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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.
Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.
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Meg

I'm a coffee-fueled mood reader and unapologetic romance book addict with an ever-growing collection of stories that steal my heart. From laugh-out-loud rom-coms to dark, brooding romances, magical fantasies, and irresistibly steamy smut, I embrace the full spectrum of romance sub-genres. Through my book blog, Literary Inspired, I share thoughtful reviews, curated recommendations, and exclusive author promotions, all while championing indie authors.

Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

Mastering Amazon Categories

Author Marketing Tips, Digital Strategy, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

As an indie author, navigating the vast ocean of Amazon’s book marketplace can be daunting. One of the most crucial aspects of ensuring your book’s visibility and success is mastering Amazon book categories. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why categories matter, how to research and choose the best ones for your book, and strategies to maximize your book’s exposure. The Importance of Categories for Visibility Amazon’s book categories are essentially virtual shelves where your book is placed. Just as in a physical bookstore, the right placement can significantly impact your book’s discoverability. Here’s why categories are crucial: Targeted Readership: Categories help readers find books in their preferred genres or topics. Bestseller Lists: Each category has its own bestseller list, providing opportunities for increased visibility. Competitive Edge: Proper categorization can help your book stand out in less crowded niches. Researching the Best Categories To choose the most effective categories for your book, follow these steps: Analyze Bestsellers: Look at the bestseller lists in categories relevant to your book. Note the sales ranks of the top books to gauge competitiveness. Study Competitor Books: Examine books similar to yours and note their categories. This can provide insights into where your book might fit best. Use Amazon’s Browse Feature: Navigate through Amazon’s category structure to find specific, niche categories that align with your book’s content. Consider Reader Behavior: Think about how your target readers might search for books like yours. Strategies for Choosing Primary and Secondary Categories When selecting your Amazon book categories, consider these strategies: Balance Popularity and Specificity: Choose a mix of broader, popular categories and more specific niche categories. Align with Content: Ensure your chosen categories accurately reflect your book’s content to meet reader expectations. Check Eligibility: Some categories have specific requirements (e.g., page count for short reads). Make sure your book qualifies. Consider Series Potential: If your book is part of a series, look for categories that perform well for series in your genre. Using Keywords to Get into Additional Categories Amazon’s category system also allows you to appear in additional categories by including relevant keywords in your book’s metadata. Here’s how to leverage this: Research Category Keywords: Use Amazon’s search bar to find keywords associated with your target categories. Incorporate in Metadata: Include these keywords in your book’s title, subtitle, description, and keyword fields. Be Specific: Use precise, descriptive keywords that align with your book’s content and target categories. Monitor Results: Regularly check your book’s category placements to see if your keyword strategy is effective. Changing Categories Post-Publication Even after your book is published, you can still optimize its Amazon categories. Here’s how: Contact Amazon Support: Use the “Contact Us” option in your KDP dashboard to request category changes. Provide Specifics: Clearly state the exact categories you want to add or remove, including their full paths. Justify Your Request: Briefly explain why the new categories are more appropriate for your book. Be Patient: Category changes can take a few days to process and appear on your book’s page. FAQs Q1: How many categories can my book be in on Amazon? A: Your book can be listed in up to 10 categories on Amazon, including both those you select directly and those you reach through keywords. Q2: Can I choose categories that are slightly off-topic if they’re less competitive? A: It’s best to stick to categories that accurately represent your book’s content. Misleading categorization can lead to negative reviews and decreased reader trust. Q3: How often should I reassess my book’s categories? A: It’s a good practice to review your categories every 3-6 months or whenever you notice significant changes in your book’s performance. Q4: Are there any categories I should avoid? A: Avoid extremely broad categories where your book might get lost, as well as any categories that don’t accurately represent your book’s content or genre. Q5: Can changing categories affect my book’s sales rank? A: Yes, changing categories can affect your book’s sales rank, as you’ll be competing with different books. However, if the new categories are more appropriate, this can lead to improved visibility and sales in the long run. Mastering Amazon book categories is an ongoing process that requires research, strategy, and occasional adjustments. By understanding the importance of categories, researching effectively, and utilizing both direct category selection and keyword strategies, you can significantly improve your book’s visibility on Amazon. Remember, the goal is to find the sweet spot where your book is discoverable by your target readers and has a competitive chance of ranking well in its categories.

