Could your book be the next big streaming hit? Before you start dreaming of red carpets and Hollywood premieres, there's a reality check you need to hear.

While Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other platforms are constantly hunting for fresh content, the journey from page to screen involves far more strategy than most authors realize. This candid conversation unpacks what truly makes a book "film-ready" and why so many aspiring authors miss the mark.

We dive deep into the elements producers actually look for—and they're not what you might expect. Forget expensive "sizzle reels" and screenwriting services that promise to get your book noticed. The real keys to catching Hollywood's attention lie in creating an irresistible elevator pitch, building a robust author platform, and demonstrating that readers are already obsessed with your story.

Through practical examples, we examine what makes certain loglines instantly captivating and how simpler, budget-conscious stories often have better adaptation potential than complex narratives spanning multiple worlds. You'll discover why your book cover, title, and online presence form a crucial "resume" that producers evaluate before even considering your story.

Perhaps most valuable is our candid discussion about the misconceptions that lead authors astray—from pursuing tenuous celebrity connections to investing thousands in unnecessary marketing materials. Instead, we offer actionable strategies for positioning your work effectively, including how to craft the perfect elevator pitch and leverage writers' conferences for meaningful industry connections.

Whether a film adaptation is your ultimate dream or just one possibility on your author journey, these insights will help you approach the process with realistic expectations and professional savvy. 

Leave us a review if you found this episode helpful—we're just 5 away from reaching our goal of 100 ratings!

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Navigating Amazon's constantly shifting landscape is challenging enough for authors, but now there's a new frustration to contend with. In this eye-opening episode, Penny and Amy tackle the latest Amazon Author Central crisis that's preventing authors from updating crucial marketing content on their profiles. Penny and Amy present the issue, as well as solutions!

Drawing from their direct experience helping clients navigate this issue, Amy and Penny provide a practical, step-by-step solution for getting your Author Central updates implemented despite Amazon's resistance.

The duo speculates whether these issues might signal upcoming platform changes, perhaps even a return to the more feature-rich Author Central of pre-December 2022. 

Have you encountered this Amazon Author Central issue? We'd love to hear about your experience! Subscribe to our weekly episodes to stay informed about Amazon's ever-changing landscape and ensure your books maintain maximum visibility and appeal on the platform.

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Have you been neglecting the most powerful marketing tool at your disposal? Your email newsletter provides something social media simply cannot—a direct line to readers without algorithm interference.

Many authors resist starting newsletters because they believe they don't have enough subscribers or content ideas. This mindset creates a significant missed opportunity. Those first few subscribers who share their contact information in today's privacy-conscious world are often your most dedicated fans. They're the readers who will recommend your books, leave reviews, and engage meaningfully with your content.

We explore how to grow your email list strategically using "set it and forget it" methods, which are so easy to implement, you'll wonder why you haven't done it sooner!

In this episode, Penny and Amy share insights and examples and easy ways to grow your list. We also discuss what kind of content to put into your newsletter and we also dive into reader magnets that will help you attract new sign ups!

Whether you're just starting out or looking to revitalize an existing list, implementing these newsletter strategies creates reader connections that drive engagement and builds a loyal community around your work. The time to start is now—your future book launches will thank you.

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Amazon has finally unleashed the full potential of its Goodreads acquisition, and savvy authors should be paying close attention. After years of minimal integration, Amazon has introduced a game-changing feature that transforms the Goodreads "Want-to-Read" shelf from a simple bookmarking tool into a powerful sales catalyst.

When readers browse Amazon, they'll now receive reminders about books they've added to their Goodreads Want-to-Read shelves—creating the perfect impulse buy opportunity exactly when they're already in shopping mode. For authors, this single change dramatically increases the value of Goodreads engagement, especially giveaways. With successful Goodreads giveaways averaging between 2,000-4,000 entries (each adding your book to a different Want-to-Read shelf), the $119 investment suddenly offers exponentially more marketing reach.

Ready to leverage this new connection? Tune into this informative show as Amy and Penny unpack this new feature! Don't miss this opportunity to transform casual interest into actual sales through Amazon's newest author-friendly feature.

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Ever wonder why your marketing efforts aren't translating to book sales? The answer might be simpler than you think. 

Marketing and sales are often used interchangeably in the publishing world, but they're fundamentally different beasts. This distinction isn't just semantic—it's crucial for your success and sanity as an author. When you confuse these two functions, you set yourself up for disappointment, wasted resources, and unnecessary frustration.

