The View from Middle Spunk Creek

Beyond Rotten Tomatoes

Each one of us has a “sphere of influence.” That is the circle of family, friends and business associates that you can count on…because they can count on you. I call them my “rotten tomatoes” support group.  They’ll take that last bag of tomatoes (from your garden) off your hands, no questions asked, even though half of them are rotten, and it’s the fifth bag of tomatoes they’ve gotten from you this season.

They do it because they love you. They do it to be supportive. They do it because they know you’ll take their last bag of zucchini.

For an author, that sphere of influence is critical to your success. It also can be a barrier.

Let’s say your sphere consists of 200 people. Those people will buy your book, tell you how great it is, post reviews, show up at your book events, do practically anything you ask, within reason. They become the cocoon in which your literary life evolves. They’re great.

But for the author (unless you have a big marketing budget, which most of us don’t) the question is, how do you reach people outside your sphere? How do you get them to look at your book. Buy your book. Read your book.

There are some common methods: (a) Reviews–the more reviews posted on Amazon, Goodreads, etc., the more marketing attention your book gets; (b) personal appearances/book signings; (c) discount promotions–sell your book at $0.99 on Amazon to get people to sign up for your blog/newsletter/website, etc. Oh, yeah, those are other common methods: blog, newsletter and website.

But I’m looking, and asking for, outside the box ideas:  what has or hasn’t worked for you, what has attracted you to books that aren’t by a familiar author or on the best-seller list, what do you look for, and where, when you’re searching for something new to read?

Send me your suggestions and experiences by clicking here. I’ll pick the best idea and send you a copy of The Reaper  when it comes out in June.

Speaking of which, here is the final Reaper cover.

There are a couple of new features coming to The View from Middle Spunk. You’ve already met my old friend and guest blogger, Barefoot Bud. Another old friend, The Punster, will be making regular appearances.

A sample: “Seven days without a pun makes one weak”. Groan!

And, occasionally, CJ Rackham will drop by with a new limerick.

Next week: a pre-release opportunity to get a copy of The Reaper.

Adios for now. May your week be happy, healthy and prosperous, and may you find time to hug your kids and read a good book.