How to Generate Book Sales with Your Excerpt

Your book excerpt isn't simply a free sample. Used correctly, it can become one of your best book-selling tools.

The goal is simple: give readers enough of your story that they need to know what happens next.

Choose the Right Section

Don't automatically use the first chapter. Select a section that introduces an intriguing character, conflict, mystery, romance, or unanswered question.

Whenever possible, end the excerpt at a moment that makes stopping difficult.

Turn It Into Social Content

One excerpt can provide weeks of posts. Pull out compelling sentences, short scenes, character introductions, or intriguing questions.

Instead of posting “Buy my book,” share a taste of the story followed by:

Want to keep reading? Discover the complete book here: [LINK]

Give the Excerpt Away

Offer your excerpt as a free download through your website, social media, email newsletter, QR code, or at events.

You're allowing someone to try before they buy.

Add a Strong Call to Action

Never let the excerpt simply end.

The final page should include:

Book coverShort descriptionWhere to purchaseQR code or ordering linkAuthor coupon code

Make purchasing the full book the obvious next step.

Ask Others to Share It

Send your excerpt to friends, readers, local businesses, book clubs, bloggers, and social followers and encourage them to pass it along.

Your excerpt doesn't have to sell everyone.

It only needs to find one more reader who can't stop reading.

Give them the beginning. Make them want the ending.