Checklist for Launching Your Book

Launching a Christian book is an exciting opportunity to share a faith-filled story with the world. As USA Today bestselling author Hallee Bridgeman and manager of Successful Christian Self-Publishing (SCSP), I’ve learned that a successful book launch blends strategic planning with a heart for ministry. Here’s a practical checklist to prepare your Christian book launch, along with some faith-based marketing tips to ensure your story reaches readers and glorifies God.

1. Finalize Your Manuscript (6-8 Weeks Before Launch)

• Polish the Content: Complete final edits.
• Proofread Thoroughly: Hire a proofreader or swap with another Christian author to catch typos that might have slipped past your editors.
• Format for Platforms: Use Scrivener or Vellum (or another tool) to format your eBook and paperback for Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, or other platforms.

2. Design a Compelling Cover (6 Weeks Before)

• Hire a Designer or Use Canva: Create a cover that reflects your book’s themes
• Test with Your Audience: Share cover options with your email list or on social media to gauge reader reactions.
• Ensure Readability: Confirm the title and author name are clear in thumbnail size for online stores.

3. Set Up Pre-Orders (4-6 Weeks Before)

• Upload to Retailers: Set up pre-orders on Amazon, Kobo, or Apple Books to build early buzz.
• Price Strategically: Consider a launch discount that you advertise is good for launch week.
• Create a Pre-Order Incentive: Offer a free devotional or sample chapter for early buyers, delivered via BookFunnel.

MarketingTip: Share a testimony about your writing journey on social media or your blog, linking to the pre-order to connect spiritually with readers.

4. Build Your Marketing Plan (4 Weeks Before)

• Grow Your Email List: Use a lead magnet (e.g., a free novella) to attract subscribers.
• Schedule Social Media Posts: Plan posts on social media, sharing snippets from your book.
• Contact Christian Bloggers: Reach out to faith-based book bloggers or podcasts for reviews or interviews.
• Plan a Launch Event: Host a virtual launch party on social media or Zoom, including a reading and Q&A.

5. Engage Your Community (2-3 Weeks Before)

• Recruit a Street Team: Ask loyal readers to share your book on social media or leave reviews on launch day. Use Bookfunnel to share your manuscript with your street team.
• Post Teasers: Share short excerpts or character profiles blog to build excitement.
• Collaborate with Authors: Partner with other Christian writers for cross-promotion, like a newsletter swap.

Faith-Based Tip: Pray for your readers, asking God to guide your book to those who need its message.

6. Launch Week Execution

• Announce the Launch: Send an email blast and post on social media with a “Now Available!” message, including buy links.
• Run a Limited-Time Sale: Offer a launch discount to boost early sales.
• Monitor Reviews: Respond to feedback and encourage reviews on Amazon or Goodreads.
• Thank Your Supporters: Post a heartfelt thank-you on your blog and to your street team.

7. Post-Launch Follow-Up (1-2 Weeks After)

• Analyze Sales Data: Check sales reports to see which marketing efforts worked best.
• Keep Promoting: Share reader testimonials or blog about your launch experience
• Plan Next Steps: Set goals for your next book or marketing push, keeping the momentum going.

Faith-Based Tip: Reflect on Philippians 1:6, trusting that God will continue the good work He began through your book.