Traditional marketing wisdom suggests it takes at least seven impressions before someone makes a purchase decision. In today's overwhelmed digital landscape, that number has likely doubled or more. This explains why focusing solely on immediate sales numbers after marketing efforts is the wrong approach.

By understanding this crucial difference between marketing and sales, you'll develop more realistic expectations, make better strategic decisions, and maintain the motivation needed for long-term success. Have you been confusing marketing with sales? Share your experiences in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe for more insights that will transform your approach to book marketing!

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What would you do if your entire author career disappeared overnight? That's exactly what happened to one unfortunate writer who shared their devastating experience on Reddit—all 30 of their books, representing four years of work and a significant portion of their income, vanished without warning when Amazon banned their account.

The shocking part? This catastrophic ban stemmed from a single book being flagged for "misleading metadata" because it referenced a popular influencer in the subtitle. Despite the author's attempts to appeal, Amazon rejected their plea and withheld pending royalty payments, effectively erasing both their catalog and money already earned.

We believe this case represents Amazon's increasingly aggressive approach to combating AI-generated content flooding their marketplace. Like a sledgehammer rather than a scalpel, their enforcement mechanisms are catching legitimate authors in the crossfire. Throughout this episode, we dissect the specific triggers that put authors at risk, including lookalike covers, celebrity name-dropping in subtitles, unverifiable claims, and implied endorsements.

Whether you're a seasoned author or just starting your publishing journey, this episode provides critical information that could save your author career from an unexpected catastrophe. Have you experienced similar issues with Amazon or other platforms? Share your story with us and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts!

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Gone are the days when simply having a book positioned you as a media-worthy expert. Modern journalists, podcasters, and TV producers have become increasingly selective, requiring authors to demonstrate substantiated expertise, professional credentials, and the ability to deliver value beyond what's already available. Your book should complement your platform, not be your only qualification.

Building legitimate media appeal requires strategic thinking. Start by documenting all your relevant professional experience, speaking engagements, awards, and organizational involvement – even those seemingly tangential to your book's topic. These credentials create the foundation media gatekeepers need to justify featuring you. For those just beginning their platform journey, local media provides valuable experience while building your press portfolio, as media coverage naturally breeds more opportunities.

We provide practical advice for connecting your expertise to timely events, creating compelling "book hooks," and preparing for different media formats. From recording practice interviews to developing concise soundbites, these incremental steps help develop the confidence and capability needed for larger media opportunities. Remember to time your pitches strategically – when stores start displaying Halloween decorations in August, that's your cue to pitch October content!

In an age where anyone can generate content with AI, authentic expertise becomes more valuable than ever. Readers and media alike hunger for genuine insights from people who have truly lived their subject matter. The path to meaningful book marketing isn't through technological shortcuts but through establishing legitimate authority and effectively communicating your unique value.

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Ever felt like you're throwing money into the Amazon advertising abyss with nothing to show for it? You're not alone—and the problem might be simpler than you think.

When your Amazon ads aren't performing, it's rarely about bad ad copy or poor bidding strategies. The real culprit is usually genre confusion: putting your book in front of the wrong readers. Think about walking into a bookstore and finding a tax guide shelved between health and fitness books. That's exactly what happens when authors mismatch their marketing to their actual content.

Amazon's algorithm punishes this misalignment ruthlessly. When people click your ads but don't buy your book, the system registers your content as irrelevant or low quality. Your visibility drops while your costs climb—a devastating combination for your marketing budget and your author morale.

The solution starts with brutal honesty about where your book truly belongs. A romantic suspense novel with light tension doesn't belong in the thriller category alongside dark psychological dramas. A business book for seasoned entrepreneurs shouldn't target new startups. As one successful indie author memorably put it, you simply can't "sell a cat to a dog person"—you must identify and target the specific readers who want exactly what you're offering.

Amazon ads remain one of the most powerful tools in your marketing arsenal—the rare strategy that works 24/7 to introduce new readers to your books. But they amplify what's already working rather than fixing what's broken. Take 30 minutes today to ensure you're showing your book to readers who actually want it. Your sales (and your wallet) will thank you.

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The holiday season represents a golden opportunity for authors to boost book sales—but only for those who start planning early enough. In this strategic episode, we dig into why "Christmas in July" isn't just a retail concept but a vital timeframe for authors who want holiday marketing success.

We reveal the shocking truth about holiday marketing timelines: if you're waiting until November to plan your holiday book promotions, you're already months too late! Media outlets finalize gift guides during summer, promotional spots book up by early fall, and consumers need time to discover your book before making purchase decisions. This episode walks you through the essential preparations you need to make now to position your book effectively for holiday sales.

