I’ve never had a readers’ group. I sold the first of my
41 published books 23 years ago. I’ve frequently
been asked about my readers’ group, but I always said I didn’t have one.
I was afraid it would be a big time suck. I don’t need one
more thing on my busy author/publisher plate. I’d already minimized other
things that took my attention away from writing. I have never done a tweet,
never been on Instagram, never listened to a podcast, shy away from videos. The
only social media I’ve done since I transitioned from New York publishing to indie
publishing nine years ago (Gee, has it really been that long?) is Facebook and
Pinterest, and those only minimally. I am one of those authors who really
believe the best way to spend her time and to build her career is by putting
out new books. Quality books.
 |
| Some of my books |
I must confess that another reason I didn’t start a readers’
group is because I am afraid that no one would join. I realize now that’s sort
of silly, given that I’ve sold hundreds of thousands of books. That must mean
there are some people out there who like my books and who would join a reader
group—if there was one.
Other authors have convinced me that readers’ groups are
worthwhile. And given that I personally answer every single email I get from my
readers, I figured answering these questions in a Facebook group might actually
take less time. I have always enjoyed communicating with my readers. I enjoy
establishing relationships with them, becoming friends with them. Having one
big Facebook family of people who read my books would be awesome.
So I’ve taken the leap. I started a group called Lady Cheryl’s Ladies of the Ton where
we can meet and discuss Regency England (because my books are set in Regency
England).
A huge bonus will be getting a review group out of this. I’m
keeping my fingers crossed that some of these ladies will be willing to
download digital copies of my books for early reviews.
On Sunday I sent out a special mailing to my 14,000
newsletter subscribers to announce my new group. At this writing, we’ve got 240
members of my Ladies of the Ton. I’m
getting really excited about this endeavor.
It’s kind of like what President Franklin Roosevelt meant
when he said, “We’ve nothing to fear but fear itself.” I was afraid of forming
a readers’ group. And now I’m thrilled to have one. Being an author involves
taking lots of leaps. But most of them are worth it.—Cheryl Bolen is currently at work on the seventh installment in her
Brides of Bath series. Her most recent release was His Lady Deceived.
Visit our contest page here.
Visit my:
Website Facebook Page Blog Pinterest
Wow!! I'd love a mailing list the size of yours!! I've had a reader's groups for a few years and barely top out at 85. But I don't have as many books as you and haven't been writing as long. Hopefully someday I'll get there! Good for you!!
ReplyDeleteKari, I started my mailing list eight years ago, with a few contests to bump sign-ups. I've also done some of Ryan Zee's promos. And, of course, I mention the newsletter sign-up in the backmatter of my books.
DeleteSounds awesome! Have fun.
ReplyDeleteIt is fun, Kathleen. I've been doing some polls already. First was to see how many read on Kindle vs. print and other devices. Next was helping me name my next book.
DeleteCongratulations. I'm sure you'll have many great reviews and good times with your group.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Nora.
DeleteThis is great! Sounds like a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteI'm just sorry I didn't do this sooner, Kara!
DeleteI can't even begin to imagine those numbers, but enjoy your group--it sounds as if it's going to be fun!
ReplyDeleteI think the key, Liz, is giving the readers a reason to open the newsletter. I always run contests. For the past several years I mostly give away autographed books. That way I'm assured these people are there because they like my books, not to get a gift card!
DeleteCheryl, love the name of your Readers' Group. Looking forward to Brides #7. One of the things that separates you from other Regency authors are the elegant, classy book covers you have. I love seeing them because they're like looking at a Gainsborough.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Joan. From that first Harlequin book, I've always stressed no male nipple on my covers! I prefer a man in a cravat! And the older I get, the less bedroom in my books! Most readers don't seem to be bothered by the sweeter books.
ReplyDelete