Book Marketing Simplified

If you write in a niche genre and you've been told (or have started to believe) that your book is just too specific to market effectively, this episode is for you. Jenn breaks down why niche isn't the obstacle it feels like, why generic book marketing advice fails specific authors, and what a marketing strategy actually looks like when you write for a very particular reader. Whether you write in a niche genre, across multiple genres, or for a deeply specific audience, this one will change how you think about finding your readers.LinksThe 90-Day Book Sales System includes the New Author Marketing Playbook, built specifically for pre-published authors who want a real plan before their book comes out.Social Growth Sessions

Three years ago, Jenn watched an author with 8,000 engaged Instagram followers sell zero copies of her book, and the reason had nothing to do with her platform or her content quality. In this episode, she shares what was actually missing, and contrasts it with a second author who had fewer than 1,000 followers and was outselling authors with ten times her audience. If you've been showing up, building an audience, and still not selling, this episode is going to name exactly what's getting in the way.LINKS90-Day Book Sales SystemDone-WITH-You Sessions

If your content is getting engagement but your book isn't selling, this episode is going to name exactly what's happening - and it's not what most authors expect. Jenn breaks down why showing up consistently isn't enough on its own, what the missing piece in most authors' content actually is, and what it looks like to create content that moves readers from I love following you to I'm buying your book. Simple, practical, and the kind of shift that changes how you think about every post you create going forward.LinksFree Resource: Download the Book Marketing Blueprint - a free 15-minute diagnostic that shows you exactly which pieces of your marketing foundation are missing.The 90-Day Book Sales System includes the New Author Marketing Playbook, built specifically for pre-published authors who want a real plan before their book comes out.

If you've been avoiding book marketing because every example you've seen requires putting your personal life online - your face, your story, your daily life as content - this episode is going to change how you see what's actually required. Jenn breaks down the difference between personal branding and book marketing, why you don't need to share anything personal to sell your book effectively, and what reader-focused content looks like for both fiction and nonfiction authors. Whether you're a healthcare professional keeping worlds separate, writing under a pen name, or simply someone who refuses to perform a personal brand, this one's for you.

If your book isn't reaching readers and your first instinct is to post more, try a new platform, or run ads, this episode is going to stop you before you spend another dollar or another hour. Jenn breaks down the real reason most authors can't find their readers: it's not a visibility problem, it's a messaging problem. You'll learn what it actually means to market to your ideal reader (instead of everyone), why specificity is what makes readers stop scrolling, and the one question you need to answer before you create another piece of content. Works for both fiction and nonfiction authors.LinksFree Resource: Download the Book Marketing Blueprint - a free 15-minute diagnostic that shows you exactly which pieces of your marketing foundation are missing.The 90-Day Book Sales System includes the New Author Marketing Playbook, built specifically for pre-published authors who want a real plan before their book comes out.

If your book isn't published yet and you keep telling yourself you'll figure out marketing after it's done, this episode is specifically for you. Jenn dePaula breaks down the real reason pre-published authors struggle to post, why waiting until launch day is the single most common regret she hears from authors, and the belief shift that changes everything: you're not marketing a book that doesn't exist. You're showing up for the reader your book is being written for. Includes Rachel's full story - from hesitation to 187 email subscribers and 94 first-week sales.LinksFree Resource: Download the Book Marketing Blueprint - a free 15-minute diagnostic that shows you exactly which pieces of your marketing foundation are missing.The 90-Day Book Sales System includes the New Author Marketing Playbook, built specifically for pre-published authors who want a real plan before their book comes out.

Are you constantly staring at a blank screen wondering what to post about your book? You're not alone and it's not a creativity problem. In this episode, Jenn breaks down the real reason authors run out of content ideas: missing core messages. Learn what core messages actually are, what they look like for fiction vs. nonfiction authors, and why identifying them is the one thing that makes content creation feel simple instead of exhausting.LinksFree Resource: Download the Book Marketing Blueprint - a free 15-minute diagnostic that shows you exactly which pieces of your marketing foundation are missing.The 90-Day Book Sales System - the complete step-by-step system that builds your foundation first, then your content plan, email list, and sales strategy.

