You've just finished your novel and the publisher has completed the printing and distribution. What now? How do you get the word out about your book? Will the publisher handle the promotion? Not likely. Not unless you're a John Grisham, Tom Clancy or Joan Didion. No worries though, The following tips will see you through on cheap, easy ways to promote your novel.

As if writing the novel wasn't enough, the hardest part of a novel comes after the writing is done. Most writers aren't the promoter type and thus, can be a real challenge to some. But, there are some great websites out there and other tips to help you along.

Tip #1

Write a Press Release. Send it to all your local newspapers, magazines, online media, bookstores and every other place that might have a need to know about your book. Most websites have a specific link on their site in which to submit press releases. Be sure to include all the important info such as who, what, when, why and where. One free site to submit your news is www.PRLeap.com.

Tip #2

Try calling your local bookstores to see if they will carry your book. Then ask about scheduling a book signing. You will need to follow up with the manager and if they agree, tell all your friends, family and acquaintances to show up at the signing. Call the newspapers! Get the word out that you are doing a signing.

Tip #3

Try advertising on http://www.authorpromotion.com/

Tip #4

Submit your news to http://www.publishersweekly.com/

Tip #5

Contact various book clubs and introduce yourself and book. Ask them if they would like to read your book for their next meeting. This can generate alot of interest if they like it as they will tell their friends and others about the book.

Tip #6

Get people to review the book. Have them post it on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.

Tip #7

Create business cards with the name of your book, sites where it can be purchased, positive reviews, and a small jpeg of the book cover.

Tip #8

Offer to speak to groups about your book. This could be a business group, book club, school, library etc. This will vary depending on the subject of your book.

Tip #9

BLOG about your book! Create a blog specifically for your book! Submit it to Blog search engines.

Tip #10

Try doing a virtual book tour! Seek out podcasts that will interview authors about their books. The more you can get your name out there, the better your sales will be.

One great podcast to check out is Yvonne Perry's podcast. You can check out her website here: http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com/

Tip #11

If you're not afraid of television appearances, call your local tv stations! More than likely they would love to cover a local author getting published! Be sure you have a copy of your book to show the audience and try having a give away to a viewer! Make it easy for the viewer to buy your book. Ask the station to advertise your blog or have them put a direct link on their website to the book! You'll be amazed how this will spur sales.