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

The Ultimate Guide to Book Subscription Boxes

Book Subscription Boxes, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

As an avid reader and self-proclaimed collector of beautiful books, I’ve found myself on a rollercoaster ride of subscriptions, cancellations, and re-subscriptions over the years. My journey has taken me through the offerings of Bookish Box, Illumicrate, Fairyloot, and more recently, OwlCrate’s new quarterly model. Each box has its unique charms, challenges, and changes, reflecting the dynamic nature of this industry. In this post (which I intend on keeping updated) I’ll dive deep into my recent experiences, sharing insights on how these services have adapted (or not) to the changing demands of bibliophiles like myself. Whether you’re a seasoned subscriber or a curious newcomer, my hope is that this post will help keep you informed of the current landscape, examining everything from design quality and book selection to shipping woes and industry trends. Buckle up, fellow book lovers – we’re about to embark on a comprehensive tour of the book box world! Bookish Box In 2023, Bookish Box held a special place in my heart as my first-ever subscription service. Their commitment to featuring indie authors and discovering new, exciting books for both their subscription service and special editions was truly commendable. I was consistently impressed by their unique and beautifully designed editions, featuring custom-designed covers, stunning hardcover designs, and signed copies. Their community engagement was also noteworthy, with regular sneak peeks, responsiveness to requests, and participation in chats and reading challenges. However, Bookish Box’s ambition to do it all – multiple subscription offerings and frequent special edition releases – sometimes led to quality control issues. I encountered errors in some books, which was frustrating despite my love for the custom components. They later hired proofreaders, but this was after I had cancelled my subscription. Additionally, the company’s sometimes defensive responses to negative feedback and the occasionally mean-spirited community left a sour taste. Despite these issues, I still believed Bookish Box was a great option for those wanting to support indie authors and receive unique, beautifully designed editions. UPDATE (2024): I’ve recently resubscribed to Bookish Box, but this time to their Darkish Box, as these selections align more closely with my current reading preferences. However, my experience has been mixed: Shipping Delays: Despite signing up in February, I’m yet to receive my first order four months later. This ongoing issue with shipping and fulfillment is concerning. Change in Fulfillment: Bookish Box has recently changed fulfillment companies and claims to be on track to catch up by the end of July. While I’m skeptical given their track record, I’m cautiously optimistic about this potential turning point. Design Quality: I can’t comment on current design quality due to not receiving any boxes yet. However, their commitment to intricate designs (double-sided dust-jackets, redesigned covers, custom hardbacks, art endpapers, sprayed edges, all signed) remains a significant draw. Shipping Costs: They’ve introduced higher shipping fees, which has caused some controversy among subscribers. While I understand the need for sustainable pricing, it’s an additional cost to consider. Subscriber Perks: Their Member Day events and early access to special editions remain attractive features. These can be particularly useful for completing series collections. Focus on Indie Authors: This remains a key selling point for me, as I value supporting independent voices in the community. Discontinuation of YA Box: It’s worth noting that their YA Book Box is no longer available, reflecting a shift in their product offerings. Despite the ongoing shipping issues, I’m willing to give Bookish Box another chance due to the uniqueness of their designs and their support for indie authors. However, my patience is not infinite, and I’ll be closely monitoring their progress in resolving these longstanding issues. Illumicrate In 2023, Illumicrate stood out as a top-tier book subscription service. Their strong relationships with traditional publishers allowed them to consistently offer highly anticipated new releases from established authors. As a seasoned player in the subscription service market, Illumicrate had honed their skills in managing customer expectations. Even when faced with delays, their communication remained clear and accountable, setting them apart from competitors. While their editions may not have always had the fanciest bells and whistles, they consistently delivered high-quality books. These were often signed by the author and featured unique endpapers or sprayed/stenciled edges, making them coveted collector’s items. In addition to their Book Only subscription, Illumicrate offered the Afterlight bi-monthly service focusing on contemporary romances. Although there wasn’t a book-only option for Afterlight, the inclusion of 2-3 treats made it excellent value for money. One of Illumicrate’s standout features was their flexible skip policy. Subscribers could easily skip a month when the book didn’t appeal or when budgets were tight. This seamless process allowed for unlimited skips, contrasting favorably with Bookish Box’s limit of three skips per year. Illumicrate also excelled in handling special edition sales, offering active subscribers early access a week before the general public. This ensured that loyal customers had a fair chance at securing these sought-after editions. Overall, in 2023, Illumicrate proved to be a reliable and consistent subscription service, offering high-quality books and excellent customer service. UPDATE (2024): I’ve recently resubscribed to Illumicrate’s Afterlight subscription after a brief hiatus, and I’ve noticed several positive changes: Enhanced Book Designs: The book designs are now more intricate and elevated, making them even more collectible. Monthly Format: Afterlight has transitioned from bi-monthly to a monthly subscription, offering more frequent bookish delights. Book-Only Focus: They’ve removed the 2-3 treats, focusing solely on the books. As someone primarily interested in beautiful editions, this change aligns perfectly with my preferences. Diverse Book Selection: The book choices continue to offer a great mix of M/F romances and LGBTQ representation, catering to diverse reading tastes. Early Access Perk: As an Afterlight subscriber, I still benefit from early access to exclusive editions, though I haven’t taken advantage of this recently as their recent offerings haven’t appealed to me personally. Flexible Skip Option: The skip option remains generous, allowing up to 11 months of skips. I’ve already utilized this to skip the next three months as the selections

