How to Promote your Fantasy Novel from Isis Sousa

When a young author’s debut novel has four and a half stars based on 22 customer reviews you take notice. Such is the case with Isis Sousa’s Night of Elisa, an illustrated dark fantasy novel that freely mixes elements of comic books, fantasy fiction, and film. Her print books (done with Blurb) are visually stunning, transcending the realm of traditional fiction. (In the interest of full disclosure, she uses different self-publishing platforms for different purposes). Sousa is not just writer but also graphic designer, illustrator, and—as we learned—publicist and marketer for her own imprint, Tragic Books.

We interviewed Sousa via email, not phone as she lives in a remote region of Norway where the phone service is spotty. Internet is OK. Perhaps this is what lets her imagination run wild.

Yet, as much as Sousa’s writing lives in the world of fantasy, her self-publishing philosophy is down to earth. She utilizes online communities, like Goodreads, to both hone her work and advertise her books.

What were your biggest challenges in self-publishing?

“My biggest challenges were everything. I knew nothing about publishing and learned what I know by failing forward, not giving up, and by believing in myself.”

As an unknown author, how did you get your book out there?

“I offered the book as a giveaway on platforms such as Goodreads, BookLikes, and LibraryThing, a few times. I booked a couple of Blog Tours and had small, affordable ads with niche blogs and websites, where I knew potential readers of Gothic and Dark Fiction would be hanging around. These actions generated buzz, awareness, and some sales. Go where the readers are, know thy readership! These are important for any author or publisher.”

How did you ensure your self-published book would be as successful as it could be?

“The book cover charmed the readers. Plus, most people who read the book liked the story. These have been of my biggest assets. And it is true for any book out there as well. Having the book professionally edited and proofed was part of the’ mandatory’ package.”

“And I wanted them to be able to purchase the title on the shop of their choice. Having it in global distribution was extremely important.”

Why is format so important?

“I wanted to give the best reading experience to the readers of The Night of Elisa, so I gave them the book in multiple formats such as paperback, hardcover, pocket book, and e-book. And I wanted them to be able to purchase the title on the shop of their choice. Having it in global distribution was extremely important.”

Final thoughts?

“Whichever degree of success The Night of Elisa has had or will have, it is due to those who have worked with me and supported my work along the way. It is due to the great platforms (such as Blurb) out there making it possible for indie authors and artists to publish and market their dream-works.”

Isis Sousa could teach a course on self-publishing promotion, but you’ve probably got tips on promotion too. Let us know in the comments below.