You've downloaded the content ideas. You've saved the post templates. You're creating more content than ever before... but your book still isn't selling. Here's why: More post ideas without a system just creates more work. In this video, I'm showing you the conversion system you actually need - the three types of content, how to build an email list you own, and how to sell your book without feeling gross. Stop chasing random post ideas and build a system that converts.LINKSGet the 90-Day Book Sales System →Grab the free Book Marketing Blueprint →

You're posting consistently, showing up on social media, doing "all the things"... but your book still isn't selling. Here's why: you're missing the marketing foundation that every successful author has. In this video, I'm breaking down the 3 essential pieces you need BEFORE you post another thing, and showing you exactly how to build them so your marketing actually converts to book sales.LINKSBook Marketing Blueprint FREE downloadNEW RESOURCE: The 90-Day Book Sales System

If the idea of marketing your book makes you want to crawl under your desk (because showing up online, doing videos, or constantly “engaging” just feels exhausting) you’re going to breathe a sigh of relief.In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on how introverted authors can market their books without draining their energy or faking an extroverted persona.You'll walk away from this episode:Feeling relieved that there’s nothing wrong with you (just the advice you’ve been given).Clear on how to build real connections with readers, without showing your face or being “on” all the time.Empowered to use your strengths as a writer to grow your platform in a way that feels natural.Equipped with simple, low-pressure strategies that actually work for you.Confident that yes, you can sell books and stay true to who you are.This isn’t about learning more. It’s about unlearning what doesn’t work and finally feeling good about how you show up. If you’ve ever whispered, “I hate marketing,” this one’s for you. LinksFREE Book Marketing BlueprintBook Marketing Starter Kit

You're posting about your book on social media, but nothing's happening. A few likes from friends. No real engagement. No significant growth.Here's what most authors don't realize: the problem isn't just your content. It's that you skipped the three essential steps that make social media actually work.In this video, I'm showing you exactly what successful authors do BEFORE they start posting - the foundation that transforms random posts into strategic marketing that actually gives you results.Stop guessing. Start building the foundation that makes your social media work. LINKSFREE Book Marketing BlueprintBook Marketing Starter Kit

You're showing up on social media. You're posting about your book. But when you check your sales... nothing is happening.If you've been creating content but seeing zero momentum, this episode will show you exactly what's keeping you stuck and the three specific things that need to change.Spoiler: It's not about posting more or being on more platforms.In this episode, I break down:The exact symptoms that tell you your marketing isn't working (and why)What successful authors are doing differently that you're notThe foundation you need before any social media strategy will actually workStop posting and praying. Start being strategic. LINKSFREE Book Marketing BlueprintBook Marketing Starter KitNewsletter Starter Kit

If you're watching other authors' books take off while yours feels invisible, this one's for you.Those "overnight successes" you're seeing? Most aren't real, and they're definitely not sustainable. What you need isn't another viral moment or gimmicky tactic - you need a marketing strategy that builds a real audience who actually wants to read your books.In this episode, I'm sharing:Why speed isn't the metric that mattersThe "Sustainable Authority Approach" to building long-term readershipA real client story of tripling book sales without going viralThe three parts of sustainable marketing: depth over speed, systems over scrambling, and relationships over reachRemember: you're not behind. Your timeline doesn't have to look like anyone else's.LINKSThe Book Marketing Starter KitNewsletter Starter Kit for Authors

