Marketing Tips: Recap of What’s Working and What’s Next for Authors

Welcome back, indie authors! Bonnie Paulson and Mandy Stevens here, ready to share what’s been working, what’s coming up, and some exciting opportunities we’ve got in store. Let’s take a closer look at what’s been happening behind the scenes and where we’re heading next.

Highlights From the Last Quarter

A Soft Launch for Indie Marketing Mastery (IMM)

We recently attended Inkers Con and launched Indie Marketing Mastery (IMM) with a soft opening exclusive to attendees. IMM is a live course, open for purchase only during set windows, combining education with accountability. Buyers gain lifetime access and get added to a private Facebook group to share feedback, ensuring the course improves with every round.

Why the limited access? IMM is designed for active participation. Current students appreciate the actionable steps, helpful videos, and fresh perspectives. With over 120 videos covering everything from marketing strategies to mindset hacks, IMM helps writers build a solid foundation. If you’re interested, sign up for the interest list, so you’ll know when it reopens.

Preparing for “Boss Mode”

Boss Mode is our upcoming resource to help you strategize and streamline your marketing efforts. More than just tips, it walks you through planning every quarter efficiently so you can focus on what matters: writing.

Launching late August, Boss Mode goes deep into the practical steps authors need for success. It includes worksheets, digital planners, and even spiral-bound options to keep you organized. You’ll receive tools to help you stop chasing trends and start growing your business smartly. Interested? Sign up for early access and free email advice before the full launch.

Hive Mind: Community-Driven Learning

Hive Mind is our all-in-one monthly membership that offers access to multiple courses (excluding Boss Mode) and direct collaboration with us. Whether you’re stuck on ad strategies, scaling your business, or understanding analytics, Hive Mind offers group support and one-on-one attention when needed.

Early members love it because it’s not just about learning; it’s about applying those lessons with real-time help. Hive Mind will open more broadly in August, but those eager to join now can message us for early access.

Upcoming Courses for Authors

We’re constantly creating resources catered to indie authors of all levels. Here’s what’s on the horizon:

• Facebook Ad Analytics Course: Learn to measure and improve ad performance.
• Direct Sales Basics: Starting with beginner-friendly tips on running direct-to-reader ads.
• AI in Marketing: Dive into practical AI tools and prompts for authors, including Mandy’s exclusive guide based on her Inkers roundtable.
• Social Media Strategies: Already live and packed with tips to run better campaigns.
• Virtual Book Tours: A small-scale course showing how to boost visibility with or without outside help.

These courses complement our paid memberships but are also available individually for personal growth.

Direct Sales: A Game-Changer for Indie Authors?

Direct sales is a hot topic right now, and many authors are testing the waters, including us. Mandy is launching a new sweet romance pen name while selling direct using Shopify for digital, print, and even merch. Meanwhile, Bonnie is transitioning existing pen names from Amazon exclusivity to a wide platform, combining store sales with third-party sites.

The goal? More control and less reliance on algorithms. If you’re considering this route, explore what aligns with your goals. Keep an eye out for updates—we’ll share how this shift works out in a few months.

Events Worth Adding to Your Calendar

Want to meet us in person or join the action at industry events? Here’s where we’ll be:

• Orlando Reads Books (formerly Indie Book Fest): August 24–26.
  This event offers two days of industry-focused talks plus reader interaction on the third day. Topics cover marketing, writing, and advanced strategies. Bonnie, Mandy, and others will lead discussions and host workshops.
• Smut Lovers Conference: September in Orlando.
  Designed for romance writers, this con dives into marketing and creative niches for spicy genres.
• NINC (Novelists, Inc.) Conference: September in St. Petersburg, FL.
  We’re attending the industry days, talking about IMM, Hive Mind, and much more.
• 20Books Vegas: November in Las Vegas, NV.
  We hope to showcase IMM and Boss Mode as vendors. Stay tuned for updates!

Final Thoughts

The last few months have been all about growth, collaboration, and launching resources tailored for indie authors. Whether you’re looking for step-by-step marketing help, community-based learning, or insights on direct sales, we’ve got something for you.

Have questions or want to join the conversation? Visit our free Facebook group or connect with us at upcoming events! And remember, success is even better when it’s shared—so share this blog with a friend.

Stay focused, stay creative, and as always, have fun while reaching for your goals.