5 Tips on How to Get Your Self-Published Book in Bookstores

Having your book sold in actual bookstores is not only a dream by many if not all fiction writers. It is also a far-fetched dream as many bookstores do not stock their shelves with self-published titles. There are a few ways around this, as I will show you five ways you can get your titles sold in bookstores. Before I begin let me first state that diligence is one of the keys to success. If you want to succeed you must first believe in your work and then follow through until you see every mountain as a small hill. My tips are not intended to be done in any specific order. Applying any of these tips could help you land your book in independently owned bookstores.

Tip# 1 Your Book Needs to be Bookstore Ready

This may seem obvious but many self-published authors are not following the basic rule of book sales, which is having an ISBN number. In order for your book to be sold it must have both a bar code and an ISBN. Bookstores will not consider your book if it doesn’t have them both. Book sales are tracked using the bar code and the ISBN number is your book’s social security number of sorts. If you are not intending on selling your book to family and friends. This also means it can be ordered through the distribution channels many bookstores use to purchase books.

Tip# 2 Do Book Signings 

Contact local bookstores to set up book signings. Bookstores are usually ok with book signings because it brings attention to their store but also because it brings patrons as well. Ask the bookstore owner if you can display your book on the counter or in the area surrounding your signing table. This will help bring attention to your cover and shoppers who were not aware of your signing will also be more interested when they see you signing.

Tip# 3 Ask Local Bookstores For a Trial Run

It’s no secret that many African-American bookstores are having troubles keeping the doors open. Urban Fiction titles have helped many independently owned bookstores pay the bills. If your book cover has mass appeal approach the bookstore owner with a sure plan. Ask if they would be willing to purchase a few of your books on a test run. A test run could be between five to ten copies. If your book was published with a POD publisher you may want to find out if they offer a buy back policy. Meaning the bookstore can return unsold books. This won’t affect your royalties. It may be wise to ask many family or friends to help support your effort by buying your book from the bookstore. This will impress the bookstore and compel them to purchase more copies. Having people request the copies from bookstores will also generate buzz around your title and also compel them to stock it in their store.

Tip# 4 Ask Bookstore Owners or Employees to Read Your Book

Many bookstore owners and its employees are avid readers. Use this to your advantage, this is especially true of specialty bookstores and shops. If you can compel them to read your story they may become fans of your work and help you in your mission to land in bookstores. Remember bookstore owners are usually friends with other bookstores. This could help you through word of mouth marketing.

Tip# 5 Create Buzz around Your Book

The more buzz created around your book the more likely bookstores are willing to put it in bookstores. You may have to create your own buzz. This can be done by having flyers strategically put around your local city. Place them in areas that has heavy traffic. Local grocery stores usually have boards by the front entrance posting events and things going on in the community. Hang flyers in obvious places such as bookstores, libraries. Use sites like meetups.com to find book clubs that cater to your genre of fiction and ask to become a sponsor of their next book club meeting. Whether its you providing them with copies of your book, or having them hang posters during their meetings (which are usually held in local cafe’s or restaurants in your local area) or provide them with bookmarks or small postcards featuring your book cover.

You can even connect with local cafe’s asking them if you can host a book club meeting at their shop. A great way to network with cafe’s and create a buzz for you both is to ask them if they would be willing to offer a discount on their signature drink or sandwich or specialty items during the time of your book club meeting. This helps them get involved with promoting your book also.

Hope you found my tips useful and if you enjoyed it please press like and share on your social media outlets using the links below. Thanks!!!!!

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What’s Next For My Novel?

Just a quick blurb as I have been getting tons of emails with authors asking very good questions. Questions have been ranging from where can they find a good editor, can I recommend a good cover designer, how can they spread the word about their new books? Many of these answers can be found by searching through my previous posts as I try to cover many of these topics for everyone. However, The NO Bull Method to Publishing is also available if you’d like to have all of the information right at your fingertips. Thanks again everyone and much success on your literary journey!!!!

http://www.amazon.com/The-Bull-Method-Publishing-Self-Publishing-ebook/dp/B00C2AULJQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383188188&sr=8-1&keywords=The+no+bull+method+to+publishing

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-no-bull-method-to-publishing-k-c-baylor/1114849155?ean=9781626752412

or for more details visit http://www.thenobullmethod.net

Urban Fiction News Nominated for an Award

 

 

 

 

As I am always excited to share news and going on’s of Urban Fiction News. UFN was recently nominated for the 2013 Black Weblog Awards with the winner to be announced on November 02, 2013. I wanted to take a moment and say a special thank you to everyone who has followed my blog, left a comment, sent in a review request or even emailed me.

