The point is, having a quality product (in your case, a good book), isn’t always enough to make it. Neither is good publicity. Ultimately, there has to be a demand for your product and it needs to be set apart from the competition. In our neighborhood, there are tons of fine dining restaurants. But not a lot of wine bars that offer small plates.

As authors, what sets your book apart? Sometimes, it’s the price point (offering a $2.99 sale or discounting the pre-order). It can also be the content, telling a story in a unique way. You can also move to areas of less competition and try to reach a new audience through publicity and marketing.

I’ve been in this business long enough to see that a wonderful book with rave reviews doesn’t necessarily equate to success. It takes creativity, drive, and setting yourself apart from the competition.