Blair asked Michael J. Sullivan:

How did you find your first 50 readers?

Michael J. Sullivan It's funny you should mention that...Back when I started on this whole adventure of writing, my wife was the one who was trying to figure out how to sell the books. She asked me, "So what is my goal, how many books do I need to get out there for you to feel good about it." I came back with 50...with the qualifier of 50 people that don't know me.

Awhile ago we crossed the half million mark for the English language - including ebooks, print, and audio sales. So I guess she overshot her mark ;-)

Goodreads has always been a big part of my early success. I've been on the site since October 2008 which is when my first book was released from a small press. I looked for people who were looking to read something new, and I would introduce them to my book. I offered them some free chapters to see if they liked what they read.

It is slow at first, but after awhile people start talking to their friends and family and it starts the wheel turning with no effort from the author. The simple truth is we all start out from the same spot...no audience and we build them one reader at a time until those readers start bringing more people to the party.

Thanks for asking!

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