My goal is and has always been to even up the playing field for writers by giving them real information and real resources. Knowledge really is power and the more you know the better your odds of success. I love providing book reviews and truly feel humbled that writers wish to share their “babies” with me. For years self-published authors were at a disadvantage and were not taken seriously. This was true because traditional publishers had access to resources and services not available to everyone else. This is especially true for Urban Fiction authors, where the genre was shunned and told it had no market.

I believe any writer wishing to pursue a career in the literary world should and can. Urban Fiction News will always thrive to be your #1 resource and to make sure indie/self-published authors become more and more competitive. I am always open to hearing your needs  as well as going the distance to provide resources you didn’t know you needed.

Book Review: 28 Days of Breaking the Cycle by: Miss Alma

BREAK OUT BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!!!! BREAK OUT BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!!! BREAK OUT BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!!!!

If you’ve ever been hurt in life, If you’ve ever suffered from the hands of an abuser, If your innocence was robbed by someone you loved. If you thought your life was bad, if you’ve hit rock bottom, if you need a good cry, if you need a shock of emotion. if you feel lost, if you need a friend. THEN YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK. I read this book with the pure intention of finding out what message the chocolate beauty on the cover could possibly mean by 28 days to breaking the cycle. What cycle? what did she mean is all I kept asking, that is until I sat down to read. I literally finished this book in two hours. I cried and called my sisters and sister-girlfriends. This story is unlike traditional self-help books simply because it reads like a novel with drops of wisdom thrown in. 28 days to Breaking the Cycle follows the unbelievable “I can’t believe she made it through that” story of Miss Alma. It starts with the most devastating news about her mother that will lead to a variety of treacherous events that will leave Miss Alma broken but not shattered and the amazing triumph of a woman determined. In disbelief I kept needing to remind myself that I wasn’t reading a novel or fictional tale. I could not believe all of what was going on and much of it from family members. It’s hard to write this review as I swear I want to tell you the beginning, middle and ending in my most incredulous “Can you believe this mess?” voice. But I can’t give away the story but I swear I want to. So all of my followers, readers and interested parties please support this author so WE can talk about it!!!!

I personally love any story that provokes an emotion whether its anger, laughter, joy, tears and sometimes even pain. I love to live vicariously through others hence the reason I love to read and Miss Alma has definitely taken me on an emotional roller coaster. I cried six times before I even reached the middle of the book. Others around me who noticed started asking can they read it next. I honestly believe this book is the BREAK OUT BOOK of the YEAR. Any person who can go through some of the most extreme things this young lady had to endure in her young life and not only make it but find her purpose, then they deserve their moment in the SUN.

I rate this story 5 stars ***** and would definitely recommend everyone to go out and get their copy TODAY!!!! I never endorse any book unless I am sold and I am undeniably sold on 28 Days to Breaking the Cycle!!!

 

For your copy visit

http://www.amazon.com/28-Days-Breaking-Cycle-ebook/dp/B00FN9OWVQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382895941&sr=8-1&keywords=28+days+to+breaking+the+cycle

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Book Review: A Bucket Full of Lies by Robert K. Swisher Jr

 

I was invited to read A Bucket Full of Lies written by Robert K. Swisher jr. The book follows the life of Bob Roosevelt an ex-military man/Hippie looking for love but finding none. He takes up a journey of self-exploration that leads him into limitless danger. He has a rather outspoken Guardian Angel that has a taste for fast women and a heaven sent purpose of protecting Mr. Roosevelt. One night at a greasy spoon restaurant in the small town of Des Moines Iowa he runs into an old friend with large problems. The story falls under mystery however, I found the Guardian angel a bit of an un-welcomed distraction. His fore sight often gave away the next string of “could have been exciting” events. I would have much liked the story better without the wayward angel sent to give the story away.

