“Once I finish my book, I’ll hit publish, and the readers will come.” No, don’t do that. A book launch isn’t a one-day event but a journey that starts long before you press publish. The earlier you prepare, the smoother your launch will be and the more readers you’ll reach.
Since indie authors wear many hats (writer, marketer, even designer), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve prepared a checklist to help you structure, remove the guesswork, and keep you moving forward. Let’s dive in!
Phase 1: Pre-Launch
While writing
Many authors think marketing starts only after the final draft is done. But the earlier you prepare, the easier it will be to build excitement and gather readers to support you when launch day arrives.
Here’s what you should focus on at this stage.
1. Build relationships with other authors
Other indie authors are not your competitors but your allies. Networking now means you can later exchange cross-promotions, guest posts, newsletter swaps, or even joint giveaways. So, check StoryOrigin or BookFunnel. When your book goes live, having a circle of supportive authors can multiply your reach.
2. Research book promotion sites and communities
Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out where to promote your book. Start bookmarking websites, Facebook groups, and newsletters that feature your genre. Many platforms require advance notice for promotions, so having a list ready will save you stress.
3. Start forming your ARC team
Reviews matter. Begin recruiting a group of readers who will be excited to receive an early copy of your book. They’ll provide social proof and reviews that can boost your visibility from day one.
4. Think about your book cover early
Yes, even during the drafting stage. Collect mood boards, examples from your genre, or comps that inspire you. This early vision will help your designer create a cover that looks professional and matches reader expectations.
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Book cover design by Getcovers
Are you looking for the perfect book cover designer? This article has the answers you need.
As soon as the cover is ready
The moment you receive your book cover is one of the most exciting milestones in your publishing journey. It’s no longer just a manuscript; it’s starting to look like a real book. And this is the perfect time to let readers in on the excitement.
So, here are some steps to take.
1. Host a cover reveal
Don’t just quietly upload your book cover and move on. Make it an event. Share it on social media, send it to your email subscribers, and even consider using teaser graphics leading up to the big reveal. Readers love to feel part of the process; a reveal gives them something to look forward to.
2. Update your social media and website
Swap your old banners for fresh designs featuring your new cover. This way, everywhere readers find you — Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, your author site — they’ll instantly recognize your upcoming release.
By the way, you can find more ideas on how to promote your book on Facebook here.
3. Create a set of promo graphics
Mockups of your cover on e-readers, print books, or shelves, quote cards, and countdown posts — all of these visuals are powerful tools to keep your book on readers’ minds. Often, people remember an image of your cover long before they recall your book’s title.
Why it matters: Your cover is the very first hook that draws readers in. A professional design revealed strategically builds anticipation and buzz, and sets the tone for everything that comes next in your launch.
1 month before launch
With just a month to go, the countdown has officially begun. This is the time to move from preparation to action, making sure your book has early reviews, polished marketing copy, and a clear advertising plan.
Here’s what to focus on.
1. Contact ARC reviewers and send copies
Your ARC team should already be in place, so now it’s time to get your book into their hands. Give them plenty of time to read so they can have reviews ready around your release date. Reviews not only build credibility but also influence Amazon’s algorithm to recommend your book to more readers.
2. Test your book blurb
Your blurb is your sales pitch. Use tools like PickFu to test different versions and see which resonates best with potential readers. A few small tweaks in wording can mean the difference between someone scrolling past or clicking “buy.”
Are you wondering how to write a catchy book blurb? Check out this helpful blog post.
3. Plan your ads
Set up Amazon, Amazon Author Central, and BookBub ads to run during and after launch week. These platforms are powerful for reaching genre-specific audiences, and starting early ensures you won’t scramble at the last minute.
Ad image design by Getcovers
4. Double-check your cover and blurb alignment
This is crucial. Your book cover and blurb must work together to set the right expectations. If your blurb promises a lighthearted rom-com but your cover looks like a dark thriller, readers will feel confused. Make sure both visuals and words speak to the same target audience. A well-matched cover and blurb make your book feel professional and trustworthy.
1 week before launch
The big day is almost here! With just a week left, your main goal is to keep the buzz alive and make sure readers are reminded again and again that your book is about to hit the shelves. How to do that?
1. Remind your ARC team
Send a friendly reminder to your advanced readers. Encourage them to finish reading and prepare their reviews so they’re ready to post once your book goes live. A simple reminder can make the difference between reviews trickling in slowly or appearing right when readers are searching for your book.
