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So, you’ve finally written your book—huge congrats! But now comes the tricky part: getting people to actually read it. The good news? There are a ton of places where you can promote your book for free and still make a splash.
Let’s break it down step-by-step and look at 10 powerful platforms you can use without spending a dime.
Why Free Book Promotion Matters for Authors
When you’re a new or independent author, chances are you’re running on a shoestring budget. That’s okay! Many successful authors have started exactly where you are. Promoting your book without breaking the bank is not only possible, it’s essential.
And here’s a little secret: consistent, free promotion can sometimes outperform paid ads. Why? Because you’re building genuine relationships and organic visibility.
Related: Learn to publish | Author career tips
What Makes a Platform Great for Book Promotion?
Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly talk about what you should look for in a promotional platform:
- A book-loving audience
- Opportunities to share links or excerpts
- Chances to engage with readers or other authors
- Free or freemium models with decent reach
Now let’s explore the top 10.
1. Goodreads – A Community Built Around Books
How to Use Goodreads to Promote Your Book
Goodreads is the go-to social network for readers. If your book isn’t on Goodreads yet, that’s your first to-do.
Claim your author profile, list your book, and connect with potential fans by joining discussions, creating book giveaways (if you’re open to paying later), or simply reviewing books similar to yours.
Tips to Maximize Exposure on Goodreads
- Join groups in your book’s genre
- Host Ask Me Anything (AMA) threads
- Encourage early reviewers to post ratings here
Internal Link: Writing Process | Book Promotion Tips
2. Amazon Author Central – Optimize Your Presence
Why You Should Claim Your Amazon Author Page
Amazon gives you a free profile to showcase your author bio, photos, blog posts, and—of course—your books.
It’s basically a built-in landing page on the world’s biggest bookstore.
How to Use It Effectively
- Add editorial reviews
- Connect your blog via RSS
- Upload professional author photos
Internal Link: Self Publishing Help | Publishing Hacks
3. Facebook Groups for Authors and Readers
Finding the Right Groups
There are thousands of Facebook groups for every niche imaginable—romance, sci-fi, horror, memoir, you name it.
Look for ones with:
- Active admins
- Daily or weekly promo threads
- Author-reader interaction
Posting Smart: Do’s and Don’ts
✅ Do engage before dropping links
❌ Don’t spam or self-promote constantly
Build trust, be a part of the community, and your book will naturally get noticed.
Internal Link: Independent Authors
4. Reddit – Dive into Genre-Specific Subreddits
Where to Post on Reddit
Reddit can be tricky, but gold if used well. Subreddits like:
- r/selfpublish
- r/Fantasy
- r/IndieBookClub
…are great for engaging with readers.
Engaging the Reddit Community Authentically
The Reddit crowd values transparency. Share your journey, not just your book link.
Pro tip: Use r/FreeEbooks if you’re offering free copies.
Internal Link: Self Publishing Tag | Free Marketing
5. Your Author Website – Your Digital HQ
Build a Blog and Share Behind-the-Scenes Content
Having your own website is a must—even a simple one. It’s where readers can learn about you, join your mailing list, and read updates.
Create blogs around your writing process, story themes, or character deep-dives.
SEO Tips to Attract Organic Readers
- Use keywords like “fantasy book for teens” or “indie romance novel”
- Link to your sales page often
- Add share buttons
Internal Link: Book Draft | Book Idea
6. Email Newsletters – Start Small and Grow Big
What to Include in Your Newsletter
Your newsletter doesn’t need to be fancy. A monthly update with:
- Writing updates
- Personal notes
- Book promotions
…goes a long way.
Free Tools to Build Your Email List
Try tools like:
- Mailchimp (free for up to 500 contacts)
- MailerLite
- ConvertKit (free tier available)
Internal Link: Write a Book | Author Tools
7. Book Promotion Sites with Free Listings
Top Free Book Promotion Sites to Try
Some trusted free promo sites:
- Book Rebel
- Freebooksy (limited free listings)
- Books Butterfly (free with social sharing)
Making the Most of Each Submission
Follow instructions, provide a professional book cover, and keep your blurb punchy.
Internal Link: Book Publishing | Book Publishers
8. Podcasts – Be a Guest and Share Your Journey
How to Pitch Yourself to Podcasts
Write a short pitch explaining:
- Who you are
- What your book is about
- What value you bring to listeners
Look for podcasts focused on writing, publishing, or your book’s genre.
Podcasts That Welcome Indie Authors
- The Creative Penn
- Self-Publishing Show
- Author Like a Boss
Internal Link: Publishing Courses | Query Tips
9. YouTube and BookTube Channels
Start Your Own or Collaborate with Others
You don’t need fancy gear—just a phone and decent lighting. Talk about:
- Your writing process
- Book themes
- Your journey as an indie author
Tips for Video Promotion on a Budget
- Use Canva for thumbnails
- Add keyword-rich titles
- Cross-post to your blog
Internal Link: Writing Tips | New Author Tips
10. Quora and Medium – Share Knowledge and Story
How Answering Questions Can Build Your Brand
Quora is a goldmine. Search questions like “how to self-publish a book” and share real advice with your author bio and links included.
Repurposing Blog Content for Wider Reach
Turn your blog posts into Medium articles. Add links to your website or Amazon page at the end.
Internal Link: Traditional Publishing | Sell Books
Final Thoughts: Keep Showing Up, Keep Promoting
You don’t have to go viral overnight. Book promotion is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep showing up in the places your readers already hang out. Engage, share value, and watch your visibility grow.
Remember: even the biggest authors started with one reader.
For more support and tools, check out:
FAQs – Free Book Promotion Tips
1. How often should I promote my book?
Aim for consistent weekly promotion across a few platforms. Don’t spam—focus on engagement.
2. Are free book promotions as effective as paid ones?
Yes, especially when you’re just starting. Organic reach can lead to loyal fans.
3. What’s the best place to promote a book for free?
Goodreads, Reddit, and your own blog are top-tier starting points.
4. Can I promote my book before it’s published?
Absolutely! Build hype early using your website, Facebook, and a newsletter.
5. How long does it take to see results?
Results can take weeks or months. Stay consistent, and don’t lose faith.
6. Should I use all 10 platforms?
Not necessarily. Start with 3–4 that feel natural and expand from there.
7. Is blogging still worth it for book promotion?
100% yes. A blog improves SEO, showcases your voice, and builds trust with readers.