Overall Mr. Swisher tells a good tale and the tone of his story is believable. I rated the story 3 stars due to its lack of mystery as it is intended to be a tale of suspense. To find your copy of A Bucket Full of Lies visit the link below.

 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006THX6PY/ref=s9_simh_gw_p351_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1FD016JFCM96DBFWX4AC&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1630083502&pf_rd_i=507846

News Release!!!! Urban Fiction News Online Magazine?

I wanted to keep my loyal readers, authors and followers updated on the happenings of Urban Fiction News. Being an author takes A LOT of hard work, energy, diligence, sacrifice, blood, sweat and tears. It invokes labor pains, loss of friendships, marital discord and I can go on and on (I promise) however, it won’t be in vain. Urban Fiction News is taking things a bit further by crossing over into an online magazine.

Not only will authors have a new platform to promote their books and book covers but will all have an opportunity to participate in book trailer wars, (competitions) author spotlights, interviews and so much more. Authors interested in being one of the first to be interviewed on the online magazine platform should email me @ urbanfictionnews1@yahoo.com. I am extremely dedicated to spreading the news of up and coming Indie/self-published authors who may otherwise not have a place to be seen or heard. The online magazine will always provide real information and resources to any fiction writer especially those writing Urban Fiction.

The key to more book sales is exposure and the road to success means making your books more visible to the public. If knowledge is power don’t knowingly remain powerless. Urban Fiction News plans to be the biggest resource provider for authors and readers of fiction. Period!

Excited about the move and hope to see you all there!!

Another great feature to be released on Urban Fiction News is “EXCUSE ME, YOUR CRAZY IS SHOWING”

ANYONE INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING OR SHARING A CRAZY STORY ABOUT A PAST OR PRESENT RELATIONSHIP DISASTER, A JEALOUS PARTNER OR MOMENT THAT MADE YOU WANT TO TAP SOMEONE ON THE SHOULDER AND SAY “EXCUSE ME, YOUR CRAZY IS SHOWING” BY ALL MEANS START SUBMITTING YOUR STORIES TO urbanfictionnews1@yahoo.com TO BE CONSIDERED FOR OUR SOON TO BE RELEASED FIRST ISSUE!!!!!!!! (Be sure to put ‘Crazy Story’ in the subject line)

Please remember to like or share any posts you found useful, insightful or news worthy on your social media outlets by following the links below. Thanks!!!!!

Hot off the Press! Interview with Ed Wyns

 

 

Everyone who has read my book review on “When Everything isn’t Enough” written by Ed Wyns knows that I am now a fan of his work. I loved it so much I had to interview the author. Hope you all enjoy this interview as much as I do!

UFN: You’re the author of “When Everything Isn’t Enough” An uncommon story based on the male perspective of infertility. What prompted you to write on the subject?

EW: Simply put, this is a story that either hasn’t been told enough, if at all. After getting the idea, I researched the subject, and couldn’t find one novel on infertility that was written from the male’s perspective.

UFN: Your main character David Tanner could almost be considered a typical male teen outside of his early introduction to sex. He often wars with himself on being both a gentlemen and a playboy. Was the war deliberate early on in your story to help create a sense of who he would become?

EW: It was definitely deliberate. I used the female influences in David’s life to counter the “bad” or “negative” influences of his four cousins, thereby creating David’s internal war. It’s possible that David could have matured into the man that he would become without the female influences. But would the character development have been believable, probably not.

UFN: I enjoyed the strong female leads in your book and thought it was important that not all female characters be portrayed as loose or extremely promiscuous. I feel you balanced the female characters well. Did you find it difficult to write from both a male and female perspective in your story?

EW: When I started When Everything Isn’t Enough, writing from a female’s perspective was a concern of mine. My goal was to write the best story possible. A story in which it didn’t matter that I was a male writing from a female’s perspective, any more than it mattered that I was male writing from a male’s perspective. If a female reader finishes When Everything Isn’t Enough, and says, “I loved David’s Character because I could relate to…” Or a male reader finishes and says, “I could relate to Mia’s Strength because…” then I’ve done my job as a writer. I’m an avid reader; the best writers for me are the writers that can write from the opposite sex’s perspective, and do it convincingly.

