Empowering Black and Brown Authors: Rise2Write Monthly Newsletter - October Edition

I have to confess: it saddens me to see Black and Brown authors dedicate months, years, or even decades to writing their books. Yet, their self-promotion and excitement often fade within just 30 to 45 days. This ongoing issue within the Black literacy community needs our attention. Raising awareness can promote understanding and encourage positive change. As a publisher, I witness the initial excitement and passion that aspiring authors feel when they are ready to publish their work. However, I also notice fear and self-doubt creeping in as the release date approaches.

The enthusiasm often returns after the book is published and their physical author copy is in their hands. Yet, after 3 to 6 months, that zeal fades. Sometimes, it seems the author forgets they are now published. Their social media profiles may show no mention of their book, no recent updates, or thoughts about their work, giving no sign that they are authors. As an independent publisher committed to amplifying Black and Brown writers, I speak from my experience working with these authors. It makes me wonder: Why aren't we doing more to promote our books after publication?

The Importance of Marketing Your Book

Writing and publishing your book is one of the most significant ways to leave a lasting legacy. It’s entrepreneurship and legacy-building with a lifetime of residual earning potential. How much cooler can that get? To get paid for a lifetime for your words! These are your words. You’ve poured your heart into your book. Why not SHOUT about it from the mountaintop? You have earned the right to!

As I took the time to reflect on my experiences, I recognized that one of the scariest challenges for many Black authors is MARKETING. The fear of putting ourselves out there and facing rejection or lack of reciprocation can feel overwhelming.

When it's time to market our books, we often live in our heads and worry. We might ask ourselves:

• What if no one buys my book?

• What if I sound too pushy?

• What if I lose followers for promoting?

• What if I fail in public?

• What if my book isn’t as good as I think?

  
  

This is What Causes Fear!

Many of us feel hesitant about marketing because it sometimes seems more like bragging than sharing a story. Let’s remember, marketing is all about connecting with others and telling your authentic story. Your Book is your Brand = Your Story!

Here are the Common Causes of Fear When Marketing Your Book:

• Fear of rejection or judgment.

• Hesitance to appear “salesy.”

• Limited marketing knowledge.

• Imposter syndrome (“Who will read my book?”).

• Feeling overwhelmed by social media or technology.

  
  

Marketing fear often stems from self-doubt, a fear of rejection, and a lack of clarity about how to promote authentically. The publishing industry hasn’t always created safe spaces for Black voices, which can amplify these fears. I am here to remind you that your story matters, and the world needs it.

Signs You Might Be Afraid to Promote Your Book

• You keep delaying your book launch or promotional posts.

• You rely only on family and friends instead of reaching a broader audience.

• You feel discouraged if you post and no one likes it.

• You feel anxious about sharing your book online.

• You tell yourself, “I’ll promote it later.”

• You’re afraid of being perceived as too salesy.

• You rarely share about your book online.

• You hesitate to discuss it publicly.

• You rely entirely on word-of-mouth recommendations.

• You feel anxious about book signings and increasing your visibility.

• You focus more on writing your next book than promoting the one you have now.

  
  

If this sounds familiar, trust me… you're not alone. Many authors experience these feelings, but remember, it’s completely possible to overcome them and keep moving forward.

Now, Let’s Explore Ways to Break This Cycle of Fear!

How to Overcome the Fear of Marketing Your Book

1. Renew Your Mindset on Marketing.

   First things first, we must renew our mindsets! Remind yourself who you are! You are a published author with an amazing story that will impact millions of people around the world. Own it! You worked hard, and your voice deserves to be in print and heard!

   
   

   Marketing isn’t bragging; it’s storytelling. It’s important to think of it this way. You’re inviting readers into an experience, not selling them something. You’re giving people the gift of your story—the story that you worked hard on writing and spent many sleepless nights putting together.

   
   

2. Begin with Small Steps and Gradually Gain Momentum.

   Start by sharing one post a week about your book journey or why you wrote it. Consistency builds confidence. Persistence builds your brand: one post, one email, one conversation at a time.

   
   

3. Picture Your Success and Feel Inspired!

   Visualization transforms fear into motivation. Manifest your success! Imagine your book in readers’ hands, on shelves, being shared worldwide, online, and more.

   
   

4. Discover Your True Voice.

   Don’t imitate others. Speak in a way that feels natural to you. Stay true to yourself and your audience. Focus on building authentic relationships with readers instead of merely making sales. Ask questions, reply to comments, and share stories. Prioritize creating genuine connections over just transactions.

