In this ultimate 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know from recording options and pricing models, to AI narration and distribution channels so you can confidently make your move into the audiobook market. This post builds on two of our earlier guides from 2021 and 2022, refreshed for 2025 to include the latest tools, AI options, and distribution paths available to indie authors today.

Step 1: Decide How You’ll Produce Your Audiobook

There are three main ways to produce an audiobook:

Option 1: DIY Narration (You Read It Yourself)

Narrating your own book is a popular route for nonfiction authors, where your personal voice adds authenticity. But fiction authors can do this too—just know that accents, pacing, and character voices can require more performance chops.

What you need:

• A quiet recording space

• A quality mic and pop filter (about $100–$200)

• Recording and editing software (Audacity is free!)

• Time. Expect to spend 2–3x your book’s length recording and up to 4x that editing.

Example: A 70,000-word book (~7.5 hours finished) could take 45+ hours total from recording to final mastering.

Option 2: Hire a Professional Narrator

Want a polished, listener-ready audiobook without learning the ropes of sound engineering? A pro narrator might be your best bet.

Where to hire:

• ACX

• Findaway Voices

• Author’s Republic

• Lantern Audio

Typical rates: $225–$400 per finished hour (PFH), depending on narrator experience and platform.

Pro Tip: Some platforms offer royalty share options, where you pay less upfront (or nothing) and split future earnings.

Option 3: Use AI Narration (Yes, It’s a Thing Now)

In 2025, AI-generated narration is becoming a viable, lower-cost option—especially for nonfiction or short-form books.

• Google Play Books AI Narration lets you turn your eBook into an audiobook with text-to-speech tools.

• Apple Books also offers AI narration in select genres, with improving voice quality each year.

• AI narration is fast and affordable (many tools are under $50), but may lack emotional nuance or character voice depth.

Caution for Fiction Authors: If your book includes dialogue, accents, or multiple characters, AI narration might fall flat—stick with human talent.

Step 2: Choose Your Distribution Strategy

Once your audiobook is complete, you’ll need to decide where to sell it. There are two key paths: exclusive vs. wide distribution.

Option A: Exclusive Distribution with ACX (Audible/Amazon/iTunes)

• You’ll earn 40% royalties if you’re exclusive.

• ACX handles everything: production, publishing, and distribution.

• You’ll be locked into a 7-year contract (though some authors have had success opting out after 12 months).

ACX also offers:

• Royalty Share: No upfront cost, split profits with the narrator.

• Royalty Share Plus: Pay a smaller fee upfront, split royalties.

• DIY Option: Narrate yourself and keep full control.

Royalty Breakdown with ACX:

• Exclusive: 40% of retail price

• Non-Exclusive: 25% of retail price

You cannot set your own audiobook price on ACX—Audible determines price based on length.

Option B: Go Wide with Non-Exclusive Distribution

If you want your audiobook available on Spotify, Google Play, Kobo, libraries, and more—you need a non-exclusive distributor.

Top Non-Exclusive Distributors in 2025:

Hybrid Tip: Some authors publish to ACX non-exclusively (25% royalty) and use another distributor (like Findaway) to reach other retailers. This gives you more reach—without leaving money on the table.

Step 3: Set Expectations (Time, Cost, and Royalties)

Here’s what to expect depending on your path:

Don’t forget to promote! Use:

• Your author website

• Your email list

• Audio Thicket (Written Word Media’s audiobook promo service)

• Social media and podcast interviews

Final Thoughts: Which Path is Right for You?

• Bootstrapping a first audiobook? Try narrating it yourself or explore AI.

• Got a budget and want professional polish? Hire a voice actor through ACX or Findaway.

• Want total control and global reach? Go wide with Findaway, Lantern, or Author’s Republic.

• Need help choosing? Reach out to a fellow author or indie publishing group—they’ve likely been in your shoes.

Your Audiobook Journey Awaits

Creating an audiobook may sound intimidating, but in 2025, there’s truly a path for every author and every budget. Whether you’re ready to press record yourself or partner with a pro, the opportunities for reaching more readers—er, listeners—are better than ever.

Still deciding? Drop your questions in the comments or share your audiobook experience—we’d love to hear your story.

The post From Page to Play: Convert Your eBook into an Audiobook in 2025 appeared first on Written Word Media.

You’ve written the book. You’ve pressed publish. Now you’re ready to share your story with the world. Cue the eBook promotion!

At Written Word Media, we’ve seen thousands of authors run successful promotions across Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, Reader Reach Ads, and more. And we’ve also seen a few common missteps that can limit your promo’s potential.

But don’t worry—these aren’t dealbreakers. In fact, consider this blog post your backstage pass to a better book launch. Let’s walk through five common promo pitfalls—and how you can turn each one into a powerful marketing win.

1. Sending Readers to a Page That Doesn’t Convert

Why It Happens:

You’ve invested in a promo and driven readers to your Amazon page—yay! But if that page isn’t ready to impress, you may not get the downloads or sales you hoped for. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about making the most of your promo dollars by ensuring your book page is working with you, not against you.

How to Fix It: 

Start by making sure your cover and blurb are doing the heavy lifting:

• Does your cover match your genre?
  A thriller should look like a thriller. A cozy mystery should feel like a warm cup of tea. Browse top books in your category—does yours look like it belongs on the same shelf? Genre resonance helps readers quickly recognize that your book is exactly what they’re looking for.
• Does your description hook the reader right away?
  Think of your book blurb as the handshake before a first date. It should intrigue, excite, and give a clear sense of tone and stakes—all in just a few lines.

A quick polish on your book page can make a huge difference when new readers are deciding whether to click that “Buy” or “Download” button.

2. Picking the Wrong Price (or Not Updating It in Time)

Why It Happens:

Life is busy. And between pricing updates and promo scheduling, it’s easy to forget to double-check that your book is free for a Freebooksy promo or $5 or under for Bargain Booksy.

