Paperback writer, paperback writer.
Dear Sir or Madam, will you read my book?
It took me years to write, will you take a look?

(Lyrics to “Paperback Writer,” a song recorded and released by The Beatles in 1966)

Since the publication of my second novel in the genre of Contemporary Women’s Fiction, ‘An Enlightening Quiche’ (Paperback – August 22, 2016; eBook – September 20, 2016), I’m ever grateful to those who’ve purchased the Kindle Edition at Amazon, or signed copies through my web page on Authors Den ever since I officially launched both editions late September.

Although I can view my Amazon sales rank, I do not have access to a detailed daily sales report because both the Paperback and eBook editions were uploaded by my publisher. So, I anxiously await a royalty report from them. Since royalty statements are received on a monthly basis, and the royalty earnings period listed on the statement is always two months behind the royalty processing date, I’ve been in the dark thus far. I’m currently awaiting a report representing October sales.

At this juncture, I’m also at a standstill with 15 reviews, hoping those forthcoming will materialize. I need to keep the faith. What I can’t see in cyberspace, I’ve made up for by blazing my own paperback trails through the process of procuring local book signings at libraries, bookstores, and senior centers in Rhode Island. This involves making telephone calls and following up to reach those who aren’t available at the time. Once I’ve piqued their interest, or scheduled an author event, I email pertinent press release information. Then, I make it a point of stopping by prior to my guest appearance to gift an autographed copy of my novel, poster, and flyer.

I’ve hosted three events so far. No one showed at the first. I sold two books at the second, and one at the third. For an unknown Indie who probably hasn’t sold a Kindle Edition in weeks, I’m thrilled!

Up-and-coming for February:

6th – Pawtucket Public Library

11th – Barnes & Noble in Smithfield (group author event)

16th – George Hail Free Library in Warren

18th – Cumberland Public Library (group author event)

25th – North Providence Public Library

Interestingly enough, I’ve received helpful tips from librarians which have enabled me to blaze new paperback trails. As a result, I’ve contacted two senior centers and scheduled Lincoln Senior Center (March 13). I’ll be following up on the feasibility to host an event at East Providence Senior Center in my home town.

Following up on another promising lead, I’ve joined a local guild—Association of Rhode Island Authors:

“ARIA hopes to become the definitive referral center for all local bookstores, libraries and readers seeking information about and presentations from Rhode Island authors. ARIA authors are available for speaking engagements, book signings, lectures, workshops and other activities that promote local writers and writing.”

http://www.riauthors.org/

I’ll attend my first informal meeting on February 9th and look forward to engaging with local authors and participating in future public venues for the purpose of selling books.

An Indie author who aspires to make a name for myself, it behooves me to blaze new paperback trails as a solo or joint venture.