Reading Time: 2 minutes
What is Kindle Unlimited for authors, and is it the right move for your publishing strategy? With so many writers buzzing about Amazon’s exclusive subscription platform, it’s easy to feel like you have to enroll to stay competitive. But Kindle Unlimited (KU) isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—and for authors, understanding the full picture is essential.
In this episode, we break down Kindle Unlimited for authors—what it really is, how it works behind the scenes, and the crucial details you need to know before committing to the program. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned indie publisher, knowing how KU affects visibility, earnings, and long-term growth is key to making the best choice for your book.
We’ll cover:
•What Kindle Unlimited is for authors, and how enrollment impacts your distribution
•How KU page reads translate into royalties—and why it’s different from traditional sales
•The pros and cons of exclusivity with Amazon, especially when it comes to selling wide
•How KU enrollment can influence your Amazon Ads strategy, rankings, and reader reach
•Whether Kindle Unlimited really helps drive more sales or just inflates visibility metrics
Kindle Unlimited for authors can be a powerful tool for the right kind of book—especially in genre fiction and serialized storytelling—but it can also limit your growth on other platforms. We’ll help you weigh the trade-offs, evaluate your goals, and determine whether KU aligns with your long-term publishing strategy.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “what is Kindle Unlimited for authors?”, or wondered whether joining is worth it, this episode delivers the clarity you need to make an informed decision.
Tune in for a smart, strategic look at Kindle Unlimited—so you can decide whether it’s a launchpad or a limitation for your author career.
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: http://www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
The post What is Kindle Unlimited for Authors? appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 2 minutes
In this episode of the Book Marketing Tips & Author Success podcast, Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell uncover the often-overlooked opportunity that could take your book sales and author platform to the next level: independent bookstores. If you’ve been wondering how to get into indie bookstores, this episode is your definitive guide.
Getting your book onto indie bookstore shelves is about more than just distribution—it’s about creating real connections and becoming a valued partner in a store’s literary ecosystem. Indie bookstores aren’t just retailers; they’re cultural hubs that offer authors visibility, credibility, and a direct line to passionate readers. And best of all? These connections can lead to long-term exposure, word-of-mouth sales, and even event opportunities.
Start Local and Social: Why following your neighborhood indie bookstore on social media, subscribing to their newsletter, and engaging with their events builds familiarity—and trust.
Events with a Twist: Learn how authors are getting involved in everything from book-themed wine tastings to store-hosted dinners and book clubs that open doors to organic promotion.
The Professional Pitch: What goes into a polished, compelling one sheet—and why it’s a must-have when introducing your book to bookstore staff or buyers.
Show Up, Drop In: Why visiting in person (with a review copy in hand) makes a memorable impression—and increases your odds of shelf space or event consideration.
Think Like a Partner, Not a Pitch: How to position yourself as an ally to the store’s mission, not just another author trying to make a sale.
Distribution Details Matter: Why your book must be available via Ingram, set up as returnable, and professionally packaged with a strong cover design.
Expand Your Definition of “Local”: Discover how to thoughtfully approach indie bookstores beyond your zip code, using connections, themes, or regional relevance to your advantage.
Penny and Amy go beyond the “how” to explore the “why” behind getting into indie bookstores. This isn’t about dropping off a book and disappearing—it’s about becoming a literary citizen: showing up, engaging with your local literary scene, and supporting booksellers as they support you.
If you’ve been asking how to get into indie bookstores, or if you’ve tried and haven’t had much luck, this episode will give you the clarity, tools, and mindset shift you need to succeed.
Tune in and learn how to create meaningful bookstore partnerships that elevate your author brand, grow your readership, and keep your book selling long after launch day.
Download our free Monthly Book Marketing Planner
Unlocking Amazon Success: Simple Optimization Tips to Boost Your Book’s Visibility
Amazon News: Author Central Changes and Search Result Trends
The Sneaky Ways Authors Sabotage Their Own Success
Publishing Scams, Hacks, and Red Flags: How to Protect Yourself
Year-End Author Checklist: 15 Things to Refresh, Revamp, and Revise Before the New Year
Goodreads Author Program Update: What You Need to Know
Amazon Delays: What to Do When Your Book Launch Hits a KDP Roadblock
6 Tips for Choosing the Right Book Marketing Services
Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!
Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.
Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity
The post How to Get Into Indie Bookstores: Build Relationships, Sell More Books, and Support Literary Communities appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Should I start my own publishing company? It’s a question more and more authors are asking as they navigate today’s complex publishing landscape. The idea of creating your own imprint has gained popularity in author communities—promising more credibility, easier bookstore access, and even a way to sidestep the stigma of being “just” self-published.
But should you start your own publishing company, or is it just another publishing myth dressed up as a shortcut to success?