If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of “do more to sell more,” this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air.The truth? You don’t need to be everywhere or do everything to grow your platform and actually sell books. In fact, trying to do all the things is probably why you're feeling burned out and seeing inconsistent results.In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to sell more books without sacrificing your writing time, your energy, or your sanity. You’ll learn the three key pillars that consistently successful authors focus on. And spoiler alert: none of them involve chasing trends or showing up on five social platforms at once.Whether you're launching your first book or you're deep into your backlist with flatlined sales, this episode will help you shift your marketing mindset and give you a clear, doable strategy to connect with readers in a way that feels authentic (and actually works).We’ll talk about:How to stop treating marketing like a one-size-fits-all checklistWhy knowing your reader on a deeper level changes everythingWhat it really means to create a visibility plan that works for youHow to build trust and connection beyond social mediaAnd why less marketing (done right) leads to more book salesIf you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start marketing smarter, not harder, this episode is your starting point.Ready to get serious about your book marketing? Build your author platform without the stress by downloading my FREE No-stress Guide: https://jenndepaula.com/author-platform-guide Download my FREE Book Marketing Blueprint to start building a foundation that actually works: https://jenndepaula.com/book-marketing-blueprintWant the complete system for building a thriving author platform? Learn more about The Author Circle membership: https://jenndepaula.com/the-author-circle

Are you exhausted from posting content that gets likes but zero book sales? You're not alone. Most authors are stuck in what I call "pebble marketing" - scattering their efforts everywhere and wondering why nothing's working.Here's the truth: you don't have a follower problem, you have a targeting problem.In this episode, I'm breaking down the exact strategy to find readers who are already looking for books like yours and are ready to buy. No more throwing content at the wall and hoping something sticks.What you'll learn:Why targeting "all romance readers" is killing your salesThe difference between browsers and buyers (and why you've been focusing on the wrong one)The 3-layer system to identify your ideal buyersWhere your readers actually hang out (hint: it's probably not where other authors are)My 5-step action plan to start attracting buyers todayStop wasting time on vanity metrics and start building an audience that actually supports your books. Your ideal readers are out there. You just need to know how to find them.Ready to get serious about your book marketing? Download my FREE Book Marketing Blueprint to start building a foundation that actually works: https://jenndepaula.com/book-marketing-blueprintWant the complete system for building a thriving author platform? Learn more about The Author Circle membership: https://jenndepaula.com/the-author-circle

Stop spinning your wheels on social media! In this video, I break down the #1 mistake authors make when marketing their books and show you the complete 3-part system that actually sells books consistently.LinksThe Author Circle

Let’s be honest—most authors don’t have hours to pour into content every week. And yet, if you want to sell books, connect with readers, and stay visible… you need content.But creating it from scratch every single week? That’s the fast track to burnout.In this episode, Jenn walks you through a simple, strategic system that helps you create authentic, effective content in less than an hour a week. This is the exact method we teach inside the Author Marketing Assistant—and it’s designed to make your content not only easier to create, but also way more powerful.LINKSThe Author Marketing Assistant

If legal stuff makes your head spin, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: understanding a few key legal basics can save you major headaches later (and possibly even your bank account).That’s why I asked intellectual property and business attorney Olivia Mayness, to join me on Book Marketing Simplified. Olivia breaks it all down in a way that’s clear, smart, and actually doable. Olivia’s not just a legal expert, she’s also a creative herself, which means she gets what authors need.We talk about the most common legal blind spots authors face like: if authors can use lyrics or quotes in their bookshow to protect your book from AIif authors should trademark a book titleand much more.Whether you're self-published, traditionally published, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you move forward with clarity and avoid some scary mistakes down the road.LINKSConnect with Olivia on LinkedInCheck out her law firm’s website and blog at thelawspot.comYour Next Steps:Free Downloads: https://jenndepaula.com/free-downloadsDIY Book Marketing Resources: https://jenndepaula.com/solutionsDone-With-You Services: https://jenndepaula.com/sessionsConnect on Social: https://www.instagram.com/jenndepaulabookmarketing/

