Ed, everything in this post applies to both fiction and nonfiction, and most of what you’ll find elsewhere about list-building for authors that seems to apply to nonfiction will also apply to fiction. You might have to make a little extra effort to view it through a fiction lens, but it applies. For example, all authors looking to build an email list should have an opt-in form on their website and a free bonus download that will appeal to their target audience. Then they need to communicate regularly with their list in a way that isn’t always overtly selling the author’s latest book. Back to that free download that will entice fans to give up their email address, here’s a link with more info — it’s specific to fiction: http://buildbookbuzz.com/reader-magnets/ .

Sandy

I write fiction, so the calls to action as you phrase them are not practical. Other than that, I’ve pretty much done what you’ve said. Nada.

I don’t do speaking engagements, alas (you don’t *want* me to, trust me). I’ve done the freebie to no avail, and if there’s no one on the email list to start with, sending emails isn’t much use.

Clare, I’m thrilled that you mentioned one of the big benefits of email marketing that I didn’t mention: the ability to repeat your message over and over again.

If it’s true that buyers need to see a marketing message seven times before they buy, and I believe it is, you could repeat your message seven times in just seven weeks with a weekly newsletter.

I’d also like to add that email marketing / newsletters also help authors to gain the repeat views that are necessary in order to make sales. Marketing experts tell us that buyers need 7 of these contacts before they will buy. But as most website visitors are “unique” and never return, that means that they’re unlikely to ever buy just from visiting our site. Email gives us those increased points of contact – resulting (in theory) in a greater number of sales.

I’m with Sandra. How can an author hope to sell anything without a website?

Linda, congratulations on taking a giant step in the world of publishing. I wish you the best and hope your trilogy flies off the shelves.