A book’s success doesn’t start on publication day—a book launch begins 6 months in advance with strategic planning, audience engagement, and review collection. Whether you’re an emerging author or an established writer, following a structured book launch timeline is crucial for maximizing sales, building momentum, and securing lasting impact.
6 Months Before Publication: Laying the Groundwork
Your book launch journey begins long before your book hits the shelves. The key to success is building excitement and visibility early. Here’s what you should start doing six months out:
Reveal Your Cover
A striking book cover is a powerful marketing tool. Start showcasing it across social media, your website, and in conversations.
Talk About the Book Everywhere
Online, in person, on social media, in newsletters—anywhere you can create buzz. Build anticipation with sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes stories, and teasers about your book’s message.
Establish a Social Media Presence
Consistency is key. Engage with your audience regularly, start discussions related to your book’s themes, and grow your following.
Launch a Podcast or Guest on Podcasts
A podcast can position you as an authority in your field, while guest appearances help introduce you to new audiences.
Share Videos
Post short clips of yourself discussing the book’s journey, interviews with people who’ve read it, and testimonials from early readers.
Distribute Advance Reader Copies (ARCs)
Send ARCs to beta readers, influencers, and book bloggers who can help spread the word.
Recruit a Review Team
Collect commitments from readers who will leave honest Amazon reviews on book launch day. Unknown authors should aim for 1,000+ committed readers to generate 300+ reviews in the first 30 days. Established authors should target 3,000 commitments for 1,000+ reviews in the same period.
Plan a Speaking Tour
Schedule speaking engagements, book signings, and virtual events to build hype before and after the book launch.
60 Days Before Publication: Building Presale Momentum
This is when things start getting serious. Your goal is to convert interest into pre-sales while continuing to build excitement.
- Book Launch Pre-Sales: Many platforms allow pre-orders, so encourage your audience to reserve their copy.
- Actively Promote Pre-Sales: Email lists, social media, and networking all play a role in driving early purchases.
- Encourage Review Commitments: Remind your review team that reviews can only be left once the book is officially released.
- Continue Speaking and Outreach Efforts: Keep spreading the word through interviews, guest blog posts, and networking.
30 Days Before Publication: Review Collection and Final Hype
At this stage, your focus is on securing as many committed Amazon reviews as possible.
- Confirm Review Commitments: Ask your review team to submit written confirmations that they will post a review on book launch day.
- Share a PDF Sample: Give potential reviewers a taste of your book so they can begin formulating their reviews.
- Provide Easy, Copy-Paste Review Prompts: Make it simple for people to leave thoughtful reviews by offering them structured suggestions.
3 Days Before Publication: The Final Countdown
- Celebrate Publication Week: Start the countdown on social media and get your audience excited.
- Book Launch Review Day Plans: Remind your review team that their role is crucial in boosting credibility.
Publication Day: The Big Event
- Go Live: Celebrate the official release across all platforms.
- Remind, Request, and Reward Reviews: Encourage everyone to leave an Amazon review by emphasizing its importance. Consider offering incentives like bonus content or giveaways.
- Host a Virtual Book Launch Party: Engage with your audience in real time through a live event, Q&A session, or special giveaway.
Post-Publication: The 90-Day Review Blitz
The work doesn’t stop on the book launch day. Consistency in following up with readers and reviewers ensures long-term success.
Weeks 1-4 After Publication:
- Personally follow up with your review team to confirm reviews.
- Host online review parties and giveaways.
- Publicly thank everyone who leaves a review.
Months 2 & 3 After Publication:
- Continue one-on-one follow-ups.
- Encourage late reviewers to submit their feedback.
- Keep the momentum going with special promotions and book discussions.
Why Reviews Matter and How You Can Maximize Them
Amazon’s algorithm favors books with early, consistent, and high-volume reviews. The more reviews your book has, the higher its visibility in search results, leading to more organic sales.
Pro tip: If a reader loves your book but forgets to review it, a simple follow-up message can make all the difference.
Following this timeline with dedication and persistence will set your book up for long-term success. Start early, engage consistently, and keep the momentum going beyond launch day!
Thanks for Reading!
We’re so glad you took the time to explore this blog on Spirit Media. Our mission is to share valuable insights, inspire change, and foster meaningful connections through storytelling. Stay tuned for more posts, and feel free to reach out—let’s keep the conversation going!
