Dear Friends:
I don't know how I got here. Literally. My debut novel, The Charm Bracelet, launches one week from today, March 22. ONE WEEK!
Many of you have asked what you can do to help since the first week of a book’s publication is as important as opening week for a Broadway show, movie or having the lead at halftime. This is why I'm reaching out to you now.
I choose to write under my grandmother Viola Shipman’s name as a way to celebrate her and the bracelet that inspired The Charm Bracelet. Writing my first novel wasn’t easy, but Viola would be thrilled to know her stories have meant so much. This is why I am particularly hopeful that we can make The Charm Bracelet a big success in honor of her.
You’ve already done SO much to encourage me and I am humbled by all of your support, but here are some ideas that will make a difference:
1) Buy The Charm Bracelet. Today!
I know many of you are waiting to attend one of my events, but early sales are the most effective way to get buzz going about The Charm Bracelet. Here are links to places where you can find The Charm Bracelet in all formats:
2) Social media the heck out of it!
Word-of-mouth is still the main way people discover books. Talk about it on Facebook. Tweet it. Put a photo on Instagram of you reading the book while wearing your charm bracelet. Be sure to link to my web site (www.violashipman.com) so I can share in the fun. You can also include a link to buy the book as an extra boost.
3) Attend my events and invite friends!
This not only supports me and the book but also your local bookseller. Here is a link to all my events:
4) Review the book!
Readers who are not familiar with me, or my work, look to reviews from other readers to gauge whether they will buy a book or not. You can review The Charm Bracelet on Goodreads, Amazon and B&N.
5) Pick me for your book club!
I would love to visit or call and chat with your group. It’s one of my favorite things to do! Here is a link to a book club discussion guide and reading group questions, as well as how to contact me:
I would not be here without your ongoing support and friendship – in every way – and cannot thank you enough. Writers exist in isolation until their book is born, and then we celebrate with those we love.
I truly hope you're charmed (sorry, I couldn't resist) by The Charm Bracelet and look forward to hearing from you!
xo,
Wade Rouse