L. Salt has used social media to build her audience.  Learn why she prefers a small traditional publisher over self-publishing.

1. Tell me briefly about your latest book – what is it about and what motivated you to write it?

My latest book is Legacy of the Iron Eagle. It’s a thriller/mystery novella with some elements of history and suspense. The main character, Philip Rutkowski, son of a Polish immigrant, “enjoys” all the benefits of big city life: a boring, routine office job; the everyday long commute; a massive mortgage; and rare nights out with a few friends. Everything changes for Philip when his colleague and best friend, David Zilberschlag, gives him a vintage mirror to help decorate his new apartment. The mirror belonged to David’s deceased granddad, a Holocaust survivor, who believed that the mirror hides dark secrets from the past. When Philip continues to see visions of a German SS officer in the mirror who tries to talk to him, he decides to look for answers.

I love World War II history. This dramatic period still leaves more questions than answers for historians and researchers, and continues to tease the imaginations of authors and writers with its theories and conspiracies. This is my second novella dedicated to this subject.

2. How have your sales been?

I think it’s a bit too early to talk about great sales. Both of my solo works were published less than a year ago, so I believe I need more time to build an audience of loyal readers and followers.

3. You’ve gone with a small traditional publisher. What made you choose this over self-publishing?

For such an inexperienced author like me, it was a better option. My publishers do all the hard work such as editing, proofreading, formatting, promotion, graphics/trailers, etc. I feel more comfortable working with the professionals who are always ready to give advice, share experience, and provide guidance. That way I can focus on more creative things like writing itself.

4. What sort of networking have you done as an author, and what have been the results?

I try to build my audience on Facebook by attracting more followers to my page, and expanding my Facebook group. I also try to meet new bloggers who are ready to advertise my books on their pages and blogs. I have my own blog, although I don’t blog very often. I’ve created a page on Pinterest recently. I’ve spent a few years attending book club meetings in my city. It has helped me to build confidence and find beta readers for my works.

5. Tell me about the marketing techniques you’ve used to sell your books. Which ones have been most successful?

I use primarily Facebook groups and other bloggers’ pages and blogs to advertise my new and upcoming releases, information about sales, etc. My publishers push really hard to get my works out there using their own channels as well.

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

I just try not to overpost in the Facebook groups and read the rules before posting. Aggressive sales and ads irritate people and don’t bring any sales.

7. What are the most important things you’ve learned about publishing that you didn’t know when you started out?

The hardest (and probably the most important) thing about publishing is not to get your book to a publisher or agent, but to promote and sell it to the public.

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

I wouldn’t change anything. I consider myself a very lucky writer, working with such amazing publishers like Crazy Ink Publication and Wild Dreams Publishing.

9. New authors face the obvious challenge of marketing their books, whether they go the indie or traditional publishing route. What advice do you have for an author just starting out?

First of all, start to promote yourself and your books long before the release day. Don’t rush with editing and formatting! Check and double check everything several times. You don’t want to be upset by finding a typo in your book’s blurb, do you? Network as much as you can. Don’t miss an opportunity for a Facebook group takeover, author’s spotlight, or an interview.

10. What other projects are you currently working on?

My second novella, Legacy of the Iron Eagle, will be released in February 2019 by Crazy Ink Publication. It’s ready for pre-order on Amazon now. My second novel (a sequel to The Ways We Follow) will be published in March 2019 by Wild Dreams Publishing. I’ve just finished a speculative history short story for the anthology with a release date in April 2019. I’ve started to work on my third thriller/action novella, featuring facts and theories from World War II.

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?

L. Salt is a multi-genre author whose books will take you on new, intellectual adventures.

12. How can readers learn more about your books?

They can follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, Amazon, and Goodreads. They can also subscribe to my blog. Here are the links:

Facebook page
Facebook group
Pinterest page
Blog
Amazon author’s page
Goodreads page
E-mail me: saltandnovels (at) gmail (dot) com