Why It Matters: 

We aim to make a high-intent match between readers and books. When a reader clicks on a promo, they expect the price they were promised. If it’s not right, the experience can be frustrating, and that can lead to fewer downloads or sales.

How to Fix It:

• Make sure your price is correctly set the day before your promo starts (we recommend adjusting the price in your dashboard at least 24 hours early to account for time zones and retailer lag).
  
• Choose the right pricing strategy for your goals:
  Want to boost rankings and widen your audience? Go with a free promo and aim for big download volume.
  Looking to make some revenue and recoup ad spend? Choose a bargain promo and target the sweet spot for impulse buys.

And don’t worry—our team checks every single promo before it runs. If something’s off, we’ll reach out. But things go smoother (and more stress-free) when you’ve got the pricing aligned in advance.

3. Losing Momentum Between Promos

Why It Happens:

You pour energy into setting up a Promo Stack—maybe even run a few ads—and then… pause. Totally understandable! Life happens. But momentum matters.

Why It Matters:

Consistency creates discoverability. You’re building reader recognition and feeding the Amazon algorithm every time you promote your book. It’s a lot easier to climb the mountain when you’re already halfway up, rather than starting fresh every time.

How to Fix It: 

Think in terms of cadence and rhythm. Find a promotional schedule that works for you—maybe it’s every 30 days, maybe every quarter. Just keep in mind: we require at least 30 days between promos on the same site, so planning ahead will help you keep the flywheel turning. When you find a groove that works, stick with it. Your backlist (and your sales chart) will thank you.

Even repeating the same promotion can be incredibly effective. Readers come and go, timing changes, and promotions often perform better over time as your book’s visibility grows. Visibility is a long game. It’s easier to build on momentum than to start from scratch every time.

4. Avoiding Ads Because They Feel Overwhelming

Why It Happens: 

Facebook Ads? Amazon Ads? Targeting, creative, copywriting… It’s a lot. And if you’re already juggling writing, editing, and marketing, learning an ad platform from scratch might not feel doable.

Why It Matters: 

Ads are an incredible complement to email promotions. They keep your book in front of readers beyond the inbox and help you sustain visibility, especially during and after a promo week.

How to Fix It: 

You don’t have to go it alone. With Reader Reach Ads, we manage everything for you:

• Professionally designed images
• Compelling ad copy
• Data-driven targeting
• Ongoing optimization

It’s full-service ad management—without the agency price tag. Let us handle the ads so you can focus on your next chapter (literally).

5. Not Promoting Your Promo (Before, During, or After)

Why It Happens: 

You’ve booked a promo, so you might think your job is done. But here’s the truth: your readers want to hear from you, too. Not only that, but you’ve already shelled out the money for an email promo. It’s well worth the time and effort to amplify the promotion to your existing audience. 

Why It Matters: 

Your existing audience is already primed to support you—they just need to know something’s happening! And who doesn’t love a sale?! A little extra visibility from your end can give your promo a nice boost.

How to Fix It: 

Marketing isn’t just about the promo day—it’s about what you do before and after. Don’t be shy—shout it from the rooftops (or at least your newsletter and socials):

Before and During Your Promo:

• Announce the deal in your newsletter (e.g., “My book is $0.99 this week on Bargain Booksy—get it before it’s gone!”)
• Ask readers to spread the word (they love to help)

After Your Promo:

• Follow up with a thank-you post or email
• Tease what’s coming next: another promo, a new release, a sequel?

A little planning and engagement can go a long way. Treat your promo like a celebration and your readers will show up to the party! 

The Final Word: Your Promo Is Part of a Bigger Story

You’re not just running a promotion. You’re building a career. A readership. A legacy.

These “mistakes” aren’t really mistakes—they’re learning opportunities. And every promo you run is a chance to get sharper, smarter, and more strategic.

At Written Word Media, we’re here to help you turn every Promo into progress. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we’re in your corner, cheering you on and making sure your story gets the spotlight it deserves.

The post 5 Mistakes Authors Make When Running eBook Promotions (and How to Fix Them) appeared first on Written Word Media.

This interactive three-hour session will be held on Wednesday, June 4th from 9am to 12pm EST via Zoom. Designed as a hands-on experience, the workshop guides authors through uncovering their unique brand and building a sustainable, reader-first platform strategy.

A Workshop Built for Authors, By Author Advocates

“We’ve spoken with thousands of authors over the years,” says Ricci Wolman, Founder and CEO of Written Word Media. “So many of them asked the same questions: ‘How do I build an author brand? What should I be doing online? How do I talk about my books without sounding salesy?’ This workshop was born from those conversations.”

The event marks Written Word Media’s first-ever live workshop offering, expanding their mission to support authors not just with email promotions and custom ads, but now with real-time, hands-on education.

Author Branding 101 is not about following fleeting trends or chasing the algorithm—it’s about clarity, consistency, and connection. Attendees will walk away with practical tools and renewed confidence to show up authentically online and off. This workshop is ideal for authors at any stage—whether building from scratch or refining an existing presence.

Beta Access: Free for Members, Special Pricing for All

Gold and Platinum Members with Written Word Media will receive complimentary access to the live beta session. Non-members can register at an early bird rate of $79 through May 27. Standard pricing will be $125.

Space is Limited

This will be a fully live, interactive session. Authors are encouraged to reserve their spot early.

Registration is now open here.

For those who can’t make it on June 4th, a sign-up option is available to receive updates on future sessions.

About Written Word Media

Written Word Media is a tech-enabled marketing platform for authors and publishers. With over 44,000 authors and publishers served, Written Word Media delivers effective book promotion solutions, connecting authors to over 1.5 million readers across its platforms, including Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, Red Feather Romance, NewInBooks, and AudioThicket. Written Word Media is committed to supporting authors and fostering literacy, partnering with organizations like Book Harvest, and maintaining a carbon-neutral footprint.