In this episode, we pull back the curtain on what it really means to become your own publisher. We break down the pros and cons of starting your own publishing company, debunk common misconceptions, and explore who this strategy is best suited for—and who might want to avoid it.
You’ll learn:
•What it takes to legally and professionally start a publishing company
•How bookstores and distributors view author-run imprints
•Whether starting a publishing company truly boosts credibility and sales
•Hidden costs and time commitments you may not have considered
•Real-life examples of authors who benefited from this path—and those who didn’t
Whether you’re looking to build a full-scale publishing brand or simply want to enhance your professional image as an author, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the decision-making process. If you’ve been asking yourself, “should I start my own publishing company?”, this episode is a must-listen.
Tune in to get the clarity you need to decide if launching your own imprint is the right next step—or an unnecessary detour—in your publishing journey.
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: http://www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
The post Should I Start My Own Publishing Company? Myth vs. Reality appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Pricing your book isn’t just a numbers game—it’s a strategic move that can make or break your success, especially when you’re aiming for bestseller status. In this episode, we’re busting the biggest book pricing myths, like whether your eBook really needs to be $0.99 or free to gain traction. Spoiler: it’s not that simple.
We’ll dive deep into book pricing strategy fundamentals that go beyond guesswork. You’ll learn how to price your book to balance visibility, perceived value, and profitability—and how to adjust that strategy based on your publishing goals. Want to know the best pricing strategy to hit a bestseller list? We’ve got you covered. From launch-week discounts to long-term pricing models that build momentum, this episode outlines actionable tips used by top indie authors and publishers alike.
We’ll explore:
Whether you’re launching your first book or optimizing a backlist title, this episode is packed with data-driven insights and proven tactics to help you choose the best book pricing strategy for your goals. Tune in to learn how to price with confidence, maximize your reach, and set your book up for bestseller success!
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: http://www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
The post What’s the best pricing strategy to hit a bestseller list? appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 3 minutes
In this episode of the Book Marketing Tips & Author Success podcast, Penny and Amy dive into a topic that every author—whether debut or veteran—needs to master: Amazon optimization. With thousands of new books hitting Amazon every day, and the rise of AI-generated content adding to the competition, optimizing your Amazon retail page is no longer optional—it’s essential.
If you’re serious about getting your book discovered, you can’t rely on Amazon’s algorithm to do all the heavy lifting. Amazon optimization is your roadmap to making sure your book stands out and reaches the readers who are most likely to love it.
Just like Google, Amazon functions as a search engine. That means its algorithm scans and indexes content based on keyword relevance. If your book page isn’t properly optimized, it may never appear in front of the right audience—no matter how fantastic your book is.
While many authors are familiar with adding keywords and selecting categories in the backend of Amazon KDP, there’s a whole world of free, built-in optimization opportunities that often go untapped. Amazon offers several content areas where you can naturally incorporate keywords and boost your book’s visibility.
One of the most powerful Amazon optimization strategies is knowing where to place keywords outside the backend fields. This includes areas like:
• Your book description: This is prime real estate for long-tail keywords. Use them naturally in the first few lines and sprinkle them throughout without sounding forced.
• The “From the Author” section: Add context, insights, or behind-the-scenes information using keywords that align with your genre and themes.
• Your author bio: A great place to incorporate keywords related to your niche, especially if you write in a series or a specific genre.
Tips for Fiction Authors
Fiction authors often feel stumped when it comes to Amazon optimization, but Penny and Amy share clever tips that make it easier. For example:
• Include character names, settings, and subgenre-specific terms in the description and editorial reviews.
• Use Q&A-style content in the “From the Author” section to highlight character arcs or plot themes, which can help you integrate keywords more organically.
• Don’t shy away from using sections like “From the Back Cover” or “From the Inside Flap” to add engaging content while optimizing for SEO.
Another hidden gem? Reader reviews and testimonials. Including reader quotes in editorial review sections (if permitted) or summarizing common themes in reviews can reinforce keyword relevance and speak directly to reader interests.
One of the most overlooked aspects of Amazon optimization is consistency. Your Amazon page shouldn’t be a “set it and forget it” project. Revisit your content regularly—especially your description and keywords—to keep up with trends and changing reader behaviors.
Pro tip: Always read your optimized content out loud. It’s the easiest way to catch awkward phrasing, keyword stuffing, or sections that feel clunky. Good Amazon optimization should enhance your content, not compromise its readability.
By applying these simple but powerful Amazon optimization strategies, you’ll not only improve your visibility on the platform but also increase your chances of connecting with the right readers. Whether you’re launching a new title or refreshing an existing one, make Amazon work for you—because visibility leads to discovery, and discovery leads to sales.
