Results from my Bookbub deal for The Lost Sentinel

Last week I had a BookBub deal for The Lost Sentinel. Sales were not as high as I expected, but still more than I could ever have reached alone.

If you’re thinking of BookBub as a viable marketing strategy, here are my results. Please note – this is book 1 in a completed trilogy. I reduced books 1 and 2 down to 99p each and left book 3 at full price.

I’ve sold over 500 books in April. This is a BIG deal to me! That equates to 349 new readers for The Lost Sentinel, 96 picked up book 2 at the discounted rate and 55 bought book 3 at full price. Plus a couple of other books were sold not relating to the Silent Sea Chronicles series. 11 Audiobooks were also purchased, which is a nice little bonus that I forgot about.

My pages read figure in KENP is higher than its been in a long time, and is rising every day. I hope these readers find book 1 compelling enough to move straight onto later books in the series.

I have only gained 3 new ratings on GR and no new reviews. That is a disappointment but maybe more will trickle in over time. It did only run last week so I can’t expect too much too soon.

I was excited to reach number #7 in the kindle chart in Canada, though it would have been great to reach the No. 1 bestseller slot as I did with the previous BookBub deal.

My final thoughts;

I would recommend Bookbub deals to authors if they can afford to run them, and are lucky enough to be selected (which is very hard!). I will try again when I release a new series, but only once I have several books that the readers can pick up to really make the most of the promo. Other email subscription sites like Book Barbarian seem to have run their course for The Lost Sentinel – I think the readers have all seen it before, or these email ad sites are just not as effective as they used to be.

What are your experiences with running ads like Book Barbarian and Book Cave? Do you still buy books this way? Have you run the email subscription ads and seen good results, or no real change in your sales?

Please share you thoughts on reaching new readers. Or if you’re a reader rather than an author how do you discover new books?

Until next time…

BookBub deal for The Lost Sentinel #fantasy #bookdeal

Yesterday I was lucky enough to bag a BookBub deal for the UK, US, Canada and Australia.

The link to the ad will still be live for a few days, and you can follow me on bookbub too. The Lost Sentinel bookbub deal. They ran with the hook line;

“On an island where those with magic are exiled, a tailor’s daughter must hide her abilities — and find the one who will help save their home. This spellbinding novel kicks off an action-packed fantasy trilogy!”

At my last check this morning I’ve sold in the US, UK, Canada and Australia

The Lost Sentinel sold 244 KENP 450

The Sentinel’s Reign Sold 73

The Sentinel’s Alliance Sold 44

Book rankings 7 in CA store for Sword and Sorcery

45 in US store for Action and Adventure fantasy.

And in the top 100 in the UK ,US and Canada.

I’ll keep you posted on the stats at the end of the month. It’s good to have a written record of how these ads perform as a way to judge whether they still have an impact. And maybe my data will help you decide if it’s worth paying the big money for ads in the future. It all depends on your goals – mine is to re-spark an interest in an older series and show off the new cover and blurb.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed and wait to see what has happened by the end of April.

If you’d like to help, the book will be on sale until 28th April. Any shares of my posts and sales will help give the rankings a boost.

The Lost Sentinel universal link

And with book 2 also at 99p, the complete series is available for under £6.00.

Thanks for reading and following my author journey. If you have any advice or wisdom to share please do. Or if you are just starting out and want to talk things through, don’t be shy in asking for help.

The Lost Sentinel has a new look! #fantasy #epicfantasy

I’m really excited to share the facelift book 1 in the Silent Sea Chronicles has gone through, which includes a new cover and blurb.

I’ve always loved the cover which depicts a figure walking through the astral plane, but it’s never stood out as much as the covers for books 2 and 3. I’m really pleased with the transformation. What do you think?

I especially love the look of them all together and feel the series looks like it belongs together now.

The blurb is also updated to focus on the three main storylines that run through the series.

New Blurb

The magical island of Kalaya is dying, and it falls to Tei, an exiled mystic, to save it.
But with Kalaya’s corrupt Assembly attempting to eradicate magic, can Tei help the exiles restore the island’s power before it’s too late?

When her father is murdered by the Assembly’s Masked Riders, Tei flees to the hidden mountain sanctuary of Turrak. Welcomed by the exiles, she is tasked with finding the realm’s next Sentinel before the old one dies. Tei must navigate the monster-ridden Astral Plane, while being pursued by the Soul Eater, a dark entity that devours lost spirits.

