When a J6 family suffers, the entire movement feels the impact. And when one of our own stands up to share the truth of their story with courage and faith, we all benefit.
There was a time—let’s call it the Kindle Gold Rush—when simply uploading your book to Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform was enough to launch a successful writing career. Authors hit “publish,” watched the downloads roll in, and in some cases, walked away with bestseller badges and passive income dreams come true.
But that era has shifted. The self-publishing landscape is no longer the wide-open frontier it once was. And if your entire plan is just “self-publish on Amazon,” you might be setting yourself up for disappointment. Not because Amazon isn’t still a powerful platform (it absolutely is), but because the game has changed—and so have reader expectations, market saturation, and the definition of success.
Here’s why “just self-publish on Amazon” isn’t enough anymore—and what serious authors need to do instead.
There are millions of books on Amazon. Thousands more are added every single day. Once, the simple act of self-publishing gave you an edge. Now? You’re one voice in a very loud, very crowded room.
Readers are overwhelmed with choices. If your book doesn’t stand out with a professional cover, a sharp blurb, strong metadata, and a solid launch plan, it’s going to drown in a sea of titles. Amazon’s algorithm rewards visibility—but visibility is no longer guaranteed. It must be earned.
Gone are the days when readers would tolerate typos, clunky formatting, or amateur covers just because a book was $2.99. Today’s readers are savvy. They expect indie books to be indistinguishable from traditionally published ones in terms of quality.
If you’re not investing in professional editing, formatting, and cover design, you’re not just doing your book a disservice—you’re sending a signal to readers that it’s not worth their time. First impressions matter. And in a saturated marketplace, quality is your most powerful differentiator.
Yes, Amazon dominates digital book sales. But relying solely on one retailer—especially one that can change its rules, algorithms, or royalty rates without notice—is a risky strategy.
Wide distribution (Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, etc.) opens your work to new audiences and more global markets. Audiobooks, print books, direct sales from your website, subscription models—these are all part of a modern indie author’s ecosystem. Diversification isn’t optional anymore; it’s survival.
Amazon’s recommendation engine used to be the secret sauce. But in today’s environment, it’s less reliable and more competitive. If you’re not actively driving traffic to your book—through newsletters, social media, ads, or collaborations—you’re relying on an algorithm that now favors consistent performance, not one-hit wonders.
Amazon rewards momentum. That means planning launches, promotions, and steady content production. “Publish and pray” is not a strategy. You need to build your own audience and bring them with you—because Amazon won’t do it for you.
Publishing a single book on Amazon doesn’t build a career. It doesn’t establish your brand. In a crowded market, readers don’t just buy books—they buy authors. They want to connect with you, follow your journey, subscribe to your newsletter, and know what’s coming next.
Treating your writing like a business means thinking long-term: website, mailing list, branding, community, reader engagement. These aren’t just “extras.” They’re the infrastructure for a sustainable author career.
Marketing used to be the dreaded “other job” of the author world. But in 2025, marketing is part of the writing process. It’s how your work finds readers.
That doesn’t mean you have to do TikToks if you hate being on camera. But it does mean finding authentic, consistent ways to connect with your audience—through blogging, podcast interviews, social media, email marketing, or paid ads. You can outsource parts of it. You can take it slow. But you can’t ignore it.
More than ever, readers want to feel like they’re part of something. Whether it’s a cozy mystery series they can binge, an author newsletter that feels like catching up with a friend, or a Discord where they can chat about character theories, community is currency.
Amazon doesn’t give you community. That’s on you. The good news? Tools like Substack, Patreon, Ream, and even Kickstarter now let authors create reader-driven ecosystems. The most successful indie authors are the ones who aren’t just publishing—they’re building relationships.
If “just self-publish on Amazon” is the old mindset, what’s the new one?
Think beyond the upload. Think like a publisher. Think like a brand.
Here’s a modern roadmap:
Self-publishing is still powerful. Amazon is still an incredible tool. But neither of them are magic bullets anymore.
Today’s successful authors aren’t “just” self-publishing—they’re running author businesses, cultivating audiences, and producing professional-level work. It takes more effort, yes—but it also offers more reward, more control, and more creative freedom than ever before.
So if someone tells you to “just self-publish on Amazon,” smile and nod. Then go build something bigger.
Want help building that? I’ve got tips. Just say the word.
