A. R. Kaufer well explained about book marketing strategies. Therefore, she explained that why word-of-mouth advertising is so important to the process of selling books. However, plotting a great novel is even more essential than book marketing. Learn what Cheryl Burman explored in her interview.
Why word-of-mouth marketing is crucial to the book selling process
About Author A. R. Kaufer
Kaufer, a 42-year-old best-selling novelist, has been happily married for 15 years and released her first book in 2022. She resides in Indiana with her husband, works as a full-time author, and loves dogs. She is now working on an 8-book fantasy series and the other is a 4-book series of fairytale retellings. Her books, Courting Fate and Courting Destiny are now available.
Interview with A. R. Kaufer
Reading is a medium that offers a wealth of knowledge in a very short period of time. What was the first book you ever read and fell in love with, igniting your passion for reading books and novels?
Kaufer: I grew up reading Stephen King, Poe, Shakespeare, John Grisham. From the time I was 8, if you gave me a book, I read it.
When did you first decide to write "Courting Fate," and what inspired the ideas behind the book?
Kaufer: Courting Fate started as a short story from a writing prompt for my 40th birthday, then over 6 months, it grew into an 8-book series.
Do you think beta reader is a must for every writer? Also, tell us what book marketing strategies do you use?
Kaufer: Beta readers are pivotal in helping to guide and shape your story. I am grateful for the teams I have. As far as marketing goes, I promote across all social media I am on (TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.) I host giveaways and send out PR boxes, which has helped me build up a dedicated reader team.
What are your sources of inspiration behind writing your books or novels and how do you find your characters from real life?
Kaufer: Rafe and Ana in Courting Fate are inspired by my husband and me. We have a rare, unique bond, and I wanted to write about a love that spans time and space.
If I give you a book of 500 pages, in how many days will you read it and how? Do you have a specific genre in writing or what is your specialty?
Kaufer: It would take me roughly 5 hours to read, as I read an average of 100 pages an hour. I am a speed reader. My main genre is fantasy, whether its YA, Paranormal, Epic, and so on...
What is your best practice for formatting your book and for how long do you keep your book (WIP) to rest, to visit again for rewrite?
Kaufer: I use Microsoft Word to write and format my books. I alternate between works, when one is with an editor or a beta team then I work on another.
I believe every author must keep reading to learn new styles of writing. What about you? How many books have you read till now, estimate and which book currently you are reading?
Kaufer: Rough estimate, I’ve probably read at least 500 books in my lifetime. I have a home library with well over 1000 books. Since I am writing this month, I am not reading. But I did read Light My Pyre by Kat Kinney and Lady of Dragons by Shelby Elizabeth in October.
Tell us in detail about your dos and don'ts as an author and advise beginners to avoid the same mistakes amateurs make frequently.
Kaufer: Author dos, be patient before sending your first book to be published. Look through it carefully, and when you think it’s ready, look through it at least two more times. Don’t, engage with negative reviews or call them out.
How do you deal with anxiety if you overload your writing schedule against other household chores.
Kaufer: I am blessed with a wonderful husband who shares in the household responsibilities. He does dishes, starts laundry, vacuums, etc if I need help.
In one of the twitter posts, I found your dogs. How many pets do you love? How do you spend time with your dogs, is there any learnings from the author’s point of view that helps you in your writing? Sometimes, behavioural issues of any animal can be used to create your characters.
Kaufer: I have 8 dogs, 7 of which are rescues. They have a lot of toys to play with, and we go on long walks (when the weather allows it). Taking them for a walk is a good way to give my writer brain a break.
Also, read Mario Dell Olio on crafting non-fiction books. According to Mario, Research and gathering facts about writing any non-fiction involves great hard work than the fiction.
