Some Questions For You All

Posted byFractured Faith BlogPosted inA Fractured FaithTags:, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I got an e-mail from my publisher yesterday to let me know the publication process had commenced. I’m hopeful, therefore, the book will be out at some point during the summer. Yes, it’s that close. Scary stuff. Various questions popped into my head so I thought I would share them with you all, rather than allow them to fester in the worry whirlpool known as my imagination.

1. If you were interested in buying the book, would you prefer it in hard copy or e-copy?

2. What are your thoughts on a launch party/event? Where would you hold such an event?

3. Is it pretentious to offer signed copies to potential buyers? Would you be interested in a signed copy?

4. I want the launch to coincide with a blog tour. Are you a book blogger, or do you know one, who would be interested in participating?

Answers on a postcard, please. Or, alternatively, comment below. Thank you.

Published by Fractured Faith Blog

We are Stephen and Fionnuala and this is our story. We live in Northern Ireland, have been married for 17 years and have three kids - Adam, Hannah and Rebecca. We hope that our story will inspire and encourage others. We have walked a rocky road yet here we are today, together and stronger than ever. We are far from perfect and our faith has been battered and bruised. But an untested faith is a pointless faith. Just as a fractured faith is better than none at all. We hope you enjoy the blog.

102 thoughts on “Some Questions For You All”

  1. An Ebook would be super! I don’t know any book bloggers, I don’t think I do anyway. I will go through to see if there is anyone I can recommend! I am so pleased your book will be out soon! Its been a long journey to publication!

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  2. 1. If you were interested in buying the book, would you prefer it in hard copy or e-copy? Hard copy

    2. What are your thoughts on a launch party/event? Where would you hold such an event? Sounds cool would get new readers. A Hall could be rented out. Sometimes book stores will let you rent out space.

    3. Is it pretentious to offer signed copies to potential buyers? Would you be interested in a signed copy? No and yes.

    4. I want the launch to coincide with a blog tour. Are you a book blogger, or do you know one, who would be interested in participating? Not a book blogger and I don’t know one.

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  3. 1. there is nothing like paper for this old-fashioned gal
    2. Hmmm T.S has a good suggestion.
    3. Not pretentious to sign a copy and I would have asked for you to sign the book.
    4. Green here. I don’t know what a book blogger is. Turning red now.

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  4. 1. Depends on the book but I lean toward ebooks nowadays. I would offer both though, otherwise you’d be missing out on a significant portion of your audience. I was surprised at how many paperback copies I have sold.
    2. Not sure.
    3. Not at all, I’ve found that a number of people like to get a signed copy.
    4. No help there, sorry.

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      1. I assumed the same thing, but yeah, quite a few people wanted a paperback. Another thing to consider, the audiobook market is steadily growing each month. That is something I would like to get in to but the expense can add up quickly. I would want it professionally done.

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  6. 1. Nowadays it seems as though many people prefer ebooks. I still like to dog-ear real pages. However, giving a signed copy of a hard back book makes a great gift for friends. As an author, I keep hard copies of my books in the car for those ” Just in case moments.” Hey, you never know if you’re going to run into someone just dying to have a signed copy of your book.

    2. Launch party? That can be risky if you don’t advertise well. What if no one shows up? That’s mortifying. I once did a book signing and only about 6 people showed up, and I was related to 2 of them!

    3. Signed copies are not pretentious. Signing a book you have written and published makes you “a real writer!” You’ve worked hard and signing books is an honor. It’s the icing on the cake.

    4. I don’t know any book bloggers, but I’d like to be one! But no matter, I live in the states, so out of the question- but what an adventure that would be!

    Good luck and blessings navigating your way through this exciting journey!

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  7. 1. Hard copy every time (which isn’t often).
    2. I’d do whatever you feel is right – inviting friends and family and anyone who has assisted in the making of the book.
    3. I actually bought (blogger) Jet Eliot’s 2nd thriller and I asked her to sign it for me. Due to the way they were distributed, she was unable to do that, so she sent me my own personal insert to stick inside. I would certainly be interested in a signed copy of yours, though note, it took me at least 8 months to read Jet’s book. (It’s a great read btw).
    4. Although I’m a blogger, I don’t think I can help you on this one I’m afraid.