As Tei risks everything to find the hidden Sentinel, a lone Assemblyman attempts to dismantle the Assembly from within and prevent its persecution of magic. While across the Silent Sea, a reluctant naval commander, who is being manipulated by telepathic visions, readies an invasion fleet, pulling all their destinies towards a devastating war for the island’s survival.

To save Kalaya, Tei must learn that true power isn’t just about wielding magic – it’s about surviving the devastating sacrifices required to protect it.

If you like multi-dimensional characters in intricate worlds, then you’ll love The Lost Sentinel – the spellbinding novel that kicks off the action-packed fantasy trilogy Silent Sea Chronicles.

***

The audiobook, paperback and box set have also got their new covers.

I’ve also opted to have a slightly different blurb for the box set.

Box Set Blurb

What if the only hope of saving a magically starved island lies in the hands of an untrained mystic and an assemblyman fighting the corruption from within?

Kalaya is a magical island dying from the inside out. As the corrupt Assembly of Newington systematically outlaws magic and slaughters mystics in the streets, the island’s ancient life force withers.

When her father is murdered by the Assembly’s Masked Riders, nineteen-year-old Tei flees to the mountain sanctuary of Turrak. Thrust into the hidden world of the exiles, Tei learns her destiny is to find their missing Sentinel. But to do so, she must search the monster-ridden Astral Plane and avoid the deadly clutches of the Soul Eater who devours lost spirits.

In Newington, a farmer secretly harbouring a magically gifted child inherits his father’s seat on the Assembly. He engages in a dangerous political battle against the Assembly’s ruthless leader and attempts to stop the murders.

Across the Silent Sea, on the barren island of Stone Haven, Commander Farrell receives telepathic visions from a Kalayan contact who’s manipulating his latent magic. Desperate to save his starving people, Farrell prepares his powerful naval fleet to invade Kalaya.

All their destines are pulled towards a devastating war for the island’s survival.

With ancient prophecies, dark sorcery, and magic-hating invading forces at large, nowhere in the Silent Sea is safe. This epic fantasy series is perfect for readers who love political intrigue, perilous journeys, and heroic deeds.

***

What do you think of the overall look and feel of the cover and blurbs now? Would it entice you to read the book or series? Maybe you have a suggestion you would like to share?

Of course, if you haven’t read the series yet here’s the universal links for The Lost Sentinel and Silent Sea Chronicles box set.

I’ll be back soon with more updates and more exciting news.

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Readers Favourite 5 star review for The Lost Sentinel #fantasy #bookreview and book trailer on #youtube

Yesterday I received a 5 star review from a reviewer on Readers’ Favourite, and earned this shiny badge to show off!

It’s been a while since I finished publishing the Silent Sea Chronicles trilogy, so its wonderful to revisit the book and characters and see what reviewers think. Here is the review posted on the Readers’ Favourite website…

Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers’ Favorite

Suzanne Rogerson brings us epic fantasy in the first book of the Silent Sea Chronicles: The Lost Sentinel. In Kalaya, the Assembly aims to eradicate anyone with even a hint of magic. New laws are passed almost weekly. So, when Tei’s father makes them leave their home in Seatown to reach the sanctuary of the Turrak mountains, she knows her life will change. Tei is now an exile. With her special talents, Tei is tasked with finding the next Sentinel, the one person who can save Kalaya from total decay. Danger lurks in every town and even in the Astral Plains, the only place Tei has ever contacted the Sentinel. Will Tei be able to accept the help of her new friends and complete her mission before the Masked Riders find the new Sentinel first?

Author Suzanne Rogerson has created a world with magic at its core. Written in the third-person narrative mostly from the perspective of the protagonist, readers are privy to her inner thoughts, desires, and fears. With epic journeys filled with sensory stimulation, readers are easily transported to a world where good and evil are constantly at war. The fight scenes are honed with precision. The characters are likable and undeniably relatable. With a steady pace and a magnificent plot, readers won’t want to put this book down. The Lost Sentinel is suitable for younger readers as well as avid fans of fantasy. The end of this book leaves ample opportunity to continue the next adventure in the new life of this mystic.

