Don't Make My Mistake, Writers: Story Will Always Sell First

I've mainly been discussing items in regards to social marketing and the like in this series. Now, we're going to venture off a little, but we're still sticking to marketing ideas. However, this one is a little more direct in regards to one's actual story.

As you all know by now, I love visual art. I love creating something out of nothing, and the challenge a bringing something out of one's mind into a visual form. I get complimented on it pretty fairly, being told by many writers they wish they could bring their creations to life the way I seem to. So, I realized my passion for art could be a unique niche for me. "Prossia" could stand out beyond the rest by illustrations, book adds, and poster featuring my unique characters. When people saw my art, they'd have to follow through and buy the book to see what it's about, right? I'll just sit back and watch the crowds line on up.

. . . 

Eh, not so much.

While it's vital for all of us to  use our unique gift or talent to help our stories stand out, one thing shall always be the same regardless: it's the story and writing that sells. Did my artwork bring in some followers? Sure, but not the way I hoped. In the end, people want to know about the story, story, and story.

And that's where I made my second mistake. While I was busy waiting to see how "Prossia" would fair out, I should've been hard at work on a next book! Instead, I waited, and waited, and waited. And as I waited, my morale diminished along with the declining sales. Want more people to buy your book? Write another one to add to your library.

I'm not trying to say that our niche is going to fail us. I'm saying it's that special wonderful bonus that your readers will get while they follow our writing careers. It should not should not SHOULD NOT be the only tool we use. We're writers, people. That is our preferred tool of choice, but who's to say that's a bad thing? :)