As an author, leveraging an existing press release creatively can significantly boost your visibility and engage a wider audience. Instead of letting your press release serve just a one-time purpose, repurpose and distribute it strategically across multiple channels. Here’s how you can maximize exposure using an existing press release.
Create Social Media Posts
Break down the key points from your press release into bite-sized social media posts. Share these across all your platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn). Use eye-catching graphics and relevant hashtags to increase reach.
Live Streams and Stories
Go live on social media to discuss the news from your press release. Use Instagram and Facebook stories for quick, engaging updates. This real-time interaction can draw attention and foster a closer connection with your audience.
Pin Posts
Pin the most important announcement from your press release to the top of your social media profiles. This ensures it stays visible to new visitors.
Dedicated Blog Post
Expand your press release into a detailed blog post. Provide additional insights, background stories, or personal anecdotes related to the news. This enriches the content and keeps your website updated.
Press Section
Create a press section on your website where you upload the full press release. Include high-quality images and any relevant media coverage. This serves as a resource for journalists and readers interested in your work.
SEO Optimization
Optimize the press release content on your website for search engines – use relevant keywords to improve your chances of appearing in search results related to your book and announcements.
Newsletter Feature
Feature the press release in your email newsletter. Add a personal note to your subscribers explaining why this news is exciting and how it impacts them. Include a call-to-action encouraging them to share the news.
Email Signature
Include a link to the press release in your email signature. Every email you send can help spread the word.
Video Announcements
Create a video announcement summarizing the press release. Share this video on YouTube, social media, and your website. Videos can capture attention more effectively than text alone.
Podcasts and Interviews
Discuss the news from your press release in any podcast appearances or interviews. This reinforces your announcement and reaches different audience segments.
Forums and Groups
Share the news in relevant online forums and groups, such as Goodreads, Reddit, or Facebook groups dedicated to reading and writing. Engage with the community by participating in discussions and answering questions.
Guest Posts
Write guest posts for other blogs or websites that cater to your target audience. Reference your press release and include a link to your website for more details.
Influencer Partnerships
Partner with influencers in your genre to share news. Provide them with the press release and any additional materials they might need. Influencers can reach a large, engaged audience and lend credibility to your announcement.
Reviews and Giveaways
Offer copies of your book to influencers for reviews or giveaways. This can generate buzz and attract more attention to your press release.
Local Newspapers and Magazines
Submit your press release to local newspapers and magazines. Personalize your pitch to highlight the relevance of your news to the local community.
Community Bulletins
Submit your press release to community bulletins, local library newsletters, and other local print media. These often have dedicated sections for local author news.
LinkedIn Articles
Publish an article on LinkedIn that expands on the press release. Highlight the professional aspects of your news, including your writing process, achievements, and future plans.
Industry Newsletters
Submit your press release to industry newsletters and publications. This can help you reach a more specialized audience interested in your genre.
Maximizing exposure as an author using an existing press release requires creativity and strategic thinking. By carefully utilizing your press release across multiple platforms, you can amplify your reach and make a lasting impact. Remember, the key is to keep your content engaging, consistent, and relevant to your audience. Happy promoting!
In the age of polished perfection and flawless narratives, there’s been a surprising shift in the way audiences connect with stories. For years, the pressure on writers and creators was to produce immaculate, meticulously crafted content. The ideal story was clean, crisp, and error-free—a model of literary precision. But today, it seems that imperfect stories—those that embrace rawness, vulnerability, and imperfection—are resonating more deeply than ever before.
So why is it that readers and viewers are finding so much appeal in stories that are, by traditional standards, unfinished, rough, or “imperfect”? The truth lies in a number of key cultural shifts, audience expectations, and changes in the way we consume and value content. Let’s explore why letting go of over-editing might be the key to creating authentic, impactful stories.
In a world where perfection often feels unattainable, and the pursuit of flawless social media posts has created a culture of curated lives, there is a growing desire for authenticity. Perfectly crafted stories, whether in books, films, or even social media posts, often give the impression that life is pristine, neat, and easily controlled. But most of us know that real life is much messier than that.
Imperfect stories—those that allow room for flaws, mistakes, and vulnerability—are providing something that feels more real, more human. When we read or watch something that feels “imperfect,” we’re given a glimpse into the creator’s process, their struggles, and their truths. We can see ourselves in their mistakes and triumphs. This rawness builds connection in a way that polished perfection simply can’t.
