Tips for new authors like me
Another author asked me what I have been doing to build momentum with my books and my sales so I created a handout detailing the approach that has been working for me.
💫My Best Tips for New (and Growing) Indie Authors
From one author to another — here’s what’s helped me build real momentum.
1. Build an online presence — slowly and sustainably.
Choose one or two platforms to start (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Reddit).
Add others only when you have the capacity. Consistency matters more than being everywhere.
2. Claim your author profiles.
Make sure you have an author presence on:
• Goodreads
• LibraryThing
• BookBub
• Amazon Author Central
Upload your book, add a warm + welcoming bio, and use the same author photo for consistency.
Write slightly different book descriptions for each platform so they don’t feel duplicated.
3. Create a simple website or landing page.
It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive — I found Hostinger very affordable and easy to use.
If you want help choosing a setup, feel free to ask.
The social media presence, author profiles, and website feed google so that you show up with some creditability when someone does a search. A strong google profile will enhance your reputation and create momentum down the road.
4. Join good author groups — and be a contributor.
Vet groups for real engagement and community.
Learn the rules, follow them, and support others without expecting anything in return.
Follow other authors, engage with their posts, and where possible download their KU books.
Good energy builds good energy.
5. Curate reviews intentionally.
Everyone does this differently, so do your research — but here are common approaches:
• ARC groups
• Beta/alpha readers
• Reader swaps (ethical ones!)
• Adding a QR code or short review request in the back of your book
Familiarize yourself with Amazon and Goodreads policies and work within them.
Reviews matter far more than early royalties.
6. Focus on readers — not sales.
In the beginning, your goal isn’t income — it’s visibility, enthusiasm, and connection.
Readers who love your work will talk about it, share it, review it, and become long-term supporters.
7. Explore free or low-cost editorial reviews.
There are many options — some budget-friendly, some not.
IndieReviews offers an affordable option and a contest.
Skip big paid BookBub editorial reviews for now; instead, use BookBub’s cheaper ad tools when you run promos.
If you enter booklife contest it comes with a professional critique Make sure to add editorial reviews to A+ Content for your book on Amazon.
Ask readers to post reviews on Goodreads as well as amazon bc it boosts and will show on your product page once you have enough ( make sure you have used the same author name for your goodreads and amazon accounts for this to coordinate)
8. Use Kindle Free Days strategically.
If you’re in KDP Select, you only get 5 free days or 1–2 countdown deals each 90-day cycle.
Use free days to boost visibility, then promote them on:
• your socials
• BookBub ads
• Written Word Media
• promo groups and newsletters
This gets your book in front of new readers, which is the whole point early on.
9. Read other authors books and leave reviews.
It builds goodwill, strengthens the community, and often results in supportive connections that last.
10. Pitch podcasts.
Look for shows related to your book’s themes or your personal story.
Send short, warm pitches. Not everyone replies — that’s normal.
If a podcast charges a fee, do a cost-benefit analysis to decide if it’s worthwhile exposure.
11. Show up locally.
Check out:
• markets and fairs
• library events
• indie bookstores
• community organizations
Even one book sold is one more reader in the world — and the energy you create multiplies. Don't be discourage by those who say no or don't reply. Showing up in person with book in hand is more effective than emails or phone calls Do one outreach a week if possible.
12. Use author copies as low-cost PR.
Sign them. Gift them. Donate them.
Libraries, shelters, community agencies, friends — anywhere your story might matter.
This builds goodwill and sometimes leads to unexpected support or reviews.
13. Share your journey on social media.
People love being part of the behind-the-scenes moments:
• unboxing your author copies
• updates about milestones
• the ups and the hard days
It makes your audience feel connected to you, not just your book.
14. Give more than you take.
Show up as a contributor, not just a promoter.
People remember generosity and authenticity.
15. Do one small visibility task every day.
Just 15–30 minutes:
• make a post
• email a bookstore
• research a podcast
• update your website
Tiny actions build big momentum over time.
16. Be patient — this is a long game.
Readers are gold.
When you find them, they often stay with you for life.
17. Build an email list when you can.
This helps you reach readers directly for:
• ARCs
• launch announcements
• events
• your next book
18. Practice self-care.
Exhaustion shows.
Your energy affects your creativity, your marketing, and the way people receive your work.
19. Celebrate every turned page.
Every single reader is a gift.
