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Having an active blog is a great way to keep engaged with readers and potential readers, but it can be a huge pain to have to work out what you’re going to post about. So, I’ve analysed a range of the most active author blogs and come up with a list of the post types they use. Here’s the top 25(ish)
Promotions
Every promotion needs its own blog post
Retrospectives
eg “I published today, can’t believe that’s my xth novel. When I first started writing fiction .. ….”
Behind the scenes stories of your life as an author
This isn’t about telling authors about how to write, it’s giving your readers a peak behind the curtain of how you go about your craft
Cover reveals
You’ve got it, flaunt it!
Calendar occasions – Christmas, New Year, etc
The print-on-demand version of your book would make a wonderful Christmas present, after all.
Publication news – gone to editor, uploaded to Amazon, paperback ready
Build a momentum and a sense of anticipation
Excerpts
When you write something you love, create
Blurb written
A blog post is a great place to publicise your blurb – if it’s good, it’ll increase anticipation
Release schedule
Again, some of your readers will be eagerly awaiting your next book. Tell them when they can expect it.
Giveaways
Everyone likes a freebie!
Ask the Author compilations
If you’ve interacted with your readers, compile their questions here
Press reviews
If you’ve managed to get any
Amazon reviews
Summarise the best.
Sales milestones
If you’re feeling brave
Audio books release
Audible is a growing medium with the rise of Amazon Echo
Personal appearances – pictures of the signing
Just make sure you have permission if anyone other than you is identifiable in the photo
Flash fiction
Can you write a 100 word story set in your world?
What you’re reading
Introduce your readers to other authors
What you recommend your readers should read
Ditto
What you’re watching at the cinema/on tv
Within reason
Recaps of one book when the next book in the series is due to be released
This is a brilliant way to remind readers of where they’re up to
Book trailers
When they’re released, put them into a blog article as well as YouTube and Facebook
Book festival schedules and appearances
More live appearances
Box set news
Readers love box sets!
Cross-promoting another author
A great way to grow your list