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3 Sep 10

A few weeks ago, we ran a post to launch a new feature we call “Ask MSW” – giving our community of readers a chance to ask the ten of us anything about the craft, the writer’s life, and the genre.  The day was a huge success, so we’ve decided to turn the tables and switch it up for fun.  We’d like you to answer our questions!  As a group, we decided to focus on the mystery of how readers find new authors. 

That’s right…inquiring minds want to know…what makes a reader take a chance on a new author or even just a new title from a familiar name?  We’ve posed a few questions below, so feel free to answer one, some, or just chime in on the subject.  To show our appreciation for your input, one lucky commenter will win a $25 gift certificate to the online bookseller of your choice!

Here we go…

• What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author?  Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source?
• Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger?  If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why?
• Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads?  On Amazon? 
• Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter?  If so, what attracted you to that writer?
• On average, how many books do you buy a month or year?

Thanks for sharing this with all the readers and writers of the MSW community!  We’ll be chiming in to the dialogue, too!

© 2010, Roxanne St. Claire. All rights reserved.

This entry was posted on Friday, September 3rd, 2010 at 6:00 am and is filed under admin. You can feed this entry. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Roxanne St. Claire is a New York Times bestselling, RITA-Award winning author of nearly thirty novels of romance and suspense. The author of two popular romantic suspense series, The Bullet Catchers and The Guardian Angelinos, Roxanne is hard at work on new books for 2012, which will include the launch of a contemporary series, Barefoot Bay, and her first young adult novel, Don't You Wish, and a brand new stand-alone romantic suspense, Space in His Heart. A five-time RITA nominee, Roxanne's books have won the National Readers Choice Award, the Daphne Du Maurier Award, the Maggie Award, the Booksellers Best, the Book Buyers Best, The HOLT Medallion, multiple Awards of Excellence, and Borders "Top Pick"" for Romance in 2007. She lives in Florida with her husband, two teenagers, and one impossibly cute Australian Terrier named Pepper.

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187 comments to “The Inquiring Minds of MSW Want to Know…”

1. 1

   Hi Roxanne. I pick a book mostly by it’s blurb, by a cover not that much, althought I love yummy covers but that is not the important thing why I’d buy it. It has to wake my interest within the first few seconds when I’m reading the blurb and I know I’ll be very happy with the story. I don’t trust recomments at Amazon bec everyone thinks different of a story. Monthly I read RTbookreviews magazine and pick the books by it’s blurb there or recomments bec I know I can trust it more than Amazon. I love MSW blog (although I haven’t that much time to blog right now bec of work, sorry). This here and another blog I’m blogging mostly. Facebook is fine with me but I think it doesnt occupie my day that much God, I could spent my whole money for books :d but mostly it’s about three books each month. Thanks for the great post by Sabine September 3rd, 2010 at 6:27 am

   • 1.1

     sabine i think this pretty much sums up my attitudes – I read the blurb either on the book or in the trade reviews and then I like to actually flip through the book in the store to get a further sense of it. The way a writer uses language is really important to me – even the most compelling story in the world won’t pull me in if I can’t get past their writing style. But I have to admit I’m a sucker for a pretty cover too – just like wine shopping. I *know* that a pretty label doesnt’ make the wine taste any better but I still can’t resist! by sophie littlefield September 3rd, 2010 at 9:10 am

   • 1.2

     It’s the cover that makes me pick up the book. Our first impressions are almost always visual. It’s the back blurb that makes me BUY the book. It has to intrigue me. It has to give me enough information about the plot and protagonist that I want to learn more. I don’t often use recommendations as a basis for buying books. There are too many “opinions” out there and they are all different – for a reason. We don’t all like the same things. I don’t really use Facebook or Twitter, so no to that question. How many books do I buy? FAR TOO MANY for my budget by Marianne Moul September 3rd, 2010 at 10:22 am

2. 2

   I pick mostly all my books from the blurb on the back cover. It really has to hook me in. If I’m perusing the bookstore, a cover might catch my eye…which will make me read the back cover! There are a few multi-author blogs I frequent, and they all have at least one author I was not familiar with (meaning I hadn’t read their work). I read reviews from Amazon.com, various romance reader review sites, and I also belong to paperbackswap.com. I prefer a reader review to a professional critic review. I love trying new authors (even though I don’t have enough time to get though my already overflowing TBR!!). I will give them a shot if I read a recommendation (and IF I like the back cover blurb). The only on-line way I’ve found a new author is from a blog where they’re part of a group that I already know. I’m assuming if they’re keeping such good company, they must be worthy of me reading their books! I definitely go through book buying spurts, but probably average at least 5-10 a month. If I need to have an older book (like part of a series I’ve just picked up) I will probably go to to paperbackswap.com (it’s how I get rid of non-keepers after I read them). I frequently hit Borders and have been known to drop a couple hundred bucks in one trip. I also have a Kindle, so the instant gratification of that kind of shopping is great! by kris September 3rd, 2010 at 7:22 am

   • 2.1	Hi Kris, I go through spurts, too! Sometimes I’ll go through several books a week and then I’ll get too busy to read for pleasure. One thing I love about traveling (car, plane, whatever) is that downtime to catch up on reading. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 8:33 am

   • 2.2

     it’s interesting to me – but not all that surprising really – how many people prefer reader reviews and friend recommendations to “professional” reviews. There’s definitely nothing better than a friend telling you how wonderful a book is because after you read it, there’s someone waiting to have a dishy book discussion with! by sophie littlefield September 3rd, 2010 at 9:44 am

     • 2.2.1

       Sophie, this is true for me and always has been. I’ll take my mom’s recommendation, or my best friend, any day over a “professional” review. However, sometimes I’ll read a blurb in RT magazine and then research the book if I think I might like it. I just don’t have as much time to read as I would like. by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:09 pm

       • 2.2.1.1

         I’ll admit I read the reviews, and if a bunch of people say the book isn’t worth it, especially if its in hardcover…then I’ll usually wait and decide when it’s cheaper whether or not I want to fork over the cash by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:21 pm

3. 3

   * What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? I’ve picked up books from new-to-me authors because of the cover, the blurb, the title, or recommendations. It depends on my mood and what grabs me. It also depends on who’s doing the recommending. * Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? Yes. If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? My sources are the various writing blogs I visit every day – including this one – but I don’t go to sites specifically designed to review books. * Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? No to GoodReads, but I have picked up a couple of books Amazon recommended and I found a new favorite author because of it. Now I buy everything she writes. * Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? Not yet, but I don’t use Facebook that much and I haven’t taken the plunge into tweeting. * On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? Oh lord, you had to ask this question, didn’t you. I have no clue. I know I spent over $400 last year on new books, and an unrecorded amount on used. This year’s numbers will probably top that. I’ve been a bad budget-monkey. I hope my answers help. Let me know if you need clarification. =o) by B.E. Sanderson September 3rd, 2010 at 7:54 am

   • 3.1	There is nothing wrong with being a bad budget monkey when it comes to books or shoes. I am certain of that! Thanks for the answers, B.E. by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 9:28 am

     • 3.1.1

       And your honest reply, B.E., especially on amazon.com because I actually rely a lot on it for finding new to me authors…since amazon knows my buying history. by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:24 pm

4. 4

   This is a fun topic! My favorite way to find a new book is for a friend to tell me, “You’ve never read this author? Oh, you’ve GOT to read…” When I’m looking for a book by a new-to-me author, that’s when I pay attention to online reviews. If I’m sitting there trying to decide which title to choose, I’ll either pick one with rave reviews or maybe the start of a series. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 8:31 am

5. 5

   Usually the blurb is enough to make me pick up a book by a new author. However, given the towering TBR pile, I might also look up an excerpt on the author’s website to see if it looks like me. I don’t offically follow blogs, but I’m a great lurker and keep up with several multi-author blogs and book review blogs like Book Binge, Dear Author, AAR, and the like. Reviews on those sites will also cause me to take a second look at a book by a new-to-me author. I don’t follow authors on facebook or twitter, but I LOVE author websites. I will check those for updates on what they having coming out and when, chapter excerpts, cover art and that type of thing. If it’s a new author, I will also check out their backlist to see if there are other things that look good. I probably buy about 7-10 books a month, on average. by Kris L September 3rd, 2010 at 8:51 am

   • 5.1

     This is so interesting, Kris, because I know I’ve neglected my website in the past few months, thinking “Oh, I posted that cover on facebook.” I am redesigning an entirely new web site this month and one of my personal goals is to keep it fresh with new info every few weeks or month at the most. I think for many people (myself included) the FIRST place we go when we like a book is to the web site to see what else the author has. xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 9:30 am

6. 6

   Great questions. Sorry if this is super long. (I obviously like being asked my opinion lol) Here we go… â– Picking a book from an unknown author by just being a at a book store browsing – I don’t think I have ever done that. However I have read lots of books where I didnt’ know the author. Almost all of my book choices come from, Amazon’s “recommended for you”, friends on Goodreads, word of mouth, other author’s blogs, and I have a Kindle so I am guilty of having covers catch my eye on the Amazon site. I then read a blurb and almost always read the reviews. My favorite is personal friend recommendations. The best book I have ever read is “Outlander” and I would have passed by the book in the bookstore or Amazon because the cover is so boring. Good thing for friend recommendations! â– I use Amazon the most because I am used the site and style and I am comfortable there. I can navigate easily. Also I like reading regular people reviews, not people who have become known for their reviews. I find I appreciate regular people’s views as they aren’t trying to get more hits on a site by being snarky or obnoxious. We just tell it like it is. I can usually pick out when a reviewer is over the top with gush or when they are just down right mean. I have been in agreement with many Amazon and Goodread’s reviews. â– Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? – Yes. ALOT. â– Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? – I’m going to be honest and say no I haven’t. For Facebook I will for sure “Like” and friend authors I already know and love but I can’t say that I have started reading anyone new as a result. Same as Twitter, I follow the author’s I already know. I do participate in contests but if I haven’t won, I’ll be honest and say that the contest didn’t really motivate me to go and buy their book. â– On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? – Last year, on my Kindle *counting right now* 65 Kindle books. As for my book shelf, (only because I got the Kindle mid year) around 200. But this year, I think the numbers are going to be reversed. Honestly, if it is not on Kindle, I may not purchase. I just don’t have room and I don’t enjoy reading a regular book anymore. I’m addicted to Kindle. (I am addicted to carrying around the McKay men everywhere I go. LOL) by MichellekCanada September 3rd, 2010 at 8:52 am

   • 6.1

     wow, thanks for the honest responses, especially about FB and twitter, and your use of kindle! I think this is a really good example of someone embracing the electronic format in a way that is going to become more and more common. Also, then the kindle store and the recommendations there will become more important too. I read amazon reviews and I think you did a good job of explaining why some are more compelling than otheres. Mean reviews, I flat-out discount – I don’t understand the need to be hateful online and I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t agree with anyone who feels like they have to express themselves that way. Whenever someone says a book is among their favorites ever, I pay attention – clearly the author has done something that reached that reader, and that interests me. by sophie littlefield September 3rd, 2010 at 9:14 am