And be sure to check out the full episode to dig into all these tips in more detail!
Download our free Monthly Book Marketing Planner
Our new author mentorship programs are here!
How to get your author website to rank on Google
How to get your book to show up on more Amazon searches
Author media kits, why you need one and what to include
How to resurrect a book that’s dead in the water
Affordable book marketing services and what to focus on to save money
How to compete for media attention
Getting permission to use quotes, blurbs and likenesses
Check out all the episodes of our book promotion podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts!
Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on the right-hand side of our blog homepage. If you haven’t opened a recent one your registration may have lapsed.
Follow us on Instagram for book marketing tips and some much-needed levity!
The post Unlocking Amazon Success: Simple Optimization Tips to Boost Your Book’s Visibility appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Amazon has quietly rolled out a significant update to Author Central—you can no longer include URLs in your author bio. While it might seem like a small tweak, this change has big implications for how authors connect with readers and drive traffic to their websites. In this episode, we unpack what this Author Central update means for your author platform and outline a simple, effective workaround to ensure your readers still find their way to your site.
We also explore the broader importance of keeping your Author Central profile and bio fresh and optimized. Your Author Central page is more than just a formality—it’s a crucial part of your visibility on Amazon, and now, more than ever, it’s essential to make every word count.
But that’s not all—we’re also diving into the latest shifts in Amazon search trends, especially as they impact genre fiction authors. If you write romance, thrillers, fantasy, or other popular fiction categories, you’ll want to hear what’s changing and how it could affect your discoverability. Are these adjustments a preview of even bigger algorithmic changes to come?
Tune in as we share expert insights, actionable strategies, and the tools you need to stay ahead of the curve and make the most of your Author Central presence. Whether you’re a debut novelist or a seasoned indie author, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: http://www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
The post Amazon News: Author Central Changes and Search Result Trends appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Success as an author isn’t just about writing a great book—it’s about making intentional, strategic choices that drive visibility, sales, and career growth. But what if the biggest thing standing between you and your goals… is you?
In this eye-opening episode, we shine a light on the subtle yet powerful ways authors often sabotage their own success—without even realizing it. From common marketing missteps and unrealistic expectations to limiting beliefs and mindset traps, we explore the hidden habits and thought patterns that can quietly derail your momentum.
Whether you’re a debut author trying to build your platform or a seasoned writer looking to level up, this conversation will help you identify what might be holding you back—and more importantly, how to move forward with clarity and confidence.
You’ll learn:
•The most common self-sabotaging behaviors authors fall into (and how to avoid them)
•How to shift your mindset to think like an author-entrepreneur
•Why treating your book like a business is essential for long-term success
•Practical, actionable strategies to get out of your own way and start making real progress
If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or like your hard work isn’t translating into results, this episode is for you. Don’t let self-sabotage steal your spotlight—tune in now and take back the reins of your author journey!
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: http://www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
The post The Sneaky Ways Authors Sabotage Their Own Success appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 3 minutes
When self-publishing a book, pricing is one of the most critical decisions an author makes. Set the price too high, and you risk scaring off potential readers. Set it too low, and you may attract the wrong audience, struggle with profitability, or even devalue your work.
In this guide, we’ll explore smart pricing strategies for self-published authors, helping you strike the perfect balance between affordability and perceived value. Whether you’re launching your first book or managing a backlist, these insights will empower you to make informed pricing decisions.
When self-publishing a book, think of pricing as part of the reader’s experience. Just as Starbucks convinced us that a $5 coffee is more than just coffee, your book’s price should reflect the unique experience or value it offers. If your book delivers specialized knowledge or an immersive story, pricing it accordingly makes sense.
Some authors overprice their books without considering market standards or their own brand positioning. If your cover, description, or overall package doesn’t match reader expectations, a high price can deter potential buyers. Research comparable books in your genre to ensure your price aligns with market trends.
While self-publishing a book, you may be tempted to price it at 99 cents or even offer it for free. While this was once a strong strategy, it now primarily attracts bargain hunters who rarely become loyal readers. If your goal is to build a sustainable author career, pricing your book too low may not be the best long-term strategy.
If your book is enrolled in Kindle Unlimited (KU), your pricing strategy matters even more. KU readers can only borrow 10 books at a time, so a heavily discounted book might not seem “worth” taking up a slot. A slightly higher price can signal better value and encourage more downloads from serious readers.
For authors self-publishing a book series, tiered pricing is an effective strategy. Pricing older titles lower can attract new readers while keeping newer or more advanced books at a premium. This strategy works well for both fiction and nonfiction, easing readers into your brand and leading them toward higher-value purchases.