Here’s the review page on Reader’s Favourite

The review inspired me to post the book trailer my narrator and his wife made back when the audiobook came out. Here it is.

You can pick up a copy of the book in ebook, audio and paperback on Amazon.

Audiobook reviews for the Silent Sea Chronicles books 1 and 2 #fantasy #audio

I love to read reviews and it seems to be much harder to get reviews on audiobooks. These reviews on Audible made my day.

Book 1 – The Lost Sentinel

‘Everything about it was awesome. From the narrator to the sound effects. The storyline was very intriguing. I would definitely recommend this book’

Book 2 – The Sentinel’s Reign

‘What did I like? I liked everything about this book. Yes, there is some hardships, and friends lost. There is also strong ties as well. Trust me when I say. These books make you want to see them on a big screen’

The idea of seeing my books on the big scene has always been a dream of mine. I’m film obsessed and in more recent years I’ve fallen in love with binge watching series on Netflix and Prime, in particular fantasy. There just aren’t enough fantasy programmes made.

These are comments from audiobook reviewer Tess, who received a reviewer’s copy of each book and choose to share her honest review. I’m hoping the last book in the trilogy is as well received.

Perhaps these reviews have inspired you to check out the books for yourself.

Here are the links to my audiobook page

For a look at all my book offerings here the link to my Amazon author page

Blurb

Tei has magic in a world where people like her are persecuted and forced into exile. Whilst fleeing their home, her father is attacked and his deathbed confession reveals a dangerous secret that will change Tei’s life forever.

Tei’s homeland, the magical island of Kalaya, is dying and without a Sentinel to restore the magic, it’s only a matter of time before all life is wiped out.

She must join the exiles in the search for the lost Sentinel, but they are not the only ones after the missing guardian. Sinister Masked Riders are on their trail and time is running out.

Tei must risk everything she loves to save Kalaya, but is she ready to make that sacrifice?

1396 pages of magic, adventure and intrigue.

***

Whether you prefer reading or listening, I hope you enjoy the trilogy.

It’s time for another Indie Book Sale! 26th to 28th August #fantasy #scifi #horror

August bank holiday is the perfect time to sit back, relax and pick up a few bargain reads. That’s why many of my fellow fantasy, sci-fi and horror authors have got together to offer a sale of their books. This time there are 300 books on offer!

For a change, I’ve decided to offer both The Lost Sentinel and The Sentinel’s Reign at the discounted price of 99p each.

The Lost Sentinel

The Sentinel’s Reign

‘A story in which the authors world building is exceptional, I was immersed in Tei’s story from beginning to end and the characters were fantastically developed.’ Vine Voice Reviewer

‘THE SENTINEL’S REIGN breathes life into an island of magic as well as enemies thirsting for its power. Adventurous and unique this fantasy only gets more captivating with every turn.’ Amazon reviewer

There are loads of bargain books on offer for the next 3 days. Please head over to the Narratess Indie Sale website for all the details and links to the individual sales page. There are filters on the page to make searching for your perfect read easier, and so many attention grabbing covers. What a treat.

I’m looking forward to adding a few new reads to my collection. I hope you enjoy the sale. Let me know what you get. And don’t forget to share on social media. #NarratessIndieSale

Have a great weekend everyone!

The #IndieApril book sale is back! #indieauthors

For the next 3 days, 1st to 3rd April, 150 indie authors like myself have joined together and organised a huge book sale.

There are fantasy, sci-fi and horror books on offer at various price points, including free, so please take a look at the sales page.

My own books are also included at just 99p each, so if you haven’t read them now is a great time to try. Visions of Zarua and The Lost Sentinel.

I’ve just had a quick browse and already picked up 8 books to add to my TBR. I will try and share some more info on those books and spread a little more love before the sale ends.

Please share this post and help share the love for indie authors. And don’t forget to check out the sales page right here.

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend.

***

Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy, heart-warming romance and short stories

You can follow me on

Twitter   Goodreads   BookBub   Amazon   Facebook Instagram

You can also join my Newsletter for writing updates and news of promotions.

Last chance to grab The Lost Sentinel for free #freebook http://mybook.to/LostSentinel

The free period for The Lost Sentinel is sadly coming to an end, so if you fancied trying out my book, today is your last chance to grab the deal.