     • 6.1.1

       Really, Michelle, great answers. I think the low impact of FB and Twitter on new readers is going to be the theme of today’s responses. I don’t use Twitter to get word out about my books; I look at it as my “water cooler” in my lonely office. I seek information on Twitter more than I give it. I also read the Amazon reviews, but usually after I’ve finished a book so they don’t color my opinion. My pet peeve on Amazon reviews? The ones that start, “I only read up to Chapter Two, but…” My response: then you have no right to review it! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 9:33 am

       • 6.1.1.1

         I hear that about the reviews on Amazon! I agree if someone only read 2 chapters and they are reviewing, they have no right to review so I completly skip over whatever they say. On reviews I really like to read the people’s opinions on the story not really a reworking of the synopsis. I tend to skip over those too. by MichellekCanada September 3rd, 2010 at 11:51 am

         • …	Michelle, my question to you: How often do you “visit” Good Reads? by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:26 pm

         • …	(wow a response from Lori!!!) lol sorry fangirl here… I go to Goodreads about once a day or more if I get an email update from one of my friends. by MichellekCanada September 3rd, 2010 at 1:30 pm

         • …

           Ha ha — the reason I ask about Good Reads, everyone says authors should be on it, but I don’t feel comfortable leaving reviews on books I’ve read. I think I have a good reads account, but I never go there, and so many people tell me it’s there go to place by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 6:38 pm

         • …	Well they love you on Goodreads. You have an entire fan thread dedicated to the appreciation of your Rough Riders series. by MichellekCanada September 3rd, 2010 at 10:54 pm

7. 7

   â– What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? First the cover catches my attention but I never judge a book by it’s cover so I flip it over and read the back blurb and that becomes my decidin factor. That’s how I discoverd Laura Griffin. â– Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? My sources come from all of the above. Friends, my favorite paper back book stores, Writers Space, Fresh Fiction and RTimes Magazine. â– Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? I have read books off of suggestions from Amazon and Good Reads. â– Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? I have found new authors though other authors pages on Facebook and its usually the genre and the story blurb that pull me in. â– On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? Too many. I usually read a book or two a day so I have to buy enough books to support that habit. by Shanae Russell September 3rd, 2010 at 9:11 am

   • 7.1	Is there such a thing as too many, Shanae??? xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 9:34 am

     • 7.1.1

       According to my friends and family, yes, but I feel one can never have enough books. One of my friends always tells me that I just need to move in to a book store and if I could I would. by Shanae Russell September 3rd, 2010 at 9:42 am

       • 7.1.1.1

         You can never have too many books. I’ve told my kids that, too, but out of the five, I only have two really good readers. by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:12 pm

   • 7.2

     I buy a book, sometimes all their books, when I meet an author or hear them speak and I feel they have an authenticity or something about them that I find of worth or note, you know, that strikes me. There have been a couple of people who really impressed me and then I bought and read ALL their books. I am always deeply affected when I speak in person and people come up and buy my book. Especially, if I do a reading because I always read the meanest character which is usually a woman, a neglected woman, a twisted woman, an angry woman. I figure it’s either me they are responding to or the flaws of that character and I find that so amazing, really. Best thoughts, Eva Batonne Author of RESURRECTION DIVA ZUMAYA PUBLISHING by Eva Batonne September 3rd, 2010 at 10:26 am

     • 7.2.1

       Hi Eva, I have bought books, too, after hearing the author speak. That’s how I discovered Lisa Gardner, one of my favorite suspense authors. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 12:10 pm

       • 7.2.1.1

         Ditto, Eva. I found one of my favorite books, a nonfiction book actually, after hearing the author speak. I never would’ve picked it up otherwise. by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:27 pm

8. 8

   * What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? A few different things – if the synopsis captures my interest, I’m more than willing to spend money to at least give a new author a try. I do scan reviews, but try not to be too swayed by them because not everyone who reads the book writes a review and people’s likes/dislikes are so different, I usually like to make up my own mind. I have also tried new authors based on recommendations as well. * Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? The sources are all of the above I’ve gone off of recommendations from friends, bookseller web sites, and also blogging sites. The sites/blogs I visit most frequently are Amazon, Good Reads, Barnes and Noble, this blog , Riding with the Top Down blog, and Borders True Romance blog. * Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? Absolutely. * Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? I haven’t *discovered* an author for the first time through Facebook or Twitter but I do follow my favorite authors through their social networking pages if they have any. * On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? Usually around 4 or so a month, but that’s just average. Sometimes it is more than that, especially when there’s lots of good books released Thanks for getting readers’ feedback. I’d just like to say I think it’s awesome that you guys spend so much time reaching out to potential readers and fans. I always love checking in to see what you guys have to write about on any given day. I know you all have very busy lives with family and writing all those fabulous books, etc., but sharing some of your time with us is very much appreciated Kudos to you all. by Mary R. September 3rd, 2010 at 9:11 am

   • 8.1	Thank you, Mary! Loved your thorough answers and those kind words, too! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 9:35 am

   • 8.2	Thanks so much Mary! We love this blog, too . . . it’ll be five years this November. Wow. by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:13 pm

9. 9

   It is ALWAYS the cover for me, then I read the blurb. If the blurb doesn’t catch me from there, I don’t read. There are so many books, so many authors, I never know the difference, if its a debut novel or not. Not until I read about the author on the cover, but I normally don’t read about the author unless the novel really moves me. by G. Marie Merante September 3rd, 2010 at 9:47 am

   • 9.1

     That is a very interesting point. I cannot tell you how many authors I’ve met, and I loved their books…and after meeting them was so totally turned off by their attitude and personality that I never bought another thing by them. So there is a good thing about not knowing too much about an author and their life. Sort of off topic, but I feel the same way about music. If the artist publicly takes a different political stance than mine, or becomes political when they weren’t previously, I’ll stop listening to them and buying their records. by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:30 pm

     • 9.1.1

       That is a very interesting point. I cannot tell you how many authors I’ve met, and I loved their books…and after meeting them was so totally turned off by their attitude and personality that I never bought another thing by them. So there is a good thing about not knowing too much about an author and their life. Isn’t that the truth. I didn’t meet this person in person, but there was an author who was beginning to lose me with her series (ie, the books weren’t moving the over-arcing plot forward and the characters had pretty much stopped growing, at all), but I was only in the “maybe I’ll buy her in paperback instead of hardback” stage. Then I read a protracted rant that she posted in response to a bad review from a former fan. This led me to several other things that she’d written on her blog. That was when I learned several things: 1. The author really didn’t respond well to criticism. She also didn’t respond well to mild disagreement. (And, just perhaps, her medication.) 2. Apparently I and anyone else who didn’t find her latest books the epitome of literary greatness were simply too prudish and ignorant to understand and appreciate her. 3. I would no longer read her books, even if they were given to me, free, with a bow and a box of chocolates. I not only stopped buying them, I took all of the ones I had and sold them. That was my first (and worst) experience of learning too much about an author, though I’ve had that happen with a singer-musician and an actor or two. I consciously try to not know too much about any of these people, but sometimes, it’s just right there in your face, whether you want it to be or not. by Tina C. September 3rd, 2010 at 1:50 pm

10. 10

    I have nothing useful to add. I’m commening to subscribe to the comments! With my first coming out in December, I want all the insider tips I can find! But i will say—number one thing that has be buying a book? if I know the author/talk to her a lot. I feel guilty for not supporting them or not knowing their book. So I’ll buy people I know just to ease my guilt level. by Keri Ford September 3rd, 2010 at 9:53 am

    • 10.1	Which is sweet Keri, but after you’ve been in the business a while, you can’t afford to buy everyone’s books! by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 6:39 pm

11. 11

    My criteria for purchase include: (1) author’s writing style or voice, (2) reader/author recommendations, and (3) the back cover blurb. I also consider content. I naturally prefer contemporary stories, focused on suspense or comedic situations. Great topic and it’s interesting to read orhers’ criteria! by Sandi September 3rd, 2010 at 9:56 am

    • 11.1

      Sandi, do you read a few pages of a book before you buy? I’m curious about buying on voice. I’ve bought books I thought I would like, but didn’t because of the author’s voice, but I never read a page before I buy, just the blurb. I know some people who’ll open a book to a random page and read a couple pages before buying; some read the first three or four; others the last page! (That’s you Toni, Eileen, and . . . gasp! My daughter Kelly reads the last line of a book before she reads the book. What’s with that?) Anyway, just curious! by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:15 pm

12. 12

    What a great poll! These answers are fascinating to me. And I’d have to say, as a reader, I agree with a lot of them–I buy more books on friends’ recommendations than I do based on reviews (although a boatload of really stellar, gushing reviews can make me curious enough to take the plunge) and I look at FB and twitter much more as a social thing than as a way to find books to read. And I love it when authors have ‘extras’ on their sites–excerpts, deleted scenes (always interesting, I don’t know why,) free reads, interviews with the characters…all that stuff builds a world for me and draws me in. by Louisa Edwards September 3rd, 2010 at 9:57 am

    • 12.1	I’m redoing my website now, as I mentioned, and I am really working on the bios and character pics for the reason that you mentioned. When I look at my web page hits, people “linger” the longest on the hot guys and their bios. Go figure. xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 10:33 am

13. 13	Oh and I’m guilty of purchasing up to 20 books per month. It’s my vice! by Sandi September 3rd, 2010 at 9:58 am

    • 13.1	Hi Sandi, Books are a vice for me as well. I don’t like to keep count, though. Easier to be in denial that way. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 12:11 pm

    • 13.2	Sandi, that is a great vice to have by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:31 pm

14. 14

    Let’s see, there’s usually a variety of things that make me pick up a book. I like interesting covers, but the back blurb is almost always the deciding factor. Recommendations from other authors will always make me buy something I’m on the fence about, especially if it’s an author who doesn’t usually blurb other books (I’ve gotten a feel for some of the ones who will blurb anything out there!) I will most definitely take recommendations from other bloggers and reading friends. Haven’t had many in the way of booksellers these days, though. I’m a regular on Shelfari and have a handful of fellow bloggers I follow, and always read the other reviews on Bookbitch.com. I also check the Indiebound list every month. I have definitely tried new authors recommended on Amazon. I usually find them poking around the people who bought this also bought this lists. Yes, I have found authors through Facebook. Debut authors in particular who seem to friend me after seeing mutual friends (and vice versa if I know they have a book coming out that I’m interested in). I’m always looking for new authors to try, so I’m very open to discovering them through social networks. On average, I would say I buy at least 10 books a month. Obviously some months are lower, but some months are definitely higher as well. I’m a junkie. by Becky LeJeune September 3rd, 2010 at 10:01 am

    • 14.1	Hi Becky, You read a lot! Like you, I use the lists on Amazon “people who bought this also bought …” I found some new authors thaht way. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 12:14 pm