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

OwlCrate’s New Quarterly Subscriptions: A Promising Venture for Book Lovers

Book Subscription Boxes, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

OwlCrate, a popular book subscription service, has announced the launch of four new quarterly subscriptions set to begin in Spring 2025. As someone who’s always on the lookout for interesting book subscription options, this caught my attention. Let’s dive into what OwlCrate is offering and my thoughts on this new venture. The New Subscriptions: OwlCrate is introducing four genre-specific quarterly subscriptions: Horror Romance Romantasy Sci-Fi These are adult (18+) book-only subscriptions, which means no additional merchandise – just books. How to Join: OwlCrate is offering two ways to get involved: $25 Ticket Reservation: This guarantees you a spot in the subscription(s) of your choice. The ticket cost applies to your first charge. Waitlist: Join the waitlist for your preferred genre(s). While this doesn’t guarantee a spot, it puts you in line for future openings. Key Information: Ticket sales end on July 5th at 11:00am PST / 2:00pm EST. The first books will ship in Spring 2025. No skips are allowed for these subscriptions. The subscription cost will be the same as OwlCrate’s current Adult book-only subscription. Active subscribers get first access to limited edition releases in their subscribed genre. My Thoughts: As someone who loves beautifully designed books, particularly in the romantasy genre, I’m intrigued by this new offering. The quarterly format is especially appealing for several reasons: Cost Management: Quarterly subscriptions can be more budget-friendly than monthly ones. It’s easier to justify the expense when it’s spread out over three months. Reduced Overwhelm: With fewer deliveries, there’s less pressure to keep up with constant new releases. This allows more time to savor each book and reduces the feeling of having “too much” to read. Anticipation Building: A quarterly schedule could make each delivery feel more special and eagerly awaited. Genre Focus: By offering genre-specific subscriptions, OwlCrate is catering to readers’ particular interests. Quality Control: The quarterly format potentially allows OwlCrate more time to evaluate and improve their process between shipments. This could lead to better quality control and more attention to detail in both the product and delivery aspects. Flexibility for Subscribers: With less frequent shipments, subscribers might feel less inclined to cancel due to overflow, making it a more sustainable long-term option for both the company and customers. However, it’s worth noting that I’m not familiar with OwlCrate’s track record in terms of book design quality, delivery reliability, or customer service. These are crucial factors in any book subscription service, and the quarterly format might give them an edge in managing these aspects more effectively. The ticket reservation system is an interesting approach. It allows enthusiastic readers to secure their spots early, while the waitlist option keeps the door open for those who are curious but not yet ready to commit. OwlCrate’s new quarterly subscriptions seem promising, especially for readers who love specific genres but don’t want the commitment of a monthly subscription. The Romantasy option, in particular, has piqued my interest. That said, as with any new subscription service, it’s wise to approach with some caution. We won’t know about the quality of the books or the smoothness of the delivery process until the subscriptions actually launch in Spring 2025. If you’re interested, consider joining the waitlist. It’s a low-commitment way to stay informed and potentially join the subscription in the future. For those who are certain they want in, the ticket reservation system guarantees a spot. As always, it’s important to consider your reading habits, budget, and shelf space before committing to any book subscription. But for fans of these genres looking for a quarterly book treat, OwlCrate’s new offerings could be worth exploring. For more information, visit the OwlCrate Website.

