FREE Promotional Options For Author

I have made some major changes to the blogs I'm offering in March and I pdated this list to reflect those changes. These changes should make it easier to find information and give additional exposure to every one who submits information about their books and themselves.

ANY published author is welcome to submit these questions and answers to promote their books. To use any of these blogs - click on the link, click on "how to submit" in the top corner of the blog and follow the instructions. I ask that you send the questions and answers as an RTF file. It is also good to send a jpg file of your book cover - no PDF files for the cover art. When you complete the interview, send to nikki_leigh22939@yahoo.com with the interview title in the subject line and I will add you to the list for that blog.

I have divided the blog lists for fiction and non fiction books to make it easier to find the ones you need. I've added several new blogs lately - so if you've been here before - there are some new options.


The print and digital edition of Book Promo 101 are available. The print book is oversize 8" x 10" and the layout is gorgeous. The print edition of Book Promo 201: Harness the Power of the Internet with Web 2.0 and Social Media Marketing will be available May 2009. If you would like details about the contents of this book visit http://www.nikkileigh.com/book_promo_201.htm

I offer a wide array of promotional services to authors. Feel free to take a look at the possibilities and contact me with questions. If you are interested in something that you don't see listed, let me know and we can talk. For a list of these services visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

I offer a wide assortment of virtual book tour options and the current list is located at http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/04/virtual-blog-tour-options.html and I offer virtual blog tours which coordinate and enhance Amazon Best Seller Campaigns - http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2009/02/amazon-best-seller-virtual-blog-tour.html there are a number of options and price ranges and we can talk about other options. I'm planning to add more services in 2009. If you'd like to be added to my mailing list to get the latest updates, send me a message at nikki_leigh22939@yahoo.com. I am also adding a wide variety of social media marketing options to the things that Promo 101 Promotional Services offers.

This is the full list of promotional blogs - the name, the blog link and the link to full instructions are listed for each individual interview.

Promotional Blogs for Fiction Books

Are you an "outside of the box" promoter? I'd love to share your ideas on this blog - http://promo101articles.blogspot.com/2009/04/calling-outside-of-box-promoters-share.html

Share your furry writing companions - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
How to Submit - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2009/01/how-to-submit-information-about-author.html

http://itsallinthesetting.blogspot.com/ - Details about story setting.
How to Submit – http://itsallinthesetting.blogspot.com/2007/07/its-all-about-setting.html

Animals in Your Book - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/

How to Submit - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2008/05/how-to-submit-your-book.html

Villains in your book.- http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com
How to Submit – http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit_7729.html

Heroine in your book.- http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com
How to Submit - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit_134.html

Hero in your book.- http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com
How to Submit - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

Best Friend - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com
How to Submit - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit_28.html

Share Book Details - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
How to Submit – http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2007/09/how-to-submit.html

http://frombookstomovies.blogspot.com/ - From Books to the Movies
If a movie was made about your book, which actors and actresses would play the main characters? This is your chance in case a movie of your book and it can be a lot of fun.
How to Submit – http://frombookstomovies.blogspot.com/2007/08/how-to-submit.html

Interview a Male Character - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com
How to Submit - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2007/11/how-to-submit_6392.html

Interview a Female Character - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com
How to Submit - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2007/11/how-to-submit_1859.htm

In Detail With Nikki Leigh - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
Give potential readers more information about you and your background.
How to Submit – http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2007/09/how-to-submit.html

Before I Was Published - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
Tell us about what you did before you were published and especially include anything that relates to your books and your writing.
How to Submit - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2008/02/tell-us-your-story.html

http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/- Can you tie a topic or element from your book with current events? This is the place to submit them. Send them to me and I'll review them.
How to Submit - http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit.html

Do you have interesting promotional ideas and suggestions that you would like to share with other authors? http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com

How to Submit - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit-your-promotional.html

http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/ - Share your book cover.
How to Submit – http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/2007/07/judge-book-by-its-cover.html

http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/ - Share your First Chapter
How to Submit – http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

Promotional Blogs for Non-Fiction Books

Are you an "outside of the box" promoter? I'd love to share your ideas on this blog - http://promo101articles.blogspot.com/2009/04/calling-outside-of-box-promoters-share.html

Share Book Details - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
How to Submit – http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2007/09/how-to-submit.html

Share your furry writing companions - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
How to Submit - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2009/01/how-to-submit-information-about-author.html

Animals in Your Book - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/

How to Submit - http://fictionalcharactersindepth.blogspot.com/2008/05/how-to-submit-your-book.html

In Detail With Nikki Leigh - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
Give potential readers more information about you and your background.
How to Submit – http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2007/09/how-to-submit.html

Before I Was Published - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com
Tell us about what you did before you were published and especially include anything that relates to your books and your writing.
How to Submit - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2008/02/tell-us-your-story.html

http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/- Can you tie a topic or element from your book with current events? This is the place to submit them. Send them to me and I'll review them.
How to Submit - http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit.html
Do you have interesting promotional ideas and suggestions that you would like to share with other authors? http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com

How to Submit - http://authorpromotion.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit-your-promotional.html

http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/ - Share your book cover.
How to Submit – http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/2007/07/judge-book-by-its-cover.html

http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/ - Share your First Chapter

How to Submit – http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

I reserve the right to refuse to post any submissions, but so far I haven't needed to turn anyone away. I did edit a couple of first chapters to maintain a PG-13 rating for my visitors. That could be one of the reasons why some have such a long waiting list. All the blogs are listed on my Blogger profile which is located at - www.blogger.com/profile/00985309338453728557.