15. 15	I agree with reader reviews and word of mouth. I love finding new authors, but let’s be honest there are only so many hours in a day and thousands of great authors, so I rely on friends opinions. Great article btw Thanks Deb by Debbie Haupt September 3rd, 2010 at 10:10 am

    • 15.1	Hi Debbie, Yes, word of mouth is the best! I am the same way with movies, too. If someone who knows me says I will like it, that is the best recommendation I can get. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 12:15 pm

16. 16

    * What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? BLURB AND EXCERPT. RECOMMENDATIONS HELP TOO * Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? FRIEND. BLOG VISITS ARE MORE FUN THAN SEEKING BOOKS. IF I KNOW AN AUTHOR, I’M MORE LIKELY TO BUY, BUT NOT IF IT’S OUTSIDE MY GENRE PREFERENCES. HAVE DISCOVERED NEW AUTHORS VIA GIVEAWAYS==CONFERENCES & BLOG/WEBSITE CONTESTS. * Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? IF I CAN FIND IT AT THE LIBRARY. CAN’T AFFORD TO BUY ‘ON SPEC’ * Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? USUALLY GOES THE OTHER WAY; FIND THE BOOK, THEN LOOK FOR MORE FROM THE AUTHOR. NOT BIG ON SOCIAL NETWORKING AS MARKETING. PREFER WEBSITES FOR DETAILED INFO ABOUT BOOKS, BACK LISTS, ETC. * On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? FEWER NOW UNTIL THERE ARE PLACES TO PUT THEM. MOVING MORE DIGITAL. USING THE LIBRARY MORE. I READ AT LEAST 1-2/WEEK; PURCHASE MAYBE 1-2/MONTH Terry Terry’s Place Romance with a Twist–of Mystery by Terry Odell September 3rd, 2010 at 10:12 am

    • 16.1	I love your “buying on spec” comment, and I fear you aren’t alone…many readers can’t afford to take a chance on a new, unknown author, which is partially why I believe recognizable names will always sell more books. by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:32 pm

17. 17

    * What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? 1. Reader recommendation. a. I got many good romance recommendations, like JR Ward, from Lori Foster’s discussion board. Now Twitter is my main source of reader recommendation. b. I used to sell on ebay, so I looked for new authors that were in demand there, like Kelley Armstrong. 2. Catalog synopses a. I don’t often order new authors from publishers, but if the story sounds good, it creates an awareness of the author. Then I watch for recommendations, or I might flip through the book at a store. I might start promoting the author at her second or third book, as I did with Kat Richardson. The sources below have progressively lower entry costs and more limited selections. b. If I later find the book available through remainder sellers, as I did with Sarah Monette and Sylvia Day, that gives me a lower entry cost. 3. Other sources a. I volunteer sorting used paperbacks for the local library sales. One perk of the job is first dibs to read anything that looks interesting, like Steve Berry. I had never heard of him. I picked up his first book because we had several of his that looked interesting. Before I volunteered, I was a customer of the sales. b. I discovered Roxanne St. Claire and Courtney Milan when I won their books on Twitter, and I remain big fans of both. There are lots of contests out there, so I have to have some awareness of the author before I enter one. If I were a publisher, I wouldn’t worry about an author taking hold until s/he had 2-3 books on the market. That’s a big advantage over the author with just one. The way I see authors like Tessa Dare and Emma Holly marketed with a book a month over 3 months makes me think publishers know this. by cassandra September 3rd, 2010 at 10:19 am

    • 17.1	Thanks, Cassandra. I remember signing that book for you! So glad we reeled you in! Great answers! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 10:35 am

18. 18

    My answer is a little bit of all of the above. But the book I”m getting ready to start is one completely outside the genres I normally read. It’s an inspirational historical by Deeanne Gist. I bought it because it’s set at Biltmore House and I went to college 50 miles from there. by Marilyn September 3rd, 2010 at 10:26 am

    • 18.1	Hi Marilyn, I hope you enjoy Deeanne Gist. I did a book signing with her once, and she is the nicest woman! Very personable with all of her readers who stopped in. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 12:18 pm

19. 19

    Typically, I pick up a work by a new author when information about the book catches my interest from newsletters and blogs. It may be a summary, review, author interview, or recommendation by an author I think highly of. Among newsletters I read are those by Bookreporter, ITW, and Stop You’re Killing Me. I also read newspaper reviews and bookstore newsletters. Blogs I frequent (in addition to MSW) include Bookloons, Plotmonkeys, The Goddess Blogs, Fiction Addict, Book Binge, Thoughts in Progress and All About Romance. On the other questions—I don’t use Facebook or Twitter. I seldom am influenced by Goodreads or Amazon reviews, though I am familiar with them. And honestly, most of my books come from the library. (I LOVE my library!) I buy only one or two books a month, but I read 12-16 a month. Interesting topic today. Thanks. by GSM September 3rd, 2010 at 10:27 am

    • 19.1	I love the library, too! In fact, I’m headed there today because I’m still on a YA reading binge (just sold one!!) and that’s my favorite place to go cherry picking for new authors. xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 10:36 am

      • 19.1.1

        My daughter writes YA fantasy (she has a contract for one, just waiting for a publication date). She and I have a reading contest going and she goes to the library and picks up a stack of YA books while I am reading books like THE PASSAGE. Yeah I am getting owned. I’ll tell her to be on the lookout for your YA. by Dudley Forster September 3rd, 2010 at 11:35 am

        • 19.1.1.1

          Thank you. Publication isn’t until 2012, so you should make plenty of library trips between now and then! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 11:37 am

        • 19.1.1.2

          LOL Dudley–you should have a contest on number of PAGES read, not books read! One summer when I was encouraging my kids to read more, I paid them $1 a book plus a penny a page. But I realized quickly that good readers will always read (though they might read more with the incentive!) and non-readers might read one or two books, but don’t think the money is worth the time. :/ Congrats to your daughter! by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:19 pm

20. 20

    Hi Roxanne, in answer to question #1, I tend to choose books from new authors by several different ways, normally I will read a blurb, or if I see another author’s comment on the cover I have been known to give a book a try. I work for a bookstore so I am usually the one doing the recommendation for new authors, but I will pick up an unknown author for that fact alone, we are always being asked for books that compare to our readers favorite authors. I have been introduced to many authors through Facebook, and it is normally an author’s personality that will draw me into trying their work. In answer to the final question, currently I have 25 books in my to be purchased pile at work, those are just the new releases for the month of September, that does not include anything that might grab my eye while I’m in the store. I probably buy close to 200 books a year. I read a very high volume of books in a year and I like to keep a well stocked collection. by Misty Helm September 3rd, 2010 at 10:28 am

    • 20.1	Hi Misty, Sometimes I will go with those endorsements, too, but it has to be an author I really like. How great that you work for a book store. I bet I would spend my entire paycheck on books. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 12:20 pm

      • 20.1.1

        I have come close to spending an entire pay check at work. I didn’t think of it at the time I originally wrote my post but author blogs are also a great source. Customer feed back. When I first started reading Allison Brennan, I was eager for more authors like her, and I had customers recommending everyone from Lisa Gardner to Karen Rose. by Misty Helm September 3rd, 2010 at 12:46 pm

21. 21

    I have read books from unknown authors based upon the recommendations of a favorite author(s) on their website; browsing in Borders after I’ve exhausted all of my favorite authors series & anxiously await the newest release; I’m all over the map when it comes recommendations for books e.g., Goodreads, Amazon, Friends, Blogging et. cetera. I love the written word & I can’t stop my addiction! by Pamela Baker September 3rd, 2010 at 10:37 am

    • 21.1	Pamela, I see no reason for you to stop the addiction — hee hee by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:34 pm

22. 22

    Usually if a cover and title catch my eye, I will read the blurb and if I am still interested then I will buy the book. I have picked up a few new author’s as recommendations from author blogs as well as from friends. I usually find new authors when reading books of anthologies as well. I read about 4-5 books a week and buy about 20 books per year. by Stephanie McCarthy September 3rd, 2010 at 10:45 am

    • 22.1

      I used to read 3-4 books a week, sometimes more . . . then I started seriously writing and I’m lucky to average 3-4 books a month. (I’m a binge reader–I’ll sit down and read three books over a weekend, then nothing for the rest of the month. When I’m on deadline, I can’t read much of anything, and I always seem to be on deadline! Not that I’m complaining . . . ) But I still buy @200 books a year. Or more. Many I give to my mom and friends, because I don’t have time to read them all. by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:22 pm

23. 23

    What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? Usually a trusted source. I rarely go by cover, but I will listen to blurbs by authors I like. On the subject of covers, why do publisher use covers that dictate most men will not pick up the book? I can see the use of such covers on pure romance where the target market is women. But they use these kinds of covers on great stories many men would love. I’m reading Allison’s first series at the moment, but I intend to read the Sin series. I would never pick up CARNAL SIN because of the cover. Same applies to Toni’s books. How I found them is an answer to another question. Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? The source is usually a blogger, sometimes a friend, but most of my friends don’t read as dark as I do and I did discover THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO from a well informed Border’s employee. As for online sources: DorthyL, Goodreads, Murderati, Murder She Writes, Reviewing The Evidence, Confessions of an Idiosyncratic Mind, Crime Fiction Dossier, Hey, There’s A Dead Guy in the Living Room, Poe’s Deadly Daughters and for books across the Pond: Euro Crime & Tangled Web UK Reviews Now how I found Toni and Allison. I must have been dense not to start reading Murderati earlier than I did. I love the site, the bloggers, and commenters. When I started posting comments I decided it would be rude not to read at least one book by every author. Some I had already read all of their books and some, like Toni and Allison, none. The same rule will apply here. I just have to get through my TBR. Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? For both, all the time. I use the Others Ordered feature on Amazon a lot. That is how I discovered Karin Slaughter. Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? Yes, but usually it is authors I already read. I have found there are two kinds of author FB pages. Ones that really don’t bother with reader input and are just marketing tools. Then there are those where the author interacts with the readers and communicates he or she cares what they think. FB pages like Karin Slaughter’s, Toni’s, Allison’s Alafair Burke’s etc. Those I love. On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? I am on track to read 120 plus books this year. Since our library here is a unified one with little libraries scattered all over N. Idaho it is very frustrating to get books I want. So the bulk of my entertainment budget goes to books and so far I have purchased all the books I have read this year. Which is one reason I got a Kindle – no shelf space. by Dudley Forster September 3rd, 2010 at 11:11 am

    • 23.1

      Thanks Dudley! I agree about the covers. Don’t get me started on CARNAL SIN. It was a disaster (cover wise.) I like the Lucy book covers much better, and those two books are really more more thrilleresque, with a romantic subplot. I think they’ll have cross-appeal. I hope! by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:23 pm

      • 23.1.1

        I know I replied to you on Facebook about the new cover concept for Carnal Sins, while the art work is great, to me it didn’t fit the book. Everyone of your books has that romantic suspense angle but they are not in my view a full romantic suspense. You are on my auto buy list, your books are that great, but I didn’t like that they tried to mash your book into the paranormal genre by switching up the cover designs by Misty Helm September 3rd, 2010 at 12:57 pm