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

Fairyloot’s Romantasy Subscription Box Review

Book Subscription Boxes, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

When Fairyloot announced their new Romantasy Book-Only Subscription for 2024, I was intrigued. As a long-time reader of fantasy and romance, the idea of a subscription dedicated to romantic fantasy with a spicy twist caught my attention. Here’s what I’ve learned about the subscription and my experience so far. First, let’s cover the basics: The subscription costs £21 GBP / $29 USD plus shipping and tax. Billing happens on the 4th of each month. Books typically ship mid to late month. Each book is a new release romantic fantasy with “spice”. Books come with exclusive cover designs, special end-pages, and sprayed edges. Fairyloot mentions that while most selections will be new releases, some might be previously self-published titles now picked up by traditional publishers. They’re also planning combination options later this year, including a Romantasy + Adult Book-Only Combo and a Triple Book-Only Combo. My Fairyloot Romantasy Experience: I signed up for the waitlist about six months before the subscription launched. To be honest, I had almost forgotten about it by the time I got my invitation. I was actually in the process of cutting back on book boxes, but my current obsession with romantasy made me decide to give it a shot. Now, three books in and knowing the next two selections, I can share some thoughts: Book Selection: I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the variety. The books feature diverse relationships and characters, and Fairyloot seems to be balancing well-known authors with newer voices. One of the upcoming books is even a why-choose romance, which I’m particularly excited about. Book Quality: This is where Fairyloot really shines. The redesigned covers, end-pages, and sprayed edges are beautiful. These are books I’m proud to display on my shelves. Delivery: So far, Fairyloot has been reliable with their deliveries. After experiences with other boxes, I appreciate this consistency. Planning: I think Fairyloot’s decision to open the waitlist so far in advance has paid off. It seems to have allowed them to gauge interest and prepare properly, resulting in a smoother experience for subscribers. What’s impressed me most is how well the books align with my reading interests. In my experience with book boxes, it’s rare to consistently receive books I’d choose for myself. With this subscription, I’ve enjoyed every selection so far. That said, it’s important to note that personal taste plays a huge role in subscription satisfaction. While I’m enjoying the romantasy focus, it might not be for everyone. The growing waitlist suggests I’m not alone in my enthusiasm for this subscription. If you’re into romantic fantasy with a spicy edge and enjoy special edition books, it is totally worth joining the waitlist. Even if you’re unsure, it’s a low-commitment way to keep your options open. For me, Fairyloot’s Romantasy Subscription has become a bright spot in my reading life. It’s reignited my excitement for book mail and introduced me to new authors in my favorite genre. While it’s still early days, I’m optimistic about what future months will bring. I’ll be keeping a close eye on the consistency and quality as the subscription continues, but for now, I’m thoroughly enjoying this spicy new addition to my bookshelves. For more information, visit the Fairyloot website.

