by Marilyn Levinson aka Allison Brook reprinted with permission, first appeared in the Writers Who Kill blog.
We authors know the importance of getting the word out about our latest book…about all of our books, in fact. We’ve become savvy at writing blogs, having a presence in social media, participating in Zoom panels. We create newsletters, appear at book fairs and conferences, bookstores, and any venue that will host us. We create visuals, set up contests, give away swag. Promotion can be exhausting. Despite all the promoting we do, it often leaves us wondering if we’ve promoted enough.
More than one publicity maven advises us to promote via a method we enjoy. Following that recommendation, I’m happy to share one of my favorite means of promotion: Author Takeovers. I don’t know if I’ll ever try TikTok, or really master Instagram. But I do like Facebook, and, as a cozy author, I appreciate and often visit cozy Facebook groups. In these groups, people chat about cozy mysteries. Authors have an opportunity to post announcements about their latest book, book sales, and events. Most cozy groups offer Author Takeovers, when an author actually takes over the group for an hour or two . . . or more.
I love Author Takeovers because they give me the opportunity to be in immediate communication with readers and my fellow cozy authors who stop by. After telling them a bit about myself and my books, I have the opportunity to ask whatever questions I’d like participants to comment on. The topics vary. Opinions about cozy mysteries, pets, vacations, and food are just a few of the subjects we discuss.
I’m always amazed to find myself in touch with people from all over the U. S. and Canada at the same time! I hear from readers who love my books and from people who never read anything I’ve written as we exchange thoughts and ideas, preferences and dislikes.
I always offer a book or two as giveaways, and I keep in touch with many readers who have received one of my books. This is a fun and easy way to relate to readers. It’s free! One of my favorites!
Marilyn Levinson writes mysteries, romantic suspense, and books for young readers. Her novels have received many accolades. As Allison Brook she writes the Haunted Library mystery series. Death Overdue, the first in the series, received an Agatha nominee for Best Contemporary Novel. Look for book seven in the series, coming soon.
