David Therrien is a writer in the inspirational Christian genre who is looking to become professionally published.  He explains which methods have worked and which haven’t, as well as what indie authors should prepare for when they’re ready to market.

1. Tell me briefly about your books – what are they about and what motivated you to write them?

I see so many hurting people in my life and this world.  There is a lot to take their minds off of their problems (for a while) but not much to change the way they see their problems.  I like to write true stories based on biblical principles to give people a more encouraging and optimistic outlook on life.  All is not forsaken.  They can salvage their lives and live in hope.

2. How have your sales been?

The books I’ve been able to sell, a few hundred of each title, are from my own personal marketing.

3. You have not been traditionally published. Why?

I am in the process of looking for a professional editor so I can submit a few of my titles to a traditional publisher.  I believe I have a few titles that would hit the mark with quite a few people.

4. You’re relatively new to self-publishing.  How have you liked it so far?

I love writing.  I feel it is something I can offer to my fellow-man.  Everyone can make a contribution in some way and writing is my way. (I hope).

5. What sort of marketing techniques have you used to sell your books, and which ones have been most successful?

I have used Facebook, to no avail.  I have used the newspaper, to no avail.  I have used the radio, to no avail.  I believe it is my faithful following that just keep buying my books.

6. Are there any marketing techniques you intentionally avoided or discontinued, and if so, why?

I don’t think the recommended book tours would work for me.  I also won’t go through an indie publisher that charges a fee and just emails my titles to their mailing list.  I haven’t heard much positive feedback regarding that approach.

7. What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about self-publishing that you didn’t know when you started out?

I didn’t realize how hard it really was to put out a quality work.  Editing and re-editing 5,6,7 times and more can become pretty draining.  And at that point, there is still room for improvement.  I do feel that I am becoming a little more accomplished with each book.

8. If you could do one thing differently in publishing your books, what would it be?

I would like to have them professionally edited.  I believe they have a lot to offer, but a professional touch would make the content shine.

9. Independent authors face the obvious challenge of marketing their books without the resources of traditional publishers.  What advice do you have for an indie author just starting out?

Build a fan base with your friends.  I would also say be prepared to give a way a lot of books.  Get your name out there.  Give your books to influential people who are interested in your particular niche.

10. What projects are you currently working on?

I just finished my ninth book on the subject of recovery.  It is 12-step guide to overcoming compulsive behaviors.  It is titled, “Recovering Lost Ground, How to Regain The Ground You’ve Lost Through Compulsive Behaviors.”

11. If you could market your brand – not just one particular book, but your overall brand of writing – in one sentence, what would it be?

Books that inspire and give hope in your troubled times.

12. How can readers learn more about your books?

My website is inspiringbooks.org.

Everything I’ve written so far is there with a brief synopsis of each book.  They are easy reading and very affordable.