It's 2025 and every social media platform and app is vying for the attention of your readers. There's Instagram and it's constantly evolving algorithms, TikTok and it's unpredictable future, Facebook where your aunt and uncle argue, the growing community of Threads, and too many more to list. In the erratic and uncertain world of social media, it's important to have your own platform as a central source of truth for all of your readers. That's why having your own author website is vital to your marketing efforts.
YOU NEED A PLACE THAT YOU OWN
While being in front of your readers on social platforms is important, having a stable place that you control is a must in today's digital age. Social media platforms are rented space. And your landlord can change the rules, tank your engagement, or kick you off the algorithmic cliff at any time. Your website, on the other hand? That’s your digital home. You own it, you control it, and no mysterious algorithm is going to bury your latest release post.
With a website, your readers have a reliable, always-on destination to find out who you are, what you’ve written, what you're up to, and—very importantly—how to buy your books.
BRAND CONSISTENCY BUILDS TRUST
Readers make split-second judgments, and your website is often their first impression of you as a professional author. A strong, well-designed site that matches your genre, tone, and aesthetic shows you're legit. It helps you build trust and recognition over time.
Your branding—logo, colors, fonts, tone of voice—should carry across your covers, social media, and website like a well-coordinated system (and it should feel like you!).
SELL YOUR BOOKS DIRECTLY
Your website is a 24/7 storefront. Whether you're linking out to Amazon, directing people to your favorite indie bookstore, or setting up your own shop to sell signed copies and swag, your website can do the heavy lifting.
Even better? When you sell books yourself, you keep more of the royalties. No middleman. No 30% cut to a billion dollar corporation!
COLLECT EMAILS
TO GROW YOUR NEWSLETTER + READER BASE
Unlike followers on Instagram, your email list is yours. Forever. No one can take it away, and it gives you a direct line to your readers. Whether you’re announcing a new book, offering a freebie, or just sharing behind-the-scenes updates, email is the most effective way to turn casual readers into lifelong fans.
Your website should have an easy-to-find opt-in—ideally with a free gift, like a short story, novella, or sneak peek—to entice readers to subscribe.
SHOWCASE YOU, NOT JUST YOUR BOOKS
An author website isn’t just about what you’ve written. It’s also about who you are. Readers love connecting with authors—knowing your inspiration, seeing your process, and learning which song you associate with your main character. A well-rounded “About” page adds personality and builds loyalty.
Plus, media kits and press-ready bios make you look like the pro you are when podcasts, book clubs, or journalists come knocking.
WHAT SHOULD YOUR AUTHOR WEBSITE INCLUDE?
We've talked about why having a website is important, now let's dive into the details.
Here’s a quick checklist of must-haves:
- Home Page:
A clean, easy-to-navigate introduction to you and your books.
- Books Page:
A visual, organized display of your books (with covers, descriptions, purchase links, and formats).
- About Page:
A friendly, professional bio and photo.
- Newsletter Signup:
Preferably in it's own section with a simple form.
- Contact Info:
An easy way for fans, bloggers, and media to reach you.
- Social Links:
Let people follow you, but don’t rely on it as your primary presence.
- Optional Goodies:
Blog, events calendar, media kit, shop, FAQ, character art, bonus scenes... the sky’s the limit.
YOUR WEBSITE IS YOUR HOME BASE
Think of your author website as mission control. Everything else—social media, ads, interviews—should point people back to your site. It’s the hub of your author brand and the foundation for building a lasting connection with your readers.
And if that sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—we happen to be really good at designing websites that look beautiful, sell books, and feel like you.
Want a site that works as hard as you do? Let’s chat!