Relatability has always been a cornerstone of storytelling, but the definition of what’s relatable has evolved. We no longer want stories that tell us how everything is supposed to be; instead, we crave stories that reflect our complexities, challenges, and imperfections.
Think about the books, movies, or even blog posts that have stuck with you the most. Chances are, they were the ones that felt real—stories that included stumbles, awkward moments, or emotional missteps. Maybe the protagonist wasn’t always likable, or the plot wasn’t perfectly tied up in a neat bow at the end. But these elements created a narrative that felt more true to life. We connect with stories where characters make mistakes, face failure, and find strength in their imperfections.
The advent of digital media and social media platforms has made it easier than ever to consume content that’s been polished to perfection. Filters, edits, and adjustments create a surface-level ideal of life and art. But behind the seamless images and flawless narratives lies a deeper truth: the more we see perfection, the more we start to crave authenticity.
Audiences today are tired of seeing the “best version” of everything. The desire for realness has grown stronger, and as a result, imperfect stories have become a refreshing departure from the curated world we’re used to. Readers want to see the struggles behind the success, the messiness behind the achievements, and the vulnerability behind the victories.
It’s not just about embracing imperfections in stories—it’s about using them as creative tools to deepen a narrative. Imperfections, whether in structure, pacing, or character development, can add complexity and authenticity to a story. They can break the mold of conventional storytelling, allowing for more unique, unexpected journeys.
For example, stories that take risks with unconventional structures—fragmented timelines, incomplete arcs, or raw, unedited dialogues—can create a sense of urgency or emotional intimacy that would be impossible with a more traditional, polished approach. The lack of refinement invites the audience to participate in the creation of meaning, filling in the gaps with their own experiences.
In literature, we’ve seen a growing trend of authors embracing imperfect narratives. These aren’t the perfectly shaped, symmetrical plots of classic literature but instead stories that reflect the messiness of human life. Modern themes focus on characters who are flawed, confused, and emotionally complex, and have gained massive popularity because they don’t sugarcoat the realities of relationships and self-discovery.
The characters aren’t perfect, their decisions aren’t always wise, and their journeys are marked by uncertainty. This authenticity and imperfection make the stories deeply relatable and impactful. Readers see themselves in these characters, flaws and all, making it easier to form an emotional connection to the narrative.
The trend of imperfection isn’t limited to literature; it’s also evident in the film and television industries. Characters who are flawed, self-destructive, or mess up in almost every aspect of their lives somehow remain compelling because they reflect real human struggles.
In contrast, traditional film and TV often rely on hero arcs and polished, “perfect” characters. But the popularity of these “imperfect” shows suggests that audiences are drawn to the messiness of life, where victories are harder to come by, and redemption is not always guaranteed.
For authors and creators, there’s also something deeply liberating about embracing imperfection in your work. The pressure to create “perfect” content can stifle creativity, causing writers to second-guess every word or edit themselves into a corner. By letting go of the fear of imperfection, writers can embrace the spontaneity, unpredictability, and vulnerability that make their stories unique.
This doesn’t mean abandoning editing or abandoning the craft; rather, it means recognizing that sometimes, the rough drafts, the mistakes, and the unpolished elements can be the very things that make a story resonate deeply with readers. It’s about striking the right balance between refinement and rawness.
Allow Room for Mistakes: Don’t be afraid to let your characters stumble or to leave some questions unanswered. Imperfection can create tension and intrigue, drawing readers in and making them more invested in the outcome.
Trust the Process: Writing doesn’t have to be perfect the first time. Give yourself permission to make mistakes in the drafting process. Editing and refining can come later; the first draft should be about exploring ideas, not perfection.
Be Vulnerable: If a part of your story feels too personal or too raw, that’s often the part that will resonate most with readers. Vulnerability is a powerful tool that can create an emotional connection between the story and your audience.
Embrace Messy Narratives: Don’t worry if your story doesn’t follow a conventional structure or if the narrative is a little rough around the edges. Imperfect stories often have a unique energy and originality that perfectly polished ones may lack.
