So, in an attempt to determine what methods are best for reaching potential readers, I was rude enough to email some of my current readers a little poll. Just 8 questions about how they found my stories, what works to get them to look at a book, and buy… You know, market research type questions.

My readers are the BEST in the world! Here’s why: within 5 hours, I had a half dozen responses; within 10 days, *every* *single* person responded. Some had additional comments; some had additional questions, but all were so very kind to take the time to give me a hand. It was such a nice thing for all of them to do.

Now admittedly, this is not a ginormous sample of thousands, or even hundreds, but it does give me a sense of what folks look for. A couple things surprised me: about half prefer book covers that show the time/locale/setting; about half prefer the standard nude male torso covers. They like free excerpts online, and they like postcards and bookmarks. Almost none attend any kind of reader’s conferences or conventions. Most knew me from e-books and online sites; only a couple buy print books only. Which makes sense, since many of the names came from doing chats and loops where I gave away freebies.

Still, interesting info.

Any other writers who have had similar or different responses from their readers? I’d love to hear others’ experiences.