During the last seven years, roughly nine million new self-published books have appeared. Almost all are available at online retailers' websites. In addition, these titles will be offered for many years to come. Most of them are in digital format and will never go "out of print.

The "gold rush" seems to be over, and author-publishers have to compete for readers with major publishing houses/media conglomerates, who jumped finally on the e-book bandwagon. You may not be a New York Times bestselling author with a publicist-yet. So, if you want to succeed at self-publishing, you'll want to learn everything you can about professional book layout, publishing, and traditional book marketing methods.

This author-guide to free (or very low cost) book marketing and professional publishing, provides authors with valuable tips and hands-on instructions how to connect directly with their readers, how to find lots of bloggers and book reviewers, establish a solid platform and strengthen their author brand. Content marketing secrets and the latest social media tips will enable authors to capitalize on their writing competence and to increase their readership tremendously.