November 18, 2024

What if I'm not getting read-through?

20 minutes

Episode Description: In this episode of What If for Authors, Claire Taylor takes a practical and analytical deep dive into the concept of read-through—how to measure it, understand it, and improve it. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, Claire helps you cut through the emotional and technical hurdles of identifying whether readers are progressing through your books and how to troubleshoot if they’re not.

This episode offers actionable insights while encouraging a healthy, compassionate mindset for tackling challenges in your writing career.

Key Takeaways:

1. What is Read-Through, and How Do You Measure It?

Read-through measures how many readers move from one book in a series to the next.

Claire explains why read-through is difficult to measure if you only have one book and provides strategies like offering a compelling freebie at the end of your book to assess engagement.

For series, the most common measurement is the percentage of readers who purchase or borrow subsequent books.

2. Setting Expectations for Read-Through:

Industry averages for read-through can vary significantly based on pricing strategies and whether your books are in Kindle Unlimited.

Claire emphasizes that expectations are personal, and setting them too low or too high can create unnecessary emotional turbulence.

3. Troubleshooting Read-Through Issues:

Start with Back Matter: The first link readers see at the end of your book should ideally point to the next book in the series.

Analyze Openings and Endings: Your opening pages should hook readers immediately, and your ending should provide satisfaction while enticing them to continue the series.

Identify Drop-Off Points: Beta readers or hired feedback can help pinpoint where readers lose interest, offering insight into areas that might need tightening.

4. Factors Beyond the Numbers:

Some books are designed to be savored rather than inhaled, and that can affect the pace of read-through.

If you notice slow read-through but receive positive feedback, it might simply reflect the unique nature of your stories.

5. Addressing a Skills Gap:

If storytelling fundamentals are causing read-through issues, Claire encourages you to view it as an opportunity to learn and grow, rather than a reflection of your worth as a writer.

There are countless resources, workshops, and editors available to help you hone your craft.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is for authors who want to understand their read-through rates and take actionable steps to improve them without letting the process become emotionally overwhelming. Whether you're an indie author managing your own files or a traditionally published writer curious about what you can influence, Claire offers thoughtful strategies to tackle this common concern.

Support the Show: If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share the show with your fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource.

Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts with Claire by emailing [email protected] or connect on social media.

Access the transcript here.

Happy Writing!

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By Claire Taylor

2727 ratings