the Chaos
When I asked my wonderful friend, Nancy Houser-Bluhm, author of The Nickel Loop and Whispers for Terra how chaos impacted her ability to write, she shared this with me, in her beautiful, poetic way.
“Those first chapters of a novel are always a challenge; much like starting any new exercise routine. Surrounding conditions amplify the difficulty. Covid blew in on breath droplets during the writing of my debut novel, “Whispers for Terra.” Fear gripped and focus plummeted. I was reminded I could be scared and still write.
Now some years later current conditions have placed me in tupor. I sit in self protection vs action. Guilt rises when writing creatively versus contacting my representatives. The days’ horror plays in my head at night, and dreams reflect a world of confusion and chaos. I remind myself this is exactly when levity, romance, beauty are a vital respite. Please keep sharing your beauty with the world. I need it.”
Nancy points out so many factors about writing during chaos, fear, the inability to focus, guilt—which hit home for me. But she is correct about the beauty being more vital in times like these, for the writer and the reader.
Raine Fraser, author of the soon to be published novel, Where We Come Home experienced many of the same hurdles Nancy encountered.
“Since the pandemic I’ve seen authors struggling with this question. I believe art is even more necessary in dark times and have stuck to that belief. Personally, I’m finding comfort in books, films, etc. with comfy vibes and I expect a lot of readers are, too. There’s solace in writing books aimed at the extraordinary magic of ordinary life and I imagine my books as future gifts for readers who need to rest for a while. (Even when times are calmer, we all need that sometimes.)
I do, however, have one manuscript begun in 2017, which is tucked away for now. Its themes of community and triumph in the midst of difficulties are important, but if I return to it in the near future, it will take a kind of courage I don’t have right now. It’s too close to home.
As we see from both Raine and Nancy, it takes courage to write when the world fights us, and sometimes choosing soothing writing is a great way to fight back.
Create Peace in Your Chaotic Space
In her post Writing Romance When the World is Burning Jo McNally, author of When Sparks Fly, offered several tips that work for her when she writes through chaos, after reminding all of us that a one-size-fits-all solution doesn’t exist.
How was she successful?
“One word at a time.
It was just that simple, and just that hard. Some of it was, without a doubt, the hardest writing I’ve done in my career. My books are contemporary romance with a good deal of humor, heat and emotion. Summoning up humor felt nearly impossible some days. Summoning up emotion felt dangerous, and even more draining than usual. Making forward progress often seemed impossible. I told my husband that writing felt like I was trying to run through quicksand.”
Her solutions? Adjust her approach—avoid doom-scrolling, forcing herself to type, moving around more, changing her writing location. Jo also allowed more time to get started with each writing session and positive self-talk, leading to a more positive mind-set. Every author will tell you that mindset is critical.
Finding a peaceful place, giving yourself more time to be in touch with your creativity, these are common solutions I hear from authors, and of course tuning out the world while you write. Frankly, tuning out the world is sound advice chaotic or not.
Fellow authors, the answer is us. We’re providing hope and happily ever afters to a public who needs it. It’s our superpower. On the days when you just don’t think you can push through, remind yourself that we’re lucky enough to be in the hope business. And that’s pretty cool. Just remember to take care of yourself, too.
Find Your Professionalism during the Chaos
Diana Giovinazzo, author of Antoinette’s Sister, took Jo’s suggestion about finding a positive writing space even further in her post, Tips to Focus When the World Is on Fire
She recommends creating a writing space and protecting it, along with your writing time and her pre-writing routine.
“ Don’t be ashamed to put your writing first…Go ahead and read that sentence a few more times. I’ll wait. Ready? Alright. Ask yourself if a professional, any professional, would put off their work hours. Or if they would respond to every non-work-related phone call/text/email. What are their office hours?
Whether or not you’re published yet, you are a writer. Writing is not just an art form—it’s also a business, and it matters to you. Treat it that way. Don’t expect the world to make room for your writing, because it won’t. Whether it’s early in the morning, late at night, or while the kids are at school, find a time that works for you and guard it like a dog with a new bone. Anything that can wait until you’ve met your daily writing goal can wait.”
Just as I love to write romance and the world can be burning and I will still make time to write it, finding what brings you joy in your writing can make it much easier to write, with our without a world gone mad.
I love Stacy Gold’s article, Writing Romance While the World Burns Down Around Us because she taps into what makes her happy in her writing and that’s what keeps her going.
Articles abound on how the continued stress of, well, EVERYTHING, is making it hard for people to think or function effectively.
We’re depressed. Or forgetful. Or constantly drained and exhausted. It’s hard to focus because our brains are overloaded with news and information, much of it negative at best, horrifying at worst.
Yet, somehow, I’m able to keep writing and editing my own romances, packed with love and adventure in wild places.
I’ve been thinking a lot about how and why that is possible, and I have a few theories….The outdoors is my happy place and I’m an ardent lifelong environmentalist (I got my degree in Resource Management and Environmental Education). If I can’t be out there, then the next best thing is writing about it. Because when I do, I close my eyes and transport myself back to those very places and spaces.”
Not only does Stacy get to experience her own favorite things, she gets to share them with her readers, and while she’s writing at least, deal only with problems that fit on a page, support strong female gender roles, contain an uplifting love story and end with an HEA.
That sounds like a perfect recipe for joyful writing to me.
March 27, 2025
Guessing Why Books Sell? Try K-Lytics
I have been blogging for almost a decade, but every year my post about trends in romance novels remains my most popular post. Why? Because understanding how to evaluate market trends can mean the difference between success and failure for a new book launch. Seriously.