Nikki Leigh
Author of the Book Promo 101 Series
www.nikkileigh.com/book_promo_101.htm
Author Promotional Services - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

Let's Talk About How to Get Started on Twitter

Tuesday May 5th I'll be talking about Twitter on my radio show at - www.blogtalkradio.com/nikkileigh - we'll be on air at 4 pm EST. My guest will be Lizzie T Leaf - hear what she has to say about the call ;)


I always thought I have a face for radio and now I get to prove it. Nikki Leigh has invited me to be a guest on her Blogtalk radio show and she will strive to answer my questions about Twitter. Come share Nikki's pain as she attempts to educate a very non-techo author (that would be me) on one of the latest social networks available to all of us these days.

www.blogtalkradio.com/nikkileigh and the call is May 5, 2009 at 4 pm EST --- people can visit the page and click "reminder" on the show listing and BTR will send them a reminder about the call. Very cool service :)

Look forward to your support!

Lizzie

And - my response --

"Share Nikki's pain" --- wow - I better prepare really well for this show :) All right folks - I need support and the show will give you a chance to ask your questions too -- so definitely come visit on Tuesday. If you can't make it live - you can also download the show after it airs. I plan to share lots of great information to help people get started on Tiwtter, to learn their way around the site and to talk about some of the tools that make it easier to participate. I have a feeling we will even talk about why you should even be on Twitter. Is it worth the effort? You will have to tune in to hear more :)


Nikki Leigh
Author of Book Promo 201: Harness the Power of the Internet with Web 2.0 and
Social Media Marketing
http://www.nikkileigh.com
http://www.twitter.com/litekepr

Web 2.0 – What is It and Should You Care?

Web 2.0 – What is It and Should You Care?

By Nikki Leigh

Web 2.0 – it isn’t as complicated as it sounds and it is very beneficial for you to learn more about it. Let me start by saying that you are probably already using Web 2.0, but you don’t know it. Web 2.0 is a term that is being heard more often each day. These are great new options that we have on the internet and they can be very beneficial to you and your promotion.

What is Web 2.0

The simplest definition of Web 2.0 is “any option that gives you the opportunity and ability to interact with others”. Interacting with potential customers is something that should be important to any author or business person that wants to get information out about their product or service.

In the past, we were limited by how much and how easily we could communicate on the internet. Think back a few years ago when only people who knew HTML code could post information online. However, with the arrival of Web 2.0, almost anyone can post content online to share with other people.

This is the biggest difference between Web 1.0 and Web 2.0 -

· Web 1.0 – Webmasters could post content and basically had control of what was available

· Web 2.0 – The general public can post content and has control of what is available

Below are questions to give you examples of Web 2.0 options on the internet.

· Have you posted a video on YouTube?

· Have you watched a video on YouTube?

· Have you read or posted information on a blog?

· Have you listened to or recorded a podcast?

· Do you have a profile page on MySpace, Facebook, Linked or other social networking sites?

· Have you posted pictures on any picture sharing sites on the internet?

All of these are examples of Web 2.0 and many people are already using Web 2.0 technology without knowing it. But, why is this important to your promotion?

Why You Care

Authors, artists, and other business people benefit when they get their message in front of their target audience and when they can interact with potential customers. Web 2.0 gives you many ways to do that. One advantage is that you can reach a worldwide audience if you want. A second advantage is that you can do targeted marketing to reach only the people you choose. This targeted marketing gives you the best chance of making a sale because it gets your message in front of the people who want or need the product or service you want to sell.

Below are some social media and Web 2.0 examples and the benefits from each. The ideas I share here are just some of the ways to use these websites to promote your work. The options are only limited by your creativity. One of the things I love about my work is customizing a promotional campaign for business people and their products or services. There are unlimited ways to do this with Web 2.0.

Facebook – Facebook gives you the opportunity to network with new people. You can search to locate your target audience and then present your product or service through your profile page, various applications, groups and fan pages you can easily create to promote your work. Facebook also offers targeted advertising on their site.

My Space – This site offers the chance to meet new people and network with them. Searches for your target audience are possible on MySpace. Your profile page, bulletins, blog posts, comments, videos, pictures and discussion groups provide opportunities to present your information and to communicate with other people.

YouTube – YouTube is a great place to post videos or promotional trailers about you and the products or services you offer. This is a great opportunity to literally speak to your target audience. There are also tools to get your videos in front of more people. You can comment on videos that attract your target audience to get your name in front of them.