The post Press Release: Written Word Media Announces New Author Branding 101 Live Workshop appeared first on Written Word Media.

In our latest Speaker Series, I had the pleasure of stepping into the spotlight to share what I’ve learned over the past decade about helping authors connect with readers, specifically through the power of email.

During the session, I walked through how to build and grow an email list, covering everything from the very first subscriber to more advanced list-building strategies. In this post, I’m focusing on the fundamentals. I’ll explain why your email list is one of your most valuable assets, how to build momentum without feeling overwhelmed, and how to make list nurturing a natural part of your author routine.

Why Email Marketing?

Email marketing may sound like a buzzword, but it is one of the most effective ways for authors to communicate with readers. Unlike social media, where algorithms determine what your audience sees, email marketing provides a direct line to your readers’ inboxes.

But it’s more than just sending messages—it’s about creating intentional, purposeful communication that drives action.

Here are some key reasons why email marketing remains a cornerstone for authors:

• Daily Habit: Email is one of the most consistent ways to reach readers. Most people check their email multiple times a day.
• Opt-In Marketing: Readers have actively chosen to hear from you, which makes them more likely to engage with your content.
• Direct Access: You control the messaging, the timing, and the content – no algorithm interference.
• Cost-Effective: Email marketing offers one of the highest ROIs of any marketing channel. According to industry data, email marketing can generate a return of $36 for every $1 spent.
• Consistent Communication: A regular cadence of emails helps to build trust, foster connection, and maintain reader interest over time.

Getting Started with Email Marketing: The Basics

Before you dive into email marketing, you need two essential components:

1. Your Email List

Your email list is more than a collection of addresses – it’s a curated group of readers who have given you permission to communicate with them directly. Building this list is the first step, and it requires a clear strategy.

• Who’s on your list? Fans, friends, family, beta readers, and potential readers.
• What do you need to collect? At a minimum, the subscriber’s email address. You can also ask for a first name to make your emails more personal.
• How do you collect emails? Through sign-up forms, lead magnets on your author website, and back matter calls to action.

2. Your ESP (Email Service Provider)

An ESP is the software that allows you to manage your list, send emails, and track performance. Here’s a list of popular ESPs that are well-suited for authors:

• MailerLite
• MailChimp
• ConvertKit
• Substack
• SendFox

Each of these platforms offers free plans that can help authors get started without a major financial commitment.

Step 1: Pick an ESP

So, how do you decide which ESP is right for you? Most of these platforms offer a free plan, so you can test the waters without dipping into your promo budget, but as you get more sophisticated with your email marketing, you’ll likely want to leverage some more premium features. As you can see, most authors that we polled used MailerLite, but every author is different, and you’ll want to see which platform works best for you.

Step 2: Build Your Email List – The Foundation

Before spending a single dollar on advertising, start with a seed list of 20-25 contacts. This initial group will help you get comfortable with sending emails and refining your messaging. Here’s how to get started:

Start Small: The Seed List

• Friends, Family, and Coworkers: Ask close contacts to sign up.
• Beta Readers and Early Fans: These are people who already know and love your work.
• Social Media Followers: Post a sign-up link and encourage your followers to join your list.

Once you’ve established a basic list, commit to sending a regular email at least once a month. Consistency is key in maintaining reader engagement.

Step 3: Create Your Welcome Email – The First Impression

The welcome email is a crucial part of email marketing. It’s your digital handshake – an opportunity to set the tone, introduce yourself, and establish expectations.

What to Include in Your Welcome Email:

• A Warm Greeting: Address the reader by name if possible.
• Introduction: Share a brief story about yourself, your work, and why you write.
• What to Expect: Clearly outline what readers will receive and how often they will hear from you.
• Deliver the Goods: If you promised a lead magnet (free book, chapter, etc.), provide the link.
• Engaging Call to Action: Ask a simple question to prompt a response. This helps to build a connection and maintain deliverability.

Here are some examples of effective welcome emails that check all of the above boxes (in very different ways):

Step 4: Decide When You Will Send

One of the most common email marketing roadblocks for authors? Not knowing when to hit send. To break it down simply, pick a day, any day – just make it consistent.

You don’t have to send an email weekly if that feels overwhelming. Start with a monthly email on the first of every month. Or maybe every other Wednesday. The key is to set a schedule and stick to it. Over time, your readers will come to expect your emails – and you’ll get into the habit of sending.

Not sure what to say every month? Keep it simple. Share what you’re working on, what you’re reading, and any updates about your books. Keep it personal, keep it relevant, and keep showing up.

Step 5: Start Sending On A Schedule

You’ve chosen your sending schedule – now it’s time to actually do it. Start sending – even if your list is tiny. The only way to get comfortable with email marketing is to do it consistently.

Even if you’ve only got five people on your list, you’re not just emailing, you’re training your marketing muscles.

Every message is a chance to connect, refine your voice, and build a habit that’ll pay off when your audience grows. Because it will. And when it does? You’ll be ready.

Step 6: Build Your Email List Further

Once you’ve sent 2-3 emails on a regular schedule, you’re ready to start growing your list. Building your list further is a post in itself, so we’re not diving into all the strategies here today – but trust me, there are plenty.

Want to go deeper? Gold and Platinum Members can access the full recording of the April Speaker Series session. You’ll learn:

• Advanced list-building techniques, including reader magnets and subscriber giveaways.
• How to leverage your book’s back matter to drive sign-ups.
• Best practices for running targeted Facebook Ads to attract new subscribers.

Ready to level up? Upgrade to Premium here.