UFN: Books are like babies, needing to be nurtured and groomed before it is ready to be birthed and presented to the world. How long did it take you to write your ‘baby?’

EW: You are absolutely correct; books are like babies and require a great deal of nurturing and grooming. From conception to birth it took a little over three years. The first version of When Everything Isn’t Enough was a 630 page Word Document. For obvious reasons I had to cut a lot of material, which was harder than writing the story. I thought everything was important to the story and that I had to have every word of the original version (smile).

 UFN: How long have you been writing and what type of reader do you believe your work appeals to?

EW: I’ve been writing for over 20 years. I believe that each body of work appeals to different people for different reasons. Although When Everything Isn’t Enough is an Urban Fiction novel; I’m of the opinion that this is something that almost anyone can relate to. Infertility isn’t a Black or White issue, it’s not a rich or poor issue, or even an American or (insert nationality here) issue. It’s a human issue that touches all walks of life. The issue of not wanting children, abusing children, and being a parent in name only are all human issues.  I can go down the list of issues or topics that I covered, and I honestly believe that almost anyone can or should be able to relate to something in this novel.

UFN: What are you currently working on and most importantly when is the sequel to “When Everything Isn’t Enough” being released?

EW: I am currently working on the sequel, My Last Breath, and my goal is to release it the end of 2014 or the beginning of 2015.

UFN:  How can readers, fans and reviewers find you? Are you available for book club readings and Q&A sessions?

EW: I am definitely available for readings and Q&A sessions. I love talking about this story and welcome any and every opportunity to do so. I can be found at www.edwyns.com and on Facebook under Ed Wyns.

Well it has been a pleasure interviewing you and I personally look forward to reading more of your work.

The pleasure has been all mine, thank you for your time, and for reviewing When Everything Isn’t Enough!

Company Overview: Legacy Publishing Group

 

 

Q: Legacy Publishing Grp is spearheaded by none other than Michael McGrew. How did you get started in the Urban Fiction publishing game?

As a youth my grandmother used to read Donald Goines books all the time so reading has always been in my family but didn’t get into the game until 2008 after deciding to write for a living. Urban Fiction to me is the gritty reality of the black community. Similar to the ghettos of little Italy and the mob stories. It’s just our tale of the street. Starting my journey was a challenge though and I learned a lot to get where I am today.

Q: It must also be noted that you are the author of such titles as “My kinda Girl” “Room 111” and “Taking Losses.” Being an urban fiction writer means you understand its challenges. Where do you see urban fiction going in the future?

I see urban fiction diversifying into more colorful characters and optimistic backgrounds. The drug dealer plot lines are thinning and getting too boring. The game needs change like life as it progresses in my opinion.

Q: When reading your bio which can be found on Authors-Rock.com I noted a few of your struggles which it seems are paramount in writing a good urban fiction story. Would you say your past has made you a better writer?

I would think so, before I began writing I would consider my experiences as research, so yes it has and definitely getting better.

Q: Is Legacy Publishing Grp only interested in publishing urban fiction titles?

Not at all, in fact we’re moving forward with children’s, self improvement and teen fiction titles.

Q: What can viewers expect from you in the coming years?

Great success, with our relationships growing in Hollywood we are positioning the company to transition into film and television also while maintaining a leading position in trade paperback sales as well.

Q: Where can authors and readers of urban fiction find out more about your publishing company?

For more info please check us out at http://www.LegacyPublishingGrp.com

It’s been great having you on Urban Fiction News Any last words of wisdom?

The Mind of The Person is Often Unknown to The Person Who Has the Mind. Be who you choose to be but be prepared for challenges, rejection and the doubt that may attempt to throw you off course. It’s a test to see if you deserve to board the vessel of your blessing.

