Greetings from Sarah Sundin in California! With Valentine’s Day coming up, it’s fun to focus on authors who write about romance. Tanya Stowe’s sweet inspirational romances are a hit with her readers, and I know we’ll all enjoy getting to know her better!

Tanya, how did you get into writing?

I finished my first book at age 11.

How many books do you have published? What are a few of your latest titles?

I have seven published and two more contracted. Amazingly, I had three come out in December, two I coauthored with Delia Latham called A Cowboy Christmas and Lea’s Gift and the third, a second in the Tender Series called Tender Trust.

How did you get your first book contract?

A publisher had an author drop out of their lineup and needed someone to fill the slot quickly. A friend recommended he take a look at my book and in a few short months, I was published.

What has helped you promote your books the most?

Connecting with the readers.

What mistakes or wrong assumptions did you make with the marketing of your first book?

I don’t think I made many mistakes. First off, I’m a member of RWA and they do a very good job of teaching their members how to promote. Second, I’m kind of the opinion that there’s no such thing as mistakes, just “learning adventures.”

How has your marketing changed since your first book was published?

Well, the Internet was in its beginnings when my first book was published, so most of my PR for the first book was done at bookstores, and meetings with signings. Now all of my PR is done on the Internet.

What’s the craziest promotional gimmick you tried?

My first book was a time travel set in ancient Egypt, so I found paper that resembled papyrus and printed a blurb from the book on the paper, rolled it up, and tied it with ribbons. Then I placed the mini scrolls in little chests and set them on the counter of as many bookstores as I could find. They were actually very popular.

Is there something you did that really helped with marketing your books?

I think starting a reader-dedicated Facebook page has helped tremendously. Connecting with people and sharing who I am and what I love has helped a lot.

Did you see God open any doors you never expected in the promotion of your books?

I never expected to find such a supportive community of Christian readers and friends. That’s the best part.

Now that you have been writing a while, what do you find works best for you in promoting your work and why?

Right now, Facebook is my best avenue and, of course, writing a good book!

What are your top tips for writers with their first book contract?

Be true to yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and the promotion. I was so busy promoting my first book, I delayed writing the second and readers were hungry for the next book. On the other side of the coin, be true to yourself and don’t be in too big of a rush to get that second book out. Write real characters and a strong story. And always remember readers want to know you as a person and you as a follower of Christ.

Thank you, Tanya! So true.

To learn more about Tanya and her books, please visit Tanya’s website.

Writing for Him,

Sarah Sundin

Sarah’s website