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

How to Host Your Author Website

Author Marketing Tips, Digital Strategy, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

Navigating the world of website hosting can be daunting, but it’s a crucial step in establishing your digital presence as an author. I simplify this process for you, ensuring that your website not only goes live but thrives online. Registering and Owning Your Domain The first step in your web hosting journey is registering a domain name. This unique address on the internet will represent your brand and help readers find you easily. Registering a domain involves selecting a name that reflects your author brand and paying an annual fee to maintain ownership. This domain is your own corner on the web, and renewing it annually ensures it remains yours without interruption. Understanding Web Hosting Fees Once you have your domain, the next step is choosing where and how your website will be hosted, which usually incurs a monthly fee. Web hosting is like renting a space on a server where your website’s data and files are stored and accessed by visitors worldwide. At Literary Inspired, I offer an all-inclusive hosting service for just $30 per month. Your website will be placed on a dedicated server, meaning you aren’t sharing resources with other websites. This setup enhances your website’s performance, providing faster load times and reducing the likelihood of downtime. Dedicated Servers and Personalized Care Choosing a dedicated server means you get enhanced security, speed, and reliability. I also offer 24/7 website monitoring. If your site experiences any issues, I’m immediately notified via Discord, enabling me to address and resolve the problem swiftly, often before you even notice. And the best part? You won’t find yourself lost in a sea of customer support calls; instead, you receive my personal attention. I am always just a message away, ready to handle any concerns with the speed and dedication you deserve. Email Hosting with Google Workspace If you need a professional email linked to your domain, I can assist you in setting up with Google Workspace. This service offers reliable email hosting and additional tools like word processing and spreadsheets, all linked to your custom domain. Hosting your author website doesn’t have to be complicated. With Literary Inspired, you get straightforward, effective solutions tailored to your needs as an indie author. Ready to take the next step in your author journey? Let’s get your website up and running smoothly so you can focus on what you do best: writing.

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

Understanding WordPress

Author Marketing Tips, Digital Strategy, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

When you first consider building a website with WordPress, it might seem like there’s only one WordPress. However, it’s crucial to recognize that there are two distinct platforms: WordPress.com and WordPress.org. Each serves different needs, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your site’s functionality, freedom, and ability to grow alongside your authorial career. What’s the Difference Between WordPress.com and WordPress.org? WordPress.com is a hosted service—it’s user-friendly and great for beginners. It manages all the hosting hassles, but this ease comes with limitations. Depending on your plan, you can choose from several themes and plugins, but customization options are restricted unless you opt for a higher tier. This platform is suitable if you prefer not to handle technical details and need a straightforward, albeit controlled, web presence. Conversely, WordPress.org offers a self-hosted platform where you have full control over your website. This option requires more initial setup, such as securing your own hosting and domain name. However, it provides unlimited customization possibilities and the autonomy to truly make your website reflect your unique brand and voice. Why Indie Authors Should Consider WordPress.org Customization and Control: WordPress.org empowers you with complete freedom to customize your website. You can alter everything from the site’s appearance to its backend functionality, which is essential for creating a unique and professional online presence that stands out from the crowd. Unlimited Plugin Access: With WordPress.org, you can install any plugin available on the market. This access is crucial for enhancing your site’s capabilities, whether it’s for SEO, security enhancements, social media integration, or complex e-commerce solutions. Full Monetization: WordPress.org imposes no restrictions on how you monetize your site. This freedom is vital for indie authors who aim to maximize their revenue streams, allowing direct sales, affiliate marketing, and more, without any limitations. Empowering Indie Authors At Literary Inspired, I understand the importance of not just building a website but truly owning it in every sense. While WordPress.com offers a simpler platform, particularly with its Creator plan, it comes with inherent limitations that might not align with your long-term goals. I advocate for WordPress.org because it embodies the freedom and scalability necessary for a growing author’s platform. Choosing between WordPress.com and WordPress.org isn’t just about selecting a website builder—it’s about choosing the path that aligns best with your vision for your authorial and digital presence. Feel empowered knowing that whichever path you choose, I’m here to guide you, ensuring that your digital platform shines as brightly as your narratives. Furthermore, I ensure that all my clients feel empowered and encouraged to take charge of their own platforms. I provide detailed walk-throughs, including screenshots and descriptions, to help you make edits and changes to your website independently. This hands-on guidance helps demystify the technical aspects of managing a WordPress.org site, making it accessible for authors who are new to web management. FAQs About WordPress for Indie Authors Can I switch from WordPress.com to WordPress.org? Yes, migrating from WordPress.com to WordPress.org is possible and often beneficial as your needs expand. The process involves purchasing hosting, exporting your content, and setting up a new WordPress.org installation. While it might seem daunting, I provide detailed guides to help you through each step. Is WordPress.org more expensive than WordPress.com? While WordPress.org might entail higher initial costs due to hosting and domain expenses, it generally becomes more cost-effective in the long run. This avoids the recurring higher costs associated with WordPress.com‘s premium plans, which can escalate as your needs increase. How technically skilled do I need to be to use WordPress.org? There is a learning curve with WordPress.org, but a wealth of resources are available to assist you. Additionally, I provide personalized walkthroughs complete with screenshots and descriptions to help you manage and customize your website effectively.