2. Create a social media countdown
Countdowns build anticipation. Share daily or every-other-day posts highlighting your book, like sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes fun facts, or character quotes. Use your cover in graphics to make sure readers start recognizing it instantly.
3. Reach out to bloggers and bookstagrammers
Book influencers can give your launch a serious boost. Contact those who review or feature books in your genre. Even a single post from a trusted blogger or bookstagrammer can put your book in front of hundreds of potential readers.
One day before launch
Only one day left! Tomorrow, your book will finally meet the world! At this point, everything should be ready to go. Today is all about setting up final details and ensuring your audience feels the excitement with you.
Here’s what to do on the eve of launch.
1. Set up price promotions
Many indie authors start with a special launch price, like $0.99, to attract early buyers and boost ranking. Decide if this strategy works for you and make the adjustment now, so it’s live by tomorrow.
2. Prepare your launch-day content
Draft your social media posts, schedule your emails, and have your graphics ready. Tomorrow will be busy, and you don’t want to waste time scrambling for words or images. Having everything prepared in advance lets you focus on celebrating.
3. Post a final teaser with your cover
This is your last pre-launch nudge: “Tomorrow’s the day!” Pair the announcement with a striking image of your cover. Make sure the cover takes center stage, whether it’s a bold mockup, a styled lifestyle shot, or even a simple close-up. Readers should wake up tomorrow already recognizing your book.
Phase 2: Launch Day
The wait is over, and your book is finally live! This is the day you’ve been preparing for, and now it’s time to let the world know. Think of launch day as your big premiere: you want to show up everywhere, celebrate loudly, and make it easy for readers to find (and buy) your book.
1. Announce your launch across all platforms
Send an email to your list, post on your social media channels, and share in author and reader groups. Don’t be shy! This is the day to talk about your book everywhere your audience hangs out.
2. Go live or create a celebratory post
Hosting a short live stream on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube is a fun way to connect directly with your audience. If live isn’t your style, a celebratory post with your cover front and center works too. Share your excitement since it’s contagious.
3. Share behind-the-scenes content
Readers love stories about how a book comes to life. Talk about the journey of writing your book, or even how your cover was designed. Why did you choose certain colors, symbols, or typography? These insights not only deepen reader connection but also highlight the professionalism of your book.
4. Adjust your pricing after promos
If you launched at a special price (like $0.99), don’t forget to raise it back to your standard price (often $2.99 or higher). This creates urgency for early buyers and helps you establish your book’s value.
Remember: Launch day isn’t the journey’s end but the beginning. What you do today sets the tone for the momentum you’ll carry into the weeks ahead.
Phase 3: Post-Launch Momentum
Your book is out in the world — congratulations! But don’t think your work is finished. A successful launch isn’t just about one big day; it’s about keeping the momentum going in the following weeks. This is when you nurture your audience, collect reviews, and expand your reach.
1. Week after launch
- Send personalized thank-yous to your ARC team. Gratitude goes a long way. Thank your advanced readers for their support and include direct links where they can leave reviews. A personal touch encourages them to follow through.
- Keep posting fresh graphics featuring your cover. Don’t let your book fade from sight after launch day. Share reader photos, fan art, or quote cards featuring your cover. Each new post is a reminder that your book is available and worth checking out.
- Run book promotion sites to maintain momentum. A well-timed promo can bring a new wave of readers. Use sites in your genre to keep downloads and sales consistent, especially in the crucial first weeks.
2. Weeks 2–4 post-launch
- Schedule another author’s newsletter feature. Cross-promotions keep your book visible to fresh audiences. Reach out to fellow authors and arrange for your book to be included in their newsletters.
- Add your new book to the back matter of older books. If you’ve already published, don’t forget to update your back matter with your latest release. Pairing the new title and cover with older works directs loyal readers to your latest story.
- Host Q&A or themed discussions. Keep engaging your readers. Talk about your inspiration, themes, or characters. You can even dive into the story behind your cover design.
Tip: Consistency is key. The more readers see your book, the more likely they are to remember and buy it.
Conclusion
A book launch doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear checklist, every step builds momentum, from your cover reveal to post-launch promotions. And never forget: your book cover is more than a design. It’s the tool that grabs attention, sets expectations, and drives sales at every stage of your launch.
Which of these book launch steps have you tried? Share your insights in the comments to help other authors on their journey.