Amazon – People with items on Amazon have many ways to build up a presence on the Amazon website, their sales pages, through a blog on Amazon, submitting ratings and comments – to name a few. I’m working on an e-book to help people increase the effectiveness of their Amazon presence.

Linked In – This website is a great place for business people to network. It is different from MySpace and Facebook, but it provides extensive business information and background for members. You can connect with others, write testimonials, share details about your professional background and much more. An interesting area of Linked In is the “answers” section. It’s a great way to boost your online credibility.

Online Credibility

We’ve all seen and heard about scams on the internet. It’s a great place for people to establish and promote a business, but that also attracts people who want to make a fast buck and who cheat people. That is one reason why it is important to build online credibility. Through the internet, you can network and do business with people around the world, if you want. That distance makes it important to prove your expertise and help potential clients see you have something of value to offer. You can do this through the information you share, answers and comments you post, examples of your work, testimonials and references from past clients and much more.

Use Blogs to Promote

Anyone who wants to promote on the internet needs to have a blog. Having an effective and active blog is no longer an option. A blog gives you the chance to get yourself in front of people who need your product or service, share useful information, stay in touch with potential clients, and more. However, once you start a blog, it is critical to keep it active. Search engines love blogs. This means that you and your information will be in search engines almost overnight. When people are searching for something – the vast majority start with a search engine. They need to be able to find you there.

Virtual blog tours are a great way to utilize Web 2.0 options. In the tours I coordinate, I use blogs, podcasts, radio shows, and any other avenues that I can find to get the word out about a client’s product or service. Your information gets into the search engines right away and is archived so people can find your details long after they are posted.

The internet is a gift for people who want to promote their business, products or services to a small or large audience. There are many free promotional options on the internet that we can utilize. Who you target is up to you, but either way, the internet is a gift that you need to unwrap and dig deeper into the opportunities that it offers.

Nikki Leigh is an award winning fiction and non fiction author. She has over fifteen years of promotional experience. This background has been helpful with her book promotion and her new promotional venture, Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours which offers many online promotional options. Her book -Book Promo 101 lets her share many of the things she's learned. Her latest book (coming soon) – Book Promo 201: Learn to Promote on the Internet With Web 2.0 delves into much more detail about these topics. For details about the Book Promo 101 series and your other promotional options, visit www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm. For detailed promotional and virtual blog tour information, visit - http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/. The most up to date information is posted at www.twitter.com/litekepr

Book Promo 101 by Nikki Leigh - USA Best Book Awards

I got this information this morning -

Book Promo 101 is an Award-Winning Finalist in the Business-Writing category of the National Best Books 2008 Awards, sponsored by USA Book News

Just had to share the news.

Nikki Leigh

LIVE Radio Show- Ask Your Promotional Questions

Michelle Price and Nikki Leigh continue the discussion about how Web 2.0 can help you Sell More Books. This is the fourth session to address this topic. Over the last few weeks we have discussed being prepared for people to find you, why you need a blog and how to use a blog, and how to use Facebook, Linked In and Twitter. This is the last week of our 4 week seminar. If you missed any of the first three calls, check the archives. Listen to the show live and call in with your questions.

To listen LIVE or to download the shows later - visit www.blogtalkradio.com/nikkileigh

Remember that you can call in with your questions or post your questions in the chat room if you listen live.

Nikki Leigh Interviews Publisher and Author Arline Chase

Nikki Leigh interviewed Arline Chase on Book Promo 101 Talk Radio on Monday September 2. We had the opportunity to talk about her work as a publisher, some do’s and don’ts for writers and tips for submitting your work to a publisher. We also had the chance to talk about her latest book which was released yesterday. The title is Spirit of Wind and it is the third book in her spirit series. For more information or to listen to the show, visit www.blogtalkradio.com/nikkileigh.

On September 9th, best selling mystery author Doug Cummings is scheduled to discuss his latest book- Every Secret Crime. Doug began his 25 year broadcasting career as a TV investigative reporter before discovering his passion for the immediacy of news-radio. He worked as an anchor, reporter and talk-show host in Kansas, Missouri and Illinois before settling in Chicago. You can visit www.blogtalkradio.com/nikkileigh to set a reminder for future shows.

Nikki Leigh

Book Promo 101 - http://www.nikkileigh.com
Follow Me on Twitter - www.twitter.com/litekepr
Nikki Leigh Promotional Services Can Help YOU
www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

Join Nikki Leigh To Hear About A Rescue Pilot and a Survivor

A reminder about the show this afternoon and information about Hugh Ballou's tour stop today.