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

Indie Publishing 101: A Beginner’s Guide

Author Marketing Tips, Digital Strategy, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

Reentering the indie publishing world after a hiatus can feel like navigating a whole new landscape. As someone who partners closely with authors to amplify their presence and readership, I’ve gathered insights that might help demystify this environment, making your comeback—or debut—as smooth as possible. TikTok and Indie Publishing: A Tactical Approach While TikTok’s influence in the book world is undeniable, its suitability for direct author promotion is limited. The platform’s algorithm typically does not favor self-promotion. Instead of pouring resources into multiple daily posts, a more effective strategy is collaborating with small BookTokers who show genuine enthusiasm for your genre. These partnerships can lead to more authentic and effective promotions than direct advertisements, helping your books reach the right audience without the burnout. Market Dynamics: The Pulse of Publishing The indie publishing sector is experiencing a revitalisation rather than a slowdown, thanks largely to platforms like BookTok that shine a spotlight on indie authors. This newfound visibility contrasts sharply with the traditional publishing industry, which has seen a slowdown for various reasons. Traditional publishers are increasingly eyeing indie authors who have already built strong followings and a solid backlist. In a strategy that some may see as opportunistic, these publishers are republishing indie works with new covers and additional content, betting that loyal readers will purchase updated editions of books they may already own. However, indie books are becoming increasingly accessible and affordable, especially on platforms like Kindle Unlimited which appeals to the current economic climate, where readers are more conscious of book prices and seek more value and novelty for their spend. Economic Trends Influencing Reading Preferences The pace at which avid readers consume books makes platforms like Kindle Unlimited and Kobo Plus cost-effective. As economic considerations weigh more heavily on consumers’ minds, subscription services have become increasingly popular. These platforms allow readers to explore diverse genres without financial commitment, catering to the fluctuating economic climate by providing an affordable form of escapism. Revolutionizing Cover Design in Romance The romance genre has seen a notable shift from explicit covers to more abstract, cartoon-style artwork. While this trend was initially refreshing, it now faces the challenge of oversaturation. Readers crave new, distinctive covers that clearly convey the content’s nature, urging a shift towards designs that can stand out and speak directly to the intended audience. Building a Community: ARC and Street Teams Creating an ARC and Street Team early in your publishing process is crucial. Establish a sense of community and exclusivity by designing unique badges or logos for your ARC team, giving them something to be excited about and spurring interest among potential ARC readers. Equip your ARC team with all necessary materials for promotion, understanding that only about 10% may follow through due to various reasons: Many ARC readers often apply for multiple books, not knowing which they’ll be accepted to. Getting approved for several can lead to feeling overwhelmed, resulting in a shutdown. Life’s unpredictabilities can intrude, reducing available reading time. With these factors in mind, it’s vital to provide every tool and resource to help your ARC team promote your books effectively, even if they can’t read them immediately. Final Thoughts As you dive back into indie publishing, focus on the essence of your journey: your stories. While marketing tactics, cover trends, and community building are important, they serve to support the true core of your work—creating engaging, memorable narratives. Use these insights to craft a strategic approach that aligns with current trends and your personal goals, ensuring your return to indie publishing is both successful and fulfilling.

