Book Launch Checklist
Your complete, interactive book launch plan. 33 actionable items across 5 phases — from manuscript preparation to post-launch marketing. Track your progress and launch with confidence.
Book Launch Checklist
A complete step-by-step checklist to plan and execute a successful book launch.
Complete all revisions and ensure your content is publication-ready.
Get developmental editing, copy editing, and proofreading. Budget $500-$3,000+ depending on length.
Your cover is your #1 marketing asset. Invest in professional design that matches genre expectations.
Get 5-10 beta readers for honest feedback. Use their testimonials for launch materials.
Set up your author website, email list, and social media profiles. Start posting content related to your book.
Offer a free chapter, related resource, or reader magnet to collect email subscribers.
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The Complete Book Launch Playbook
A successful book launch doesn't happen by accident. It's the result of methodical preparation across multiple phases — from finalizing your manuscript months before launch to nurturing post-launch momentum that sustains sales for years.
🚀 The 5 Launch Phases
- Phase 1 (3-6 months out): Manuscript finalization, cover design, ISBN, metadata
- Phase 2 (1-3 months out): ARC distribution, pre-order setup, marketing materials
- Phase 3 (2-4 weeks out): Email list warming, social media teasers, final proofing
- Phase 4 (Launch week): Coordinate sales push, engage reviewers, run promotions
- Phase 5 (Post-launch): Advertising optimization, review follow-up, next book planning
Why Most Book Launches Fail
The #1 reason book launches underperform is lack of preparation. Authors spend months writing their book but only days planning the launch. A well-executed launch can generate 100-500+ sales in the first week, triggering Amazon's algorithm to show your book to more potential readers — creating a virtuous cycle that compounds over months.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I plan my book launch?
Ideally, start planning 3-6 months before your target launch date. This gives you time to build an ARC team, set up pre-orders, create marketing materials, and build buzz. Even 4-6 weeks is workable for a minimal viable launch, but the more runway you give yourself, the stronger your launch will be.
Should I use Amazon pre-orders?
Yes, for established authors with an audience. Pre-orders accumulate and count toward your first-day ranking, which can push you higher in Amazon's charts. For new authors without an existing audience, launching immediately (without pre-order) can be better since you maintain momentum from day one.
What is the most important thing for a successful book launch?
Having an email list of engaged readers who are excited about your book. An email list of even 100-500 true fans can generate the initial sales and reviews that trigger Amazon's algorithm. No amount of social media or advertising can replace a responsive email list in the first 48 hours of launch.
How much should I budget for a book launch?
Budget ranges widely. Minimum viable launch: $0-200 (using free tools and organic marketing). Standard launch: $500-1,500 (professional cover, basic ads, ARC distribution). Premium launch: $2,000-5,000+ (professional editing, cover design, launch team, paid advertising). The biggest ROI items are cover design and ARC distribution.
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