We were lucky to catch up with Michele Packard recently and have shared our conversation below.

Michele, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

I left working in the Telecom industry to stay home and care for my three children. No regrets on that! When my twins were graduating, I realized I had more time on my hands and wanted to pursue something for me. My family has always called me “AESOP”, in that they state I tend to overemphasize any story and don’t let the truth get in the way :). So, that’s how I came up with my first thriller, conspiracy series. I took events from my personal life and intwined them with real-life and historical events to produce a fun, edgy, thriller series.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I’m considered a multi-genre writer. I’ve written a fictional thriller series, along with a children’s nighttime ritual and will launch a non-fictional self-help book this year. As an indie-writer, I have garnered awards from American Book Festival, Independent Authors Network, Eric Hoffer, Pencraft and Writer’s Digest.

I’ve self navigated this new writing industry and with the help of fellow authors and organizations have made great strides and connections.

My debut novel recently achieved best-seller status in the following categories: Conspiracy, Political Thrillers. Action Thrillers Espionage, Military Thrillers and Terrorism Thrillers!

I love getting reviews and connecting with readers who enjoy sharp wit and fun stories. I have a habit of putting people I connect with in my next book(s).

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

Writing a book may be considered the easy part, marketing it is a whole other story! As an independent author, I’ve had to financially produce and market my books. I’ve made a few (costly) mistakes too.
I’ve solicited agents and publishers to no avail, so that means I’ve had to fund editing, formatting, covers, award submittals, marketing on various platforms, etc. Realistically, I’d tell any new author that they need roughy $5,000 per book as an initial investment. Then, I’d encourage them learn about the multitude of platforms and vehicles to distribute and market a book. Build a network from fellow authors and build a following with fellow readers, well in advance of any book launch.

We’d love to hear your thoughts about selling platforms like Amazon/Etsy vs selling on your own site.

I originally offered my books through Amazon, Apple, B&N, and Kobo. After one year, I opted to go with Amazon direct as over 98% of my sales came exclusively through them. This enabled me to offer via their Kindle Unlimited service, while also allowing me other promotional pricing opportunities. As an indie author, many authors consider offering a free book to entice readers. Although I have done this in the past, I have changed my direction as the market place is too large and too many free offers that I’d prefer to engage with readers who are invested in me. I engage with readers on instagram and my personal newsletter, but most of my sales have been obtained through targeted advertising.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.michelepackard.com
• Instagram: @aesopstories
• Facebook: n/a
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelepackard/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/mwpackard
• Youtube: n/a
• Yelp: n/a
• Other: Bookbub – @mwpackard2

Image Credits
Michele Packard