How Written Word Media Can Help

Ready to take your email marketing to the next level? Written Word Media offers several tailored services to help authors grow and engage their email lists, including:

• Subscriber Surge Giveaways: Attract targeted readers through genre-specific giveaways.
• Reader Reach Facebook Ads: Drive sign-ups through professionally managed ad campaigns.
• Promo Stacks: Include email sign-up CTAs in your eBooks when running Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, or Red Feather Romance promos.

Final Takeaways

Before pouring money into growing your list, focus on building the habit of consistent communication. Once you’ve developed a rhythm and are comfortable with your email content, then consider exploring more advanced strategies like reader magnets or paid advertising.

• Start Small: A seed list of 20-25 subscribers is plenty for getting started.
• Be Consistent: Establish a regular sending schedule, even if it’s just once a month.
• Nail the Welcome Email: Set the tone, deliver on any promised freebies, and invite interaction.
• Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate your emails. Share what you’re working on, what you’re reading, or what’s coming up next.
• Track Your Progress: Pay attention to open rates, click-through rates, and unsubscribes. You don’t need to obsess over every number, but keeping an eye on trends will help you refine your strategy.

Want More Content Like This?

Register for our next Speaker Series! Each month, we host live Speaker Series sessions with book marketing and self-publishing experts. Anyone can join the live sessions, and Gold & Platinum Members can watch the recordings (including the unabridged version of this invaluable session on email) anytime!

The post Why Every Author Needs an Email List (and How to Build Yours with Confidence) appeared first on Written Word Media.

From clever promo strategies to lessons learned the hard way, we’re shining a light on the real-world tactics authors are using to reach readers, grow their platforms, and get results. You’ll also learn how they’re leveraging Written Word Media products like Freebooksy and Amazon Ads to maximize visibility and build sustainable momentum.

Marketing indie books is rarely a straight line—but with the right mix of experimentation, persistence, and promo tools, you can build momentum over time.

In this edition, we’re featuring Tamara Rose Blodgett, a prolific indie author of dark and genre-blending novels whose journey from Twilight-sparked inspiration to data-driven marketer proves that creative fire and strategic thinking can go hand in hand.

Let’s dive in.

Meet Tamara Rose Blodgett: The Paranormal Plotter Whose Spark Came from a Single Line of Twilight

Tamara Rose Blodgett writes Dark Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Thrillers, PNR, and Dark Romance and with 80 novels published so far, there’s no slowing down for her. She was first influenced by a haunting line from Twilight and has been building supernatural worlds ever since.

“I was inspired by a single line in Twilight, where a villainous Italian vampire tells Edward that Bella’s blood ‘sings to him.’ That one line inspired my first book, Blood Singers, though I published Death Whispers first.”

She generally writes in the morning before noon, Monday through Friday, fueled by the right music—never silence.

“Definitely a certain type of music inspires my writing so much more than a ‘deafening’ silence.”

Marketing Strategy: From Dread to Delight

Tamara’s relationship with book marketing has evolved over the years. What once felt intimidating now sparks creativity.

“It used to be dread, but I’ve recently dove deep and gotten a very good grasp on all-things-marketing. I’m actually enjoying this side of my career—finally!”

She’s a fan of Freebooksy and promo stacks, especially when paired with Amazon Ads.

“I have been a long-time WWM user with Freebooksy and now that ‘stacks’ are available I’m in absolute love! I also use Amazon Ads very religiously. The combo cannot be beat.”

Key Tactics in Play

Here’s what’s working for Tamara right now:

• Email Promotions – Freebooksy continues to be her powerhouse promo tool.
• Promo Stacking – Tamara runs multiple book sets in strategic intervals (books 1–3 in June, 1–7 in August, 4–6 in November), which encourages momentum and “forced buys” in between.
• Amazon Ads – She’s invested significant effort into learning the ropes here—and it’s paying off.
• Soundtrack Writing – Music plays a key role in her creative rhythm, helping her stay inspired and productive.
• Tactics Skipped – She’s opted out of BookBub promos due to high cost and lack of control over ad copy.

“I haven’t bothered with BookBub in a long time because the last promo was expensive and the downloads were around 6K… and I’m not in control of my ad copy—so, no thanks.”

Results: Real Numbers, Long-Term Gains

Tamara doesn’t just rely on gut instinct—she tracks results closely, and the numbers speak volumes.

“My last promo went spectacularly well. I am still making $10–$20 per day nine months after the initial run.”

Her last promo’s results:

Downloads: 4,400 in a 2-day promo window
ROI: 3.6 cents per download
Page Reads: 20% increase within 3 days of the promo
Box Set Wins: Savage 1–3 continues to earn 2–5K page reads per day—months later

“The readers who downloaded it last June are still reading it. It’s been a marvelous return.”

And her March promo for Road Kill MC 1–3 is already showing promise:

“Page reads jumped to 3K per day, up from 1K the prior month.”

“This Is Really Working” Moment

When marketing stops feeling like a mystery and starts feeling like a creative asset? That’s the moment.

“After 3 months of really hard work to learn ads, leveraging AI for both covers, synopses, and ad copy—and whatever innovation I can grab—have inspired me to be even more creative because now I’m more relaxed in the craft.”

Challenges + Lessons Learned

Tamara is candid about her learning curve—especially when it came to Amazon Ads.

“Learning Amazon Ads has been the most challenging part of my [almost 15-year] career.”

And she’s seen the downsides of other promo platforms:

“I have tried everyone. I found their responsiveness to be too slow, too costly, and the ROI wasn’t there. I like Fussy Librarian a lot, but now they collaborate with WWM and that’s been a win.”

What’s Next: The 2025 Line-Up is Already Underway

She’s staying consistent—and playing the long game.

“I’m just writing my final book in the Through Darkness Trilogy, a dark post-apocalyptic thriller with an undertone of romance. I will then write my next preteen novella and my 12th book in the Blood Series for the 2025 line-up.”