‘I loved this story & finished it in two sittings! Have just bought Book 2 & 3 in the saga. If you want to be taken away to another world with fantastic characters & superb plot, this is for you!’ Amazon reviewer

The Lost Sentinel – universal link.

Books 2 and 3 will also end their discount period of 99p each, so don’t miss out on your chance to collect the whole trilogy for £1.98.

Check out my books on the Amazon Author Page.

The Lost Sentinel has reached the top 10 in many of the relevant Amazon Best Seller categories, and 18 in the overall fantasy bestseller list, which is always wonderful to see.

This sale has introduced my Silent Sea Chronicles trilogy to many new readers, maybe you can be one of them!

Let me know what you think in the comments, or use the contact me page to get in touch. I love to talk about reading, writing, fantasy, self publishing…

***

Suzanne Rogerson – Author of epic fantasy and heart-warming romance

You can follow me on

Twitter   Goodreads   BookBub   Amazon   Facebook Instagram

You can also join my Newsletter for writing updates and news of promotions.

Today I was interviewed on Whispering Stories #indieauthor #authorinterview

Please take a look at my interview today over on Whispering Stories. It’s been a while since I’ve been interviewed and I especially enjoyed the fun questions – read on to find out about the penguin in my chair!

There are lots of other author interviews to check out whilst you’re there. Enjoy.

P.S. Don’t forget that The Lost Sentinel is free for the next 4 days and the rest of the trilogy is on sale too.

The Lost Sentinel is FREE for 5 days! #fantasy #kindlecountdowndeal http://mybook.to/LostSentinel

And the good news keeps coming. Books 2 & 3 will be 99p for a limited time as well.

Universal book link for The Lost Sentinel

Silent Sea Chronicles series page

I haven’t run a free Kindle Countdown deal for ages so I’m excited to share this news today. 29th June to 3rd July The Lost Sentinel is free to download and the rest of the trilogy can be pick up for just £1.98. This is a (mostly) worldwide offer so hopefully lots of people can take the opportunity to see what the Silent Sea Chronicles is all about.

‘This is an amazing and epic fantasy trilogy, which will take you on an exciting, gripping and emotional journey! …Each book has its own epic adventure and a good conclusion and will leave you both satisfied but eager to read more in this wonderfully written series….’ Amazon review by Strawberry

Blurb

The magical island of Kalaya is dying. Only Tei, an exiled mystic, can save it.

The Assembly controls Kalaya. Originally set up to govern, they now persecute those with magic and exile them to the Turrak Mountains. Tei, a tailor’s daughter, has always hidden her magic but when her father’s old friend visits and warns them to flee to the mountains she must leave her old life behind. On the journey, an attack leaves her father mortally wounded. He entrusts her into the care of the exiles and on his deathbed makes a shocking confession.

Tei joins the exiles search for their new Sentinel – the only person capable of restoring the fading magic. But mysterious Masked Riders are hunting the Sentinel too, and time, as well as hope, is running out. Against mounting odds it will take friendship, heartache and sacrifice to succeed, but is Tei willing to risk everything she loves to save the island magic?

If you like multi dimensional characters in vibrant worlds, then you’ll love The Lost Sentinel – Book 1 in the Silent Sea Chronicles trilogy.

‘…this story bowled me over, it was an absolutely outstanding epic fantasy and the kind of writing fantasy authors should be aspiring to.’ Amazon reviewer

‘…Suzanne Rogerson can certainly make you forget time… A super start to what is going to be a sensational story, just make sure you are part of it from the beginning’ Vine Voice reviewer

‘THE LOST SENTINEL contains plenty of action, intrigue, and challenges throughout, making this a thrilling fantasy adventure… it whisked me away to someplace magical, alluring, and dangerous.’ Amazon reviewer

‘A story in which the authors world building is exceptional, I was immersed in Tei’s story from beginning to end and the characters were fantastically developed.’ Vine Voice Reviewer

‘With all the intricate world building, interesting characters and epic journey they all partake in, this book had me glued to it from the first page. As soon as I finished it, I was making a grab for book two to see what happened next! Suzanne Rogerson has written a fantastic start to this series – I love her writing style, and that she doesn’t shy away from putting her characters through some tough challenges as the story progresses.’ Vine Voice Reviewer