Today, I’ve made a big move on all of my print and ebook combinations.
From the very beginning of my self-publishing journey, I’ve taken advantage of the “Match Book” feature on Amazon. If you are unfamiliar with the program, it’s like this: If you buy a print book on Amazon, you can get an ebook copy of the book for a discounted rate. Until today, I have typically reduced the cost of the ebook by around 50% of the retail price of the individual ebook.
Again, that was until today. Now, I’ve changed the Match Book price to FREE on all of my books. I compare it to buying a DVD movie. Think about it: almost all new DVD or Bluray movies that come out these days include a digital copy for free. Why not do the same with books?
Obviously, I am making WAY less on royalties going down this path, but it’s not all about the money. It’s about capturing readers and gaining followers. I’m making this move because in two, maybe three years, when I write the next Great American Novel, I have a steady following of dedicated readers to push that future book into the best sellers list of what ever genre it happens to be in.
So, why not start the process now? I have two new releases out right now. They are the first two books in the Borrowed Souls adventure. Regretful Absolution: Borrowed Souls: Book 2 is only available for pre-order in ebook right now, but the print book is live and will ship in a day or so. If you get the print book, you will get the ebook free when it publishes on September 8th. The Soul Collector: Borrowed Souls: Book 1 is available in both ebook and print right now, and the same deal applies. Buy the print book, and get the ebook for free.
I plan on continuing this strategy on ALL of my upcoming publications that I have control over. Eternal Devotion: Borrowed Souls: Book 3 will have the same Match Book setup when it comes up for pre-order on September 18th, as will each and every succeeding part of that adventure.