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Tuesday, May 4, 2010

What Makes a Bestseller?

by Rebecca Talley

What makes a bestseller? Is it ingenious marketing? A riveting story? Who you know?

I've been pondering this question. I think it's two-fold. First, and foremost, we must have a strong story, one that's worth reading. We can, and should, continuously hone our craft by attending conferences, taking classes, reading how-to books, and reading other novels. Each subsequent book we write should be better than the last and we should strive to always improve our writing. But, is that enough?

Even if we write a stellar book, who will read it if no one knows about it? Along with writing that amazing book, we also need promotion and marketing. We need to get the word out and let the world know we have this spectacular book. We can do this through blog tours, interviews, signings, emails lists, contests, websites, etc.

But, what about when we do all this and we still don't have a bestseller? Is there a "secret?"

What do you think?

4 comments:

Cindy Beck, author said...

I think the quality of the writing is important, but even more than that is if the plot is unique. Stephanie Meyers' stories would just be a bunch of vampire stories ... except for the fact that they're sparkly vegetarians!

And of course, great marketing is always a help, too.

Just my thoughts ... but what do I know? I think Lyle or Sheralyn from Cedar Fort could give some good answers.

Swimmer said...

The secret is everything you said and a large amount of luck!

In my opinion you really need a lot of good things to happen to you to get a best seller!

Unknown said...

I agree with you both. Seems like it's a whimsical thing to me. Catching the market at just the right time with something everyone wants, even though they may not know they want it until it's out there.

Rebecca Talley said...

Thanks for your comments. It's an interesting thing to ponder.