Advice for Fellow Indie Authors

If she could do it again…

“I would have started MUCH earlier and not let being intimidated stymie my progress. Marketing isn’t impossible—it just takes time to build knowledge and skill sets. If I can do it—anyone can.”

To authors trying to build readership…

“Write every day. That must be the focus. Nothing compels a reader more than an author who consistently produces engaging work. You can market all you want, you can even have great covers—but diligently writing and producing is what will build readership.”

Tamara’s Verdict

We asked Tamara if she’d recommend Written Word Media to fellow authors:

“100% yes. The very best value out there. Especially now.”

Tamara Rose is a true indie powerhouse—balancing deep creativity with sharp strategy, staying curious, and never losing sight of the reader. From stacks to multi-book sequencing, her approach proves that success comes not just from great ideas, but from persistent execution.

Ready to Build Your Next Promo Stack?

Whether you’re launching your debut or promoting the fifth book in your series, Written Word Media can help you reach the right readers—through targeted email promos, Facebook ads, and more. Schedule your next promotion today.

The post Behind the Pen Case Study: Tamara Rose Blodgett on Finding Creative Spark in Unexpected Places appeared first on Written Word Media.

From clever promo strategies to lessons learned the hard way, we’re shining a light on the real-world tactics authors are using to reach readers, grow their platforms, and get results. You’ll also learn how they’re leveraging Written Word Media products—like Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, and Reader Reach—to maximize visibility and build sustainable momentum.

Marketing indie books is rarely a straight line—but with the right mix of experimentation, persistence, and promo tools, you can build momentum over time.

In this edition, we’re featuring Charles Brass, a multi-genre indie author who’s turned overnight writing sessions and email promo stacking into a repeatable strategy for growth. From overcoming marketing hesitation to seeing tangible results through various promotions, Charles shares what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what he’s trying next.

Let’s dive in.

Meet Charles Brass: The Night Owl Writer Playing the Long Game

Charles Brass writes science fiction and fantasy during overnight shifts as a hospital imaging technologist just outside Minnesota’s Twin Cities. With 11 novels, 3 novellas, and 4 short stories under his belt, he’s a prolific writer with a clear goal: get his books in front of more readers—one promo at a time.

“Marketing is the tool to get the word out about my excellent, potentially award-winning stories… even if it’s not my favorite part of the job.”

His writing routine is methodical: first drafts on a reMarkable tablet, dictated into WordPerfect, then finalized in Scrivener. That same intentionality now informs his approach to book marketing.

Marketing Strategy: Email Promotions and Consistent Visibility

Charles’s main strategy is rotating his books through email book promotion sites, focusing on exposure rather than instant sales. The platforms he uses include:

• Freebooksy
• Bargain Booksy
• Book Barbarian
• Fussy Librarian
• Book Runes / Book Sends
• KND / Book Gorilla
• NewInBooks & Subscriber Surge Giveaways

He typically stacks promos for a single book either all on one day or across a 2–3 day window, which generates the most free downloads.

“My largest free book promotion gave away 3,000 copies in three days. That generated two five-star reviews—not huge, but it’s a start.”

Key Tactics in Play

• Email Promotions – His #1 visibility driver
• KDP Select Free Days – Used to align with promo timing
• Website & Newsletter – Maintained diligently as an owned channel
• Reader Reach – Testing Facebook ads via Written Word Media’s managed platform
• BookFunnel Teasers – Distributing free samples to attract readers

Though Charles doesn’t use social media, he still maintains a consistent marketing presence by maximizing these tools and focusing on what works best for his time and energy.

Results: Modest Wins That Build Over Time

While he hasn’t had a breakout hit yet, Charles is seeing measurable results, with last month’s results looking like this:

10,000+ Kindle pages read
3,800 total orders (mostly free)
$107 in royalties
2 new 5-star reviews
Increased downloads of teaser content via BookFunnel
A slight uptick in newsletter subscribers

“I’ve heard it takes a reader seeing your book cover seven times before they buy. So that’s the goal—repetition.”

Though reviews and subscriber engagement are still a work in progress, Charles is playing the long game—building visibility through repeated exposure and growing his backlist.

Challenges + Lessons Learned

Marketing Hurdles:

Free downloads don’t always lead to reviews
Giveaways often result in low-quality subscribers
No breakout moment (yet)—just steady progress

Still, Charles sees each experiment as a step forward.

“Fortunately, I have the funds to experiment. I may pay someone to take over my marketing eventually, but for now, I’m learning and trying new things.”

What’s Next: Ads, Audiobooks & AI Tools

Looking ahead, Charles plans to test Reader Reach and Amazon Ads for one title in April. He’s also dabbling in AI-generated art (via Midjourney and DALL-E) to create covers for short stories and is considering building a home recording studio to produce audiobooks.

“I’m rewriting my first novel for a re-release with a sparkling new cover. Still having fun with my reMarkable Paper Pro, too.”

Advice for Fellow Indie Authors

“Start small. Figure out what you enjoy, what works, and see if you can mesh the two. Be prepared to invest some money—and learn the tools that can help you.”

Whether it’s generative art, promo stacking, or newsletter growth, Charles encourages authors to treat marketing as a long-term experiment—and not get discouraged by slow starts.

Charles’s Verdict

“Written Word Media helped me dip my toes into the promotion market. It’s a solid place to start. I plan to continue using the site for many years.”

Ready to Build Your Next Promo Stack?

Whether you’re launching your debut or promoting the fifth book in your series, Written Word Media can help you reach the right readers—through targeted email promos, Facebook ads, and more. Schedule your next promotion today.

The post Behind the Pen Case Study: How Author Charles Brass Uses Email Promotions to Build Long-Term Visibility appeared first on Written Word Media.