You'll learn the crucial distinction between marketing a holiday-themed book versus positioning any book as a gift, and why specific messaging matters ("perfect for your adventure-loving niece" resonates more than generic "great gift" language). We cover practical steps including website preparation, scheduling promotional content, booking eBook deals for Black Friday, building up reviews, and how to successfully pitch to holiday gift guides at outlets like Buzzfeed and major online magazines.

Whether you're planning to offer special holiday bundles, signed editions, book-plus-merchandise packages, or simply want more Amazon sales, the groundwork must begin now. Don't let another holiday season pass with disappointing sales—grab your marketing calendar and start implementing these proven strategies that have helped countless authors transform the holidays from a missed opportunity into their most profitable season.

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The summer break scramble is real! Parents everywhere face the same challenge when school lets out: keeping kids entertained without surrendering to endless screen time. For authors of children's and young adult books, this presents a golden opportunity to connect with an audience hungry for solutions.

Drawing inspiration from Jennifer Garner's brilliant parenting strategy (she tells her kids they can have social media once they find articles proving it's beneficial for children), we explore how authors can position their books as the perfect summer entertainment option. Parents are actively seeking recommendations, activities, and reading materials to keep young minds engaged during the long break—and they want decisions that are easy to make.

Whether your book was published yesterday or five years ago, now is the perfect time to refresh your marketing approach. We share practical strategies and easily implemented tips and ideas!

Don't let another summer pass without maximizing this perfect marketing opportunity. Your book could be exactly what a parent needs when they hear those dreaded words: "I'm bored!"

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Summer is upon us, and savvy authors know this season presents unique marketing opportunities—but what exactly makes a book beach-worthy? Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell dive into the evolving definition of "summer reads" and reveal practical strategies for positioning any book to capture readers' attention during these warmer months.

The podcast challenges traditional notions of what constitutes summer reading material. While escapist genre fiction remains popular, today's readers are equally drawn to true crime, activity-based children's books, and "maker" titles that inspire summer projects. With rising travel costs leading many to embrace "staycations," books offering at-home experiences or local exploration guides are experiencing unexpected popularity surges. The hosts emphasize that even serious books needn't be shelved until fall—they simply require different positioning to connect with summer readers.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is its focus on low-cost, high-impact marketing pivots. Rather than suggesting expensive cover redesigns or content overhauls, Penny and Amy recommend simple tweaks and easy changes to grab more summer readers! 

Ready to transform your book into this summer's must-read? Update your marketing approach with these practical strategies, engage your fans with seasonal promotions, and watch your conversions grow. Remember—these techniques work for books of all genres and publication dates, and once developed, can be adapted for any season throughout the year.

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Ever felt like you're just shoving your book down people's throats? You're not alone. In this illuminating conversation, Penny and Amy tackle the critical difference between book marketing and brand marketing—revealing why the latter might be your secret weapon for long-term author success.

Brand marketing creates the foundation upon which all your book promotions will stand. But here's the surprising insight: the best time to network is when you don't have anything to sell. This counterintuitive approach allows you to build authentic relationships, observe what resonates with potential readers, and establish connections with influencers before you need their support. As Penny notes, "If you're going to make mistakes, make them before the book is out."

For authors anxiously waiting months before publication, this episode offers a roadmap of productive activities and unique ideas! 

Whether you're preparing for your first launch or looking to revitalize your existing author platform, this episode transforms the overwhelming concept of marketing into an authentic, relationship-focused approach that feels less like selling and more like connecting. Ready to build your brand rather than just sell your book? Listen now, then share your biggest marketing challenge with us!

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With a new book hitting the market every eight seconds, standing out has never been harder—and for many authors, the temptation to pay for visibility is real. But does paying for reviews or influencer features actually work? And more importantly… is it worth the risk?

In this episode, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell pull back the curtain on the rapidly shifting world of paid book promotion. From once-taboo paid reviews to TikTok influencers charging thousands per post, the rules have changed—but that doesn’t mean the results are guaranteed.

You’ll hear real-world stories of paid promotions gone sideways, including AI-generated reviews that spoil endings and pricey group ads that vanish without a trace. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Penny and Amy also offer a framework for making smart, strategic choices, including how to vet influencers, what red flags to watch for, and why micro-influencers often deliver more bang for your buck.

Whether you're a debut author or a seasoned pro, this episode is your roadmap for navigating the blurry line between earned and paid media—so you can promote smarter, not just spend more.