        • 23.1.1.1

          Thanks Misty–I think a lot of suspense readers don’t go for the paranormal, and they were trying to find the right audience. Sometimes publishing works, sometimes it doesn’t. My editor recently told me that she’s always felt I write suspense with strong romantic elements–which is what I’ve always felt. I like the relationship because I think it adds more, and I like people who have tough jobs and difficult lives to be able to lean on someone who loves them unconditionally. Sean and Lucy are working well together, they’re “together” but only incrementally through the books. I just wrote the summary for book three and I’m really excited to start it (can’t until I’m done with book two!) by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 6:07 pm

24. 24

    â– What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? —> Covers do attract the eye I will not lie about that. It is how I discovered you because the cover drew my eye to read the blurb on the back. I always read the back to judge or not if it is something I may life. If it catches me I will pick it up. And yes, I have had friends suggest a new author â– Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? —–> Friend. They know my tastes and needs for books. The only book site that I tend to visit nearly every day is Bittenbybooks. They have brought to my attention many new authors. â– Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? ——> No. I rarely go to Amazon. And when an author recommends her book to me on Goodreads I delete her off my friends’ list. It has gotten ridiculous the amount of recommendations that got sent to me. I tend to behave the opposite direction, you pressure me and push me I bulk and drag my feet. I hate to be pushed into things. So for me to want the book it has to be my choice not another’s. â– Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? ——> Personality, the approachablity of the author. Sense of humor â– On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? —-> Ehh not as many as I would like. Some months I can go without buying any books. Generally depends on the budget and if I can swing a book or two. Why a good bulk of my books come from UBSs or flea market so I can get more books for the price of a new one. Then there is the ones I must have new by Raonaid Luckwell September 3rd, 2010 at 11:18 am

    • 24.1	So have any of your flea market finds introduced you to a new author that excited you to the point you’re willing to venture into a bookstore and buy a new copy of their latest release? by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:35 pm

25. 25

    Hi Girls Great Questions!! Unknown author/Source for new books …Same answer to both, from blogs or author recommending another author Sites or blogs visited– MSW, The Oddshots, Ilona Andrews (blog), Nalini Singh (blog) Reviews-I’ve never been to a book review site. When I find a new author, I check out their site, then look at all the book summaries on Amazon. FB/Twitter-I’m enough of a “twit” without help from twitter-so they’re out. FB, only if it’s recommended from an author I already like How many books do I buy? More than I should. =) I enjoy reading. If I don’t have a new book, I have more than enough here and I can re-read what I’ve got. Some of those poor books are falling apart! Happy weekend!! by Catherine September 3rd, 2010 at 11:33 am

    • 25.1	Hi Catherine, I like to check out sites of new-to-me authors, too. Most post excerpts, which are a great way to sample something. For favorite authors, I love to read excerpts to get excited about upcoming releases before they come out. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 12:22 pm

26. 26

    * What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? It depends on where I’m seeing it for the first time. If I’m in a store, the cover will grab my attention, but the back blurb has to sell it. If I’m on amazon or books on board, etc, buying something else, and a recommendation for me pops up, I’ll read the blurb and a few of the best and the worst reviews (if available) to see whether or not I’m interested. All that said, if the author is completely unfamiliar to me, cost is a factor. If the book is more than $7 or so, I’ll usually see if the library has it first. * Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? I hear about a lot of books for the first time at the Smart Bitches Trashy Books website and I have found that SBSarah and I have similar tastes, so I tend to trust her reviews. I’ve also picked up a few books because there was an ad for it on that site that really caught my eye. I have to admit, I wouldn’t have ever thought that would be the case, but it’s happened at least 4 or 5 times now. * Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? I was recently in need of new reading material and I opened my library website in one window and the amazon recommendations for me in another. I then went through the recommendations and, when I found one that I was interested in, I searched for it at my library and then reserved it. I now have a stack of reading material and at least half of the books are by authors who are completely unknown to me. So, I guess that’s my long way of saying, “yes”. * Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? No * On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? It depends on the finances. Right now, things are really tight, so I’m largely relying on the library for my books because I can’t afford to buy enough to support my habit. Even still, I bought 7 books last month and I’m planning to buy 3-5 this month. by Tina C. September 3rd, 2010 at 11:35 am

    • 26.1

      I used to get ALL my books from the library, except on Christmas my mom would buy me the new Stephen King book, and for treats and rewards when I was even younger, she’d let me buy a Nancy Drew or Trixie Belden, which is why I have nearly all of both series. I loved my San Carlos library. It was my second home, and I miss it! by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:26 pm

27. 27

    When picking up a book from an unknown author, I usually go by recommendation from a trusted source. By a trusted source, I mean, someone who knows me and what I truly like. Just this week, I had a few people tell me, “You should read book X, I really liked it, it’s so good.” I usually overlook those recommendations, because they’re about their taste, not mine. I may even keep the book in the back of my mind, but it wouldn’t be my first choice. Now, when someone like, for example, my mom or my friend Maria read a book and then tell me, “Oh! You should read book X, it’s so you.” Then, I most often I’ll at least check the book out. In fact, many of my favorite authors I found through recommendations from my mom and Maria. Also, I’ll take book recommendations from other authors. Like, last year, I asked on Facebook for romantic suspense suggestions and Allison Brennan recommended Roxanne St. Claire’s books. I liked Allison Brennan’s books, so, I figured she must know what she was talking about and checked out the books (tell you, one of the BEST decisions I’ve ever made!). I’ve never tried a book because it was recommended on Good reads or Amazon. Again, too general. These people don’t know me, they can’t possibly know what I’d like And, yup, I’ve met authors online, and then had to read their books. It’s all about voice. Just very recently, someone I follow on Twitter RTed Tessa Dare. I checked her page, and thought her Twitter voice was cute, so, I checked her website. When on a website, first thing I check is the biography. An author with a fun biography voice attracts me. The second I read he biography, I just HAD to read her books. Amazon, click, bought. Toni McGee Causey? Someone (I think Rocki) linked a blog by her once. I read the blog, and it was instant. I was hooked on her voice and her view and I just HAD to read her books!!! A lot of times, I check out authors from other authors I follow or I’m friends with, and if I like their voice as themselves, it makes me want to read their books. I’m currently reading Louisa Edwards, which I decided to read after her blog here on Tuesday. That’s how it works for me. How many books for month? It depends. My mom pays my bills, so, I have to ask for permission to buy books for the Kindle, but since I don’t go overboard, she trusts me. It depends. I usually read a book, and when I finish, I buy the next, so, it all depends on how much time it takes me to read (and that depends on school schedule, capacity to concentrate and all these things). This year, I must have read around fifty books, must have bought about 30, 35 — I got a bunch as a gift But, it’s still September… The End!!! by Barbie September 3rd, 2010 at 12:00 pm

28. 28

    I would pick up a book by a author unknown to me because if the book cover or/and blurb on the back cover. Sometimes they have a excerpt in the back of a book i’ve read and that will make me pick up one of their books or if someone i know recommends them and we like similar books. OK a blog sometimes gets me to take a look as well. lol The other place i find authors is used book stores. There are not alot of places to buy new book where i live but there are a couple used book stores. I like to go to used book stores and get books off a back list of authors i like. Sometime i find new authors there as well. Great way to try a new author out. I have no idea what i spend on books but it’s enough lol Lisa B by Lisa B September 3rd, 2010 at 12:19 pm

    • 28.1	Lisa, I’ll admit to buying a book if an author I like has blurbed it… by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:37 pm

29. 29

    I hang my head in shame and admit I have been influenced by covers and back blurbs, even though I know you can’t judge a book by its cover, and even though I know this is often made of fail. Word of mouth from friends who like the same kinds of books I like can be key. Now, though, the main way I buy a book by a new author is by downloading the sample chapters to my Kindle. If I read them and want to keep going, I buy it! by pooks September 3rd, 2010 at 12:20 pm

    • 29.1	I’ve bought books because of a cool or pretty cover, too! by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 12:27 pm

    • 29.2

      There is no shame in cover influence! Lots of people seem to think that, but I believe it’s exactly why we fret SO MUCH about covers. I definitely am drawn to the hot guy covers myself, and the sexier the guy, the more likely I am to buy. Am not ashamed! LOL xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 1:02 pm

      • 29.2.1

        I’m in the minority around here because it’s not skin and hot guys that reel me in! BTW, y’all left an important choice off the poll– downloading sample chapters for ebooks. I do that for all books now, even writers I usually buy anyway. But I especially do it for new authors and have b bought quite a few because I read their samples and wanted to keep going. In fact (goes back to check) you didn’t include sample chapters on author sites, either, which serve the same purpose. Fun poll! by pooks September 3rd, 2010 at 1:09 pm

        • 29.2.1.1

          Good point about the excerpts!! Thanks. xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 1:29 pm

30. 30

    I love the occasional free download that amazon offers for the kindle. I have found a bunch of new authors that way…plus added some of my fave authors earlier works to my ebook collection. I often take a look at the “customers who looked at this also bought”…suggestions. Friend suggestions always are good too. I ahve also had many suggestions via facebook. Especially when an author or a friend puts the “what are you reading” question out there. I have found many new authors that way. Oh, and last year, I had gotten a bunch of new books from authors I didn’t know as give aways at the Authors After Dark Convention…and many have become new favorites. by Renee September 3rd, 2010 at 12:41 pm

    • 30.1	Rene – I agree with you on the Kindle with free and very nearly free books. The free reading sample is also a good way. by Dudley Forster September 3rd, 2010 at 12:47 pm

    • 30.2	Renee, I’ve heard nothing but raves about the free kindle downloads. That is one marketing angle that is REALLY working. xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 1:31 pm

      • 30.2.1

        I’m hoping it works for me, as Samhain is offering a free read in November, and yes, this is something new I’ve written exclusively for this purpose by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:39 pm

        • 30.2.1.1

          I’m writing a short novella (10-15K words) that’ll be released between the first two Lucy books. It’ll be “cheap” not free and available through all e-tailers. by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 6:00 pm

31. 31

    What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source?It’s a variety. Being the shallow person I am, I can be bought by an awesome cover. The blurb is also important to me. I’ve also bought new-to-me authors on a firend’s recommendation, when I know they share very similar reading habits with me. I usually then go to the author’s website. If it’s not up to date and ready with info like blurbs, backlist, current & upcoming releases, I’m likely to skip it. Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why?It’s frequently a friend or fellow blogger that I know shares my taste in books. I visit mostly fellow book blogger sites, but avoid like the plague ones that make you do something in order to participate (like follow them). The review blogs I follow tend to share my taste in books, and I generally don’t bother reading the reviews of books outside my general preferences. Closedminded? Never say it! Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? Yes. Both. Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer?A couple through twitter, but I have yet to purchase a book that way. On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? Groan. Do I have to answer? My hubby may see this someday. The internet is forever. *whispers* a couple hundred, likely by Lori September 3rd, 2010 at 12:43 pm