 

Non-Fiction Book Review: A Quest Within Me by Daniel Davis

 

I am mostly known for my reviews of urban fiction and fiction in general but I was recently approached with the opportunity to read a non-fiction title. A bit skeptical about its content I found myself facing a strong desire to read a book I had little clue about. I curled up on the sofa with a cover and my laptop hoping the author didn’t disappoint. The Quest within Me follows the life of its author as he searches for real happiness. You know the kind that doesn’t come from working a 9 to 5 no matter how well it pays or searching for happiness in the arms of a significant other (because they often fall short) To my pure delight it was wonderfully written with real life situations tied together by increased wisdom and a sense that I should be looking at my life differently. I must be honest I have never felt compelled to cry when reading a book but found his quotes at the end very emotional and yes I cried actual tears by the books conclusion.

It’s not often that you find a story unfilled with melodrama and just an unburdening of complaints about life and all of its foolishness so I was pleasantly surprised at the authors guests for genuine happiness with himself and his surroundings. He sought what the world seeks and managed to find a small part of peace I for one envy. I would give this book a 5 star as it is a book I plan to actually gift out to family and friends. An excellent read if you are looking for the path to happiness. My only suggestion was to add a more visually appealing book cover that would actually match the power in the book’s message. Daniel C Davis really has the makings of something great!!!!!

You can purchase your copy in either paperback or kindle by following the link below.

http://www.amazon.com/The-Quest-within-Daniel-Davis/dp/1452567441/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380685679&sr=8-1&keywords=the+quest+within+me+by+daniel+davis

 

Talking Your Way Out of a Publishing Deal?

ALWAYS SAY LESS THAN NECESSARY

When you are trying to impress people with words, the more you say, the more common you appear, and the less in control. Even if you are saying something banal, it will seem original if you make it vague, open-ended, and sphinx like. Powerful people impress and intimidate by saying less. The more you say, the more likely you are to say something foolish. 

A passage taken from one of my favorite books The 48 Laws of Power (Robert Greene) I wanted to share with my readers something that has been making me reflect on the power of words. Never has the above statement been so true. I receive lots of requests for reviews and advice and in my line of business I have many people ask for a service only to offer up an explanation of their situation or “too much information” in most cases they are pouring out reasons why I shouldn’t help them. This has led me to begin thinking about talking too much as it relates to writing.

As writers we tend to think more is better. However, it can actually have the reverse effect. I will give a few examples below along with a few reasons why saying less can actually help your cause.

“Talking” too much in your query Letter

A query letter is supposed to be a brief introduction. It introduces a publisher to you, your writing style and the work you wish them to publish. I have noticed the biggest mistake many writers make is over explaining their work. Quick example:

Dear Mr. Publisher, 

My name is so and so and I would love to send you a copy of my manuscript it’s about a man who ran away from home. I am new to the writing game but all of my family and friends think I have potential. I believe you will love it if you give it a chance. There are a few errors I am having worked on but will send it to you and will take any advice you have to help with the finished product……..

I don’t know about you but that clearly reads “Amateur, unprofessional, unsophisticated” and the list can go on and on. When approaching a publisher present yourself and your work professionally even if you are unsure of the writing game.  Keep things short and to the point. Add a bit of confidence but steer clear of overt arrogance. Remember you are coming to them for something but you are a potential asset.

In examining the above example the first thing that should stand out as being wrong is the name introduction and its request. ” My name is so and so and I would love to send you a copy of my manuscript”  Never introduce yourself and then state what you would love to do. Of course you would love to get your book in their hands but so would the thousands of other writers who send in submissions every week. Your introduction should state your name but also tell them who you are and the general reason for your query. By keeping things professional it shows that you are not a newbie in the industry or that you don’t know proper etiquette.

Saying Less Gets You Further

Has anyone ever been intrigued by the silent, mysterious type? They seldom speak but when they do it’s usually powerful, insightful or has a thought-provoking response? They are mysterious and by nature humans are curious and challenge seeking. A person who gives less may find themselves always surrounded by others seeking to figure them out or please them. Now on the reverse of that have you ever been around a person who talks so much it makes you want to run from them. Most likely you avoid them at every opportunity or they may start to contradict themselves. The same goes for writing. Only state what is necessary but do it in a way that it is both professional and appealing.

Never allow your over zealous or uncertainty to cause you to talk your way out of a publishing deal. Publishers have limited time and they are more likely to choose a writer who is confident and self-assured. Don’t give them any reason to say no before they read your masterpiece.

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