When self-publishing a book, small pricing adjustments can influence buyer behavior. Instead of the standard “.99” pricing, consider using “.95” or “.97” price points. These subtle changes can make a book feel more premium or competitively priced.
Book pricing isn’t set in stone. If a price isn’t working, adjust it—but do so strategically. Small increases of $1 or $2 rarely deter readers, but big jumps (e.g., from $5 to $15) can lead to significant drop-off. Regularly reviewing your pricing strategy ensures your book remains competitive in the market.
Smart pricing is a blend of market research, reader psychology, and business strategy. When self-publishing a book, setting the right price can mean the difference between struggling for sales and building a profitable author career. By understanding your audience, analyzing market trends, and testing different price points, you can maximize both sales and reader engagement.
Want to dive deeper into this strategy and more?
Find the full episode on Book Marketing Tips and Author Success for more insights!
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
The post Pricing Strategies to Sell More Books Without Undervaluing Your Work appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Be honest, have you ever asked yourself one of these questions:
Every author faces that moment of doubt—when book sales stall, marketing feels like a dead end, and you start wondering if it’s time to walk away.
But before you throw in the towel, let’s take a closer look at what’s really holding your book back.
In this episode, we tackle the biggest challenges that can make or break a book’s success—and, more importantly, how to overcome them. Whether it’s a marketing misstep, a visibility issue, or simply the need for a fresh approach, we’ll help you pinpoint what’s not working and what can work.
Quitting isn’t always the answer. Sometimes, a few strategic changes can breathe new life into your book’s journey. Tune in for actionable insights, real talk on what it takes to turn things around, and a much-needed dose of encouragement. Your book’s story isn’t over yet.
Join Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell for insightful, engaging conversations filled with smart book marketing strategies, actionable tips, and invaluable publishing industry expertise! In today’s crowded book market, knowledge is your greatest asset. Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a traditional publisher, staying informed about the evolving landscape of publishing and marketing is crucial for long-term success.
The Book Marketing Tips and Author Success Podcast is designed for authors who are ready to level up their careers. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “My book isn’t selling—what am I doing wrong?”, you’re not alone—and this podcast is here to help. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your reach, Penny and Amy equip you with the tools, strategies, and insider knowledge to sell more books, grow your platform, and make savvy publishing decisions. They break down complex topics, like book marketing costs, into practical, easy-to-apply advice—giving you the confidence to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.
Subscribe now and commit to your author education—because success in publishing isn’t just about writing a great book; it’s about knowing how to market it effectively!
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: http://www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
The post My book isn’t selling—should I just give up? appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .
Reading Time: 2 minutes
You’ve poured your heart, time, and creativity into your book—now what? Investing in book marketing and publicity isn’t just about spending money; it’s about giving your book the best possible chance to reach readers. But why does book marketing seem so expensive? Are budget-friendly, one-off services really worth it, or do they just drain your resources without delivering results?
In this episode, we break down book marketing costs—what you’re actually paying for, why some strategies work while others fall flat, and whether a bigger budget always translates to bigger success. Most importantly, we’ll help you understand the difference between a strong, experienced team that drives real book sales and services that just look good on paper.
If you’ve ever debated how much to invest in marketing—or wondered what truly moves the needle—this episode is a must-listen!
Join Penny Sansevieri and Amy Cornell for insightful, engaging conversations filled with smart book marketing strategies, actionable tips, and invaluable publishing industry expertise! In today’s crowded book market, knowledge is your greatest asset. Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a traditional publisher, staying informed about the evolving landscape of publishing and marketing is crucial for long-term success.
The Book Marketing Tips and Author Success Podcast is designed for authors who are ready to level up their careers. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your reach, this podcast equips you with the tools, strategies, and insider knowledge to sell more books, grow your platform, and make savvy publishing decisions. Penny and Amy break down complex topics, like book marketing costs, into practical, easy-to-apply advice—giving you the confidence to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.
Subscribe now and commit to your author education—because success in publishing isn’t just about writing a great book; it’s about knowing how to market it effectively!
Check out our new mentorship program that will definitely change your life:
https://amarketingexpert.com/author-mentorship/
Help promote the podcast and earn free swag:
If you’re willing to put our podcast player widget on your website we’d love to send you free book swag, and you can earn a free coaching session!
Email us at info@amarketingexpert.com for more information.
Buy Penny’s new book, The Amazon Author Formula
FREE BONUS
Leave a review and we’ll give you our Book Launch Checklist! Just include your reviewer name or a screenshot of your review in the email. Can’t leave one on your podcast platform? Just email us your review and we’ll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert.com.
Check out our podcast page and learn more about the team: http://www.amarketingexpert.com/author-podcast
The post Book Marketing Costs: Investment or Waste of Money? appeared first on Author Marketing Experts, Inc. .