How to respond to the ever-fluctuating trends is a problem unto itself, but before an author can address that issue, they have to anticipate and respond to the market trends in the first place. That means learning and understanding the why’s behind what readers are searching for and which genres are poised for growth. Failure here means missed opportunities, bad choices, lost sales.
Then the question remains: how can authors make informed decisions in this rapidly evolving market?
K-Lytics is a powerful tool that analyzes data to predict trends and identify popular genres designed to help authors navigate the ever-changing landscape of book publishing. In this post, I will share more about K-lytics, it’s benefits, and a few strategies to help you maximize its potential.
What is K-Lytics?
K-lytics is the brain-child of Alex Newton.
K-Lytics enables authors to make informed decisions on book topics, marketing strategies, and audience targeting, ultimately helping them improve sales and visibility. They do this by creating a monthly report (and special reports, but more on that in a minute) covering performance data for more than thirty genres of fiction and non-fiction books so you can see what is trending, and what is not. Honestly, there is so much data you need to be a statistician to make sense of them, but lucky for us, Alex includes a video to explain everything.
These thirty-page reports include information on sales rise and fall, sales per day, pricing competition, ranking and so much more. For example, I might learn the average price of a romance book, the number of books competing in the romance category, and how many books I would have to sell per day to rank number one in the category (a daunting 4800 plus in a report I opened recently!)
K-Lytics offers a wealth of data, including bestseller lists, market trends, sales statistics, reader demographics, and keyword analytics, all aimed at helping identify emerging trends in the book market allowing authors to tap into new opportunities and cater to changing reader preferences before they become mainstream.
It’s All About the ReportsAt first, I wasn’t sure what to do with all the information K;Lytics provides in a general report, so I ordered a few genre specific reports—told you we’d get back here. I ordered one on Billionaire Romance with more than ninety pages of data and a 45-minute video, almost more information than I could absorb—almost—and went to work.
I immediately studied the current performance metrics, sales volume information and reader interest trends to adjust my categories and keywords in Amazon for my Beguiling Bachelor series. I adjusted keyword usage in my book description as well. I saw a small uptick in sales.
What else was available? Competitor pricing information. I raise my prices on a few books to match the trends. I feared sales would drop off. They didn’t. I paid attention to their cover images. There were major shifts in romance covers and I moved with the trends for my new All’s Crazy in Love series. That’s how I used the reports to assist in my marketing.
But here’s a hypothetical application of K-Lytics earlier, during the writing process:
Consider an author who writes contemporary romance novels I’ll call her Greta. Greta is struggling to find her audience in the highly competitive genre and is unsure which themes resonate with her readers. After enrolling in K-Lytics, she uses her Reports to discover that romantic fantasy is experiencing a strong resurgence, particularly stories that incorporate strong female protagonists. Jenna loves fantasy and is happy to incorporate it in her writing.
With this knowledge, Jenna rewrites the draft of her novel to include elements of fantasy and a more prominent female lead and adjusts her marketing to highlight elements of relatable real-world issues combined with fantasy elements. By guiding her decisions with K-Lytics data, she increases her book’s visibility and appeal, leading to a successful launch and excellent sales figures within her target demographic.
These are two ways to put K-lytics to work for you as an author, but with this much information, only your creativity limits your application of the information.
Using K-LyticsThere are distinct advantages to using K-lytics, otherwise I wouldn’t recommend it. Their quantifiable data, updated regularly, allows authors to make informed decision based on market trends. Customizable reports, based on genre, competitor analysis, videos accompanying the reports to help understand them, as well as many user-interface tutorials.
But it isn’t perfect. At least not at first. Those first few reports are overwhelming, no doubt about it. When you get this much information it is like drinking from a firehose. But you get used to it, learn how to decipher what matters and that’s what counts.
And it has costs associated with it that may put it out of reach for new or struggling authors. Access to comprehensive reports and data comes at a price. K-Lytics operates on a subscription model, and users can choose from various plans depending on their needs and the level of access required to the data and tools offered. You can also purchase genre specific reports as I did the Billionaire Romance report.
My Advice to Get the Most from K-LyticsI have been using K-lytics for seven years and based on my experience, here’s what I would suggest to maximize the value of K-lytics:
Make it a habit to check K-Lytics at least once a month to keep abreast of new trends and insights. Set goals for your use: boosting sales? Discovering market trends? Don’t get buried in the data, focus on actionable takeaways of value to you where you are right now – be that writing or marketing. Understand the why behind the trend!Glance at data for other genres, you may find opportunities you didn’t know existed. It’s how I shifted to RomCom from Contemporary RomanceEngage with other K-Lytics users through forums or social media to share insights and strategies, enriching your understanding and application of the toolDon’t be a slave to the data and trends. Remember who you are and why you write. Don’t rely solely on K-lytics, or any single source for information. Use a variety of sources, including Goodreads, Bookbub, reviews, social media, etc. Test your finding with incremental changes, and always make only one change at a time – book cover or price or keywords for example
Tired of guessing what your readers want? Tired of using the throw everything at the wall and see what sticks approach to marketing? By tapping into the data-driven capabilities of K-Lytics, by using its comprehensive data insights, authors can make informed decisions, transform their approach to understanding the market, . You can be empowered to write stories you know have a better chance of resonating with readers and a higher likelihood of selling. And isn’t that what this is all about?
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