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AI isn’t a threat to creativity—it’s a secret weapon, and savvy authors are already tapping into its power. In this episode, Penny and Amy explore how ChatGPT can transform the way you write, market, and manage your author business.

Discover how to use ChatGPT as a creative collaborator to generate fresh story ideas, refine your prose, spot plot holes, and develop engaging bonus content for readers. We also dive into how authors are streamlining their marketing efforts—writing ad copy, planning social media, and creating newsletters—without losing their voice or burning out.

But this episode doesn’t shy away from the boundaries. You’ll learn where ChatGPT falls short (think Amazon keywords, SEO, and media contacts) and why knowing what not to outsource to AI is just as important as knowing what to delegate.

With actionable tips on prompt crafting, organizing AI chats into manageable projects, and using AI to support—not replace—your process, this episode is a must-listen for any author ready to work smarter, not harder.

The AI advantage is real—if you know how to use it. Tune in to learn how ChatGPT can elevate your creativity, boost your productivity, and help you run your author career with more clarity and ease

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Unrealistic expectations can destroy an author's career before it truly begins. We've seen it countless times—talented writers who become discouraged, bitter, and ultimately abandon their writing dreams because their first book didn't land them on bestseller lists or bring financial freedom.

In this deeply practical conversation, Penny and Amy challenge authors to rethink what success looks like for a debut book. Rather than viewing your first publication as the finish line, consider it the foundation of your author career—a launch pad for building reader relationships, growing your email list, and establishing your author brand. These elements, while less glamorous than overnight fame, create sustainable momentum that carries forward to future books.

Success in publishing rarely follows the exceptional stories we've all heard about overnight sensations. For most authors, the path involves patient, deliberate growth and learning. As Penny shares from her own 25-book journey, each publication offers valuable lessons that inform and improve the next. If you can identify five things you'll do differently with your next book, you've gained priceless knowledge that no shortcut could provide.

The podcast explores the concept of "choosing your hard"—acknowledging that publishing is challenging regardless of your approach, but productive difficulty leads to growth while discouragement leads nowhere. By focusing on reader connection, professional presentation, and consistent improvement, authors position themselves for long-term success rather than fleeting luck.

Whether you're completing your first manuscript or reflecting on why your published book hasn't met expectations, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on measuring success through sustainable metrics rather than exceptional circumstances. Reframe your goals, focus on building relationships with readers, and approach each book as another opportunity to refine your craft and platform.

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When Amazon quietly shifted from its A9 to A10 algorithm in May, many authors felt panic rising. Would their books suddenly disappear from search results? Would years of keyword optimization become obsolete overnight? The good news is that if you've been focusing on quality and reader experience all along, you're already aligned with Amazon's new direction.

Amazon is increasingly behaving like Google—prioritizing relevancy, quality content, and authentic engagement over keyword manipulation. This makes perfect sense when you consider Amazon's fundamental nature as a search engine that profits from purchases rather than just clicks. What matters now more than ever is creating a cohesive author presence that extends beyond Amazon itself.

In this episode Penny and Amy unpack every element of this new algorithm change, giving insightful guidance and debunking myths that are circulating in the industry. 

Join us as we dive deep in the mysteries of getting more visibility for your book on Amazon!

Ready to optimize your Amazon presence? Pre-order our new book "The Amazon Author Formula Workbook" today and get entered into our contest for Amazon Page Power-Up packages! Subscribe to our podcast for weekly insights that will help you navigate the ever-changing world of book marketing and publishing success.

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Imagine reaching a million potential readers without spending a dime on advertising or having a massive social media following. This episode unveils one of publishing's best-kept secrets: Reddit AMAs (Ask Me Anything) as a powerful tool for authors at any career stage.

Penny and Amy explore how Reddit's unique culture offers authors something increasingly rare in today's marketing landscape—a platform where success depends on being genuinely interesting rather than famous or promotional. Unlike traditional social media where your reach is limited by follower count, Reddit allows anyone with compelling content to potentially reach millions of engaged users who actively seek out interesting conversations.

The hosts break down exactly how to approach Reddit moderators, craft attention-grabbing AMA titles, and execute an event that drives real interest in your book without overtly promoting it. They share real examples, including an author whose AMA about Edgar Allan Poe predicting the Titanic disaster generated massive engagement, demonstrating how the right framing can capture widespread attention.

Tune in for this not-to-be-missed episode!

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In this game-changing episode, we reveal the secrets that turn ho-hum author book signings into unforgettable experiences.

