My Book Is Out—Now What? How Authors Can Promote Their Work After Launch
Publishing a book is a dream come true. Holding When The Road Narrows in my hands for the first time was surreal—a mix of pride, relief, and anticipation. But almost immediately, the big question followed: Now that the book is out, how do I promote it?
For authors, the work doesn’t end with the publication date. In many ways, it’s just the beginning. Promotion is about building bridges—connecting your story to the people who need it most. Here are some of the strategies I’m using and lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. Start With Your Story
Readers don’t just want to know what your book is about; they want to know why you wrote it. For me, When The Road Narrows is not only a novel set in the 1980s amid conservatism and the AIDS crisis, but also a deeply personal exploration of self-doubt, discovery, love, and resilience. When I share the story behind the story—why it matters today, especially as LGBTQ+ rights come under renewed attack—people lean in.
2. Leverage Media and Podcasts
Podcasts have become one of the most authentic ways to connect with new audiences. They offer room for long-form conversations where I can talk not only about the book, but about the broader issues it raises: family, identity, redemption, and belonging. Likewise, reaching out to local newspapers, online book reviewers, and bloggers opens doors to audiences I could never reach alone.
3. Use Social Media Intentionally
Promotion isn’t about shouting, it’s about connecting. On platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, I focus on snippets—quotes from the novel, reflections on writing, or timely posts about LGBTQ+ issues. The goal is to invite conversation, not just push sales.
4. Say Yes to Community
Book clubs, library events, and readings are powerful because they’re personal. Every conversation with readers creates a ripple effect. For When The Road Narrows, I’ve been reaching out to LGBTQ+ organizations, bookstores, and community centers that are looking for meaningful stories to highlight.
5. Don’t Forget Word of Mouth
At the end of the day, nothing beats a reader telling a friend, “You have to read this book.” Encouraging reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, thanking readers who share the book, and staying engaged keeps that momentum going.
Publishing is a milestone; promotion is the marathon. For me, promoting When The Road Narrows isn’t about selling books—it’s about amplifying a message that matters. At a time when acceptance and equality are still being fought for, stories like this can spark conversations we desperately need.
If you’ve read the book, thank you. If you’re discovering it now, I hope you’ll join me on this journey—and share it with someone who needs to hear it.