Not sure what to do first when it comes to book marketing? You’re not behind—you just need a plan. In this episode of Book Marketing Simplified, Jenn shares a straightforward three-step strategy to help authors get unstuck and start marketing their book with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re staring at a blinking cursor or feeling scattered by too many options, this episode will help you find your footing and build a marketing rhythm you can actually stick with. Perfect for fiction and nonfiction authors who want to market their books—without losing their writing time or their minds.LinksBook Marketing Blueprint (free)Book Marketing Starter KitAuthor Marketing Assistant

Feeling overwhelmed by scattered book marketing strategies that aren’t helping you sell books? In this episode, Jenn breaks down why most author marketing feels frustrating and what to do instead. You’ll learn how to create a simple system rooted in clarity, connection, and consistency to finally start seeing results. Perfect for fiction and non-fiction authors who want to market smarter, not harder.LinksMarketing in MinutesAuthor Marketing Assistant

Hate writing emails? Feel like you're just bothering people when you hit "send"? You're not alone and you're not doing it wrong. In this episode, we’re flipping the script on email marketing and showing you how to write simple, reader-friendly emails that build trust and sell books. By the end of this episode, you’ll have everything you need to write one email this week that actually works.LINKSThe Ultimate Newsletter ChecklistNewsletter Starter Kit

Publishing a book is an exciting time. But with so many options (traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing) and so much conflicting advice, it’s easy to feel confused about which path is right for you.In this special episode (and our first-ever interview!) I’m joined by bestselling author and publishing strategist Elizabeth Lyons. With decades of experience helping authors publish with clarity and confidence, Elizabeth is pulling back the curtain on the red flags every author should look out for.We dive into:The real differences between traditional, hybrid, and self-publishingThe most common (and costly) publishing mistakes authors makeWhy self-publishing is more empowering than you thinkIf you're navigating your publishing journey or trying to decide which route to take, this conversation will help you move forward with clarity.Tune in and get the insight every author deserves before they publish.Links“Which Publishing Approach is Best for YOU?” by Elizabeth Lyons at publishaprofitablebook.com“7 Critical Questions to Ask Hybrid Publishers” by Elizabeth Lyons at publishaprofitablebook.com

If you feel like you’re constantly marketing but still not seeing book sales, you might be pouring your energy into the wrong strategies. In this episode, Jenn & Marcus discuss how you can stop spinning your wheels and start focusing on what actually moves the needle for you and your book.You’ll learn:Common marketing tactics that waste time and money (and how to avoid them).Which analytics and metrics matter the most when assessing marketing efforts.A simple framework to map out your reader’s journey through your marketing funnel.Grab the free Pick Your Platform guide to clarify where you should show up online:https://jenndepaula.com/platformReady to create a book marketing plan that works for you? Check out the Book Marketing Starter Kit:https://jenndepaula.com/book-marketing-starter-kit

There’s nothing more discouraging than pouring your heart into a book… only to watch sales stall or never take off at all. But before you assume your book is the problem, let’s take a closer look. Because chances are, it’s not your writing. It’s your marketing.In this episode, Marcus and I walk you through a 5-step Book Sales Audit to help you pinpoint exactly where things may be going wrong. You'll learn what to look for, what to tweak, and how to breathe new life into your sales.Whether your sales have stalled or you just want to make sure you’re set up for long-term success, this episode will give you clear, actionable strategies to move forward with confidence.Evaluate your low sales with the Five-step Book Sales AuditStep 1: Cover CheckIs your cover genre-appropriate and professional? If it doesn’t look like a bestseller, people won’t buy.Step 2: Book Description & HookDoes your blurb sell the story, or is it just a summary? Strong copywriting increases conversions.Step 3: Pricing StrategyAre you priced competitively? Sometimes a simple pricing tweak can make a huge difference.Step 4: Audience TargetingDo you know who your ideal reader is? What they are looking for? What they respond to?Step 5: Visibility & DiscoverabilityAre your keywords, categories, and descriptions optimized for searchability?Other Things to Keep In MindSales fluctuate and that’s perfectly normal. If your sales go down a bit, it’s a great time to reassess and make some changes or adjustments.How often are you posting or promoting? Staying at the front of your readers mind is key. Check to see when you last talked about your book on social media, with your newsletter, in your marketing. Stick with it and give it time. Marketing your book is a long game. It’s not something that happens overnight. Stick with it and have a long term vision - don’t just focus around the release date.