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

Interview with Lou Poletti, author of Gamebound

Author Interviews, Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

I am so excited to be bringing back my Author Spotlight series, a dedicated space on my blog and now Substack where I showcase the incredible talent of indie authors I’ve had the privilege of working with. This series aims to connect the indie author community, share marketing insights, and introduce readers to their next favorite book. Each post shares the unique journeys of authors as they navigate the complexities of publishing, providing a platform for them to share their experiences and advice, while also promoting their latest works. Today, I am thrilled to introduce Lou Poletti, an emerging author in the gamelit community. Lou’s debut novel, “Gamebound,” is set to release on Kindle Unlimited on April 30th and is currently available for pre-order. “Gamebound” plunges readers into the virtual world of Verindale, where the protagonist, Nylah, awakens with no memory of her identity and must navigate a maze of challenges and discoveries. The book promises to blend intense virtual reality gaming with deep psychological themes, making it a unique addition to the gamelit genre. As Lou’s digital strategist and marketer, I’ve been closely involved in crafting the promotional campaign for “Gamebound.” Our efforts have focused on building anticipation and engagement through targeted social media marketing and managing the ARC & Street Team activities. These initiatives aim to amplify Lou’s visibility and connect her with readers eager for new and immersive fantasy experiences. Through creative content and strategic outreach, we’ve worked to ensure that “Gamebound” not only reaches its audience but also leaves a lasting impression. A Conversation with Lou Poletti Can you give us a brief overview of “Gamebound” and what inspired you to write this novel? Gamebound is the story of a woman who wakes up in a video game with half her memories gone and has to piece herself back together as she plays her way out. Along the way, she fights against physical creatures and her own emotional demons to keep her sanity in a world where her thoughts are not just her own. The whole series started in a little café in Regensburg, Germany, with an amazing gluten-free chocolate cake. I was enjoying my favorite tea and cake when I started thinking about an elaborate game system like the ones I enjoyed playing. Then I wondered what would happen if someone woke up in one with no idea why they were there, and out came the iPad. My colleagues would even laugh when they saw me walking down the street typing away at my tablet while on my way to and from work. I spent a long time not intending to publish it, though, and I initially just used it as my own form of writing therapy. That was until my dad gave it to my cousin Felicity, and then I just had to “get this out to the world.” As a debut author, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced while writing and preparing “Gamebound” for publication? Perfectionism and imposter syndrome were some of my biggest. Navigating the monumental list of tasks that encompass self-publishing and building an audience was also challenging at times. That said, Google-fu, learning to ask for help when needed, and my husband just being a bastion of encouragement were wonderful antidotes. “Gamebound” features a unique blend of virtual reality and game mechanics. What drew you to incorporate these elements into your storytelling? I adore RPG game series like the Elder Scrolls and Dragon Age and can get lost in their worlds for hours. Sometimes, I’m not even playing; I’m just looking up lore on the Wiki page and enjoying my trip down the rabbit hole, reading all the creative bits of lore the writers and designers manage to stuff into those games. It’s so inspiring, and it’s what led me to ponder about how I could design my own in-depth system. A few cups of tea and a demolished chocolate cake later, I was well on my way to creating one, and to this day, I still have my “Character Classes” document and the notes I created in that café. Your novel delves deep into psychological themes alongside its adventurous plot. Why did you choose to focus on these themes, and how do you think they enhance the story? As a mental health advocate, I’d love to see more representation in fiction. In certain cases, I believe it can allow people to interact with these topics from a safe distance when veiled through fantasy or other fictional means, as the fantasy helps create distance from the real-world equivalent. At least, that’s the theory. This particular installment focuses on acceptance—accepting help, accepting what is, and accepting what we can do in each moment. It’s my opinion that right balance of humor and heaviness can provide a safe space for people to interact with more difficult topics and, importantly, see them in a new light. I’ve seen it happen in all kinds of art forms and find it captivating when it works. It’s something unique to art and I believe that personal connection is what makes art, and by extension stories, meaningful. I felt I had a unique chance to cultivate that balance in my writing in the hopes that someone might see a situation differently or that some of the lessons and concepts might resonate with readers going through something similar. Could you share your process for developing your main character, Nylah, and what you hope readers will take away from her journey? Nylah evolved over my many iterations. At first, she was simply all the things I wished I could say out loud without being labeled a delinquent, but as I rewrote, I decided I needed to get to know her better. I interviewed her in my mind as we sat together in a room. I asked her several questions and even realized I had two versions of her to get to know—the one with her memories and the one without them. The differences between them surprised

