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Write. Publish. Grow. · Aug 14, 2026

How to Market Your Backlist Without Feeling Like You’re Repeating Yourself

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Kayla Hicks · Write. Publish. Grow.

Authors are always looking toward their next release when it comes to marketing, because as we work on new stories, we have to market them as we write them.

On the other hand, we find that previous works fall to the back burner, quietly disappearing from marketing. When, in truth, there is still so much opportunity to market our past works.

Even with the same book, you can breathe some fresh life into it by marketing it with a new hook.

Now the question is, where do we find these new hooks to grab our audience’s attention?

  • Sharing characters

  • Tropes

  • Setting

  • Story quotes

  • Problems the characters face

  • Themes within the book

  • Reader reviews

  • Comparable books or movies

  • Behind-the-scenes

Or why not use the season of the year that matches your story to help market your book?

For example, I have a horror young adult book about Zombies, a short story about ghosts, and a mystery/thriller book that takes place in the fall. So, when I share these books on social media, it looks something like this:

It’s spooky season, and I have the perfect read for it. Imagine zombies meet amusement park meets escape room. https://mybook.to/escapecity

Or perhaps you’re in the mood for ghosts stuck at the bed and breakfast in the middle of nowhere? https://a.co/d/0dVJqYlt

Or, I have a few books that shine in summer with their beachy themes. Perfect for beach or poolside reading.

I’ve got your next poolside read!

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If you just released a new book, this could be a good opportunity to engage previous readers.

If you liked ______ about my newest book, try this older book.

Or if you have a series of books, try creating a bundle option to allow readers to jump right in.

But let’s stretch this further. What if I have three spooky stories I believe readers will love? Why couldn’t I consider bundling these books into a deal for readers as well? Offer a spooky season bundle pack or a beachy reads bundle pack?

This is where your creative marketing skills can come in handy.

When you have tried multiple marketing angles and your book isn’t selling, this may mean it’s time to revisit the elements that help your book meet readers.

  • Do we need to give the book a facelift (a new book cover)

  • Does your book’s description need to be reworded?

  • Did you choose the correct categories to help readers see your book?

  • Did you choose the correct keywords?

Knowing when it’s time to re-evaluate how readers are perceiving your book is important.

If you want to start brainstorming some fresh marketing ideas for your older books, subscribe to get a Marketing Generator.

Read the original on writepublishgrow.substack.com

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