Over 100,000 E books sold by Self Published Author/

Talk about a David v/s Goliath story. Being an author is not for the faint hearted.  Self-published authors are giving traditional publishers havoc. All across the book industry self-publishers are getting social media savvy, book marketing capable and book buzz proficient. This has sent shockwaves through the traditional book marketplace. When I interviewed author Vicki Lieske, a New York Times Best Selling (Self Published) Author that sold over 100,000 e-books I was cheering!!! No longer do writers have to have their dreams bruised by rejection letters. They simply have to become knowledgeable about book marketing, just like Vicki did, and elevate their book into public awareness. The Internet has made that extremely possible and has leveled the playing field between the self-publishers and traditionalist. We see the footprints of it everyday as online book sales topple in store purchases, as bookstores close throughout the country and as e-books sales sky rocket.

Vicki candidly discussed how she was able to accomplish this in such a short amount of time. In recap the key was getting connected with people in forums, through online interviews/reviews and participating in groups. She also stressed the importance of having a quality book.

Read the full interview below:

1. Tell us a little about yourself, hobbies and family.

My husband and I have four children. We love to go fishing as a family. I design rubber stamps for my company, Victorine Originals rubber stamps. Besides designing rubber stamps, I also do all of the graphic design for my company as well as designing my own book covers. My hobbies include rubber stamping, scrapbooking, and paper crafting.
2. How did you begin your writing journey? (Of if it applies, how did you begin your marketing / PR business?)

I threw out my back one day and was on bed rest for a week. I had nothing to do, so I decided to write a book. I wrote the first draft of Not What She Seems in that one week.
3. Why did you decide to write this particular book?

I wanted to read a story with a mystery, a little romance, and suspense. Since I didn’t have anything in the house that fit that bill, I decided to write my own book.
4. What audience do you hope to reach? Where is the book available?

I hope to reach women looking for a little romance along with a mystery. The book is available on Amazon in paperback, and for ebooks on the Kindle, Nook, and iBooks.
5. How have you marketed your book?

I have sent the book to book bloggers to review, I have done some giveaways and posted on blogs and forums.
6. What have been the most effective ways for you in marketing?

My best marketing idea was lowering my price to 99 cents. This made my book an impulse buy. I sold over 113,000 books at 99 cents. However, to make this work you need a good book, great cover, and a catchy blurb.
7. Based on your experience what are 5 things every author needs to know and your most difficult experience in your writing career?

The most important thing for every author to know is how to make sure their book is the best it can be. After writing the first draft, I highly suggest putting the book aside for a while. Let it be, and come back to it with fresh eyes. Second, I would join a critique group. Let the other writers read and give their opinion. Third, I would hire an editor. Fourth, if you don’t know graphic design, I would suggest you hire a cover designer. Fifth, I would get help with the blurb from other authors. These are the most important things, so you want to make sure your book looks professional.
8. What ways do you use social media to promote your book?

I have a facebook fan page, I’m on Twitter and I am active on Kindleboards.com.
9. In what ways do you feel social media is impacting the future of the book industry?

I think it’s becoming very important to be seen on the internet. More and more people make book buying decisions from things like blogs and forums. Being prominent on the web is very important.
10. What is your viewpoint on Facebook and Twitter?

I think Facebook and Twitter are important for authors. Having a web presence has definitely helped me. Networking with other authors on these social networks is important too.
11.What are your next writing goals?

I’m currently writing my third novel, which is the second book in my Science Fiction series, The Overtaking. I have a novelette out right now, and I do have plans to write a second novelette soon. I’ve also started another romantic suspense novel, the working title is Witness Protection.
12. What are some closing remarks you would like to share with our readers?

In closing I would like to tell authors to never give up. Even if you publish and then find out your book wasn’t ready, you can revise and make it better. There is no “too late” in self-publishing.

Linda Leon is an ordained minister, entrepreneur, ghostwriter and Certified Nutritionist. Her background is also in commercial television broadcast and marketing. She is an author and her most recent books are Publishing and Publicity for Smart People and Rock Star Marketing for the Emerging Author. Contact Linda at www.thewealthsolutions.com. 2016 Linda Leon. All Rights Reserved.