Is it luck? Timing? Maybe. But when you peel back the curtain on authors who consistently sell books and grow an audience, you’ll find they’re playing a different game entirely.In this episode, we’re breaking down the 5 habits that separate successful authors from the ones still spinning their wheels (and no, it’s not just about being good at Instagram).You’ll learn:Why showing up (even when you don’t feel like it) matters more than you thinkHow to actually connect with your ideal readersThe power of partnerships (and how to start one even if you’re new)Why talking less about your book might help you sell moreAnd how one small mindset shift could unlock long-term resultsReady to make one small shift that could change everything? Tune in now and walk away with something you can put into action this week.Episode notes, transcript, and podcast links are at http://jenndepaula.com/podcast/83Free Download: Book Marketing Blueprint

Feeling overwhelmed by all the marketing platforms out there? You’re not alone. Many authors burn out trying to be everywhere at once—but the ones who thrive know exactly where to focus their efforts. In this episode, we’ll break down how to choose the right platforms for your book marketing based on what actually works for you.You'll learn how to:Cut through the noise and focus on what truly moves the needleChoose platforms that fit your strengths (and ditch the ones that drain you)Align your marketing strategy with your long-term goalsIf you’ve been wondering where you should be marketing your book - both online and offline - this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.Tune in now and download Pick Your Platform to map out your ideal marketing strategy!

Finding the time and energy to create social media posts for marketing while you're writing your book can be one of the biggest challenges authors face. Jenn has a couple quick tips to help you maintain those connections with your readers online without taking too much time away from your writing.LINKSStand Out Social Media for Authors

A lot of online advice about book marketing includes hiring a Public Relations specialist. But what do PR agencies and publicists do, and at what stage of an author's career is it a good idea to hire one?LINKSMary O'Donohue, Strategic Media Coach and AuthorThe Author Circle

If you're toying with the idea of hiring someone to do your social media for you, there are some important things for you to first consider. Many times we think that just handing off our social media for someone else to manage will give us the results that we want. But that isn't always the case. Here are some things that you should do FIRST before hiring someone to manage your social media accounts.LinksTry The Author Circle for a month to get questions answered by fellow authors and access exclusive member guides and monthly office hours with Jenn.

Another frequent question I get from new authors leading up to their new book release is: “What should my expectations be?” Having a long-term marketing plan, paired with reasonable expectations, can keep us from getting discouraged and keep our sales rolling in well beyond the launch.Not sure where to start with creating your long-term marketing plan?Download our free author resources, including:The Book Marketing BlueprintWhat Authors Can Post Before They PublishThe Ultimate Newsletter Checklist50 Content Ideas for WritersYou can also try The Author Circle for a month to get questions answered by fellow authors and access exclusive member guides and monthly office hours with Jenn.

I can teach you all of the book marketing strategies and show you everything that you need to do to sell your books, but if you are struggling with this particular mindset, you won't see the success that you're looking for. LINKSThe Author Circle

Once authors have addressed the visibility problem we covered in part one of this discussion on why our book isn't selling, the next big factor is how to convert that engagement into a sale.LinksStand Out Social Media for Authors

Whether you are a new or established author, once the book is done and released, getting people to buy your book is often a challenge. Effective book marketing starts with visibility.LinksStand Out Social Media for Authors

Must authors have tons of social media followers to be considered by book publishers? What are publishers specifically looking for? I've been bombarded with these questions for the past few weeks, so I figured we should talk about it! In this episode we will discuss what you need on the marketing and social media side of things to get the attention of a publisher. LinksBook Marketing Blueprint

Amazon isn't the only place where reviews can have an impact on book sales. So where can authors get more authentic reader reviews and how can we put them to work in our marketing efforts?

