5 Reasons You Need a Book Publicist

Just like the name implies a publicist’s sole responsibility is to publicize your work or build your brand. They are the reason celebrities become famous. They are the behind the scenes workers getting interviews, spreading buzz worthy tales and making sure the people who moves and shakes have you in their direct line of vision. How does this relate to an author? Very simple without a great product, a marketing plan and enough buzz created around your book it will become a pretty little wall flower on a wall filled with wall flowers. An added benefit is that most book publicist will read your book and if they are sold on it they are adamant about pushing your success. What can a publicist do for you that you can’t do for yourself? Well unless you have a long list of contacts and industry insiders you can call in favors on than they can do a great deal. I hope to give you five reasons why you need a book publicist and in true Urban Fiction News style I will provide you with a list of publicist that are specific to the urban fiction genre.

Reason #1 You Need a Book Publicist to take you From Unknown to Known

Self published authors have the disadvantage of not having a large big named publisher to fall back on. It’s easier to gain the attention of industry insiders when you have a large traditional publisher backing you. However, a disadvantage can also be an advantage because once you show the big boys you know how to sell your book the potential to be picked up by the big boys is much greater. That could mean higher advance checks and companies fighting for Your attention. The publicist will put you or your work in front of the world giving you more exposure. The great news is their job is to make you known/famous.

Reason #2 A Book Publicist has Connections

We have all heard that it’s not what you know but who you know. Well if that’s true many of us wouldn’t go far on our own. The most valuable aspect of a publicist’ job is networking and building relationships with media outlets. The author doesn’t have to know anyone personally as their representative puts them in front of their long list of contacts. That alone is valuable. How many authors are interested in hunting down folks to talk about their book? I know I am not (but I will) With a publicist you won’t have to. They get you interviews threw newspaper, magazine and radio or TV. They also create campaigns that will generate a buzz around you the author and the book.

Reason #3 A Book Publicist Help with Reviews

As I’ve said before book reviews are the literary gold of the book world. Having quality book reviews on retail sites can make or break your book. Word of mouth marketing can make your book a top seller. A publicist is able to get your book in the hands of reviewers by sending out review copies.They locate popular bloggers in your genre, from media resources and get your book in their hands. One great review can take you from an unknown to a known.

Reason # 4 Book Publicist Create Detailed Ad Campaigns

Many self-published authors may find it overwhelming to market their own work. When you employ the services of a book publicist they not only locate the best ad campaigns but do the ad placements for you. Many will tell you that not only is important to increase your books’ visibility through interviews etc… but also to have your book displayed prominently throughout the places readers of your genre are located. Your book cover should be placed on multiple sites for maximum exposure.

Reason #5 Social Media Should Be a Book Publicist’s Specialty

The world of marketing has changed so greatly that having an online presence is vital to your book’s success. You must know how to work the social media platform to get ahead. Many publicist are well versed on social media marketing and will use it to their advantage. They create enough buzz that gets Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin etc… discussing your book which ultimately means more book sales.

Below is a list of book publicist that cater to African-American Authors and also to the Self-Published author enjoy!!!

Dawn Michelle Hardy http://www.dreamrelations.com

Gwen Richardson http://www.gwenrichardson.com

Heather M. Palmore ESq. http://www.ceciliacapers.com/publicistfortwmig.htm

V. Michelle Stephenson http://www.vmscommunications.net/main/bio.php

Makeda Smith http://www.jazzmynepr.com/pages/makeda.htm or http://jazzmynepr.com/

Publicist for the Indie Author

Smith Publicity http://www.smithpublicity.com/self-published-books/

Kelley & Hall http://www.kelleyandhall.com/sample-page-2/

Novel Publicity http://www.novelpublicity.com/publicity/

This is a small amount of publicist resources but if you enjoyed the post don’t forget to like and share with the links provided below.

Remember to Follow for more Urban Fiction News, Reviews and Resources!!!

 

 

Platinum Dust Free Preview!!!!!!!

With the rapidly approaching Re-Release of Platinum Dust (Part One) I’ve decided to let my reading audience in because I value your opinion. I have provided a free preview of my book in the My Book section at the top under Platinum Dust. The first chapter are available there with a warning Adult Content!!. Perfect opportunity for avid urban fiction readers to get a glimpse of my debut urban fiction novel and also for readers wanting to review me!!!! Hope you enjoy and always feel free to let me know what you think!!!

Platinum Dust follows the life of a self-proclaimed playboy Raheim Starz. Raheim is the son of a dead man and the woman who killed him. Kicked out of his home at the age of 11 for looking like his father he is dead set against being like both his parents. He avoids love at all cost and has a woman for every night of the week until his Friday girl Felicia does the unexpected that is. One fateful night in a nightclub will send him down the road of redemption, forgiveness and into the arms of the only woman ready to love him. After the dust settles on Raheim’s platinum life style you will be surprised to see who is the last man standing.

To read the first chapter click my books above and check for Platinum Dust!!!!!! or feel free to click the link below

https://platinumstarz.wordpress.com/my-books/platinum-dust/

As always feel free to comment, share or tell me what you think!!!!! Book Trailer provided below

Urban Fiction News Wins An Award!!!!!!!

 

As I previously mentioned to all of my faithful followers and friends Urban Fiction News was nominated for an award. The award show was hosted in Texas this year and unfortunately I was unable to attend however, I am very happy to report that I took home the award for the Best Author Blog. Thank you for all of the support everyone. For pictures on the event and to see all of the other winners please visit    http://www.blackweblogawards.com/

 

 

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: 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!!!!!

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

 

Book Review: Chicago Style by R. Felini

 

 

Despite the unappetizing book cover the story is good enough to sink your teeth into.  This short story gives readers an inside look into a collection of ex-military men on a mission. It’s very real depiction of Chicago street life is picked straight from the headlines. The story starts off on a train station and quickly leads to a bout of payback on the cities notorious criminals. The mission is simple to eliminate criminals that beat, or avoid justice. What I found most interesting about the author’s writing style is his narrative. I felt myself comparing the narrative to my favorite show “Burn Notice”

Its style is very descriptive, almost like they are trying to tell you a secret so you had better lean close enough to hear or you just might miss it. Overall all I enjoyed the read and would recommend it to any reader looking for a bit more insight into Chicago street life and how easily things could be handled if ex-military decided to get involved. The only things I found a bit disturbing was how the author occasionally spoke directly to the reader. This could be a bit off-putting but other than that a great read.  I would have also liked to see him provide more details into the lives of each character or at least the main character.

To buy your copy of Chicago Style follow the link below

http://www.amazon.com/Chicago-Style-ebook/dp/B00CUULJ9E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369932901&sr=8-1&keywords=R.+Felini

If you enjoyed the review please like the posts

Remember to follow for more Urban Fiction News, Reviews and Resources!!!!