Discover why the classic author signing model is broken—and how to fix it. We dive deep into proven strategies for pitching bookstores and other venues, creating irresistible event formats, and building connections that keep readers coming back for more. Whether you write thrillers, romance, or nonfiction, you’ll learn how to captivate readers, collect emails, and even secure local media coverage.

This isn’t just about selling books on the day. It’s about creating a ripple effect of opportunities, from retail partnerships to reader loyalty. With real stories of authors who turned quiet signings into packed events—including one unforgettable rain-soaked rescue—this episode gives you everything you need to master events that drive future sales.

Ready to turn your next author book signing into a packed house? Listen now and discover how.

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In this eye-opening episode, we pull back the curtain on a heartbreaking scam targeting authors—promising dream book deals that quickly turn into financial nightmares. We explore how scammers craft elaborate schemes that seem too good to be true, preying on authors' hopes with promises of massive book orders, media coverage, and exclusive events. But beneath the glossy promises lie red flags: upfront fees, lack of formal contracts, and guarantees that no legitimate publicist would ever make.

Join us as we dissect the common tactics used in these scams, reveal the emotional and financial devastation they cause, and share practical strategies to protect yourself. We also clarify what real author opportunities look like—so you can confidently spot the difference between a genuine offer and a deceptive ploy. Whether you're a new author or a seasoned pro, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex world of publishing.

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Your older books aren't outdated—they're untapped potential. In this episode, we explore how a strategic refresh can breathe new life into your backlist and help you recapture reader interest. From updating covers and content to rethinking your positioning and marketing assets, we’ll show you how to treat every previously published title as a fresh opportunity.

Whether you’ve got one backlist title or a dozen, this episode reveals how to apply what you’ve learned since those books launched and make them work harder for your author brand. You'll get practical ideas, easy wins, and creative inspiration to turn yesterday’s releases into today’s bestsellers.

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The elusive goal of media coverage keeps many authors awake at night, dreaming of that big break on national television or in major publications. But what if everything you thought about securing media attention was based on misconceptions? 

In this eye-opening episode, we pull back the curtain on what really matters to media gatekeepers and why so many authors sabotage their chances before they even make their first pitch. The hard truth? Media outlets don't exist to promote your book—they exist to serve their audience. Your success hinges on how well you position yourself as valuable to that audience.

We reveal why local media opportunities might be your most powerful pathway to national attention, and why turning down "small" media appearances could be the biggest mistake in your marketing strategy. You'll learn how national scouts constantly monitor local channels for fresh voices and compelling stories, often making local coverage your best audition for bigger opportunities.

The episode offers practical guidance on crafting a pitch that resonates with producers, staying current in your knowledge base, building a professional online presence, and leveraging every media win to create momentum. We share real examples of authors who climbed the media ladder strategically, turning modest beginnings into significant visibility.

Whether you're just starting your publicity journey or have been frustrated by lack of media interest, this episode provides the framework to transform your approach. The path to media coverage isn't about lucky breaks—it's about strategic positioning, consistent effort, and understanding the media landscape from the inside out. 

Ready to position yourself as the expert that media outlets actually want to feature? Listen now and discover how to build the platform that makes media come to you.

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Book bundling represents an untapped opportunity for authors seeking to revitalize their backlist, attract new readers, and generate fresh marketing momentum. This strategic approach – combining multiple books into a single e-book package – offers benefits far beyond simply grouping titles together.

Originally popularized by romance authors who packaged multiple books into value-driven collections, book bundling has evolved into a sophisticated marketing tool applicable across genres. When you bundle your books, you're essentially creating a new product that deserves its own promotional campaign, giving you permission to approach marketing with renewed enthusiasm rather than feeling like you're pushing the same titles year after year.

The timing for implementing a bundling strategy couldn't be better. After an initial surge where "every single book on Amazon was bundled," the approach has become less ubiquitous, making well-executed bundles more likely to stand out. This creates an opportunity for authors willing to be strategic about their bundling decisions.

For fiction writers, options include series bundles (books 1-2 as a new book 4 releases), connected standalones (books sharing characters or universe), and short story/novella collections that offer low-commitment entry points to your writing. Nonfiction authors can create topic-based collections or seasonal/themed groupings that address complementary aspects of readers' interests.

The technical aspects are straightforward – existing EPUB files can be combined without redesigning interiors, though you'll want a fresh cover that effectively communicates the bundle's value. Pricing strategy deserves careful consideration; while deeply discounted bundles might drive immediate sales, they often fail to create engaged readers invested in your work.