Whether you’re a coach, a consultant, a memoirist, or a niche expert with a story to tell, we’re sharing real-world advice to help you rise above the crowd and actually connect with your readers.

Here’s a recap of the key insights from Sarah’s session. Grab your favorite highlighter and notebook — there’s gold in here.

Don’t Start with “Bestseller” as Your Goal

Yes, bestseller status is shiny. But chasing it often leads to short-term, unsustainable strategies. Instead, try to:

• Start with the end in mind. What do you really want your book to do? Generate leads? Build your brand? Get you speaking gigs?

• Write with purpose. Your book isn’t just about you — it’s for your reader. Focus on the transformation you’re offering them.

“Your book might be about you, but it’s not for you.” – Sarah Bean

Know Your Reader — Like, Really Know Them

Spoiler alert: Your reader isn’t everyone.

Move beyond vague demographics. Instead, dig deep:

• What are your readers struggling with?

• Where do they hang out (online and off)?

• What have they tried already that didn’t work?

• How do they talk about their problems?

The better you understand your readers, the more your book will feel like it was written just for them.

Nail Your Hook — Before You Write a Word

Your “hook” is the magnetic message that makes people say, “I need this book.” And it should answer this sequence:

• A: What’s the problem your reader is facing?

• B: What’s your unique solution?

• C: What’s the outcome of the outcome?

For example, a book on financial freedom isn’t just about budgeting — it’s about the freedom to travel, to quit that 9–5, to finally sleep well at night. That’s what you’re really selling.

Use Your Book’s Assets as Sales Tools

It’s not just your content that matters — it’s how you present it.

• Title & Subtitle: Short, memorable, and SEO-friendly.

• Cover: It needs to pop as a thumbnail. Think contrast, clarity, and emotion.

• Table of Contents: Each chapter title should spark curiosity and highlight a benefit.

Your Amazon “Look Inside” preview? That’s prime real estate. Use it to sell the transformation.

Get Platform-Ready: Build Your Author Assets

Want to attract media, endorsements, or influencers? Then prep like the pro you are. Here’s Sarah’s checklist:

Website (even a simple one)
Social media presence
Lead magnet + mailing list
Editorial + reader reviews
Media kit
Videos of you speaking or presenting (yes, even on Zoom!)

Be ready when opportunity knocks — and have your virtual “headshots in the car.”

Leverage Other People’s Audiences

Don’t just build your own audience — borrow others (ethically, of course).

• Create a “dream list” of influencers, podcasters, and community leaders in your niche.

• Follow and engage with them before you pitch.

• Look for ways to offer value (share their content, recommend their work).

• When you reach out, be clear on what you want: a blurb, a podcast invite, a social post.

It’s a long game — relationships come first, the ask comes later.

Final Takeaway: Build First, Then Brag

Authors often think: “Once my book is out, I’ll start marketing.” But your marketing needs to start before the first word is written. Don’t wait for opportunity to knock. Set out the welcome mat. Robert Belle did just that. A numbers guy by trade, Robert is an accountant who dared to do something unexpected — he wrote a book about creativity. His goal? To help other professionals (yes, even the spreadsheet-loving ones) reconnect with their creative spark and let it fuel their careers.

His book, Blow the Lid Off: Reclaim Your Stolen Creativity, Increase Your Income, and Let Your Light Shine!, didn’t just sit quietly on a shelf. Because Robert had put in the prep work — building a website, creating resources, and thinking deeply about his message — he was ready when a major opportunity came calling: a TED Global Talk.

Not just TEDx. The big leagues.

And because he was prepared — because he built it — his talk was selected, went live, and garnered over two million views in its first year. His book sales surged. His inbox started filling up with leads. And most importantly, his message got out there.

The moral of the story? Your book is a calling card. But your brand — your platform, your prep, your perspective — is what opens the door.

So write the book. Build the funnel. Polish the pitch. Even if the “what’s next” feels uncertain.

Because when the moment comes — and it will — you’ll be ready to shine.

Bonus Resource from Sarah

Want to dive deeper? Download the free audiobook version of Self-Promote and Succeed by Book Launchers founder Julie Broad at selfpromoteandsucceed.com/audio.

Want More Content Like This?

Register for our next Speaker Series! Each month we host live Speaker Series sessions with book marketing and self publishing experts. Anyone can join the live sessions and Gold & Platinum Members can watch the recordings any time!

The post How to Stand Out in the Crowded Nonfiction Market appeared first on Written Word Media.

In a recent Written Word Media Speaker Series, we sat down with Rossana Corniel, Head of Marketing Communications at Booksprout, to dive into strategies for building reader relationships and running impactful review campaigns.

Why Reviews Matter More Than You Think

Rossana kicked things off by breaking down why book reviews are critical to an author’s success.

• A 1-star increase on Amazon can boost sales by 5–9% (according to Harvard research).
• Readers rely on reviews to decide if your book is worth their time—books require a commitment, unlike a vacuum or a pair of shoes.
• SEO & discoverability—reviews help surface your book in Amazon and Google searches.
• Some promotional platforms require a minimum number of reviews to apply.

In short, reviews aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential to your book’s visibility and long-term success.

How to Get More (and Better) Reviews

Getting reviews isn’t just about asking for them—it’s about setting your book up for success. Here are three must-haves for attracting high-quality reviews.

1. Make Sure Your Book is Ready

• Bad reviews often come from avoidable issues like typos and grammar mistakes → Hire a proofreader
• Plot holes and underdeveloped characters → Use beta readers
• Formatting issues → Check your eBook and print formatting before release

Pro Tip: A single typo won’t tank your book, but consistent quality issues will hurt your reputation.

2. Target the Right Readers

Ever received a review that said, “Too spicy!” or “Aliens shouldn’t fall in love with humans”? These are signs your book reached the wrong audience.