Last Monday, I hosted Dave Richardson on my radio show and I had a great time asking him questions and I’ve gotten very good feedback about the show. This week, I’ll talk with Dave Richardson and Kenny Fields – the last man he rescued in Vietnam. It is a harrowing rescue on paper and I have a feeling we will learn much more on air. You are invited to listen online or call in with questions for Dave and/or Kenny. They have both written books about their experiences – one from the air and one from the ground. Here is the information you need to join us and if you can’t be with us Monday, go to the site to download one or both shows to listen to later. Interview on BlogTalkRadio with Nikki Leigh www.blogtalkradio.com/nikkileigh 3:00 – 4:00 EST – Call in number (347) 215-8201

Wayne Hulbert interviews Hugh Ballou and he posts a review for Transforming Power at http://www.blogbusinessworld.blogspot.com

For more information about Hugh Ballou – visit www.hughballou.com. Book information is available at http://www.amazon.com/Transforming-Power-Transformational-Encouragement-Inspiration/dp/0881775312

A SPECIAL BONUS TO EACH PERSON WHO PURCHASES TRANSFORMING POWER TODAY – Hugh Ballou has compiled a list of great FREE bonus gifts for anyone who purchases Transforming Power today. To see a sample of the items that are being given away, visit http://www.transforming-power.com. Just buy a copy of Transforming Power, return to this page and click to submit your invoice number to receive the web page link to download all of these gifts for FREE.

Nikki Leigh – Author, Publicist and Tour Coordinator

www.nikkileigh.com – Book Promo 101: Learn the Basics of Book Promotion

Follow Me on Twitter - www.twitter.com/litekepr

Meet the Promo 101 Tour Coordinators

I thought it would be nice to introduce you to the people behind the scenes. Following you will learn more about what we do.

Nikki Leigh - Tour Coordinator
Owner Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours & Publicist
Award Winning & Best Selling Fiction & Non Fiction Author

Nikki Leigh began as an idea in a teenager’s mind. At about 14, she wanted to be an author and she wanted to write under the name Nikki Leigh. It took over 20 years, but she eventually “became” Nikki Leigh. She is from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

“I want to convey time, place and character details to my readers. I choose my settings carefully and want people to understand what the setting and history contributes to the story.”

Her love of the coast, history and lighthouses is apparent in her stories. On a trip to Cape Ann with her brother, Chris, she found the location for the Misty Cove series. The rugged land, hard working people and rich history were too compelling to ignore. Cape Ann and Gloucester, Massachusetts are featured in Stormy View, Widow’s Walk (Book One), Lady Lightkeeper (Book Two) and Stormy Shores.

“My first mystery, Lilah and the Locket, is set along the Outer Banks of NC and literally at the base of Cape Hatteras. There is extensive local history and color woven into the story. I did that to help convey the time and place to readers. Other local events will be featured in upcoming books in the Outer Banks series.”

She owns a consulting and promotional business under her real name. Shri has 21 years of business management and 15 years of marketing experience. This knowledge was used to create books and articles for business managers. This experience is valuable to her business and promotional clients. She has four business and restaurant books in print. Visit http://www.nikkileigh.com/biz_books_4_sale.htm for full details. Her business website is www.sandcconsulting.com

Book Promo 101 – Basics of Book Promotion is Nikki’s latest book. She created it to share her promotional background with authors. It includes tips and suggestions to help the beginning book promoter or the more experienced promoter. There are review questions at the end of each chapter to help the author to learn more. For additional information about promotion and Book Promo 101 feel free to visit Nikki blog – Muze’s Musings. The link is: http://muzesmusings.blogspot.com/. For details about the promotional services that Nikki offers, visit her promotional services page - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm


Donna Sundblad - Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours - Tour Coordinator
Donna is an editor for a several sites, is a freelance writer and a published author.

Donna Sundblad enjoys life as a wife, mother, and grandmother. She's the eldest of seven and the great-great granddaughter of a Native American named Little Beetle. Little Beetle's people were a blend of Chippewa and Mingo and lived in West Virginia. She decided to leave her culture and took on the name Ida M. Biddle. When she married a white fur trader named Marshall Prickett, their joining was not accepted by either culture, but they forged a new life together.

Donna's love of family, belief in God, interest in her Native American heritage and her love of fantasy and science fiction all influence her writing. Her fertile background shines through her YA fantasy novel Windwalker which opens hundreds of years in the past when the Stygian race welcomes the pale-skinned, diseased-riddled Jonnick to their shores despite prophetic warnings of future harm to the Land and their culture. Neither side is aware of the concealed powers of darkness that disembark with the refugees. Subsequent generations of conflict draw deep lines of division between the two cultures, neither aware that the spirit of the Mage lives within the Jonnick queen.

"What's fun for me," Donna says, "is that both of my fantasy novels came about through following the prompts and exercises found in my creative writing book, Pumping Your Muse."

Her second novel, Beyond the Fifth Gate, due out in September 2008 and features her first female protagonist who races against time to journey though five mystical gates to return to her homeworld to free her people from the bondage of a conquering race of incectoids.

