With the 1st Month Anniversary of my book launch upon us, I thought I'd throw out some numbers from the last 30 days. As an indie author, I know I've always been curious to see how others are doing, even before I was published. Now, I'm equally curious (and sometimes jealous) to see where others stand.
Let me tell you, it's been an emotional 30 days. There is nothing quite like putting your heart and soul (ie, book) out into the public eye. So far, Multiples has received great reviews (AMZ: 3 US, 1 UK [all 5 stars]; B&N: 1 [4 stars]) and many inquiries into the whereabouts of book 2 (Divisible by Six, which is set to launch by mid-January at the latest). Because it's so easy to track sales, I must admit I've become a bit obsessed. I'm trying to ween myself down from checking every hour, but it's so darned easy! Curse you Amazon! However, despite some authors' totals I've seen in the past, I have not been so obsessive to write down a daily tally.
Here are my totals as of 8/17 at 7:30 AM:
Amazon US: 27
Amazon UK: 1
Amazon DE: 0
Amazon Paperback: 1
B&N: 8
Smashwords: 3 paid, 39 free
Grand total: 40 paid, 39 free.
The freebies through Smashwords were part of a giveaway done through LibraryThing.com in an attempt to garner reviews. I made 50 ebook copies available and had ~75 people sign up. I had a review appear on LibraryThing today due to the giveaway and though it's 5 stars, I'm not sure I trust the source. It's certainly not one I'd wish to see on Amazon (it's vague and full of typos). But, exposure is exposure, right? ;)
So, what does this all mean? Not much, really. I know the majority of the folks who have purchased my book, as I'm sure happens with most first-time authors. But, I've been really surprised by the response I've had from folks I don't know personally. I must be doing something right 'cause folks seem to be entertained by my writing. And that's all I've ever really hoped for.
Now, I've got to put this launch behind me and focus on book 2. Folks seem much more keen to purchase a book that already has a sequel out than otherwise. A lot less waiting.
If you haven't already, be sure to check out my autographed paperback copy giveaway on GoodReads.com!
Thanks for the post Andy. I am sure many authors are interested in your experiences. Checking book sales, who does that? ;) Um get up, check sales. eat, check sales...
ReplyDeleteHey, congrats on a good first month. Nothing to complain about there!
ReplyDeleteMichael Kingswood
Nothing to be ashamed about, there. You've sold in one month twice what I've sold in a year...
ReplyDeleteHi Andy, followed you over from the Kindle Boards. Good luck! Sounds like you're off to a good start.
ReplyDeleteHolly Grant
That's a very good first month, Andy. Congrats to you!
ReplyDeleteNew reader here, and I just wanted to say congrats on a great first month. You must be thrilled. Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteThat's a great start. You seem to be making all the right moves. You have started in the height of summer which is known to be poor for sales.
ReplyDeleteThings can only get better from here.
Nothing wrong with that first month, Andy. Always remember it's a journey, not a destination. Those numbers will rise.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a great month to me. I am about to hit my second full month published and your numbers are better than mine. I finally hit 50 books sold and 28 of those were paperbacks at events and signings.
ReplyDeleteYou have a great cover and I'm sure when the second book comes out, things will really take off for you.
Yes, I have to agree with your last point. I want to know if there's a follow up book that it's at least somewhere on the horizon. Wishing you success with your novel.
ReplyDeleteI popped over from the Campaign.
Thanks for sharing the numbers - very helpful! I'm a new follower and fellow campaigner. Nice to meet you.
ReplyDelete