The most popular method for a reader to discover new books is word of mouth, but social media can also assist in spreading awareness of a new book coming to market. For a self-published author, online resources such as crowdfunding, NetGally, and book blogs can be an easy way to find an interested audience.
Crowdfunding is the process of funding a project by raising small amounts of money from a large group of donors; typically, this occurs via the internet. Some well know crowdfunding sites are http://www.kickstart.com and http://www.indiegogo.com. Another site, http://www.unbound.co.uk, is really cool because it’s a crowdfunding site designed only for marketing books. With this method of social networking, the donators find out about your newest book, and fund you the money to produce it.
Another option for authors trying to gain attention when launching their newest book is by sharing their work with professional readers on http://www.netgalley.com. Through this site, you can share your new work with someone who will be excited to read it, then review it, and be able to spread the word about the release of your new book.