Donna also writes inspirational non-fiction and is published in several anthologies including Life Savors published by Tyndale. Her articles have also appeared in The Writer Magazine, You and Me – America's Medical Magazine, and more. Her varied freelance career also includes work as a regular contributor and site editor at LoveToKnow, and responsibilities as the Fantasy Topic Editor at Inspired Author. She serves as a Tour Coordinator for Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours and is the Senior Non-Fiction Editor and a Senior Fantasy Editor at ePress-online. A transplanted Midwesterner, she now lives in rural NW Georgia where she enjoys life with her husband, gardening and learning more about the local wildlife.

Eco-Friendly Book Tour Options

Eco - Friendly Book Tour Options

By Nikki Leigh

Each day we hear that the price of gas has hit an “all time high.” Those words don’t seem to mean much anymore. Unfortunately, any “all time high” will be obsolete within a day or two. We each battle the cost of driving and traveling every day. So, what is an author to do if they want to do a book tour to promote their book?

An Environmentally Friendly Book Tour
The environmentally conscious answer is - a virtual book tour. There are many benefits to a virtual book tour over a brick and mortar store tour. These benefits include:

· Conserve gas
· Save money
· Stay home with family
· No need to leave job in order to tour

We've all had book signings where very few people attended. Sadly, book signings aren't the big attraction they used to be – unless it is a big name author. It can be very expensive and disheartening to plan to book signing and have only a handful of people attend. Does that mean that mid list or small press authors can’t have a successful tour? There is another option. I suggest a virtual book tour or a virtual blog tours.

Define a Virtual Book Tour
A virtual book tour is held on the internet and it includes a series of guest appearances over a certain period of time. These appearances can be on blogs, chats, newsletters, radio shows and Web sites. Each online appearance can include: author information, book excerpts, book summary, book synopsis, a guest post about a topic that relates to the book topic or genre, a guest post about writing, author interviews, character interviews, radio show interviews and much more.

Any author can do a book tour from the comfort of their home. Weather has no effect on a virtual tour. Whether you have two feet of snow in your driveway or sweltering heat, you can still have a virtual book tour. It is critical that you have a computer, an internet connection and electricity - but it can definitely be done.

Find Your Target Audience

I highly recommend that the tour of blogs, radio shows, Web sites, etc are held on sites that have themes which are relevant to the book topic or genre. Writing and reader sites are good choices for part of the virtual tour. Any site that attracts the target audience for the book would be a great place to schedule a tour appearance. I explain this in much more detail when I work with an author to coordinate their tour. The virtual “tour” allows authors to reach many people as they travel through the blogosphere. Many people claim to find the target audience in their tours, but look for proof. Getting in front of the people who are interested in the content and who need your book can be very effective.

What’s holding you back? Do you have a book that you would like to promote? It would be great to get more information about how the tour works and what it could do for you. For more information, feel free to visit the Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tour blog - http://www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/. It can be very beneficial to take time to discuss your book promotional goals to see how a virtual book tour can work for you.

Nikki Leigh – Award Winning and Best Selling Author & Publicist (www.nikkileigh.com) is the owner of Promo 101 Virtual Blog Tours – www.virtualblogtour.blogspot.com

FREE Promotional Options For Author

ANY published author is welcome to submit these questions and answers to promote their books. The cover blog always has a long waiting list, but most of the others will allow you to be posted within a few weeks.

To use any of these blogs - click on the link, click on "how to submit" in the top corner of the blog and follow the instructions. I ask that you send the questions and answers as an RTF file. It is also good to send a jpg file of your book cover - no PDF files for the cover art. When you complete the interview, send to nikki_leigh22939@yahoo.com with the blog title in the subject line and I will add you to the list for that blog.

I have divided the blog lists for fiction and non fiction books to make it easier to find the ones you need. I've added several new blogs lately - so if you've been here before - there are some new options.

Two quick updates -

The print edition of Book Promo 101 is complete and available. The print book is oversize 8" x 10" and the layout is gorgeous.

I offer a wide array of promotional services to authors. Feel free to take a look at the possibilities and contact me with questions. If you are interested in something that you don't see listed, let me know and we can talk. For a list of these services visit - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

I offer a wide assortment of virtual book tour options and the current list is located at http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/04/virtual-blog-tour-options.html - there are a number of options and price ranges or we can talk about other options.


The Judge the Cover blog and the Start at the Beginning blog usually have a long backlog. I think that’s because these two blogs are the easiest. But, I’ve gotten great feedback from authors who used the other blogs. Those blogs require that the author dig deeper into the creation, the setting, the characters and much more information to complete the interviews.

