Hello Authors,
One of the biggest mistakes authors make is this:
They treat their older books like they’re out of stock.
Promoted once.
Shared during launch.
Then quietly moved aside for the next project.
But your backlist?
It’s not an archive.
It’s an asset.
And if you use it correctly, it can continue bringing in readers and sales long after your launch is over.
Let’s talk about how to make that happen.
1. Repackaging Older Books
Your book doesn’t have to change…
…but how you present it can.
You can reposition your book by:
- Highlighting different tropes
- Changing the angle of your messaging
- Updating your visuals or graphics
- Focusing on a different type of reader
Same book. New entry point.
Why it matters:
New readers haven’t seen your book before—so every introduction can feel fresh.
Last year I repackaged Building Online Relationships for its 10-year anniversary. I wished I’d done it for its 5-year anniversary because it was introduced to new readers and received a huge bump in sales.
2. Series Funnel Thinking
If you have more than one book, you don’t just have books…
You have a funnel.
Your goal is to guide readers from:
Book 1 → Book 2 → Book 3
That means:
- Promoting your entry-point book more often
- Making it easy to continue the series
- Reminding readers what comes next
Why it matters:
One reader can become multiple sales when you guide them through your books.
I definitely believe Book 2 will sell Book1 because most readers want to see what they missed in the first book.
3. Entry-Point Book Strategy
Every author needs a “start here” book.
This is the book you promote the most because it introduces readers to your world.
Ask yourself:
Which book is easiest to say yes to?
That becomes your entry point.
Why it matters:
Clarity makes it easier for readers to start—and starting leads to more reading.
Most readers who don’t know your work will ask which book they should read first. Which one will you choose for them?
4. Kindle Unlimited Leverage
Since you’re testing Kindle Unlimited (KU), your strategy shifts slightly.
Instead of focusing only on sales, think:
“How do I get readers to start reading?”
Focus on:
- Hooks that pull readers in
- Binge-worthy storytelling
- Encouraging read-through across your series
Why it matters:
In KU, the more they read, the more you earn.
KU is the place where readers take a chance on your books. Let them know about your older books inside the platform.
How This Supports Your Readership
• Repackaging keeps your books visible
• Funnels increase read-through
• Entry points simplify discovery
• KU rewards reader engagement
Your backlist is not something you leave behind.
It’s something you build on.
Action Steps
1. Choose Your Entry-Point Book
Decide which book new readers should start with
2. Create One New Angle for an Older Book
Rewrite how you talk about it (trope, theme, reader type)
3. Map Your Reader Flow
What book should they read next? Make that clear
See you on the net,
LaShaunda Hoffman
P.S.
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Are you utilizing your backlist to reach new readers?
