Surviving Slow Sales Months as an Indie Author
Running a spicy romance book business is a passion, but like any business, sales can be unpredictable. As an indie author, I’ve noticed that certain months are slower than others—especially right after big seasonal sales. This year, I’m feeling the impact of the slow sales season, and it’s tough, both financially and emotionally (Yes, I cried).
Beyond just the numbers, this slowdown affects my daily life. As a mom to an 8-year-old autistic son, every sale counts. Writing allows me to support him, be present for him, and create a life where I can balance work and caregiving. But when book sales dip, it creates added stress, not just on my business but on my ability to plan ahead for him and our future.
Why Do Book Sales Drop?
Book sales tend to fluctuate based on:
Post-Holiday Lulls – After big sales events like Black Friday and Valentine’s Day, readers may hold off on buying more books.
Back-to-School & Life Shifts – When routines change (like in September or March), entertainment spending often slows down.
Market Saturation – The romance genre is booming, but reaching the right readers is always a challenge.
How I Plan to Fight Against Slow Sales
I’m not giving up. Instead, I’m shifting my strategy to fight back against the slump and reach more of my ideal readers. Here’s my plan:
More Targeted Social Media Ads – I’m revamping my ad strategy to connect with the readers who love steamy, unforgettable romances. This means testing new ad copy, audiences, and visuals.
Consistent Social Media Promotion – I’ll be sharing more book snippets, spicy chapter teases, and behind-the-scenes writing updates to keep my audience engaged.
Email Marketing & Deals – I plan to offer exclusive discounts and book bundles to keep my loyal readers excited. If you’re not on my newsletter yet, now is the perfect time to join!
Exploring New Sales Channels – I’m considering new platforms for selling my books and expanding my reach beyond my website.
Finding the Right Readers
At the end of the day, the key to overcoming slow months is finding the right readers—the ones who crave the kind of spicy, emotionally charged romance I write. I believe they’re out there, and with persistence, I’ll connect with them.
If you’re a fellow indie author struggling with slow sales, know that you’re not alone. And if you’re a reader who loves steamy romance, your support means the world to me. Every purchase, every review, and every share helps indie authors like me keep doing what we love.
Thank you and happy reading!