Promotional Blogs for Fiction Books

http://authorpets.blogspot.com/ - Share your furry writing companions
How to Submit - http://authorpets.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit.html

http://itsallinthesetting.blogspot.com/ - Details about story setting.
How to Submit – http://itsallinthesetting.blogspot.com/2007/07/its-all-about-setting.html

http://animalsinbooks.blogspot.com/- Discuss animals in your book.
How to Submit - http://animalsinbooks.blogspot.com/2008/05/how-to-submit-your-book.html

http://badguysandvillains.blogspot.com/ - Villains in your book.
How to Submit – http://badguysandvillains.blogspot.com/2007/07/bad-guys-and-villains.html

http://shareyourheroine.blogspot.com/ - Heroine in your book.
How to Submit - http://shareyourheroine.blogspot.com/2007/07/share-your-heroine.html

http://shareyourhero.blogspot.com/ - Hero in your book.
How to Submit - http://shareyourhero.blogspot.com/2007/07/share-your-hero.html

http://mybestfriendsstory.blogspot.com/ - Best Friend
How to Submit - http://mybestfriendsstory.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

http://startwithfacts.blogspot.com/ - Share Book Details
How to Submit – http://startwithfacts.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

http://frombookstomovies.blogspot.com/ - From Books to the Movies
If a movie was made about your book, which actors and actresses would play the main characters? This is your chance in case a movie of your book and it can be a lot of fun.
How to Submit – http://frombookstomovies.blogspot.com/2007/08/how-to-submit.html

http://lethimtalk.blogspot.com/ - Interview a Male Character
How to Submit - http://lethimtalk.blogspot.com/2007/11/how-to-submit.html

http://lethertalkabit.blogspot.com/ - Interview a Female Character
How to Submit - http://lethertalkabit.blogspot.com/2007/11/how-to-submit.html

http://detailwithnikkileigh.blogspot.com/ - In Detail With Nikki Leigh
Give potential readers more information about you and your background.
How to Submit – http://detailwithnikkileigh.blogspot.com/2007/09/how-to-submit.html

http://beforeiwaspublished.blogspot.com/ - Before I Was Published
Tell us about what you did before you were published and especially include anything that relates to your books and your writing.
How to Submit - http://beforeiwaspublished.blogspot.com/2008/02/tell-us-your-story.html

http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/- Can you tie a topic or element from your book with current events? This is the place to submit them. Send them to me and I'll review them.
How to Submit - http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit.html

http://bookpromo101.blogspot.com/ - Do you have interesting promotional ideas and suggestions that you would like to share with other authors?

How to Submit - http://bookpromo101.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit-your-promotional.html

http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/ - Share your book cover.
How to Submit – http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/2007/07/judge-book-by-its-cover.html

http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/ - Share your First Chapter
How to Submit – http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

Promotional Blogs for Non-Fiction Books

http://startwithfacts.blogspot.com/ - Share Details about Non Fiction Books
How to Submit – http://startwithfacts.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

http://animalsinbooks.blogspot.com/- Talk about animals in your book.
How to Submit - http://animalsinbooks.blogspot.com/2008/05/how-to-submit-your-book.html

http://authorpets.blogspot.com/ - Share your furry writing companions
How to Submit - http://authorpets.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit.html

http://detailwithnikkileigh.blogspot.com/ - In Detail With Nikki Leigh
Give potential readers more information about you and your background.
How to Submit – http://detailwithnikkileigh.blogspot.com/2007/09/how-to-submit.html

http://beforeiwaspublished.blogspot.com/ - Before I Was Published
Tell us about what you did before you were published and especially include anything that relates to your books and your writing.
How to Submit - http://beforeiwaspublished.blogspot.com/2008/02/tell-us-your-story.html

http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/- Can you tie a topic or element from your book with current events? This is the place to submit them. Send them to me and I'll review them.
How to Submit - http://currenteventsinbooks.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit.html

http://bookpromo101.blogspot.com/ - Do you have interesting promotional ideas and suggestions that you would like to share with other authors?
How to Submit - http://bookpromo101.blogspot.com/2008/08/how-to-submit-your-promotional.html

http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/ - Share your book cover.
How to Submit – http://judgebookbycover.blogspot.com/2007/07/judge-book-by-its-cover.html

http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/ - Share your First Chapter

How to Submit – http://startatbeginning.blogspot.com/2007/07/how-to-submit.html

I reserve the right to refuse to post any submissions, but so far I haven't needed to turn anyone away. I did edit a couple of first chapters to maintain a PG-13 rating for my visitors. That could be one of the reasons why some have such a long waiting list. All the blogs are listed on my Blogger profile which is located at - www.blogger.com/profile/00985309338453728557.

Nikki Leigh
Author of the Book Promo 101 Series
www.nikkileigh.com/book_promo_101.htm
Author Promotional Services - www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

Economical Book Promotion at Craft Shows

Craft shows can be a useful means of promotion for your books. However, they can be very expensive. One way to save money is to register early. Many shows have online promotional sites which allow you to register early, usually at a savings. Some shows sell out early, so contact them months in advance and they may offer discounts. Some offer discounts for last minute registration, but at that point there are limited spaces available.

Find The Best Book Promotional Opportunities

Many craft shows offer a variety of promotional options. They may offer electricity for your booth, table and chair rental, carpet and similar items. The prices rise as the show draws near. Early planning is a great way to save money and lessens the stress level as the show draws near.