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Custom author marketing services for indie and traditional authors, created by Literary Inspired.

Building a Business as a Creative

Literary Inspired Author Marketing /

It’s been a day. It all started at 3 am, and with less than 3 hours of sleep, it’s felt like a non-stop cycle of what can go wrong, has gone wrong. Rejection. Feeling undervalued. Confrontation. Exhaustion. Here I am, lying down, feeling a mix of dejection and fragility. In just the last 10 minutes, I’ve caught myself wondering why I’m even bothering to try. This is miles away from the ambitious dreamer I usually am. This year kicked off with a dream for me. A dream to make this little author business of mine a full-time gig. I dreamed about how proud I’d feel to bet on myself—to believe in me, even when it felt like so many around me doubted me day after day. “You just watch me,” I’d think to myself. I’d let my mind wander to what it would mean to finally call this my full-time passion. I’d daydream about my boss’s face when I hand in my resignation—years of feeling undervalued and an environment that slowly chipped away at my confidence and mental health. But in that moment, I’d have the last smile, revealing the empire I chose to build for myself. Ambitious? Maybe. But my husband says there’s this thing about me, when I say I’m going to do something, somehow the mix of my passion and sheer stubbornness makes even the seemingly impossible happen. I’ve been lucky, honestly, to see my business grow so much in less than a year. Having the trust of over 30+ authors every month as I navigate marketing their books and finding them readers, I’m beyond grateful for every single one of them. And I’m grateful they keep coming back. That they tell their friends. That they tag me in groups and recommend me to other authors. I couldn’t have anticipated this growth, and I’m both humbled and truly thankful for the support. Which is why days like today hit a bit harder. When you care so deeply and put your all into every little thing you’re doing, it’s soul-crushing when things don’t go as planned. I’m a firm believer in the universe putting me exactly where I need to be, and that every opportunity meant for me will find me. But, that doesn’t make the hard days any easier to get through. I guess for many authors, you go through the same. You get a rejection letter or a bad review, and you sit there wondering: is it all worth it? For me, it’s this thought of – I could walk away. I could go back to that boring day job, working 8-5, spouting corporate BS that doesn’t inspire me. But at least I’d get paid on time, have benefits, and paid time off. On a day like today, I wouldn’t have to “just work through it.” I could be taking full advantage of the sick leave I’ve been given, especially after my surgery last week, curled up with a good book, unbothered about deadlines or meeting unrealistic expectations. I could take weekends off again, and dive into books without end. I could. But I won’t. There’s no satisfaction in letting the bad days win. So, here I am, deciding to work twice as hard. To give this my all. I AM, IN FACT, GOING TO BET ON MYSELF because deep down, I KNOW this is what I’m meant to do. In the last few months, I haven’t felt as challenged, creative, and inspired as I have while working with authors. This is the part of marketing I missed – the doing part. I can talk stats, data, and strategy all day, but where I truly shine is in the creative bits. Where I get to create and implement. Where I take the load off you, doing what I love, so you can focus on writing books. So, if there’s anything to take away from my ramblings, it’s to always bet on yourself. Being an author is tough, but every day, you all inspire me with your resilience and your dedication to telling the stories in your heart. Don’t give up, even when platforms mess you around, even when that negative review stings. Just keep betting on yourself, okay? And I promise to do the same. Even when it’s hard. Especially when giving up seems so much easier. We don’t do easy here. We persevere and believe that every right opportunity will come our way, exactly when it’s meant to.

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