Ready to breathe new life into your backlist? Consider how bundling might create a second chance at a first impression with readers who missed your earlier work. We'd love to hear your experiences with book bundling – subscribe and leave a review to join the conversation!

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When authors dream of book marketing success, they often fixate on bestseller campaigns, major media appearances, and viral social media moments. But what if these splashy strategies are actually built on something far less glamorous yet infinitely more important?

Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell pull back the curtain on the unsexy side of book marketing – the foundational elements that truly drive long-term success. Through real-world examples and candid insights, they reveal why authors who chase high-level strategies while neglecting their foundation often find themselves disappointed with results, regardless of their marketing budget.

One author with a solid email list generated 7,000 reviews within 48 hours of publication, while others with significant marketing investments struggle to gain traction. The difference? A strategic approach to foundational marketing elements like optimized Amazon retail pages, professional author websites, consistent email communication, and deliberate review acquisition strategies.

"It's like inviting people to a party that you forgot to attend," Penny explains when discussing abandoned social media accounts still linked from author websites – just one example of how overlooked details undermine reader trust. The hosts debunk common misconceptions about what marketing "counts," emphasizing that buyer psychology and retail optimization are not secondary concerns but rather the bedrock of effective book promotion.

For both fiction and nonfiction authors, this episode delivers actionable insights on building a marketing foundation that supports your long-term author career rather than chasing quick fixes. Whether you're preparing for launch or wondering why your current marketing isn't delivering results, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on what truly matters in connecting with readers.

Ready to stop building your marketing house on sand? Subscribe to the podcast, share your thoughts, or suggest future topics through our website – we love hearing from our listeners!

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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!

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Have you ever judged a book by its title? Most readers do. In this eye-opening episode, Penny and Amy tackle the surprisingly overlooked aspect of book marketing that could be silently sabotaging your sales: your book title.

Drawing from years of marketing experience, the hosts break down the three critical mistakes authors make when naming their books. First, they examine titles that lack clarity or are difficult to pronounce, revealing how authors often "bury the lead" by creating mysteriously worded titles that confuse rather than intrigue potential readers. Fiction writers take note – even complex character names can pull readers out of your carefully crafted world.

The discussion then shifts to the dangers of generic titles, with Amy explaining how Amazon's search algorithm works against new books with common titles. "If you type 'Good Things' into Amazon," Penny demonstrates, "you'll get crackers, children's books, and 25+ pages of other products." This real-time search experiment highlights why specificity matters in a crowded marketplace.

Perhaps most compelling is their analysis of titles that only make sense to the author – a trap particularly common with memoirs and personal stories. Both hosts acknowledge the emotional attachment writers develop to their original titles, with Penny sharing a coaching session where it took nearly an hour to convince a business author to abandon his ineffective title choice.

Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, traditionally publishing or self-publishing, this episode offers practical strategies to ensure your title works as hard as you do. After all, as Amy points out, "If readers are consistently confused about what your book delivers based on its title, that's a significant red flag." The good news? Unlike many publishing decisions, titles can be changed – and sometimes, that one adjustment makes all the difference.

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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!

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Ever feel like you're banging your head against a wall trying to get your Amazon ads approved? You're not alone. When a mystery thriller author's cover featuring a bloody knife was rejected because it looked "too menacing" and appeared to be "pointing at the consumer," we knew we had to address this frustration head-on.

The absurdity reaches new heights when you discover Amazon approved the print version with the identical cover but rejected the ebook ads. This is just one example of Amazon's maddening inconsistency across its various platforms and departments. While the ads team remains vague and often contradictory, other Amazon departments like A-plus content provide clear, specific feedback. Romance authors face similar arbitrary judgments about how much skin is acceptable on covers, with guidelines that seem to shift without warning.

Our battle-tested advice? Channel your inner toddler. Be persistent, submit multiple support tickets, provide examples of similar approved books, and don't take the first "no" as final. We've seen countless cases where persistence pays off, including our mystery thriller author who eventually got approval after multiple attempts. Whether you're dealing with ad rejections or even having your book mysteriously pulled from the platform, advocacy works. Remember: Amazon's only consistent trait is its inconsistency.

Are you struggling with a specific publishing or marketing challenge? Email us and we'll dedicate a show to solving your problem! We prioritize listener questions because we know how crucial timely answers can be when you're in the trenches. And if you've implemented our advice successfully, we'd love to hear about it and give you a shout-out on our next episode.

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📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas!

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