How To Save Money While Promoting Your Book

Each writer that participates in the show will need to transport supplies and promotional items for the show. Show participants can save some money by bringing these items with them. It is more reasonable to carry the items with you than to ship them to the show. An eye catching display that can be assembled and disassembled easily makes a great impression and can save you money.

When you reserve a spot at any show, remember front and corner booths cost more money. These may not be the best locations for you. It’s worth your time, to contact businesses who displayed in the past to ask about the flow of traffic on the floor. It is even better if you have attended the show yourself to see which areas seem to have more traffic. This information is a great way to make the most of an appearance at the show.

Promotional Items For Your Book

Show attendees need promotional items for the people who wonder through the tables. These promotional items should have your author name, book title, website address and other identifying information. These items can include: pens, scratch pads, key chains, etc. Some other things you might give out include gum, miniature candy bars, chips and homemade cookies. One author I’ve seen at writer’s events offers cookies which are based on a recipe in her story. This is a great example of an item to hand out which ties in with the story.

In addition to the novelty promotional items, it is important to have handouts, brochures, business cards and samples. Simple and eye catching handouts can be made in any word processing program. It is easy to play with different fonts, font sizes and colors to grab the attention of people who approach your booth. Local office supply stores usually have good prices for large quantities of copies. Think about creating 2 handouts on a letter size sheet of paper and cutting them.

Sometimes desirable shows are farther away and you will need to stay in a hotel and eat out. There may be opportunities for discount rooms for show participants, but these need to be reserved early. Rooms can be shared if that is practical and appropriate. Another big travel expense is your meals. It’s good to set a food budget before you leave, or allow each person a certain amount of money for food.

These are some easy ways to save money when you participate in craft shows. When you travel to many shows, it becomes more critical to save money at each one. If the cost will be high, it’s important to evaluate whether the expensive is worth the exposure your books will receive.

Nikki Leigh
Author of the Book Promo 101 Series
www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

Promote Books at Craft Shows

Authors who sell books at craft shows need to maximize the promotional opportunity. They need to be congenial, perky and alert. Many people will pass your booth and you only have moments to catch their attention. If it is a large show, they probably won’t walk past your booth again, so be alert. To be energetic and alert, get sufficient sleep each night of the show. Conversing with the attendees can be exhausting, especially during a show that lasts several days.

How To Create A Booth That Promotes Your Books

It is important for authors to design a booth plan that is open and inviting. If you use an enclosed booth, stand in front of the booth or table. This allows you to communicate with people when they pass the booth. Busy shows offer the chance to talk with several people at one time.

Learn What Promotional Supplies You Need

This checklist includes basic supplies and promotional items that are needed for shows.

Basic Supplies –

• Scissors
• Tape
• Stapler and staples
• Note Pads (good to have ones with your tagline and website address)
• Book Supplies
• Plenty of Business Cards and Card Holders
• Pens and/or pencils and Pen Holder (use pens with your name and website)
• Promotional Materials about your Books
• Sample chapters or short stories would be great items for specific visitors.
• Scrapbook with Book cover art, reviews, and any awards you have won.
• Questionnaires for Potential Readers to Complete (details are listed below)
• Information Packets (details are listed below)
  

Create Book Promotional Materials

Promotional items for a show should include brochures, handouts, sample pages and information packets for interested people who visit your booth. Pocket portfolios are great to hold brochures, handouts, business card and so on. This might include a pen and note pad for readers to make notes about your conversation. A nice promotional touch is to apply “crack and peel” stickers printed with your logo to the front of the folder.

People registered in the show should spend some time to wander the floor and meet other people, collect their business cards and pass out cards of their own. Make notes on the back of their cards with notes about them and their business. When you talk with people who approach your booth try to have them complete a specialized questionnaire. It is advantageous to make notes on these forms and specific information about these people.

These questionnaires can easily be designed on any word processing program. What are the top ten things you would like to ask each potential reader? These can be included on the questionnaire. The questions should relate to your books and will help determine if they are a potential reader.

After the event, follow up with the people you collected business cards from and the people who completed questionnaires. These people should be added to a mailing list which is used to promote your business. Craft shows can provide wonderful exposure for your books. This is especially true as your experience increases and the shows are handled in an effective and professional manner.

Nikki Leigh
Author of the Book Promo 101 series
www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

Find Craft Shows to Sell Books

Craft shows can be a great way for authors to showcase your books. Promoting books at craft shows offer the following benefits.

Generate Book Sales

First and foremost, craft shows offer great opportunity to promote your books. Why not make sales on the craft show floor? You could also meet book store owners or other business owners who would like to host a book signing. Make sure to bring plenty of books, bookmarks, business cards, flyers and any other promotional items that you may have. This way you can give something to people who do not buy books at that time.

Generate Leads For Future Author Promotion

Even if you're unable to make a sale, craft shows are a great way to make contacts for future sales. The key to craft show success is good follow up, so don't forget to check in with potential readers after a week or so. Several ways to gather contact information include: a giveaway which requires people to register and a list for people to join your mailing list. It is good to get their name, address and email address. You can include a short questionnaire to ask what type of books they like and any other questions which relate to your writing.

