NotesPublishing
Author Website Checklist for Building a Durable Platform That Converts Readers
Follow this author website checklist to create a stable online home that attracts readers, supports direct sales, and stays effective through regular updates and clear navigation.
Nine Rooms
A reliable author website gives readers a single place to find your work and stay connected without depending on changing store algorithms. This author website checklist focuses on the pages and features that turn casual visitors into repeat readers and buyers.
Mid-year is a good time to review your site after spring releases. Small adjustments now can support steady traffic and better margins through direct channels while your backlist continues to sell.
Core Pages Every Indie Site Needs
Start with a clean home page that shows your latest book and a short author note. Add a books page that lists all titles with reading order and purchase links for each format.
Include an about page that explains your writing focus without unnecessary personal details. A contact page with a simple form keeps communication open while protecting your inbox.
- Home page with current release and newsletter sign-up
- Books page organized by series or standalone titles
- About page that highlights your writing approach
- Contact page for reader messages and media requests
- Privacy and terms pages to meet basic legal needs
Email Capture and Direct Sales Integration
Place a newsletter sign-up on the home page and after each book description. Offer a short sample chapter or series reading guide in exchange for the email address.
Link to your own store or print-on-demand options so readers can buy directly. This reduces reliance on single retailers and improves margins over time.
Author Website Checklist for Ongoing Maintenance
Review links and images every quarter to catch broken elements before readers notice. Update book pages when new editions or formats become available.
Check site speed on mobile devices and keep the design simple so it loads quickly. Add new posts or updates only when they serve readers rather than filling space.
Track which pages receive the most visits and adjust navigation to highlight those sections. Consistent but light maintenance keeps the site useful without demanding daily attention.
- Quarterly link and image check
- Mobile speed test twice a year
- Update book pages after each new release
- Review traffic sources every six months
Connecting Site Content to Series Sales
Feature a clear series reading order on your books page so new readers can move straight into the next title. Subtle world details mentioned across books encourage backlist purchases.
Highlight print editions where quality improvements have made them more appealing. Steady release pacing shown on the site helps maintain visibility even when algorithms shift.