    • 31.1	Okay, Lori, I’m going to pick your brain on your answer to using Good Reads and amazon — has one proven more successful? Meaning, do you find Good Reads consistently gives you good recommendations and feedback? by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:41 pm

32. 32

    I read and donate over 300 books a year to library! I pick up a book-read the jacket and itf it sounds interesting-I buy it! Must have mystery,sex!, good story line, and grab my attention right off the bat! Some books you have to read halfway or more before you firgure out who is who! Not too many characters! I myself love witchcraft and spells! Ladies with special powers they didn’t know they had. I have a list of FAV authors but always open to new ones. Right now waiting for next book of Allison Brenan-she’s writing 7 books-one for each “sin”. I have one author that has 11 books in a series!!! Up to 7 so far! Based on fairys,humans, and alot of creatures! Barbara Taylor Bradford and Jackie Collins are FAVS!!! I read 2 at once! One at nite and 1 during day. Just finish Girl with Dragon Tattoo and plays with fire-now starting her 3rd book! LOVE LOVE LOVE books!!!!!! by Judy S September 3rd, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    • 32.1	Thank you Judy by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 6:01 pm

33. 33	What makes me pick a book?! 1. The last sentence in the book 2. Recommended similar authors 3. Star ratings from other readers by sally mitchell September 3rd, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    • 33.1

      Sally…am sputtering…you read the last sentence first? I admit, I just went over to my closet of books and pulled down four of my own novels to read the last sentence first. Wow. Now I will think of you every time I write that last sentence. Must be Sally Worthy!!! Great input, thank you! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 1:33 pm

    • 33.2	Dang, Sally, and here I’ve been working so hard on the first sentence! by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 1:39 pm

34. 34

    I buy books because I’m an addict and there’s no medication or support group to make me stop (like I’d go anyway). Usually why I choose a particular one from another is cover blurbs, friends’ recommendations, covers, or sometimes just because it’s the next book in a series that I’ve started and I liked the characters, places, etc. Sometimes I buy a book, sight unseen, just because it’s from an author I really like. by Patricia Rickrode September 3rd, 2010 at 12:50 pm

    • 34.1	I buy books because I’m an addict and there’s no medication or support group to make me stop (like I’d go anyway). roflmao by MichellekCanada September 3rd, 2010 at 2:56 pm

35. 35

    I will always buy a book from one of my favorite authors..even though it may not be a genre I would normally read (ie, A. Brennan’s Deadly Sin series…not anything I would normally have read, but enjoyed her other books and figured I’d try them…I’m hooked, btw.). As far as a new author, I will sometimes buy based on a friend’s recommendation. I will also sometimes buy one based on the reviews of another author found inside a favorite author’s book. Very rarely do I go to any online source to find a new author. I buy/read a lot of books…on average 2-3 a month. by Marian September 3rd, 2010 at 1:01 pm

    • 35.1	Hi Marian, I have certain authors I always buy too, and I’ll follow them into a new genre. Good way to expand my horizons. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 3:04 pm

36. 36

    Hi! If I’m in the store, I’m first attracted to the cover and then I’ll immediately read the blurb. (Since I write the blurbs for some pubs, this is professional curiosity too.) However, I don’t usually buy an unknown without a recommendation. If SmartBitches or DearAuthor highly recommend something that’s in my wheelhouse (contemporary, rom suspense, hist rom, some paranormal & urban) it’s almost an automatic buy. It’s certainly an automatic inter-library loan request. But I’ve never bought a book from a Goodreads or Amazon recommend, though I have put on library list. I have found authors on Facebook & Twitter. Mostly, it’s their sense of humor that first attracts me. The only book I’ve bought b/c of Twitter was Susana Fraser’s THE SEARGENT’S LADY (which I’m certain I just spelled wrong) and I absolutely would not have done that without the great and funny web site her husband put up for her and her willingness to tweet about it and have people know of it. I researched the title first and it appealed to me, but I wouldn’t even have been looking for it without the Twitter situation. After sense of humor I look for how ready authors are to respond/interact with readers (within reason) on FB and Twitter and also their attitude towards pre-published writers like moi. I buy, on average, about 4 to 6 books/month, depending on the pub schedules of my fave authors Hope that helps! by Kiersten September 3rd, 2010 at 1:12 pm

    • 36.1	The only book I’ve bought b/c of Twitter was Susana Fraser’s THE SEARGENT’S LADY … I just bought that today too! It was only .99 so for sure I was gonna give it a try. by MichellekCanada September 3rd, 2010 at 1:26 pm

    • 36.2	I saw that website-that was cute. It did make me want to search out her book, too! by Amy A September 3rd, 2010 at 2:18 pm

      • 36.2.1

        Now this made me curious! I tend to track down a lot of authors from twitter, so my perspective is skewed… very interesting to hear that it isn’t the be-all-and-end-all that publishing seems to think. by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 3:49 pm

37. 37

    Here you go… I try new authors through a variety of sources. If I’m in a bookstore just browsing, then the cover art might draw me in (if it’s a similar style to an author I like), but the blurb will have to do the actual selling. Otherwise, I’ll buy books based off of recommendations of friends and Amazon’s suggestions based off my purchases. I also borrow books from the library and the librarian will have terrific suggestions for new authors, which will buying if I like the author she recommends. I am friends with a few authors on Facebook. I’m drawn to the witty, funny ones! And, of course, I have to be a fan of their work! I buy maybe 50 books a year, the rest I borrow from the library. I would love to get a kindle because lack of space is the main reason for not buying more! by Lisa N September 3rd, 2010 at 1:16 pm

    • 37.1

      Hi Lisa, It’s so interesting to hear people talk about the importance of book blurbs. Sometimes they are written by people besides the author. Usually my blurbs are based on copy I originally created, but they’ve been modified. I got one once that had nothing to do with the book, so I had to re-write it completely. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 3:06 pm

      • 37.1.1

        Yep, I was lucky my editor let me have a lot of input into the blurbs–I wrote the first draft and she polished and then I polished again. But I know a lot of people that have no control over that and blurbs are written by other people who haven’t read the books–they’re often going by a summary or worse, the original pitch for the book (and the book changed and no one thought to tell the marketing dept.). by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 3:51 pm

        • 37.1.1.1

          Laura & Toni, That is good information to have! I didn’t realize that authors typically don’t have a lot of input in the blurb! Scary thought, although now some of those seemingly random blurbs make more sense. When I’m not in a rush, I will read the first pages, too. If they strongly piques my curiosity, I’ll buy it. So the hook is vitally important from my perspective. You can bet that I will make the time to read the first pages now that I know the author doesn’t have total control over the blurb. Thanks! Lisa by Lisa N September 3rd, 2010 at 4:28 pm

38. 38

    When walking down the aisles, the first thing I notice is the cover. That makes me stop and read the blurb but I have been suckered in by a good blurb before only to find that the writing is awful, so I pick a few pages at random through the book and read those before finally making a decision. I also belong to a great and somewhat unique book club. We meet once a month and basically give book reviews on all the books we read since the last time we met. I have found books that way and occasionally finalized a decision on a book I am considering from the Amazon reviews by readers. I read from 4 to 12 books a month. by Sig September 3rd, 2010 at 1:17 pm

    • 38.1	Sig, what a *brilliant* idea for a book club! I’ve never heard of one like that. by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 3:52 pm

39. 39	Covers catch my attention while walking through bookstores (and libraries), but I’ll also just pick up books at random and read the blurbs. I also look on Amazon and read reviews but don’t rely on just those as they’re subjective. by Denise in AZ September 3rd, 2010 at 1:32 pm

    • 39.1

      Covers are definitely important, which is why it is so interesting how little authors influence them, generally speaking. And have you noticed they go in trends? For a while everything was purple… then a red / black phase. It’s interesting to see the trends if you go stand in the paperback aisle at a grocery store. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 3:09 pm

    • 39.2	So, Denise, have you ever been turned off by a cover? And then found out the book was great? by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 6:42 pm

      • 39.2.1

        I have! Usually, it’s because of my sister (at least one of them, I have 3!). All four of us are really big readers. I don’t buy a lot of books right now, as money is extremely tight. I used to own about 3000 books and about 600 cookbooks. I downsized from a 3 bedroom home to 2 rooms at my brother’s and sold most of my books (THAT HURT!!). I kept only a few authors (like Allison and Mariah Stewart) and I’ll always buy the new books by my favorites but I “shop” at the library a lot now. I always go into bookstores though and look. It gives me ideas for new reading materials. by Denise in AZ September 4th, 2010 at 9:49 am

        • 39.2.1.1

          Of course, I’m getting lovely ideas for books right here! I always have at least 2 or 3 books that I’m reading at the same time. by Denise in AZ September 4th, 2010 at 10:21 am

40. 40

    I try not to judge a book by its cover, but a striking cover will definitely catch my attention at a bookstore. Interesting titles also draw me to books. I find many of my wish list books from book review blogs. I often find myself branching off into genres I never would have looked at on my own, but I saw a review and had to read the book! Hope this satisfies your curiosity a little bit. by Janel September 3rd, 2010 at 1:58 pm

    • 40.1	Thank you, Janel! by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 3:53 pm

41. 41

    -I start with the cover, then the blurb and then I usually check review sites to see what others are saying -I visit Amazon, Chapters and if it is an erotic JERR - I have tried lots of new authors based on Amazon and Chapters reviews - I find surfing my fave authors sites leads me to other authors so I don’t search facebook for them as a rule - On average 20 books a month, which I then try to read and post reviews for on Amazon and Chapters. I figure if I am using it others are too. by Rory G September 3rd, 2010 at 2:02 pm

    • 41.1

      Rory, thank you! I don’t think readers who love books realize how helpful it is for them to go post great reviews online. I know a lot of people don’t actually read the reviews before they buy… but they *do* frequently do a “drive-by” and check out what the consensus of the opinions are… like, if it has mostly high reviews, or mostly low reviews, and that can influence them. So for everyone who’s bought something they love… go say so somewhere. As an author, I don’t want to ask people to go review–that just smacks of self-centeredness and self-aggrandizing and all sorts of selfish negatives. *Even when I get fan letters asking me what they can do* for me/the books. But word-of-mouth is always appreciated. Always. We know you’re busy, you have a zillion other more important things to do, so it’s really a joy when we see people care enough to go to the trouble to say something positive. by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 3:10 pm

42. 42

    Lately, I have been reading new authors that belong to the same blog or website or writers group as one of my regular authors. With the popularity of blogs and Facebook, I find it interesting to read about what you go through when you write your books and just daily life for anyone (not just authors) is also interesting. When you are plugging your books and books written by your friends, I get interested in the characters and the storyline. I have a really large ‘to be read’ list, and while I do check out a lot of books from the library, I still buy a lot of them at the bookstore. I like to read the whole series, so if I can’t find it anywhere else, I know I can get it online. I am also rather anal about reading them in order. ‘g’ It’s a good thing that there are so many books on my TBR list that I can wait to find the next book in the series; I just move on to the next author by Amy Antonidis September 3rd, 2010 at 2:15 pm