We’ve already heard how having an email marketing strategy is essential part of converting social media followers into book buyers. But how do we actually get our ideal readers to subscribe?Links“How Authors Can Promote a Book Through Newsletters”“How to Grow an Author Newsletter”“Three Things Authors Need to Start Their Newsletter”“Newsletter Vs Blog Subscribers - What’s the Difference?”“How Authors Can Start Their Newsletter”“Are You Making One of These 3 Book Marketing Mistakes?” “A Simplified Approach to Newsletters for Authors” Newsletter Starter Kit

A question Jenn receives a lot in her DMs is if it's possible to revive your book sales years after the launch. Absolutely! In this episode we will outline a strategy to help you breathe new life back into your previously released books.

You're probably seeing a lot of disturbing information about AI (ChatGPT, Bard, etc.) in the news and on social media. But is there a way for authors to put it to work for us in an ethical way that can help with weekly book marketing tasks?LinksThe Author Circle

If you’re sick of chasing social media trends, not seeing the growth or engagement that you want online, this episode is for you! We are going to walk you through a proven strategy that helps authors accomplish their goals on social media. LinksStand Out Social Media for Authors

If you've ever found yourself saying, "I wish I would have known this before I published my book," you're not alone! In this episode we discuss some important things you should consider as you start your publishing journey. LinksHilary Rushford’s 3 podcast episode book publishing storyThe Author Circle

One of the biggest questions I get about marketing a book is where do I even start? I can be difficult to figure out what to do, how to do it, and what to focus your limited time on. In this episode we will talk about: the first two steps to start marketing your book knowing your unique strategyget your marketing foundation setLinksBook Marketing Starter Kit

A question I'm often asked is, "What's the best social media outlet for authors to be on?" Social media continues to change and grow, so it can be a difficult landscape to navigate. On this episode we will discuss where authors should be online, what they should focus on, and what changes they should be aware of.LinksBook Marketing Blueprint

If you feel like you're constantly posting on social media but you aren't seeing any sales, you aren't alone in the struggle! There are some key changes you can make to begin to see a difference. The outlet is not always the answer. (Simply being on TikTok isn't going to help you sell more books.) Your content - what it is that you're posting - is the key.You need a plan that is always leading them to the next step.Repeat old posts for new followers and for those who may have missed them.Join The Author Circle

A majority of the conversations I have with authors about book marketing start off with, "I hate marketing!" I get it - it's not what you got into writing for. But, what if I were to tell you that marketing just might not be what you think it is? In this episode I share four very important details that authors need to know about marketing.

Hashtags have changed a lot over the years - from how we use them to how many we actually use in our posts. So what is the best way to use hashtags? How many do we use? In this episode, I'll share with you a hashtag formula that you can put to work today.

Newsletters are one of the most important marketing tools for authors. But how do you actually promote and sell a book through newsletters? In this episode we will walk you through three key ways to successfully market your book through your newsletter.LINKSNewsletter Starter Kit for Authors

Trying to stand out in an overcrowded online world can feel like an impossible task. But there is a secret weapon that authors can use in order to get in front of their ideal readers and make it easier for them to find you online. In this episode I talk about Keywords, how to create a list of the best ones for your book, and where to use them most effectively.LinksThe Template Bundle for Authors

Twitter has taken a big dive over the past few weeks. I've seen many authors post that they aren't sure what they are going to do now that Twitter's survival is in question. In this episode I'm going to walk you through a few key factors authors can consider.LinksReel and TikTok TemplatesThe Author CircleWatch the video and read the transcript at http://mixtusmedia.com/podcast/60

It can be difficult to know how many profiles an author should have on social media. Do you create a new profile for each book? Do you have multiple accounts if you write in different genres? We cover that and more in this episode. LinksThe Author Circle

Authors are bombarded with information, but sometimes it can be difficult to determine what is true and what might be a scam. In this episode, we discuss four red flags that authors should be aware of when it comes to book marketing. LinksThe Author Circle