Sarah Sundin
Greetings from Sarah Sundin in California! Today I have the joy of interviewing multi-published author Diana Brandmeyer, who has been published in nonfiction, contemporary fiction, historical fiction, and children’s books! How’s that for multi-dimensional? Better than that, Diana blesses us all with her delightful humor and generous heart.
Diana, how many books do you have published?
Seven—I think.
What are a few of your latest titles?
Diana Brandmeyer
The Festive Bride
Mind of Her Own
You were last featured on the CAN blog in 2010. What are the chief lessons you’ve learned about the writing life since then?
That life will interrupt your best intentions of writing every day even if you make word count a priority.
What are the chief lessons you’ve learned about promotion since then?
It’s never ending. Always have a bookmark or business card with you. Be ready to give that elevator speech to real people who ask what you’ve written. *Editors and agents are real. I know that, don’t send me an email.
The Festive Bride by Diana Brandmeyer
It’s always nice to put in disclaimers. What are the most effective means of book promotion you’ve tried?
I’m still trying to find a formula that is effective.
What are the least effective promotional activities you’ve tried?
Giving away my book to people who aren’t readers, just friends. That sounds harsh, but ask before you give them away.
What’s your favorite way to connect with your readers?
My blog.
What’s the craziest promotional gimmick you tried?
I had t-shirts made for We’re Not Blended We’re Pureed, a Survivors Guide—and thinking my husband would wear it!
I can imagine the look my husband would give me if I did that! What’s the funniest thing that happened during a promotional activity?
It was a book signing and my first time using my phone to take charge cards. I sold a book using it and about twenty minutes later when my husband called to congratulate me on selling so many books. I was confused as I’d only sold one. He had a phone alert about a $1,500 being deposited. Turns out I put in to many zeros. Thankfully, I had sold that book to a friend and we were able to fix that little problem.
Oh my goodness! That could have been a disaster. Did you see God open any doors you never expected in the promotion of your books?
Not so much doors, but me. I’ve found God placing me in positions where I have to be willing to climb out of my introvert box and speak to people when I’d rather not. And shockingly I enjoy it!
What are your top tips for new authors promoting their first book?
Remember why you started writing—to write. Don’t let social media take over your life. Be kind to other writers and share what you know.
Wise advice, Diana!
To learn more about Diana and her books, please visit Diana’s website or Diana’s blog.
Writing for Him,
Sarah Sundin