The Three Biggest Mistakes Authors Make When Promoting Their Own Books

You poured your heart into your book. You survived edits, deadlines, and the emotional rollercoaster of publication. Then comes the big question: Now what? At Plot Twist Media, we’ve seen it all — the brilliant books that never found their audience, the overwhelmed authors trying to do it all themselves, and the game-changing results that happen when there’s a real plan in place. So let’s talk about the three biggest mistakes authors make when promoting their own books… and how to fix them.

1. Waiting Until Launch to Start Promoting. Here’s the plot twist: marketing doesn’t start when your book hits shelves, it starts the moment your story has a title. Too many authors wait until the final countdown to begin outreach. But readers (and the media) need time to get curious. Building anticipation through early brand-building, social storytelling, and pre-launch visibility can make all the difference.

   💡 Pro tip: Treat your book like a movie premiere. Start teasing it months in advance, introduce yourself as an author with something to say, and let your audience grow alongside your project.

   👉 This is exactly where Plot Twist Media steps in. We help you design a long-game strategy that makes launch day feel like a celebration, not a scramble.

2. Relying Only on Social Media. Yes, TikTok can move books. But no, it’s not a strategy on its own. Social platforms are powerful amplifiers, but they shouldn’t be your only microphone. The most successful authors layer in thoughtful PR, email marketing, events, partnerships, and media outreach to create a full 360° visibility plan.

   💡 Pro tip: Instead of chasing trends, think about your story’s themes, then connect with communities, publications, and podcasts where those themes resonate. That’s how you build authentic buzz that lasts beyond a viral post.

   👉 Plot Twist Media helps authors connect the dots between online engagement and real-world opportunities so your efforts actually translate into sales, readers, and reputation.

3. Forgetting to Market Themselves. Authors often think they’re just promoting their book but readers want a relationship with you. Your personal story, expertise, humor, and perspective are what make people invest emotionally. When you show up as a brand, not just a byline, you create a loyal community that follows you from one project to the next.

   💡 Pro tip: Share the “why” behind your work. Talk about what inspired you to write, what themes matter most to you, and what kind of conversations you hope your book sparks.

   👉 Plot Twist Media helps authors develop their voice, refine their message, and show up confidently as both writer and brand. Because when readers connect with you, they’ll always come back for the next chapter.

The Final Twist

Promoting a book doesn’t have to feel like shouting into the void. With the right story-driven strategy — and the right team — your book can find the audience it deserves. Plot Twist Media partners with authors to turn visibility into momentum, blending creative marketing, publicity, and brand strategy that’s as unique as your voice.

Ready to write your next chapter? Let’s talk!