Learn To Create Author Promotional Opportunities

Craft show booths can operate like a giant billboard for authors. They provide you with ample space to promote your books to potential readers. You can inform them about your books and what will appeal to them, if the booth and promotional materials don't convey this, its time to reevaluate your approach.

Author Networking to Promote Books

Craft shows offer opportunities to meet potential readers in a more relaxed atmosphere. This is another example of times when you can meet people who would want to work together to help you promote your books. Another benefit of craft shows is the opportunities to network and build useful relationships. You could meet existing readers and other writers or aspiring writers that you probably would not meet otherwise. The benefit lies in the potential for promotional partnerships.

Many craft shows offer special consideration for new “businesses” that can make participation financially possible. Even if you don't see any mention of discounts or specials, ask the organizer before you decide if you can participate. If logistics is a concern, most shows have teams that can set up and break down your display. They may even be able to construct one for you from scratch. However, check about charges for these services before you make a commitment.

Craft shows are an important way to promote your books. These shows put you in front of potential readers. Are you looking for a good return on your marketing dollars? Craft shows deliver. For information about craft shows in your area, visit these websites:

http://www.festivalnet.com/
http://www.artandcraftshows.net/
http://www.smartfrogs.com/
http://www.craftshowsusa.com/
http://www.craftsfaironline.com/
http://www.craftsamericashows.com/

These listings offer craft shows, art shows, wine festivals and many other events. Use your imagination and see what possibilities you can discover.

Nikki Leigh
Author of the Book Promo 101 Series
www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm

Secrets Of Press Release Distribution

Tips to compile an effective press release for your book promotion are discussed in another article (http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2008/04/how-to-write-press-releases.html). A press release is the same as a news release. It describes the news value of your books in one or two pages. A quick summary of the format to use includes these details:

The most important details need to be located at the top of the article.The less compelling information should be near the bottom. Reporters or readers will focus on the first paragraph, and you need to catch their attention within that paragraph. Include personal quotes from customers about your product or service.

Add information which would be of local interest to the area where you are submitting the release. Your home area is not the only place you would want to submit a press release. File a press release anywhere your book would attract people’s attention.

How To Hire A Press Release Writer

If you prefer to hire a freelance press writer, follow these steps:

1. Go to www.elance.com, www.guru.com or www.ifreelance.com. These sites allow you to post your press release project for people to bid on. Their credentials, rates, feedback and rating system are available.
2. A local college or university may give you a chance to post the project for communications majors. (Don’t underestimate the value of working with local colleges. I found a wonderful editor to proofread my first book at a very reasonable price.)
3. You can post your project (for a $25 fee) on the American Society of Journalists and Authors site – www.asja.org
4. www.imediafax.com (www.imediafax.com) will critique or write press releases. The fee is $200 for one page and $350 for two pages. (See this site for downloadable ebooks to learn how to write press releases. There is a wealth of information in their article files.)
5. You can go to www.bookmarketing.com (www.bookmarketing.com). Enter the words “press release” in the search box and it will take you to a form, where you fill in the blanks and it will create a press release. Once your press release is the best it can be, circulate it to as many people as possible. This will help you get the word out.

If you want to submit your press release to any newspapers or magazines, a great source is: www.ecola.com. This site lists media sources throughout the world and gives links to their websites. The publications are listed by individual categories or location to make your search easier. Your press release can be submitted by fax or email. It is best to find out which method is preferred by the person you want to contact.Where to Submit Your Book Press ReleaseThese online sites allow you to submit your release for free. I recommend posting free releases and then decide if you need the options they charge you to use. A number of these sites have changed their policy and are now charging minimum fees better $10 and $60.

* http://www.clickpress.com
* http://www.press-world.com – BIG Site
* http://www.prweb.com – BIG Site
* http://www.pr.com/
* http://press.arrivenet.com/
* http://www.press-base.com/
* http://www.fastpitchnetworking.com/pr.cfm
* http://www.prleap.com
* http://www.przoom.com
* http://www.free-news-release.com
* http://www.marketwire.com
* http://www.pr-usa.net
* http://openpr.com
* http://www.express-press-release.com
* http://www.onlinepressrelease.com

Other Sites to Submit Your Author Press Releases

* http://www.free-press-release.com - (Shorten your press release to post free.)
* http://24-7pressrelease.com - Costs minimum of $9
* http://www.prleap.com - You might not want to publish all the information they require.
* http://www.prnewswire.com
* http://www.businesswire.com
* http://www.internetwire.com
* http://www.internetnews.com
* http://www.ebookbroadcast.com/ebooks/
* http://www.newsbytes.com

It is advisable to follow up with these media outlets to ensure that your press release was received. After you submit your press release to these media outlets, post them on your website. This will help you share the information to website visitors who didn’t see your press releases.

Nikki Leigh
Author of Book Promo 101 Series
www.nikkileigh.com/promo.htm