Appreciate them. Engage with them. Let that fuel the journey.
💫My Best Tips for New (and Growing) Indie Authors
From one author to another — here’s what’s helped me build real momentum.
1. Build an online presence — slowly and sustainably.
Choose one or two platforms to start (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Reddit).
Add others only when you have the capacity. Consistency matters more than being everywhere.
2. Claim your author profiles.
Make sure you have an author presence on:
• Goodreads
• LibraryThing
• BookBub
• Amazon Author Central
Upload your book, add a warm + welcoming bio, and use the same author photo for consistency.
Write slightly different book descriptions for each platform so they don’t feel duplicated.
3. Create a simple website or landing page.
It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive — I found Hostinger very affordable and easy to use.
If you want help choosing a setup, feel free to ask.
The social media presence, author profiles, and website feed google so that you show up with some creditability when someone does a search. A strong google profile will enhance your reputation and create momentum down the road.
4. Join good author groups — and be a contributor.
Vet groups for real engagement and community.
Learn the rules, follow them, and support others without expecting anything in return.
Follow other authors, engage with their posts, and where possible download their KU books.
Good energy builds good energy.
5. Curate reviews intentionally.
Everyone does this differently, so do your research — but here are common approaches:
• ARC groups
• Beta/alpha readers
• Reader swaps (ethical ones!)
• Adding a QR code or short review request in the back of your book
Familiarize yourself with Amazon and Goodreads policies and work within them.
Reviews matter far more than early royalties.
6. Focus on readers — not sales.
In the beginning, your goal isn’t income — it’s visibility, enthusiasm, and connection.
Readers who love your work will talk about it, share it, review it, and become long-term supporters.
7. Explore free or low-cost editorial reviews.
There are many options — some budget-friendly, some not.
IndieReviews offers an affordable option and a contest.
Skip big paid BookBub editorial reviews for now; instead, use BookBub’s cheaper ad tools when you run promos.
If you enter booklife contest it comes with a professional critique Make sure to add editorial reviews to A+ Content for your book on Amazon.
Ask readers to post reviews on Goodreads as well as amazon bc it boosts and will show on your product page once you have enough ( make sure you have used the same author name for your goodreads and amazon accounts for this to coordinate)
8. Use Kindle Free Days strategically.
If you’re in KDP Select, you only get 5 free days or 1–2 countdown deals each 90-day cycle.
Use free days to boost visibility, then promote them on:
• your socials
• BookBub ads
• Written Word Media
• promo groups and newsletters
This gets your book in front of new readers, which is the whole point early on.
9. Read other authors books and leave reviews.
It builds goodwill, strengthens the community, and often results in supportive connections that last.
10. Pitch podcasts.
Look for shows related to your book’s themes or your personal story.
Send short, warm pitches. Not everyone replies — that’s normal.
If a podcast charges a fee, do a cost-benefit analysis to decide if it’s worthwhile exposure.
11. Show up locally.
Check out:
• markets and fairs
• library events
• indie bookstores
• community organizations
Even one book sold is one more reader in the world — and the energy you create multiplies. Don't be discourage by those who say no or don't reply. Showing up in person with book in hand is more effective than emails or phone calls Do one outreach a week if possible.
12. Use author copies as low-cost PR.
Sign them. Gift them. Donate them.
Libraries, shelters, community agencies, friends — anywhere your story might matter.
This builds goodwill and sometimes leads to unexpected support or reviews.
13. Share your journey on social media.
People love being part of the behind-the-scenes moments:
• unboxing your author copies
• updates about milestones
• the ups and the hard days
It makes your audience feel connected to you, not just your book.
14. Give more than you take.
Show up as a contributor, not just a promoter.
People remember generosity and authenticity.
15. Do one small visibility task every day.
Just 15–30 minutes:
• make a post
• email a bookstore
• research a podcast
• update your website
Tiny actions build big momentum over time.
16. Be patient — this is a long game.
Readers are gold.
When you find them, they often stay with you for life.
17. Build an email list when you can.
This helps you reach readers directly for:
• ARCs
• launch announcements
• events
• your next book
18. Practice self-care.
Exhaustion shows.
Your energy affects your creativity, your marketing, and the way people receive your work.
19. Celebrate every turned page.
Every single reader is a gift.
Appreciate them. Engage with them. Let that fuel the journey.
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