To avoid this:

• Market your book accurately—make sure your cover, blurb, and categories match your genre.
• Be transparent—if your book contains graphic violence, sensitive topics, or cliffhangers, let readers know upfront.
• Build an email list of engaged readers who genuinely love your genre.

3. Actively Ask for Reviews

Don’t assume readers will automatically leave a review. Most won’t—unless you ask.

How to encourage reviews:

• Add a request for reviews in your book’s front and back matter.
• Mention it in your newsletter and social media.
• Use reader engagement strategies—thank reviewers publicly and build relationships with them.

Finding and Connecting with Your Ideal Readers

So, where do you find the readers most likely to love (and review) your book? Rossana shared some go-to strategies:

• Join reader groups on Facebook, Goodreads, and Discord.
• Use genre-specific hashtags on Instagram and TikTok.
• Build an engaged email list over time.
• Leverage book influencers—reach out to those who already love books like yours.

Pro Tip: Look at what best-selling books in your genre are doing—what keywords do they use? How do their blurbs sound? Model success.

3 Ways to Get Reviews

There are three primary ways to get reviews:

1. Organic Reviews

Readers who finish your book might leave a review, but only about 5% of them actually do.
How to increase your odds:

• Add a review request at the end of your book.
• Gently remind readers in newsletters and on social media.
• Make them feel like their review matters.

2. Targeted Review Campaigns

For more proactive review gathering, try these strategies:

• ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) teams—recruit a launch team to read and review your book before it’s live.
• Influencer outreach—send free copies to book reviewers in your genre.
• Book review platforms like Booksprout, BookSirens, and NetGalley can connect you with readers ready to leave feedback.

3. Review Services

Book review services like Booksprout help authors distribute free copies to vetted readers in exchange for an honest review.

• Automated reminders ensure readers actually leave reviews.
• Saves time by connecting you with engaged reviewers instead of chasing them down.

How to Use Reviews in Your Marketing

Once you have great reviews, use them! Here’s how:

• Pull quotes for ads—”A gripping thriller that had me on the edge of my seat!”
• Highlight them on social media—feature a review in an Instagram story or TikTok post.
• Include them in your book description—Amazon lets you add editorial reviews in your listing.
• Use them for PR and pitches—bloggers and media outlets love strong endorsements.

Pro Tip: Even bad reviews can work in your favor. If someone complains, “This book was too spicy,” lean into it—that’s exactly what your target audience wants!

Final Takeaways: Building a Review Strategy That Works

• Know your audience—focus on your ideal readers.
• Ensure your book is review-ready—typos and plot holes kill credibility.
• Ask for reviews—if you don’t ask, you don’t get!
• Use ARC teams and review platforms—get proactive, not passive.
• Leverage your best reviews—they’re gold for marketing.

P.S. – Another Great Way to Get Reviews

Running a Freebooksy email promo can be another great way to get reviews! When you make your book free for a limited time and promote it to our huge community of engaged readers, you increase the chances of getting more downloads—and more downloads mean more reviews.

Ready to get your book in front of the right audience? Schedule a Freebooksy Promotion today!

Want More Content Like This?

Register for our next Speaker Series! Each month we host live Speaker Series sessions with book marketing and self publishing experts. Anyone can join the live sessions and Gold & Platinum Members can watch the recordings any time!

The post From Readers to Reviews: Unlocking the Secret to Positive Feedback appeared first on Written Word Media.

Let’s break it down.

What is Copyright?

Copyright is a legal protection granted to creators of original works—including books, articles, blog posts, and even marketing copy. In simple terms, if you write it, you own it (with some exceptions).

Once you’ve written something down—whether it’s a manuscript in a Word doc or a handwritten novel on coffee-stained napkins—it’s automatically protected by copyright. You don’t need to register it for protection to exist, though registration can offer additional benefits (more on that later).

What does copyright protect?

• Your words and phrasing
• Your unique characters and world-building (though not broad ideas or concepts)
• Your book’s cover art (if you created it)
• Your marketing materials (if you wrote them)

What does copyright NOT protect?

• Ideas and concepts – The idea of a wizard school wasn’t copyrighted, but J.K. Rowling’s specific execution of Hogwarts School in Harry Potter is.
• Book titles and short phrases – Titles can sometimes be trademarked, but they’re not covered under copyright. In other words, don’t stress if your title is similar to another one that’s out there in the world. 
• Facts and public domain works – If Shakespeare wrote it, you can use it. But how do you know if a work is in the public domain?

What is the Public Domain?

Works enter the public domain when their copyright protection expires, meaning anyone can use, modify, or republish them without needing permission. This includes older books, art, and music.

How do you know if something is public domain?

• In the U.S., works published before 1929 are in the public domain.
• Copyright lasts the author’s lifetime + 70 years in most cases (for works created after 1978).
• If a book was published before 1964 and its copyright wasn’t renewed, it’s also public domain.
• Every January 1st, a new batch of older works enters the public domain (thanks to the U.S. copyright term laws).

Examples of public domain works you can freely use:

• Anything written by Shakespeare (1564–1616)
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1818)
• Arthur Conan Doyle’s earlier Sherlock Holmes stories (pre-1929; later ones are still under copyright)

If you’re unsure whether a work is in the public domain, check sites like Project Gutenberg or the U.S. Copyright Office database before using it in your own book or marketing.

What are Some Copyright Law Basics for Authors?

Every country has different copyright laws, but if you’re an author publishing in the U.S these are some key things to know:

• Your work is protected the moment it’s fixed in a tangible form – No registration is required.

• You own the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, display, and perform your work – Meaning others can’t legally copy or sell it without your permission.

• Copyright lasts a LONG time – In the U.S., it typically lasts for the author’s lifetime + 70 years.

• Registration strengthens your legal standing – If someone copies your work, registered copyrights make it easier (and cheaper) to enforce your rights in court.