    • 42.1

      That’s good to know, Amy, because I always wonder if readers care if, say, my daughter fell off her bike. LOL. I like to temper those posts with something that will be interesting from a reader/writer standpoint, but sometimes it’s impossible. On the other hand, days can go by and nothing interesting happens! I hate the “I got the mail and it was hot” kind of FB and twitter posts. Which, by the way, was about the most interesting thing that happened to me today – other than the fabulous response on this blog! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 2:37 pm

      • 42.1.1

        Lol-ok, sometimes the getting the mail posts are a little boooorrrring, but for the most part, writers and voracious (sp?) readers are nicely sarcastic. I am guilty of being that way myself, so I enjoy the snarky humor and making fun of myself. Also the back and forth with other readers who know the characters just as well as I do is really interesting. by Amy A September 3rd, 2010 at 2:46 pm

      • 42.1.2

        I agree with the “I got mail” posts. Twitter really encourages that sort of comment. I really don’t care that my daughter went to the store, let alone anyone else. However, non-book related FB posts are usually interesting to me. For example, right now Alafair Burke has a thread about whether to embrace the gray or keep coloring her hair. I just checked and that has generated 20 replies. Last week Pari Taichert had a post about making homemade applesauce. That generated a whole discussion about apples and pies. This is plain old over the fence conversation. I don’t know about other readers, but I like the fact authors are real people, not some Hollywood construct. One thing most authors I follow on FB don’t take advantage off is the use of discussion groups. I think you can only set these up on a fan (now “like”) page. These are sandboxes for readers to play in, all kinds of threads, about the books, characters, who should play whom in a movie etc. Spoilers are allowed so readers can discuss the whole book. A very helpful thread is the “any other writers like… insert FB author” I found Mo Hayder and Mark Billingham that way. by Dudley Forster September 3rd, 2010 at 4:46 pm

    • 42.2	Amy, I am the same way. I have to have the entire series before I forge on. There are maybe 4 authors whose books I read as they come out. Peace and love, Paula R. by Paula R. September 3rd, 2010 at 2:54 pm

    • 42.3	Amy – There is a really good blog post by Alafair Burke on series and answering the question “what book should I read next”, with comments about reading books in order etc., on Murderati by Dudley Forster September 3rd, 2010 at 5:00 pm

      • 42.3.1

        Thanks-I will look for that one! by Amy A September 8th, 2010 at 9:48 am

43. 43

    I was a bookseller for a number of years and therefore was exposed to EVERYTHING new, all of the time. It’s sensory overload for a bibliophile. For a new author, unfortunately, the initial attention usually either came down to an interesting title or cover. It pains me to admit that, but it’s true. I know that, in the long run, those are the least important factors, but it’s hard to find the time to give a critical eye to everything that crosses your path. If a title or cover can get me to pick up the book, and the synopsis sounds interesting, I’ll borrow the book from the library and I promise myself 2 chapters and/or 50 pages. If a writer can’t captivate my attention or if the writing style bothers me by that point, I’ll put it down. If I do like it, and it’s available in paperback, I’ll buy it. Or I’ll read it in hardcover and buy it in paperback later. As for source recommendations… I know that I’m picky about what I read. Writing style is big for me, so even if a friend thinks something is good, there’s no guarantee that I’m going to like how it’s written. However, recommendations from people who I know read the same authors I do, are usually gold. That’s not to say that I won’t read something recommended elsewhere, but I tend to shy away from magazine/bestseller/random stranger recommendations. I almost never read something solely based on a review site or blog. I may write down a title that sounds intriguing and do more research myself, but people have such different interests and expectations and reasons for reading that I find it hard to take someone who I know nothing about, at their word. I read 100-200 books a year. I probably buy 75-100. by Kelly September 3rd, 2010 at 2:28 pm

    • 43.1	Kelly, I’m curious–what do you think drove more of your customers to the stores–recommendations or just interested in browsing? by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 3:54 pm

      • 43.1.1

        For fiction readers I would actually say that, at least in my experience, recommendations are only about 15% of why customers are searching for a book. I’d say that 60% are readers who make a habit of browsing frequently in bookstores for new titles and/or follow enough authors closely enough to be in the store consistantly as new titles are released, and then take the time to browse while they are there. Then, about 15% are people who are coming in to pick up a book they are being asked to read for school or a book club (I don’t consider these recommendations because it’s not really a choice). The remaining 10% are people who wander into the store to kill time, and may pick up something while they are there… but aren’t really looking for anything in particular. That’s not to say that recommendations aren’t a factor once they get to the store (and this goes for non-fiction buyers as well). If the store has good booksellers who know what they’re doing and are familiar with the authors, they are some of the best sources for recommendations (also because good booksellers are avid readers) and a new author’s best friend. I found several new authors because their ARCs were shipped to the store for the staff, I read and liked the books, and then I turned around and recommended them out to customers. by Kelly September 3rd, 2010 at 6:07 pm

        • 43.1.1.1

          Thanks, Kelly! Great explanation. by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 6:26 pm

44. 44	I often read authors I have never heard of because the blurbs sound good. Often this steers me wrong because the blurbs tell too much. Sometimes if I’m undecided I read book reviews posted on different blogs. by scooper September 3rd, 2010 at 2:29 pm

    • 44.1

      You know, I just turned in revisions on the book that actually changed the story enough to ever-so-slightly change the blurb copy…but the cover had gone to production. I don’t know if they’ll adjust it or not, but it’s just two or three words that are no longer absolutely accurate. It doesn’t really affect the story – it describes the mission as being for one reason and now it is actually for another reason – but if it doesn’t change in the final book, that three word mistake will drive me batsh** crazy for ever and ever. xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 2:40 pm

45. 45	I have found several new authors from trusted authors I really like. Also, I have found several new authors from blogs. I read around 10 books a month. by runner10 September 3rd, 2010 at 2:41 pm

    • 45.1	From author’s recommendations on their websites/facebook/twitter? Or because they gave the new author a blurb? by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 6:44 pm

46. 46

    Wow, there are a lot of comments on this post! 1.. It’s definitely the cover and it’s title that gets me to pick up the book and read the blurb, which is the hook. If I don’t need a book immeiately, I’ll remember the title and look it up for reviews before buying. I trust my sister or parents for recommendations depending on the genre. There are also a couple of blogs I visit which give descriptive reviews: Dirty Sexy Books, All Things Urban Fantasy and Bibliophilic Book Blog. I have bought a book based on a lot of good reviews on Amazon, but not by the #1 reviewer Harriet something. She just recycles the blurb most of the time. I’m not a twitter or Facebook gal. I buy about 20 books a year usually around Christmas or my birthday, trying to switch to ebooks vs. paper. I read about 300 library books a year. With a habit like that I couldn’t afford to buy so many books, even in paperback. by Anne September 3rd, 2010 at 2:46 pm

    • 46.1	That is an amazing number of books, Anne! Good thing you are a library patron. Years ago, I frequented the library so much, the librarian started to know my tastes and made some terrific recommendations. by Laura Griffin September 3rd, 2010 at 3:13 pm

47. 47

    Nice one, switching things around, Rocki. I see there have been lots of answers already. I will wade through those later. Okay, I will see what I can add to the discussion. This might sound strange to some, but when choosing to read a book by a new author, I look at title. If the title doesn’t intrigue me I won’t pick the book up initially. However, if after I have “rejected” the book and some of my trusted reader and author friends keep suggesting it I will give it a chance. I hate looking at blurbs and reading excerpts, so I stay away from them. This decision came about because I found out that reading them beforehand takes something away from the reading experience for me. I just found myself looking for the parts I read in the blurb or excerpt, which didn’t help me to stay engaged in the story. Not good!!! I would also buy books from new authors after I have built a rapport with them online or met them in person. Let me clarify here. The online connection comes about after I have bought their books and read them. Most of the times I write them, and they respond, which is major points in my book. Or I follow them on their blog and they are engaging and interact with the visitors. That shows me they care about their readers, which gives them even more points in my book. My fave authors are a given auto buys for me, and I am a glutton; I buy everything. So, if I find a new author and I love their work, I find their backlist and make sure I get all their books. (I know, I have a serious addiction. Hi, my name is Paula and I am a bibliophile. LOL!!!) I never read online reviews and I stay away from blogs that might talk too much about a book I like. I don’t mind the promo that a book is coming out, but when commenters start talking about the book itself I disappear. I have never bought a book because of reviews or recommendations by Goodread or Amazon. I haven’t bought a book by and author I met online or twitter. Though I have bought books by new to me authors because I like the sound of their name, like Tawny Weber. I loved her name, so I gave her books a try. I buy between 10 and 12 books a month. I have the must buys of the Harlequin Blazes plus the new releases or bl books from my fave authors. I hope that was helpful. Peace and love, Paula R. by Paula R. September 3rd, 2010 at 2:52 pm

    • 47.1

      I loved this response, Paula. You have confirmed my secret belief that TITLES DO MATTER in swaying interest and that an author’s name can affect your decision to buy. You don’t hear that a lot, but I think, even subliminally (although you are obviously in touch with this) readers respond to the words on the front cover: title and author. Which is why I use my maiden name and not my unpronouncable married name!! Too hard to pronounce! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 3:23 pm

      • 47.1.1

        Thanks, Rocki! Titles matter a great deal for me. Peace and love, Paula R. by Paula R. September 3rd, 2010 at 8:09 pm

48. 48

    I scout new authors by reading reviews on Amazon & Goodreads made by others of books I’ve already read & loved. I figure if they enjoyed the same book I did, taste level should be similar. I follow alot of blogs also and have found new authors by way of a great review or giveaway promotions. The most popular & influential romance blog is probably ‘Dear Author’ but I do not always agree with their grading system, they have given books I would give an “A,” a “C” and said that they would read more by said author. If I rated any book a “C” I would probably not pick up another by that author. I probably buy 5-6 NEW books a month. by Scorpio M. September 3rd, 2010 at 2:55 pm

    • 48.1	Scorpio I’m of the school of thought that giveaways do work best… I avoid reading snarky reviews and some sites that’s all they do… by Lori Armstrong September 4th, 2010 at 9:30 am

49. 49

    Hello, The main things that attract me to a new author is the cover and the back cover blurb. That is actually how I discovered Laura Griffin a few years ago. I was looking through the new release table at Borders and I noticed One Last Breath & I was intrigued by the blurb (and it was a great book!!). More recently, I will look through Amazon’s coming soon or suggestions based on another book I have purchased. This gives me a good idea of books coming out that are similar to my tastes. Lastly, I visit blogs and author websites for recommendations. One author has a blog were other readers give recommendations. I have tried book based on those recommendations because the community on that blog likes the same type of books as I do. That’s pretty much my formula. Oh, I usually buy around 4 to 8 books a month. by Jennifer D. September 3rd, 2010 at 3:17 pm

