Intro
Book Hooks: A Fun Guide to Stories That Sells Stories
Presented by Tom Powell, The Addison Group
Why Marketing Matters for Writers
Target Audience need to find and connect with your work.
Establish your brand
Grow your audience
Increase book sales.
Make the reader the hero of your story.
Narrative Selling
A framework to clarify your story’s message.
Positions your reader as the hero and you, the author, as the guide.
Focus on clear messaging that leads to action.
Narrative Selling Framework
Character – Your reader has a problem.
Problem – Identify their external, internal, and philosophical struggles.
Guide – You, the author, are the trusted guide.
Plan – Show them the steps to solve their problem.
Call to Action – Make it easy for them to engage (buy your book, sign up, etc.).
Success – Paint a picture of a better, more fun future.
Failure – Show what happens if your targeted reader doesn’t act.
Narrative Selling on Your Website
Clear, compelling, concise and creative homepage messaging.
A tagline that speaks to your audience’s desires ("Escape into worlds of adventure and romance").
A simple call to action like "Get My Book" or "Join My Reader Community".
An email sign-up with a compelling lead magnet (free chapter, exclusive short story, etc.).
Optimize Email Campaigns
Welcome – Introduce yourself, your books, and why they’ll love being on your list.
Nurture – Share behind-the-scenes insights, bonus content, and personal stories.
Launch – Use Narrative Selling when announcing your new book.
Engagement – Send consistent updates with value-driven content (not just sales).
Narrative Selling on Social Media
Make it about the reader – How will your book entertain, inspire, or transform them?
Use clear Call to Actions – "Click the link to start reading today!"
Behind-the-scenes content – Writing journey, character insights, book inspirations.
Engagement-focused posts – Ask questions, share snippets, and encourage interaction.
Example of a Narrative Selling Post
Before: "My new fantasy novel is out now!"
After: "Looking for an escape into a world of adventure? Meet the fierce warrior who must battle against an undefeaated foe to save her kingdom. Click here to journey with her."
Get Started
Define your audience and their core problem.
Craft a clear message positioning yourself as their guide.
Revamp your website, emails, and social media for Narrative Selling.
Stay consistent and keep refining your messaging based on audience feedback.
Final Thoughts/Q&A
Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming—Narrative Selling makes it simple.
Focus on your reader’s journey, and they’ll be eager to follow.
Questions?