Getting a Book to Readers

   Sportswriter Red Smith is known for saying, "Writing is easy. You just open a vein and bleed."

   I don't find writing especially easy, but telling people about a new book is even harder. It's kind of like looking for a job. You need to let people know you're hunting, but you feel a little as if you're imposing.
   Still, it's fun to be in touch with readers. I love sending a note to my email list and getting replies saying they've been waiting to know what a set of characters is up to.
   I had a welcome holiday gift of sorts when my publisher (Annie Acorn LLC) put Demise of a Devious Neighbor for sale (preorder) Christmas Eve. Savvy marketer that the firm is, they believe that readers will be anxious to use those new Kindles and Nooks they received as gifts.
   As we look to a new year, I thought I'd share some marketing ideas. They'll help authors, but can also give readers places to look for new books or bargain reads.

Goodreads has hundreds of reader/author discussion groups, and authors sponsor giveaways of paperbacks. Even better, it's a place where readers can list all the books they are reading or have read, and many review their favorites.
BookGoodies reviews and promotes dozens of books each week. Many are new, some are presented at reduced prices.
Facebook Groups bring together readers and authors interested in particular genres. Though some individual authors have created groups, I find those such as Cozy Mysteries 24/7 and Crime, Thrillers,  and Mystery Readers Cafe, better places to meet readers. Still, if you have a favorite author, search for them on Facebook. Mid-sized groups seem to have more interaction among members than larger ones.
Choosy Bookworm features books by authors from multiple countries. It also lets authors post books they are willing to provide to readers in consideration of a review. (This meets Amazon guidelines, because authors are providing a copy, just as they would for a paper's book review supplement.)
A Girl and Her Ebook does longer features on the books on its site, and also promotes new releases and giveaways.
   I'd love it if readers would add comments about sites where they look for new books.
   And by the way, Happy New Year! May your writing and reading bring you joy.

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