I tweeted yesterday about food and the book I’ve written. The former, primarily relating to Chinese food and cake, obtained over 200 likes. Wow! Brilliant! There were loads of replies, the overwhelming majority from fellow tweeters who now wanted to eat Chinese food or cake. Preferably both…at the same time. Although the prospect of dipping a huge slice of vanilla frosted sponge into a carton of curry sauce is a bridge too far for me.
My book promotion received 5 likes. Which was okay but not great when you consider I’ve over 15,000 followers. There lies the eternal conundrum I struggle with. I want to promote my work and be enthusiastic about it, but there are times I wonder I’m boring everyone to death and sounding like a broken record. I returned to social media to promote my writing career but whenever I refer to it, there is nothing but tumbleweed to greet my efforts.
This may sound a little bit like I’m a prima Donna and, if that’s the case then I’ll take it on the chin. I just needed to get it off my chest. It’s a highly competitive market out there and thousands of people are trying to plug their book. I have no God-given right to push myself to the front of the queue and override others. And I don’t write primarily to sell books. I know I’m not going to become an overnight millionaire. It’s just a little scratch that needed itched this morning.
Today is a new day and I’m already well through my first draft of the third book in the Kirkwood Scott series. I’m very fortunate to lead the life I do and still have the time and ability to pursue my passions of writing and running. My family support me and I’m so grateful to have them by my side as I rumble down the road. Thank you to those of you who support my writing and pardon my indulgence today. I’m just off now to eat some cake and a few dozen prawn crackers. When in Rome…
P
Black Thoughts 
Dont worry! It happens. Might not be related but just wanted to narrate something. I was going to completely stop writing once upon a time, as no one liked what I wrote. Then my husband said there are few out there who would like your writing, so dont stop. Not everyone likes everything. That made me continue writing. 😊😊
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Good for you. Your husband seems a wise man 🙂
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Yes he is wise sometimes 🤣🤣
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Here an interesting fact I learned about Social media if you are promoting something positive the reaction is slim. If you are promoting something that is opposite the reaction is amazing. I try to promote my blog on social media and it fail. People who I thought would be interested didn’t even respond. The minute I posted about something nonrelate then people respond. Please don’t let social deter you from promoting your book there are other outlets out there🤗🤗
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That’s interesting. Thank you very much 🙂
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I understand how you must feel. I’ve learned the many characteristics of writers, and creative individuals in general. I believe you have many supporters that appear quiet based on their own feelings such as yours (ironically). I become so pumped after having writing and creative ideas ~that climax results in a huge drop of motivation immediately and then it climbs back up. It’s a beautiful ebb and flow that we all seem to share. I have found J feel guilt when I’m not reading all the beautiful writing everyday (but can’t because of work). And the more followers I have (which is tiny compared to yours) creates more guilt to read even more. This year has brought many emotional shifts. I’m one of the 15,000 supporters that is cheerleading you on~even if I don’t see your posts each day. I applaud you for your authenticity, grit, and success! Keep the faith and keep going Stephen!
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You’re in a sea of writers, all calling for others to read his book. It’s no wonder they’re more receptive to a post about food; they’re starving.
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Are you still starving for a signed copy though? 😉
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Of course! ❤❤
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E-mail me at stephenrobertblack4@gmail.com
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Dude; I have your email. And your Twitter. And… nevermind. Point is, I’m just busy. 🙂
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Stephen, I am a fan of both Chinese food and cake, maybe a little too big of the latter. However, the delights they give are fleeting.
Reading, on the other hand, can stay with me forever. As I near the end of A New Jerusalem, I humbly submit that your writing has far more value than takeout food or a dessert. Once again I am gripped by your story telling, both eager to complete it and a little sad at the prospect of being done.
Please, please, please keep writing! My wife and our circle of reading friends are indebted to you for the ‘meal’ you serve up with what you have created.
Blessings to you,
Chuck
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Thank you very much Chuck. Have you finished? Sorry for the late reply 🙄
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Finished a review posted on Amazon. A thoroughly enjoyable book Stephen!
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Thank you very much for the great review. Much appreciated 🙂
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I don’t think there is anything wrong with how you are feeling with regard to your book. It is a lot to put yourself out there and publish in the first place. I think you should toot your horn whenever possible or whenever the itch needs a good scratchin!
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Thank you very much Mary 😊
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Yes, the lack of response to a topic that is A.) non-controversial, and B.) non-trivial can be very frustrating. I have that experience regularly. I think what it shows us is that people gravitate to social media primarily for entertainment and/or escape. When any of us post content that offers neither, the feedback falls off the cliff. But that doesn’t mean we should stop, Keep promoting, Stephen. It is vital, good, and necessary stuff.
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Thank you Russ. I am always grateful for your continued support 😊
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Don’t worry about marketing your own book.
For years we have had to balance signing up patients for NHS services they don’t have any interest in with ones they are acutely aware of. So for example, while they are interested in the flu vaccine -do an MUR or an NMS with them. Most people will be interested in food, not all in books. Don’t take it personally. Marketing is always broadcasting – you keep spreading the seed (book adverts) near and far and don’t worry if they are ignored or if they have affect. Just keep broadcasting/marketing. It is the way people will hear of your book and buy. If you don’t advertise, you will likely have less sales. Even when you see limited results to the advertising you are doing, just keep at it (well, not every minute of every day because that would be like having to watch the same advert all day long in between TV programs. But nonetheless, most companies who invest in adverts know that repeating their adverts is essential.
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Thank you very much for your encouraging words & support 😊
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Getting our writing “out there” is so hard with a glutted market. At times we wonder why we do what we do. I guess not matter the results, it’s what we’re meant to do.
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I guess so. Thank you 😊
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Keep writing.
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I will. Thank you.
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I’m late to reply to this post, so my apologies for that. But keep on keeping on being awesome. 🙂
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Thank you Hamish. Never too late 🙂
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