50. 50

    It is usually the synopsis on the back of the book or the inside cover. I go on Amazon and BN.com once a month to check new announcements of releases months in advance. Then I go on line to my local bookstore and place the order. I always buy my fav authors and try 3 or 4 new authors a month. I read 25-30 books a month, sometimes more. I gave up tv to afford books after the company I worked for downsized. It’s what has got me through these tough times. Romantic-suspense, mysteries, fantasy, paranormals, some biographies. I am always ready to find something new. I try most of the stuff recommended to me because I might find a new favorite author. Can’t wait for Allison Brennan’s new books featuring Lucy Kincaid. I also am starting to review books for my local bookstore so I will probably be reading even more books. Everyone keep writing cause I need the escape from the fact I can’t find a job in the economy. Next month I move to a 10 x 10 room and give up my 2 bearoom house. But as long as I can get money for books I will be happy. Regards, Dinah by Dinah September 3rd, 2010 at 3:24 pm

51. 51	p.s. That should have been bedroom not bearoom. LOL by Dinah September 3rd, 2010 at 3:28 pm

52. 52	No one replied to my post by Barbie September 3rd, 2010 at 3:50 pm

    • 52.1	You know we love you. by toni mcgee causey September 3rd, 2010 at 3:59 pm

    • 52.2	Sorry! It was brilliant! Especially the part about me. (Kidding.) Your posts are always perfect, Miss B. No sad faces! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 3:59 pm

      • 52.2.1

        words, words… by Barbie September 3rd, 2010 at 5:20 pm

        • 52.2.1.1

          I love giving recommendations like Rocki to people I know will love her! Ditto for all the other MSW authors. And your post was in the middle, I missed it the first time! by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 7:34 pm

53. 53	All of the above. But the most important thing is how I feel – Do I feel like a mystery/paranormal. the cover has to catch my eye but to buy – that is my brain. hope that makes sense. LOL by Barb K. September 3rd, 2010 at 4:58 pm

    • 53.1	It makes perfect sense…which is why most publishers work so hard on getting the right cover and why we authors are so disappointed when they don’t get it right. by Lori Armstrong September 3rd, 2010 at 6:46 pm

54. 54

    I’ll pick up a book from an unknown for a multitude of reasons. The cover is eye-catching (I’m a sucker for the visual. I’ll buy shampoo because I like the bottle design). A great blurb. I’ll peek inside and read a snippet to see if I connect with the voice. I’m not a slave to big-name authors. Being a writer myself, I’m more aware than ever of the need to support new voices in the literary market. I’m becoming more influenced by bloggers who review books. The blogger needs to be someone I identify with, i.e. sense of humor, similar tastes in reads in general. Goodreads hasn’t really swayed me, unless I notice something by a friend who has steered me toward great books in the past. When I can get a sneak peek through Amazon, I’m more apt to give an author a whirl after having a taste of their writing. I do follow a couple authors on Twitter and Facebook, and I can say I am absolutely 100% swayed to buy their books when I see they are interactive with their fans. A friendly, genuine author who is in touch with their audience is very endearing to me. I’m appreciative that they take the time to touch base with their readership, and I’ll be more apt to support their careers over those who simply cannot be bothered to take even a few moments out of their day to reach out. I probably have to average my per month book purchases as one or two a month. It can be more though if my finances decide to cooperate with me. My god, I’m verbose. by JM Kelley September 3rd, 2010 at 5:10 pm

    • 54.1

      We want verbose! That’s why we asked. I do feel very “guilty” if I haven’t posted to FB in a few days…but then I feel bad if all I have to say is “Hi, I’m here.” I love, love, love when people comment on my wall and I can talk directly to them. Great thoughts, thank you! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 5:35 pm

      • 54.1.1

        Websites like this make me curious about authors too. Just reading through and seeing all the discussion warms me to new names. I’ve not been a tremendous reader of suspense, historically, (hangs head in shame) but I was introduced to the writing of Toni a while back and eventually found MSW and now I find myself clicking on authors to peruse their stories. And finding awesome new stories I might have missed. by JM Kelley September 3rd, 2010 at 7:04 pm

55. 55

    I’m always drawn to the cover first. If it grabs my attention I’ll take it off the shelf and read the back. I’m a book junkie and live in a very small town. My book buying options are Walmart or Kmart or a small chain grocery store. I always cruise around on amazon and book depository and things always catch my eye. If it’s an author I know I’ll usually gab that book first, but I love to discover new authors. I belong to goodreads where I can monitor what my friends read and have discovered new authors on there. The blogs I mainly watch and read are Larissa’s life, book lovers inc. I’ve found a few new authors on Facebook and Twitter. The ones on Twitter actually requested me probably because of the blogs I’m registered too. If not for those requests I wouldn’t really know who they are, but I looked them up and looked up the books they have written. On Facebook the new authors I have discovered have been from other authors I am friends with and read their posts they were talking about a certain book or author. Word of mouth, or when another author I am friends with posts about a contest by another author. I’m intrigued and look it up. On avereage, I buy between 2-4 books a month. I’d buy more if I was working Being on one income and being a stay at home mom I’m limited. Kids first mom’s books second I prefer to buy my books instead of going to the library that way I have them on my bookshelf and can pick them up again whenever I want I hope this helps, thanks for caring about our input by Jolene Allcock September 3rd, 2010 at 5:19 pm

    • 55.1

      It helps a lot, Jolene, thank you. I’m so interested that authors ask to friend you based on the blogs you are registered to. I don’t even know how to find something like that out – but I’m pretty Facebook-challenged. Thanks for the thoughtful comments! xo by Roxanne St. Claire September 3rd, 2010 at 5:34 pm

      • 55.1.1

        yay, glad I can help Actually Facebook has led me to everything. That’s where I found Goodreads and have found book groups that have led me to their blogs and than that led me to their twitter. I had a author I have never heard of request me on Goodreads, I don’t know if it was because we have mutual friends, but I immediately looked her up and her books and have added several to my TB pile. I actually won a book through Larissa Ione’s site and she was promoting other authors. I won Going to Far by Jennifer Echols. Super excited because I’ve never won anything before, but a little nervous because this was my first YR book and was unsure if I would like it. Turns out I loved it and it opened my eyes to YR and I looked up more of Jennifer’s books. I just recently won a book by Dee Davis on Goodreads. This is a new author to me and I can’t wait to delve into it. I know it’s a part of a series and am prepared to look up the past books and will most likely purchase them Again, your a new author to me and a few other’s on here. This is my first time to this site I came here because of a post Toni Mcgee Causey put on her facebook ( I love your Bobbie Faye books Toni ) Once again, I am exploring new authors and plan to look up you, Roxanne and a few others by Jolene Allcock September 3rd, 2010 at 7:29 pm

56. 56

    * What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? I shop first by author, I look for new stuff by my trusted favorites. If there is nothing there, then I look at titles, does it sounds interesting? A witty title can suck me in fast. If the title sounds good, then I read the blurb and that tells me if it is worth buying or not. * Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? I don’t trust online blogs or bookseller reviews. My personal tastes are too quirky to go along with the masses. Some books that “everyone” loves were really horrible. The book itself tells me more. If the story doesn’t grab me from the blurb or synopsis, forget it. * Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? Only if the blurbs on the book sounded good too. * Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? Actually, yes. I found the “Queen of Your Own Life” book from the quotes on Facebook. Those two gals are awesome and I would definitely buy new books they put out. * On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? Let’s just say that my local Barnes and Noble has a parking spot with my name on it and leave it at that. by Deb Fett September 3rd, 2010 at 5:51 pm

    • 56.1	“Let’s just say that my local Barnes and Noble has a parking spot with my name on it and leave it at that.” Bawahahahahaha! by Allison Brennan September 3rd, 2010 at 5:59 pm

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    Hi Roxanne, -I’ll pick up a book from an unknown author if the blurb has intrigued me. -I get recommendations from author blogs and review sites like Dear Author and The Season. -Yes, I have tried a new author based on recommendations/reviews I’ve read on Amazon. -Not yet. I’m not on FB or Twitter at the moment. -I buy about 2-8 books a month. by Jane September 3rd, 2010 at 5:57 pm

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    if it’s an unknown author. I’d say the cover and title will catch my eye first. I am a sucker for the outdoory, set in a small town, person over comes the odds. So if i see a book that has a title like Montana Morning (I just made that up. BTW) I might pick up the book. But the blurb on the back will be the clincher by Laurie September 3rd, 2010 at 5:57 pm

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    â– What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source?– The book cover may make me pick it up….but the blurb is what makes me read it. â– Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why?– Definitely blogs. I love the Book Binge, and The Book Smugglers. â– Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon?– On Amazon, sure. â– Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer?– I don’t do either. â– On average, how many books do you buy a month or year?– It kinda varies. Which is vague but true by Chelsea B. September 3rd, 2010 at 6:13 pm

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    What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? — the back blurb or a recommendation from a trusted source. The “source” usually is a friend Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? –No Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer?– Online When free ebooks are offered, I read a blurb &/or excerpt, then decide whether to download the free book. If I like the book, that author makes my authors to read list On average, how many books do you buy a month or year?–I think last year I got more than 50. by chey September 3rd, 2010 at 6:19 pm

61. 61	I usually pick up a book from an unknown author if the cover captures my attention and the blurb sounds interesting. I also discover and pick up by books by unknown authors through recommendations from other book bloggers and my cousin. by Jeanette Juan September 3rd, 2010 at 7:04 pm

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    I am a Kindle junkie, so I haunt Amazon daily. The back cover copy is what sells me on a book. I do visit a number of blogs and read reviews, but I don’t let reviewers opinions sway me away from something I find tempting. I get most of my recommendations from friends. I love using Goodreads as a way to talk books with friends. I buy about 5-8 books a month. I love a nice juicy series. They set up my reading queue nicely. by Margaret September 3rd, 2010 at 8:36 pm

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    Sometimes from the back blurb or books advertised in the backs of the books by my favourite authors. Sometimes by recommendations and yes, the covers too. I buy about six new books a month and oh boy, when all my favourite authors have books coming out at the same time I really have to budget. Karen by Karen September 3rd, 2010 at 8:49 pm

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    I absolutely LOVE to read! I’ll read anything, even my paramedic text books, though I’ll never admit that to my classmates… It doesn’t take much to catch my curiosity whether it’s the cover illustration or the blurb. I’m sure several other bloggers will agree when I say reading is my escape from the humdrum of everyday life. Sometimes I’ll come across an interesting advertisements. I buy from Amazon.com a lot and they have the “also bought” list and I might pick up something else from that. Some of my friends and I will get together on lunch dates and share books also. I really enjoy fantasy and the supernatural so those books that combine the two are big on my list! I’d say on average I’ll buy and read 3-4 books a month, or one massive sized novel. by Shay September 3rd, 2010 at 9:05 pm

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    What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? I frequently pick up books recommended by friends with similar taste in books, but the back blurb and/or first few pages are really the deciding factor.  Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger?  If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? Definitely friends IRL (in real life), but sometimes I get great recommendations from online friends, too. Occasionally, I get a book because it was recommended by an author I currently read. There was a local independent used an by Sharon M. September 3rd, 2010 at 10:40 pm