   
   

5. Remember Your “WHY.”

   Always remember your “Why.” I like to ask my authors this question at the beginning of the publishing process. It sets the foundation for the days you don't feel as confident and want to quit. When fear surfaces, remind yourself of the message or healing your book provides. You wrote your book to leave a lasting impact on lives. Marketing is how you share that impact. Your purpose is bigger than your fear.

   
   

6. Begin Marketing on Social Media Platforms You're Comfortable With.

   Start by sharing in smaller writing groups or author communities on social media platforms that you are familiar with before going entirely public on various platforms, such as Instagram, X, Lemon 8, LinkedIn, etc. Check out our "List Guide to Promotional Facebook Groups" to promote into 190 Facebook Groups.

   
   

7. Your Book Isn’t for Everyone—“No” is Just a Redirection.

   Not everyone will want to read your book, and that is okay. Timing is everything! Consider “No” as a gentle redirect rather than a rejection. It’s a way to guide the conversation toward more positive or productive directions, making interactions feel more supportive and encouraging. Every rejection is feedback, not failure. Use it to strengthen your approach. Do not throw in the towel after receiving a “No”; continue marketing and allow curiosity about your book to build naturally.

   
   

8. Collaborate and Partner with Other Authors & Influencers.

   Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! This is your story, and only you can tell it how it needs to be told! Join marketing collaborations, podcast swaps, or joint giveaways. Shared promotion = shared courage. Courage grows in community.

   
   

9. Create a Marketing Routine.

   Staying disciplined with your marketing plan can make a big difference! Try breaking it down into small, manageable daily or weekly tasks, like “Monday = Post” and “Wednesday = Engage.” Having a clear structure helps keep things from feeling overwhelming. Remember to schedule just one marketing task each day. By the way, if you didn’t know before, you can also schedule your social media posts in advance! It all comes down to creating a routine that works for you.

   
   

10. Celebrate Every Step.

Every small step you take, whether it's a new post, a sale, or gaining a new follower, is a wonderful achievement. Remember to celebrate your progress, not chase perfection. You are an author forever and sell books in your sleep! Let’s maintain the momentum and concentrate on helping you reach your book sales targets.

10 Fear-Free Ways to Promote Your Book

Here are 10 simple, authentic ways to promote without pressure:

1. Create Your Own Podcast or Become a Guest on Podcasts.

   Create your own podcast that centers around your book, and consider joining other podcast shows to help spread the word about your work. Share your author journey or the heartfelt message behind your book. Both options are excellent ways to engage with others and motivate your audience.

   
   

2. Create Short-Form Videos, Engage on Threads, TikTok, or LinkedIn.

   Join trending conversations about writing or your book’s theme. Use reels or TikToks to share fun or emotional behind-the-scenes stories. Add trendy music to align with the algorithm for increased awareness and views.

   
   

3. Start a Blog or Newsletter.

   Share helpful writing tips, personal insights, or related stories to connect warmly with your audience and encourage their loyalty.

   
   

4. Host Virtual Book Readings.

   Stream on Instagram Live, Zoom, or YouTube to create an intimate, low-pressure, compelling, and authentic experience for your audience.

   
   

5. Collaborate with Book Clubs and Book Influencers.

   Think about offering discussion guides, virtual Q&As, or signed copies to make the experience more special and enjoyable for everyone involved!

   
   

6. Join Black Author Communities Online and Introduce Your Work.

   There's always more to learn when it comes to promoting your book. Find joy in joining Black author communities and sharing ideas. Remember, it's wonderful to be open to learning from others and to share your work with pride.

   
   

7. Use Pinterest or Canva for Visual Quotes.

   If you haven't already created accounts on Canva and Pinterest, start by doing so. Create engaging quote graphics or story teasers that flow smoothly and capture your audience's attention. We are all visual beings. Develop a branding logo and color scheme to help your author brand stand out.

   
   

8. Share Reader Reviews or Testimonials.

   Turn reviews into graphics and share them on social media. Using Canva, you can create the graphics. Let your audience speak for you! Always share, repost screenshots, and quotes.

   
   

9. Offer Free Resources or Books.

   Consider offering a free book or some engaging journal prompts related to your book. It’s a great way to connect with your audience and spark their interest! It also helps boost reviews and improves your algorithm with online book distributors.