In a world increasingly defined by perfection, there’s a growing hunger for stories that reflect the beauty of imperfection. Whether in literature, film, or digital media, imperfect stories resonate because they feel real, raw, and deeply human. For creators, embracing imperfection is not just a trend—it’s a chance to forge deeper connections with audiences and to produce work that truly reflects the complexity of life. So, let go of the need for flawless writing, and let your stories unfold in their messy, beautiful, and imperfect glory. After all, it’s often in the imperfections that we find the most truth.
For most authors, marketing feels overwhelming — like a second full-time job. But the best book sales often don’t come from massive ad campaigns or endless social media posts. They come from something much simpler: building real connections in your everyday life. If you want to optimize your book sales without burning out, here’s how to naturally weave promotion into the daily moments you’re already living:
When people ask what you do, own it: “I’m an author.”
Not “I self-published this little book” — not “I’m trying to be a writer” — but proudly, confidently: “I’m an author.”
That small shift invites curiosity and opens the door to conversations without you ever needing to “sell.”
Quick tip: Have a short, exciting way to describe your book — a one-sentence hook that sparks interest and questions.
Example: “I write thrillers about hidden towns with deadly secrets.” or “I wrote a memoir about chasing my dreams across three continents.”
Why it matters: People don’t just want to buy books — they want to buy stories from people they feel connected to. When you proudly claim your role, you allow them to connect.
Your book is your business card — and like any professional, you need to be prepared.
Always have a few simple tools with you:
Extra idea: Create a digital business card on your phone, so you can instantly text a link to someone who’s interested.
Why it matters: Most people mean to check you out later — but life gets busy. The easier you make it for someone to act immediately, the more likely they will.
Every place you go, every person you meet, is a potential touchpoint for your book — but only if you approach it with heart, not a hard sell.
Ideas:
Real-life magic:
Why it matters: Marketing doesn’t have to be exhausting — it can happen in joyful, surprising ways when you’re open to everyday connections.
Selling books isn’t just about transactions — it’s about relationships. Readers want to feel valued, seen, and part of something special.
Simple ways to deepen loyalty:
Why it matters: Readers who feel a personal bond with you won’t just buy one book — they’ll buy everything you write. They’ll become your champions, recommending you to their friends, book clubs, and beyond.
You don’t have to dominate every platform or attend every event. Consistency in small, real ways is far more powerful than burning yourself out trying to “do it all.
In-person ideas:
Online ideas:
Why it matters: When you show up regularly — even in small ways — people remember you. And when they think “new book,” they’ll think of you first.
Optimizing your book sales doesn’t require turning into someone you’re not. It’s about being proudly visible, connecting authentically, and welcoming people into your story — little by little, every day.
Every handshake, every conversation, every small effort builds momentum. And that momentum — fueled by real human connection — is what leads to lasting success.
Stay visible. Stay human. Stay proud.
Your next biggest supporter might be waiting right around the corner.
Tiny efforts stack up. Keep stacking.
Your book is your business card — and like any professional, you need to be prepared.
Always have a few simple tools with you:
Extra idea: Create a digital business card on your phone, so you can instantly text a link to someone who’s interested.
Why it matters: Most people mean to check you out later — but life gets busy. The easier you make it for someone to act immediately, the more likely they will.
Every place you go, every person you meet, is a potential touchpoint for your book — but only if you approach it with heart, not a hard sell.
Ideas:
Real-life magic:
Why it matters: Marketing doesn’t have to be exhausting — it can happen in joyful, surprising ways when you’re open to everyday connections.
Selling books isn’t just about transactions — it’s about relationships. Readers want to feel valued, seen, and part of something special.
Simple ways to deepen loyalty:
Why it matters: Readers who feel a personal bond with you won’t just buy one book — they’ll buy everything you write. They’ll become your champions, recommending you to their friends, book clubs, and beyond.
You don’t have to dominate every platform or attend every event. Consistency in small, real ways is far more powerful than burning yourself out trying to “do it all.
In-person ideas:
Online ideas:
Why it matters: When you show up regularly — even in small ways — people remember you. And when they think “new book,” they’ll think of you first.
Optimizing your book sales doesn’t require turning into someone you’re not. It’s about being proudly visible, connecting authentically, and welcoming people into your story — little by little, every day.
Every handshake, every conversation, every small effort builds momentum. And that momentum — fueled by real human connection — is what leads to lasting success.
Stay visible. Stay human. Stay proud.
Your next biggest supporter might be waiting right around the corner.
Tiny efforts stack up. Keep stacking.
