What is really frustrating to me in the marketing of Divine Betrayal is that almost everyone who has read my story has commented that it is a “page turner, captivating, well written, entertaining, adventurous, shocking, and a good read.” Some have gone as far as saying it is one of the best memoir’s they have ever read.

Divine Betrayal has also won three awards from significant competitions. It received two Honorable Mention Awards, one from the San Francisco Book Festival Awards and the other from the Beach Book Festival Awards. It also received a Finalist Award from the Indie Excellence Book Awards.

Everyone tells me that they have passed the book on to family member, friends, and some have bought several copies of the book to give to others. How can I get this very positive information to the public and get them to read my book?

The problem with (among the many joys of) writing a book, is that once the manuscript is complete, the hard part begins—how do we get people to buy our books?  I know I am not alone in this dilemma.  Of course I am trying my hand at social networking and I try to blog regularly, is this working? W shall see.  Stay tuned—I’ll keep you posted!!

Graceann Deters, author of Divine Betrayal , An Inspirational Story of Love, Rebellion, and Redemption

My book Divine Betrayal has been published for five months now. I am feeling very frustrated because sales started out at a brisk pace, but have slowed down considerably. I guess the marketing of books is the same as any product, one has to be out selling. Unless you are a famous person, books do not sell themselves. I guess I should know better, but this is very disappointing to me.

For instance I have found that mailing information does not sell many books. I sent about 1,200 announcements and descriptions of my book to friends, relatives and associates on two occasions, and of these my guess is that I sold only to 10 percent. The most effective way I have found to sell books is through local book stores, with author book signing events, and also telling my friends how and where to buy the book. The question is, how can I reach more strangers, people who do not know me?

I’m trying out some social networking efforts since I know readers are always looking for new books online and new content.  I would love to hear what other authors are doing organically and what readers are looking for.  If you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to leave them here.  Until then, I’ll be chronicling my experiences—my failures and successes alike, so check back soon.

Yours Truly,

Graceann K. Deters
Author of Divine Betrayal, An Inspirational Story of Love, Rebellion, and Redemption