Want to register your copyright? Head to the U.S. Copyright Office website (www.copyright.gov) to file a claim. It costs around $45–$65 for most books.

Copyright & Marketing: What Authors Need to Know

When promoting your book, you might wonder: “Can I use quotes, images, or excerpts from other works?” The answer depends on fair use and licensing.

Using quotes & excerpts from other works

• You CANNOT freely copy large sections of another book, even for marketing.
• You CAN use short excerpts under fair use (e.g., a few sentences for a review), but fair use is a legal gray area.
• Always credit the source when using quotes!

Using images in marketing (covers, social media, ads)

• Just because an image is on Google doesn’t mean it’s free to use.
• Stick to royalty-free image sites (Unsplash, Pexels, Pixabay) or purchase licensed images.
• If you hire a designer for your book cover or marketing, clarify who owns the rights to the final work.

Using music

• No, you can’t just throw a Taylor Swift song into your book trailer.
• Use royalty-free music or purchase a license (e.g., via sites like AudioJungle or Epidemic Sound).

What to Do if Someone Steals Your Work

Unfortunately, copyright infringement happens. If someone uploads your book to a piracy site, here’s what to do:

• Send a DMCA Takedown Notice – The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) allows you to request a site remove your stolen work. You can often do this via the website’s contact page.

• Report the infringement to retailers – Amazon, Apple Books, and others take copyright complaints seriously. They have forms for reporting stolen content.

• Consider legal action – If someone is profiting off your work, you may need an intellectual property attorney.

If you find pirated copies of your book, don’t panic! Many indie authors deal with this. Focus on building an engaged audience that prefers to support you legally.

Key Takeaways for Authors

• Copyright protects your written work automatically.
• Registering your copyright gives you extra legal protection.
• Be careful when using quotes, images, and music in marketing.
• If someone steals your book, you can take action to remove it.

Remember, copyright isn’t just about legalities—it’s about protecting your hard work and creativity. So, write with confidence, market smartly, and keep your stories safe!

Have more questions about book marketing? Check out Written Word Media’s Effective Marketing Promotions & Ads to get your book in front of readers the right way. 

The post What Every Author Needs to Know About Copyright appeared first on Written Word Media.

A Smooth and Streamlined Process

First things first: booking a Promo Stack is refreshingly easy. Once you’ve chosen the type of stack that fits your book’s needs, scheduling your promotions across platforms is as simple as a few clicks. Our user-friendly system lets you select your promotion dates, genre, and pricing strategies without any headaches:

Multi-Tiered Marketing Power

When you book a Promo Stack, you’re not just booking a single email promotion—you’re combining multiple promotions across WWM’s trusted platforms like Freebooksy, Bargain Booksy, and Red Feather Romance. Each platform targets a highly engaged audience specific to your book’s genre and price point. We’ve also expanded our promo stack reach through strategic partnerships with Hello Books, The Fussy Librarian, Ereader News Today, and more. These partnerships enhance our already robust offerings, ensuring that your Promo Stack is packed with even more opportunities to reach the right readers.

But the real magic happens in the “stacking” itself. Promo Stacking concentrates your book’s visibility during a short timeframe, giving it a surge of momentum. This approach can boost your book’s rank on platforms like Amazon, making it more discoverable to readers. With thousands of avid readers tuned in to our brands, your book will be spotlighted where it matters most.

Flexible Options for Every Author

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to book promotion, and we get that. Promo Stacks are designed to be flexible, catering to both free and discounted eBooks across various genres. Whether your book is a spine-chilling thriller, a swoon-worthy romance, or an epic fantasy, there’s a stack designed for you.

Not sure which stack to pick? Our genre-specific options make it easy to align your promotions with the right readers. From Freebooksy for free titles to Bargain Booksy for discounted ones, your book will be promoted to an audience that’s eager to buy.

A Boost for Algorithms and Buzz

Why is stacking promotions so effective? It’s all about creating momentum. When your book receives a concentrated surge of downloads or purchases in a short time, retailer algorithms (like those on Amazon) take notice. This can lead to better rankings in search results and “also-bought” recommendations, giving your book additional organic visibility even after the promotions end.

Promo Stacking doesn’t just aim for short-term gains—it’s a strategy that can create a ripple effect, extending your book’s reach long after the promotions are over.

Affordable and Results-Oriented

For indie authors, marketing budgets can be tight, but that doesn’t mean you need to compromise on quality. WWM’s Promo Stacks are designed to deliver maximum results at a reasonable price. Additionally, each stack is crafted with ROI in mind. With packages starting at $45, Promo Stacks offer a cost-effective way to market your book professionally. The goal is simple: to help your book reach more readers, drive sales, and give you a promotional experience worth every penny.

Full Transparency and Support

Booking a Promo Stack doesn’t mean you’re left to figure things out on your own. Once your promotions are scheduled, you’ll receive detailed updates on what to expect. Our friendly team is always just an email away if you have questions or need assistance. We genuinely want to see you succeed!

Measurable Results

At the end of your Promo Stack, you’ll be able to see the impact of your promotions through measurable data like increased downloads, higher sales rankings, and more reader engagement. This feedback is invaluable for planning future marketing strategies and understanding your book’s performance.

Final Thoughts

Booking a Promo Stack with Written Word Media is more than just scheduling a promotion—it’s partnering with a team that’s invested in your success. From seamless scheduling and genre-specific targeting to algorithm-boosting strategies and expert support, Promo Stacks are designed to give your book the best possible shot at reaching its audience.

Ready to put your book in the spotlight? Explore our Promo Stacks today and see how far they can take your story. After all, every great book deserves a great audience, and with Promo Stacks, connecting with readers has never been easier.

The post What to Expect When You Book a Promo Stack at Written Word Media appeared first on Written Word Media.