   
   

10. Host Free Signed Book Copies Giveaways or Book Challenges.

Encourage readers to share their thoughts about your book for a chance to win fun merchandise, a virtual one-on-one session, or a signed copy.

Resources for Fear-Free Marketing

Book Marketing Tools:

• BookBub Partners – for promotions and ads.

• Canva – for social graphics, trailers, and posts.

• Later.com – for easy social media scheduling.

  
  

The marketing process shouldn't be grievous; it should be exciting and enlightening! Marketing your book is not just about sales! It’s about visibility, influence, and legacy. When Black authors overcome fear and share their voices, we inspire the next generation of storytellers and shift the cultural narrative. At Rise2Write Publishing, we exist to help you step into that confidence, break barriers, and rise with your words.

You didn’t write your story to hide it! You wrote it to heal, inspire, and transform. Marketing your book is an act of courage, not self-promotion. Your words are light! Let them be seen.

RISE2WRITE’S NEW OCTOBER RELEASES:

🔥📕 “From Silence to SoulFire: A Mother’s Truth. A Soul’s Legacy” by Tamara Scott

In From Silence to SoulFire, Author Tamara Scott shares a raw and unflinching memoir of resilience, healing, and transformation. From the quiet pain of childhood to the trials of early motherhood, heartbreak, and survival, she takes you on a journey through fire and shows how faith, courage, and choice can forge an unshakable soul.

Order 📍*https://a.co/d/6tnkKoe    *

📕 “Spirit of My Ancestors: A Black Woman Doctor’s Truth” by Dr. Opeyemi Parham

A Black-American woman became the first doctor in her family, but what did she gain and what did she lose along the way? This memoir raises questions regarding the values we cultivate to be “successful” and asks the reader to review their own life path and choices.

Order 📍 *www.opeyemiparham.com/connect

RISE2WRITE’S UPCOMING RELEASES:

✨📗 “Unleashing Empowerment and Resilience: A Proven Framework for Healing, Strength, and Lasting Legacy” by Dr. Lila Elliott

Born from Dr. Lila’s 19 years of frontline work and her groundbreaking doctoral capstone, this book delivers the Empowerment and Resilience Framework (ERF), a proven, research-backed blueprint blending Black Feminist Theory, Trauma-Informed Care Theory, and Academic Resilience Theory to heal trauma, shatter barriers, and ignite your inner fire.

Order 📍*https://a.co/d/eYE7jnG

👉🏾 Launch Your Book: An 8-Module Course with Rise2Write from Manuscript to Market

This course, Launch Your Book, is self-paced and designed to guide writers like you through each step, from the initial spark of an idea to the intentional publishing and marketing of your book. You will gain access to a wide range of resources, including videos, audio files, checklists, strategies, templates, and essential guidance for confident and intentional self-publishing. The program offers unlimited access to all materials. Additionally, the course includes a personalized Book Strategy Call, an ACX Audiobook Masterclass, and many more benefits.

You don’t have to be a bestselling author to begin. You just need to start!

SAVE 10% on the “Launch Your Book” Course using Code: SAVE10

🚨Bundle & Save! Now Offering Self-Publishing Course w/ 4-Author Coaching Sessions🚨

Are you ready to confidently publish your book?

📚 CLICK HERE to learn more and enroll

or

Prefer Full-service, Streamlined Publishing:📚 CLICK HERE to Explore Rise2Write’s Publishing Services

If you’re interested in learning more about collaborating with Rise2Write to achieve your publishing aspirations, you can book a consultation using this link: calendly.com/rise2write

Thanks for reading Rise2Write! This post is public, so feel free to share it.

Share

Rise2Write Publishing LLC is a full-service, Black-owned indie publishing company that empowers minorities to become published authors. We offer comprehensive book publishing services that guide clients through the entire journey from inception to publication. Specializing in nonfiction, fiction, children’s books, and more, we ensure a seamless and high-quality publishing experience.

✅ Share this newsletter with aspiring writers

✅ Follow @Rise2Write on all platforms

✅ Invest in Black authors—buy, review, and recommend their books

✅ Partner with us to bring more diverse stories to life

Together, we rise. Together, we write.

Thank you for reading! Happy Writing!

Blessings,

Rise2Write Publishing LLC

Follow us on social media for more tips, inspiration, and updates:

instagram.com/rise2write_

facebook.com/rise2write

rise2write.com

Digital Store: rise2write.vip