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    Sorry, using my new ipad and not used to the way it handles entering comments… Answer from above: …local independent used and new book store where I could get great recommendations, but they went out of business. Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads?  On Amazon? Haven’t used Good Reads, but I like Amazon’s suggestion tool.  Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter?  If so, what attracted you to that writer? I’ve found several authors through Facebook (friends of friends) and although I’m on Twitter quite a lot and read what my ‘current’ authors Tweet, I haven’t found ‘new’ authors there. On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? On average, I buy about 5-6 books a month, more if my favorite authors all publish at the same time! I’ve read all of your books and if you’ve got some new recommended authors, I’d love to hear about them… Thanks for asking for feedback and please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help! by Sharon M. September 3rd, 2010 at 10:53 pm

67. 67	I also love book trailers and I didn’t noticed if there were any comments on whether readers selected novels from good book trailers. Just curious? by MichellekCanada September 3rd, 2010 at 10:59 pm

    • 67.1

      I enjoy book trailers too, Michelle! Some are a bit cheesy, but when they’re done right they are fabulous. I didn’t see any comments about trailers, either. I don’t know that they really work to sell books, though YA readers tend to view them a lot. (If I judge by my daughter, who has also made fan trailers!) by Allison Brennan September 4th, 2010 at 12:06 am

68. 68	I usually pick a book by a new author from the blurb. Sometimes a friend will recommend one to me, but I usually don’t go by reviews. I usually buy 6-8 books a month. by Linda Henderson September 3rd, 2010 at 11:47 pm

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    **What makes you pick up a book from an unknown author? Is it the cover, the back blurb…or must you have a recommendation from a trusted source? Is that “source” usually a friend, a bookseller, or a blogger? When I am hunting for a new book or author usually the cover has to grab me. After that, I will read the blurb and maybe even the Author’s bio. I actually picked up a book that looked interesting, and sounded interesting, but when I read the Author’s bio, it sold me on it since she was from close to me. I have now read all of the books that she has written. I have also gotten hooked on new authors from friends recommendations. I will usually scout out the books in the bookstore and then buy them on my Kindle. I actually bought a hard back book for my daughter and borrowed it to read since it is one of the authors that I read and the book was the latest in the series. I really missed having it on my Kindle! Before I bought my Kindle, if the book looked good, I would usually wait to buy it to look the author up to see if the book was in a series and if it is, I would pick the first book up that leads up to the book that I wanted to read. **If the answer is online, which blogs and review sites do you visit the most often and why? I don’t usually look at online reviews since everyone has a different opinion. If the book does not grab me without me reading reviews, it isn’t worth my time to read. **Have you ever tried a new author because a book was recommended on Good Reads? On Amazon? I did buy a book once based on A LOT of recommendations on Amazon that the book was a great read. I did not like the book at all and now will not buy anything from that author. **Have you ever found an author on line, through Facebook or Twitter? If so, what attracted you to that writer? I have only one author that I found through Facebook. I just haven’t looked for any others, although I just might after this. **On average, how many books do you buy a month or year? I bought my Kindle in March, and since that time, I have purchased at least 100 books on it. Not quite half of them are on my TBR list. Once I fin by Gerri Panos September 4th, 2010 at 1:23 am

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    A books summary must catch my attentiion. I also research the author online, visit there website if they have one. I read the first chapter excerpt online if it is there or I go to Barnes & Noble to read the first Chapter. If it doesn’t catch my interest then I don’t buy it. I also look to see if the book is a stand alone or part of a series. If I haven’t read the author’s work before then I would start at the first book of the series/trilogy. I have a list of favorite authors and I also have a book with a list of all books I currently have so I can make sure not to buy duplicates. This book also allows me to keep track of any new authors that I have read. I also take a look at the bookstores recommendations by staff memebers. When researching on line I look for reviews of the book. So it is a long process but one I do before the purchase of any book unless it is a favorite author then I just go out and by the book. by Danita Moon September 4th, 2010 at 9:43 am

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    Forgot to put that i purchase about 15 books a month. I do read books recommended by friends who read the same genre I do. I have also found authors on Facebook. Some books I buy in audio format but most of the time in hardback if it’s an author I constantly read and can’t wait for it to come out in paperback. by Danita Moon September 4th, 2010 at 9:47 am

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    Honestly? It’s pretty much all of the above. If the cover catches my eye, I will pick it up and read the blurb. If that draws me in, I might buy it. If the price is beyond my budget, I note the name and author to get my library to buy or ILL (interlibrary loan) it. Lately though, since I have discovered the legal method of stalking called “twitter” and “facebook”, I follow my favorite authors. I love all of you. I send all your links and tips and frustrations to my budding author daughter. Thanks for letting us peek at your work and lives! by Marcia Carter September 4th, 2010 at 1:06 pm

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    This is a little late to the party, but it just happened. I went to the National Book Festival site to see how the voting was going and in the current lead, by far, is Diana Gabaldon. My response, “Who is this person?” I looked her up and found out why I hadn’t heard of her. I don’t read historical fiction (well except for WOLF HALL and Ken Follett’s two books) and I like “pure Sci-Fi” Here’s the point (yeah, I know it takes me forever) I am having a struggle finding new authors who are classified as Romanic Whatever, but are writing stories I like (I know I wouldn’t like bodice rippers, Regency and books published by Harlequin). So how is a guy supposed to find these authors? I have already mentioned the cover issue. I would like to believe I am secure enough in my masculinity to read CARNAL SIN without removing the cover (another reason to own a Kindle), but covers like that aren’t going to help me find new authors. I want to try Gabaldon, but I also don’t want to waste my reading time if there is too much romance and not enough of other stuff. Since her books are a mix of genres, the Amazon reviews are all over the place, including a number of guys who called OUTLANDER a bodice ripper. I found an article in Salon by Gavin McNett titled “My “Outlander” Thing” The first part of his article describes my problem, it’s also pretty funny. So ladies, any help? Comments? Just want this testosterone poisoned person to go away? by Dudley Forster September 4th, 2010 at 3:25 pm

    • 73.1

      Hi Dudley, I read alot of books. Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series are probably one of the best book series I have ever read. I call that series EPIC. If you go to a bookstore to buy her series, you will find the books in the regular fiction section. All the book stores that I have been to never seem to put her into the Romance section. To be honest, I don’t really know what to label her books either LOL. Sci-Fi would be a stretch though. I know that she does have many male readers but majority is female. How about you try a library for the first book and if you like it, invest in the series. Just a personal note if you do go to the library, when I lend out my series to friends, I always tell them to read passed the first 2 chapters because I found them very slow. by MichellekCanada September 4th, 2010 at 8:34 pm

    • 73.2

      I haven’t read the series, but I know enough about them that I wouldn’t call them boddice rippers at all. Toni has read them and loves them. Here’s some authors you might have missed that you may like, that write lighter on the romance side but are still classified as “romance” or “Romance suspense:” Mariah Stewart (Try her DEAD series, her TRUTH series, or her MERCY STREET series first–all good.) JD Robb–this is Nora Roberts pen name for her futuristic romantic suspense. You don’t have to read from the beginning (the earlier books were a bit more slanted on the romance) — I started at #6 or 7 and have read every one since. You can start a couple back–BORN IN DEATH, ORIGIN IN DEATH, SURVIVOR IN DEATH, and INNOCENT IN DEATH are some of my faves of the series. Kay Hooper’s psychic FBI series. (some are better than others, I loved her WHISPER trilogy which was the first in the series.) by Allison Brennan September 5th, 2010 at 11:50 am

      • 73.2.1

        Thanks Allison -I put them on my TBT list (to be tried). So I think I am just a dumb guy. After I posted I decided what the hell, I’ll try a romantic suspense by Roxanne. If I had visited her website a year ago I’d of thought oops really, really, wrong turn here. So FIRST YOU RUN went on the Kindle. I was stunned, and I mean that in a very good way. I loved the story! So The Bullet Catchers went on my TBR list. My wife thought it was hysterical. Like I said. . . dumb guy. And the whole thing is Toni’s fault. If she hadn’t called me on a snarky remark about romance I made on Murderati I wouldn’t have immediately read CHARMED AND DANGEROUS, which I loved. Then I found this site referenced on Toni’s FB page and here I am. Toni – note the marketing affect of blogs and social networks. by Dudley Forster September 5th, 2010 at 5:02 pm

        • 73.2.1.1

          LOL. I called you on a snarky comment on romance? Well, damn. All I remember is that you’re a cool guy who visits us and makes smart, pithy, helpful comments. Now I’m gonna have to go figure out where the snark was. (But I’m glad I did!) by toni mcgee causey September 5th, 2010 at 7:03 pm

          • …

            Toni I went back and tried to find the comment and I couldn’t find it. I think I owe you and Allison an apology because I did find a post where I made an ignorant comment about RWA and Allison called me on it. Maybe I am on drugs or the little gray cells are malfunctioning because my Amazon download records show I bought both Prey and Charmed and Dangerous on the same day, I know I read yours first, then went to your FB page and in the “likes” is the MSW . If that is the case, it is both your faults. by Dudley Forster September 5th, 2010 at 8:54 pm

          • …	LOL. Well, we’re just glad you’re here. by toni mcgee causey September 5th, 2010 at 9:16 pm

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    I am an avid mystery fan and usually read only those or blood and guts or thriller books. In a store among myriads of books, I usually pick up a book with an intriguing cover or title if the title is big enough to stand out from everything else; then I read the blurb and possibly buy it. Sometimes a friend will recommend a book and I’ll pick it up. I don’t pay attention to suggestions on bookstore sites. I usually go there simply to read a blurb about a book I never heard of before. I do sometimes followup on suggestions when researching an author on Fantastic Fiction. I never use/look at Twitter or Facebook–as a solitary person I find these places annoying. I’d rather have humans around me than faceless people who say they are friends and who have no idea who I am. As for how many books do I buy–at least 40 a year, probably more. I am, by the way, a poet. by Carol Menchu September 4th, 2010 at 3:39 pm

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    The last 2 new to be books/authors I bought 1st because of the cover and secondly becasue I happened to skim the story and happened upon a passage that in both instances hooked me. Considering both books were paranormal and not my usual reading choice…that says alot by Judi L September 4th, 2010 at 4:08 pm

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    One of my favorite review sites is All About Romance. I have found that I often agree with their reviewers about different books that I have read so I will check out their reviews periodically. There are some websites, like this one, that highlight the authors current books and also have guest authors and I will read about these new stories and if the plot is appealing and I like the excerpt I will look for it next time I go to the store. Before this crazy summer I read about 6 to 8 books a month and hope to start reading more once our household is calm again. by Maureen September 4th, 2010 at 4:23 pm

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    I am posting this on Monday, so a couple of days after our great Friday — but we wanted to say thank you to each and every one of your who participated in this. We apologize if we didn’t get to your answer specifically, but it was a crazy day! And we’ve all gone back and re-read, so your voice was definitely heard and appreciated. by toni mcgee causey September 6th, 2010 at 3:14 pm