    Good luck with the launch. I hope you sell trillions. 🙂

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  8. 1. If possible, I would absolutely do both. While a paperback is great, Amazon Kindles are a large market you do not want to miss out on.
    2. HECK YA!!! Celebrate this victory, I’d recommend at a book store because you would be able to pull in fresh eyes and they would help market it. You do want to send out invites, however, so it’s not a total dud.
    3. Signed copies are awesome! But it also depends on how you plan to sell it… am “I” going to be asked to pay more for it???
    4. While I’m not a book blogger, I think it’s a good idea! If feasible

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  10. Congratulations! What a wonderful time this must be for you.
    I’d like to know about the book more. Also, I blog about my darlings 📖

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  12. 1. If you were interested in buying the book, would you prefer it in hard copy or e-copy?
    Hard copy!

    2. What are your thoughts on a launch party/event? Where would you hold such an event?
    A launch party/event would definitely be cool! I’d hold it in a bookstore, if possible.

    3. Is it pretentious to offer signed copies to potential buyers? Would you be interested in a signed copy?
    Nope and definitely!

    4. I want the launch to coincide with a blog tour. Are you a book blogger, or do you know one, who would be interested in participating?
    Sorry, not a book blogger….

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  14. How exciting for you!! Congrats! That is amazing and you all must be thrilled! To answer your questions:
    1. I prefer either but tend to pass books on to others potentially meaning less sales?
    2. I think launch events at places where your ideal reader hangs out. I think book stores are a must -but also thinking outside of the box. Where does your target audience spend their time?
    3. Offer signed copies if asked. Don’t hesitate and be proud!
    4. What’s a book blog tour?
    Disclaimer: My answers are based on zero professional knowledge but just my opinion as an avid reader and consumer.

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  15. 1. If you were interested in buying the book, would you prefer it in hard copy or e-copy? I love hard copies

    2. What are your thoughts on a launch party/event? Where would you hold such an event? Love launch parties and I think you should pick a place that is a favorite of yours. I like it when authors hold them at places they love. It gives a little more insight into their personality

    3. Is it pretentious to offer signed copies to potential buyers? Would you be interested in a signed copy? Not at all. Love signed copies and would definitely want one!

    4. I want the launch to coincide with a blog tour. Are you a book blogger, or do you know one, who would be interested in participating? I don’t really know any, but what a fun idea!

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  16. Still looking for a postcard. My friend self-published his book and had his launch/release party after hours at a coffee shop. It was my first such event and it was quite enjoyable. Definitely should offer signed copies. You ARE a big deal! Hang on Mr. Black. Your carriage has left the station.

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  17. hard copy, online for all to enjoy, but maybe in your nearest large metropolis and use the news reviews to talk about online event. call the paper and news stations or whereever to get the reviews and coverage to the extent that you can be happy with and… I unfortunately cannot help with the last question. But i would offer both hardback thru Amazon if possible. Mary

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  20. An actual book would be great for my shelf, but an ecopy I can carry. I’d love a signed copy but then I live way across the pond. I know nothing about all the other gobbledygook whereof you speak! 😉

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  21. I’m definitely wanting a hard copy, preferably signed so I can one day tell everyone that the famous, new bestselling author is someone I personally know…over the Internet… 😜 But really, I love a crisp new book. And until I have finished my book and are in the stages you are now (hopefully soon 🤞🏻) I’m afraid I don’t have any other input for you. All the best Stephen. Can’t wait to read your book!

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  22. I’m thrilled for you and your success, although there is a tinge of jealousy as well. Regardless, I’m looking forward to a copy. I like e-books for most new purchases, save a few favoured authors and philosophical-type works. So, a signed copy is kind of irrelevant for me; however, for hard copies, I think offering that is fantastic. And you should definitely have a launch party to celebrate such an amazing accomplishment. Perhaps in an area/location that mirrors the book?

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  23. Signed hard copy all the way! If you have local bookstores in the area, not a chain store, that would be a great place to request a launch. Builds a good mutually beneficial relationship with a local business. And there’s so many great book reviewers on WP. You can’t go wrong here for a tour or review. Super exciting!

