My novel was published by a boutique publisher. I am happy to be published by them and have been pleased with my early sales, which have unfortunately tapered off. They offer editing, cover design, and publishing (both electronic and print), but no marketing. There is an author loop with authors who are supportive of each other, they blog, some write reviews, and do author interviews. They use twitter and FB to post info, enter contests, attend festivals and conventions. I love the comradery. The problems is, we're all in the choir. Who's the audience? That's who we have to reach.
I participated in a promo tour with some decent results, five reviews and tons of social media posts. But, it didn't last. So, now I'm trying to come up with new ideas. I've ordered postcards to send to local high school media specialists. Just started that, so the verdict is still out. But, I'm also wondering...is it unethical for us to reach out to each other to write honest reviews?
Just signed on with another promo with another Book Tour site, a blitz and review request.
Cost so far? $50.00 first tour $53.00 for 150 postcards $20.34 post card stamps $75.00 Blitz and Review Request tour
So, I'm curious to know if anyone else has come up with something innovative, and on the affordable end. (BTW, I can't afford the earlier suggestion to purchase 200 copies of my novel to send out as a promo hoping word spreads.) But, I'm very much into networking.
You might want to check out StoryCartel. Haven't used it myself, but they have tons of affordable options! Also, I really love the idea behind BookRazor! They're Amazon review safe and are somewhat decently priced!