Lindsey, Just keep moving forward. Yes, the ads are a lot to tackle. But, step by step, little bites. When you have time and feel ready, take the course again, or even enroll in Bryan’s Ad School. I think it’s fine that you’re focused on a book right now—do what you feel like doing! Overwhelm is right outside every author’s door. “We have nothing to fear but fear itself.”

Exactly, Hemalatha! Thanks for chiming in.

We Amaz Ads students are all sort of ‘off to the see the Wizard,’ aware it’s Jeff Bezos behind the curtain…yet still clicking our ruby slippers. Sounds like you, too, are willing to see where the yellow bricks might lead.

As Neil sd above, ‘ya gotta takes the risks.’ (With head screwed on snugly.)

And as I said, 1) uptick is uptick, and 2) I don’t see another road. What I only alluded to is that 3) the ‘profitable author’ reality is one of constant expansion. Just like in the rest of life, our intent will usually guide our success. “Where intention goes, energy flows.”

Aloha Neil, and thx for the compliment!

There’s a lot packed into your contribution here today. Tackling the ads full tilt might be pushing it for you. On the other hand, moving forward is moving forward! I’m thinking, take the course again, but expecting just to pick up one or two tips. Then, in Bryan’s Q & A’s (several each week), ask what he suggests for an older writer without the pep to ‘conquer’ the ads. Maybe he’s got a solid step or two to get more modest results without wearing you out.

But Sandra’s right that avoiding Amazon can’t serve you.

I’d also toss out the possibility of book-signings in your local region? Enjoyable, plus sales. Then you can be the classic writer, chatting about your book(s), meeting interested readers, and selling a few. No stress, Neil!

Thanks, Sandra. I believe you’re right. I’ve had two novels on Smashwords since 2011 and have only sold about 20. This memoir on Amazon should do better, perhaps a lot… if I can figure it out. And have the stamina to stick with it. I’m old, 77, and not in the best of health.

Neil, I’ll address just the “wondering if I’d made the right decision to go with them in the first place” piece. You did. Nobody sells more books online than Amazon. If your goal is to sell books to people you hope will read them, you need to be on Amazon. If you write just for the joy of writing, it’s less important.

Sandy

Thanks, Ruby, and glad you’re motivated!

I’d say you’re right on track. Yes, join in again for another round of learning (April 19). No rules for how hard you have to work. Every time I do it, I get a little more saturation, and it adds up. (Btw, I’m not an affiliate of Bryan Cohen or anything.) Also, I’d get straight to Author Central TODAY and spruce up your bio. No rules there either, have some fun! I’m amazed how many authors ignore that #1 store window. Lastly, Bryan Cohen recommends having more than one book, and it makes sense for ‘read-through,’ where that customer may buy more of our books, but you can advertise one book, for sure. 🙂