Publishing a book is an incredible accomplishment, but getting it into readers’ hands is a whole different challenge. When you are starting out, it might feel like you are shouting into the void. Building your first 100 readers is one of the most important milestones you will ever reach as an author. Those first readers form the foundation of your fanbase, your early reviewers, and your word-of-mouth champions. In this guide, you will learn how to attract your first real audience — even if you have no platform, no email list, and no prior experience.
Step 1: Define Your Ideal Reader Before you start promoting your book, it is critical to know who you are trying to reach. Think about the people who will love your story or benefit from your information.
- What genres do they read?
- How old are they?
- Where do they hang out online?
- What problems do they want solved, or what kinds of stories excite them?
If you try to market to “everyone,” you end up reaching no one. Focus your efforts on the specific group of readers who are most likely to become fans.
Step 2: Set Up an Email List Early Even if you only have a few people on your list at first, start building it from day one. Your email list will become your most valuable asset. You own it. Social media algorithms can change overnight, but a strong email list is something you can control.
To entice people to sign up, offer a “reader magnet” — a free gift in exchange for their email address. This could be:
- A free novella or prequel story
- A sample chapter
- A printable checklist or guide related to your nonfiction topic
- Exclusive bonus content
There are free tools like MailerLite or AWeber that make setting up an email signup form easy. Link to your signup form in your book, on your website, and across your social media profiles.
Step 3: Connect with Readers Where They Already Are You do not have to reinvent the wheel. Readers are already gathering in Facebook groups, Reddit communities, Goodreads groups, and niche forums. Find the communities that fit your genre or subject matter and participate as a genuine member.
Do not just drop your book link and leave. Spend time engaging with other people’s posts, contributing to discussions, and becoming a recognized voice. When you do mention your book, it will feel natural and welcomed.
A few places to consider:
- Facebook reader groups by genre (“Cozy Mystery Lovers,” “Romance Book Club,” etc.)
- Reddit communities like r/books, r/selfpublish, or genre-specific subs
- Goodreads groups for your genre
Step 4: Give Away Free Copies (Strategically) Giving away free books might seem counterintuitive, but it is a proven way to kickstart your readership. The key is to give them away strategically to the right people.
Consider offering:
- Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) in exchange for honest reviews
- Giveaway contests on social media
- Free promotions on your own website or through reader magnets
The goal is to create buzz, gather early reviews, and get people talking about your book. Services like StoryOrigin and BookFunnel can help you deliver ebooks securely to readers.
Step 5: Engage with Every Reader Personally When you are starting out, every single reader matters. If someone leaves a comment, a review, or sends you a message, take the time to respond personally. A simple thank-you note can turn a casual reader into a lifelong fan.
You might even surprise early readers with a bonus short story or a handwritten thank-you email. Those small gestures go a long way in building loyalty.
Step 6: Build a Basic Author Website Having a central “home” on the internet where readers can find you is important. Your website does not need to be fancy, but it should include:
- Your bio
- Information about your books
- A link to join your email list
- A way for readers to contact you
Sites like WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix offer easy templates you can customize without needing coding skills.
Step 7: Be Consistent and Patient Building a readership is not a sprint. It is a marathon. Consistency matters. Posting regularly on your blog, sending occasional emails, and staying active in your communities will pay off over time.
Celebrate small wins: your first email subscriber, your first blog comment, your first Amazon review. Each milestone is a sign that your audience is growing.
Reaching your first 100 readers is not about luck. It is about showing up, serving your audience, and building real relationships. Once you have that foundation, everything else becomes easier. Marketing, launches, and future book sales all start with those first true fans.
Focus on helping, connecting, and being present. Your readers are out there. With a little patience and a lot of heart, you will find them. See more helpful tips on on Ebook Promotion Tips page.