41 Ways to Promote Your Book (That Actually Work)

You wrote the book—hooray!

Now comes the part your publisher may or may not have warned you about: actually getting people to buy it.

Book promotion can feel like shouting into the void… unless you have a plan. This isn’t about posting “buy my book!” on social media until your friends mute you. This is about creative, effective ways to build buzz, attract readers, and turn interest into sales.

So let’s dive into 41 smart ways to promote your book—whether you’re self-published, traditionally published, or riding the ebook wave.

7 Book Marketing Funnels Every Author Needs

Let’s start with the foundation: the places you’re sending readers to actually learn about—and buy—your book. These landing pages (also called “funnels” by the marketing folks) work behind the scenes to make your book discoverable and desirable. Check out an in-depth resource here on the Pagewheel blog on each of these and how to easily create them:

1. Digital Product Bonus Page – Give buyers an irresistible extra (like a workbook or printable) when they order your book. Perfect for nonfiction and how-to genres.
2. Book Feature Page – A clean, distraction-free web page that gives all the juicy details about your book, endorsements, buying options, and a clear call to action.
3. Book Launch Waitlist Page – Build excitement before release day by collecting emails from eager readers who want first dibs.
4. Pre-Order Sales Page – Offer pre-order incentives, countdowns, and easy access to retailers—especially important if you’re aiming for an Amazon category ranking.
5. Author Feature Page – Showcase you as a brand. Include your bio, media kit, speaking topics, and links to all your work.
6. Book Signing Event Page – Promote in-person or virtual events with RSVP options and bonus goodies for attendees.
7. VIP Reader Community Page – Create an invite-only reader group for your most loyal fans. Think ARC reviewers, street teams, or early access members.

Pssst…want the funnels? Our 275,000 books sold is PROOF there really IS a method to the madness of seriously selling books, and we want to share our secrets with you.

34 More Ways to Promote Your Book (Beyond “Post It on Facebook”)

Online Promotion & Visibility

8. Pitch yourself to podcasts in your niche – Look for podcast hosts who speak to your ideal reader and send them a short, personalized pitch explaining why you’d be a great guest.
9. Write guest blog posts related to your book topic – Reach new audiences by contributing to blogs that align with your book’s message or genre.
10. Run a Goodreads giveaway – Great for boosting visibility and gaining early reviews, especially for new or lesser-known authors.
11. Create a book trailer – A short video that sets the mood of your book can help you stand out on social media and your website.
12. Use Pinterest pins that drive to your book page – Pinterest works like a search engine. Design eye-catching pins linked to your sales page or blog content about your book.
13. Optimize your Amazon author bio and book description – Use keywords, formatting, and persuasive copy to convert browsers into buyers.
14. Offer your book free for a limited time to boost reviews – Temporarily free books can increase downloads, reviews, and future full-price sales.
15. Submit to email promo sites like BookBub or Freebooksy – These sites send your book to thousands of potential readers looking for a deal.
16. Create shareable quote graphics from your book – Pull powerful or funny quotes and turn them into visuals people want to repost.
17. Make a “start here” page on your website for new readers – Help people quickly learn about you and your books with a guided intro.
18. Run targeted Facebook or Instagram ads – A small ad budget with the right targeting can grow awareness and sales.
19. List your book on niche-specific forums or groups – Find where your ideal readers hang out online and offer value before promoting.
20. Start a podcast (or mini series) tied to your book theme – Share behind-the-scenes content, related stories, or interviews.

If you are looking for WHAT to post online for visibility, then check out the 70+ ai-customized for your next book idea/launch templates filled with literally 1000s of social posts, email copy and more. Pagewheel uses ai to assist YOU and free you up to do what you love to do…write.

In-Person and Local Buzz

21. Partner with local bookstores or coffee shops for displays – Get your book on local shelves or featured in a cozy reading nook.
22. Host a book signing or themed launch party – Celebrate with your readers! Add fun touches like giveaways, readings, or themed snacks.
23. Offer to speak at libraries or schools – Educational or inspiring books are perfect for workshops or guest readings.
24. Leave your promo materials at local businesses – Create bookmarks, flyers, or postcards with a QR code and ask friendly shops to display them.
25. Get interviewed by local media – Pitch your story to hometown newspapers, magazines, or morning TV shows.
26. Sell/sign books at fairs, expos, or local author events – Set up a table, smile big, and bring candy. Readers love meeting authors in person.

One of the book-related pages already built into Pagewheel for you to customize quickly is an event page that collects your RSVPs, allows you to give them a freebie (if you want), assembles their contact details and even sends them a reminder email.

Email & Community Building

27. Create an automated email welcome sequence for readers – Introduce yourself, offer a freebie, and share what’s next.
28. Offer a free chapter in exchange for an email address – Tease them just enough to get them hooked (and subscribed).
29. Share behind-the-scenes writing content – Readers love peeking behind the curtain. Show your drafts, notes, or workspace.
30. Include your book in your email signature – Make every email you send a mini promo tool.
31. Collaborate with other authors for cross-promotion – Team up to share each other’s work and widen your audience.
32. Send a launch-week countdown to your list – Build anticipation and remind people to buy without sounding spammy.
33. Offer book club guides and discussion questions – Perfect for fiction and memoirs. Make it easy for clubs to say yes.
34. Ask for reader feedback and reviews – A simple ask via email or social media can dramatically increase your review count.
35. Build a Facebook group or private community around your book – Keep the conversation going post-launch with a dedicated space.

If you have ever wondered “what the heck should I email to my list of readers?” Then check out the 20+ prepped email templates drafted by ai so that you aren’t staring at a blank screen. Add a little YOU and push SEND.

Creative & Evergreen Marketing

36. Turn your book into a free webinar or challenge – Great for nonfiction authors wanting to teach or coach.
37. Use TikTok or Reels to share relatable content – Share funny moments, writing tips, or aesthetic visuals tied to your book.
38. Design limited-edition swag or merch – Think stickers, bookmarks, mugs, or T-shirts. Give them away or sell them.
39. Enter book award contests – Awards lend credibility and give you another reason to promote.
40. Repurpose your book content into blog posts or downloads – Slice up your content to serve readers in new ways.
41. Create an annual event around your book’s topic – Turn your theme into a tradition. Think “mindset week,” “fantasy book fest,” or “tiny habits challenge.”

Repurposing is our love language. Don’t REWRITE the wheel, simply use Pagewheel’s low-tech system for high-touch results.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Do It All

Is this list long? Yep. Are you supposed to do all 41 things this week? Absolutely not. Pick a few ideas that excite you and start there. Consistency beats overwhelm every time. If you feel a little overwhelmed, check out Pagewheel’s tools, community and even weekly trainings/Q&As.

Remember: Your book deserves more than a quiet launch.
You don’t have to be a marketing expert—you just need a plan. And now? You’ve got 41 of them.