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      1. Awesome. It shall hold the highest shelf in my house of books. (It’s the safest) Absolutely. I would love to write a review. Oh yay. I feel so cozy and validated. Thank you.

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          1. Promoting anything is not a skill I have. I know it’s good. And I know I should try to grow the blog too and tweet, but it goes against very fiber of my nature. I know that it looks good on queries too but…what am I even promoting?

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                  1. You’re right. I know that. That’s why I made a WordPress account. To build a platform. But I also like making excuses because I like my anonymity. But it’s not like I haven’t twitter stalked agents before….
                    Might have to sign up to get on your reblog list. You’re kind of the yoda of blog growing.😁

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  25. I’m totally IN for a hard copy autographed – otherwise it would be an e-format. Of course… which gets you the most boost and joy?
    I’d love to see you here at Book People in Austin – but I honestly wouldn’t have the first clue as to how to make that happen. I’d bring you Diet Coke!

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  26. Stephen,

    Here in Northern California, USA, book launches are favorite things for the author and book buyers. The most popular venues are independent bookstores which offer free space to attract potential customers. The bookstores advertise the events. I’ve attended book signings in libraries, coffee shops, senior centers, church halls, and private homes. The author talks about the book. Some answer questions about the book, the characters, and the writing process. Authors always autograph books. All the authors, from first-timers to bestsellers, had lines of people waiting to get their book signed. With the exception of the libraries, light refreshments are part of the event. American authors don’t stop with a single book launch. They continue book-signing opportunities at local events and nearby cities for several months after the book release.

    Our local newspaper prints free articles about local author book signings in print and e-format, often with a picture of the author and the book. There is always a link for readers who favor e-books. Contact your news sources to see what’s available.

    You mentioned in another blog post that WordPress is unhappy with your content. This is your chance to shift your focus to the book. Blog about each upcoming event, then blog again after it’s over. Your followers might reblog those posts and raise your credibility.

    Book bloggers are great, but they may not have a following as large as your Twitter outreach. Tweet, Tweet, Tweet.

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  27. I am very happy that your hard work is being rewarded Steven! I, for one, would be honored to have an autographed copy (I’m still old school and would prefer hard cover).
    Continued blessings to you and yours,
    Chuck

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  28. So pleased this is all coming to fruition. Although I definitely prefer ebooks, I would want a signed copy, so I don’t think offering a signed copy is pretentious. I don’t blog about books but am a voracious reader and would happily promote it for you. Good luck!

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  30. I prefer hard copies – there’s something pleasant/soothing about holding a book, flipping the pages . . . even the smell of the paper. Aaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. Launch parties can work very well; I know authors who have much success. Do what feels right for you.

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  31. 1. If you were interested in buying the book, would you prefer it in hard copy or e-copy?
    I read hard copies mostly, but it’s great to have options. Are they making it hardcover too?
    2. What are your thoughts on a launch party/event? Where would you hold such an event?
    No idea! I would go, but…
    3. Is it pretentious to offer signed copies to potential buyers? Would you be interested in a signed copy?
    I wouldn’t say so. Signed copies are great! Can’t wait to get mine!
    4. I want the launch to coincide with a blog tour. Are you a book blogger, or do you know one, who would be interested in participating?
    Sure, I would love to! Just let me know with specific instructions please ☺
    I’m so glad this is all working out for you.

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  35. Congratulations on your book publication and good luck with marketing.

    1. I first published in ebook to test the water. After feedback I published in paperback making some small amends from the original MS ebook and then re-released it as a second edition to match the paperback.

    2. Local libraries (the bigger the better), some host book clubs so pick a book club day and write a generic press release about it to local media.

    3. Take a book people can thumb through and make it clear your happy to sign copies on request. Provide cake 😉🍰

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  36. Sorry I’m a bit late to the party on this but I think a launch party is a great idea 😁 and I have always preferred a hard copy book to an e book, I feel like when I curl up with a book I want it to be separate to my phone but I know a lot of other people that read on their phone. And yes go for the signed copies too, why not!!

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