Stepping into the digital world as a new author can feel like stumbling into a dimly lit library, its labyrinthine shelves overflowing with technical jargon and hidden secrets. Building your own website, often touted as a crucial step in authorial self-promotion, can seem like deciphering an ancient scroll written in the tongue of tech gods. Fear not, fellow wordsmiths, for I, having traversed this very terrain for over two decades, offer a map to guide you through the shadows and unveil the hidden gems of information you seek.

Designing a website felt as intuitive to me as crafting a chilling narrative, from choosing the platform (my CMS of choice) to selecting color palettes and weaving together responsive design. Yet, for many, this process looms like a monstrous entity, its tentacles of confusion wrapped tight around their creative spirit.

Remember, dear reader, that a well-crafted website is your digital first impression. It's the cobblestone path leading readers, agents, and even publishers to your literary doorstep. While hiring a professional web weaver is always an option, its hefty price tag can cast a long shadow on budding author budgets. So, for those venturing forth on their own, let's delve into the secrets of constructing a compelling author website without sacrificing your firstborn (or sanity).

Domain Dwellings and Hosting Haunts

Domain Name: More than just a URL, your domain name is the cornerstone of your online authorial brand. It should echo the name under which your chilling tales reside, resonating with the essence of your literary identity. A .com domain reigns supreme, its global recognition a beacon in the vast digital sea. However, if your desired .com domain lies locked in the clutches of another, fret not. Alternatives like .net, .info, .me, or even .ink can still provide a solid foundation for your online presence. Remember, consistency is key, so choose a domain name that dances in harmony with your author name, ensuring your brand shines with unified brilliance.

Here are some examples, both good and bad.

Good:

• georgerrmartin.com
• jrrtolkien.com
• stephenking.com

Why are they good? They are simple to type and exactly how their name appears on their books.

Bad:

• george-r-r-martin.com
• j-r-r-tolkien.com
• sking.com

Why are they bad? Hyphens are often forgotten when typed or misheard. Also, don't use an initial if your nom de plume is your full name.

In the end, it's better to choose the correct name as appearing on your books with a different TLD (top level domain). My full name, blakemyers.com, isn't being used by anyone, but it is already registered, so I chose a different TLD that was easy for people to remember.

Godaddy may lure you with its siren song of cheap prices, but its user experience leaves much to be desired. I, for one, prefer Dreamhost or Ionos, especially when bundled with the dark magic of hosting (discussed below). A word to the wise: beware the whispers of those who offer to sell you your desired domain name for an exorbitant price (sometimes thousands of dollars, as was my case). While Godaddy and others may offer to "facilitate" such purchases (for a $69 fee, of course), resist their tempting call. There are far better alternatives and hidden pathways to explore in the vast domain name landscape.

Hosting: Choosing the right hosting service is akin to selecting the optimal crypt for your digital presence. It should cater to your website's specific needs, balancing cost, functionality, and the ability to scale as your audience grows. Shared hosting, a cost-effective solution for new authors with smaller sites, offers a shared server space with other websites. As your online presence expands, you might consider upgrading to a Virtual Private Server (VPS) hosting, granting you more control over your digital environment and dedicated resources to handle the increased traffic and data of your growing fanbase. For most authors, even ones with decent success, a shared plan will be more than enough. Both shared and VPS hosting can be found for reasonable monthly or annual prices, ensuring your website doesn't become a dusty tome hidden in the back corners of the internet because of cost.

Content Management Systems: Demystifying the Labyrinth

Thankfully, user-friendly Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix have emerged as beacons of light, illuminating the once-daunting path of website creation. These platforms offer intuitive interfaces, eliminating the need for extensive coding knowledge, making them ideal for authors seeking to craft their unique online niche. Each platform comes equipped with a plethora of pre-designed templates, allowing you to choose a design that mirrors the essence of your genre and personal style, ensuring your website not only looks professional but also feels like an extension of your literary world. While these templates offer convenience, remember that true originality often lies beyond their pre-defined paths.

Design Decisions: Where Shadows and Substance Meet

Template Selection: The visual allure of your website cannot be overstated. Select a template that embodies the spirit of your writing. Whether your genre is a chilling horror, a fantastical adventure, or a thought-provoking non-fiction piece, the design should serve as a silent ambassador of your work. Opt for a clean, navigable layout with fonts that are easy on the eyes, ensuring your site is accessible across various devices and screen sizes. Be aware of clashing and overpowering colors, never letting them destract your visitors. A responsive design is no longer a luxury in today's mobile-first world, ensuring your site adapts seamlessly to any device, offering an optimal viewing experience for all visitors. While templates offer a quick and affordable solution, remember that true originality often comes at the cost of venturing beyond their pre-defined paths. Custom designs, while requiring an investment of time and resources, allows you to craft a website that is truly unique and reflects the essence of your authorial voice. However, for those with budget constraints, templates can serve as a stepping stone, offering a solid foundation to build upon. Just remember, like a borrowed cloak, a template may not always fit perfectly, and its limitations can become apparent as your website evolves.

Essential Website Elements:

Beyond aesthetics, captivating content is the beating heart of your website. While the possibilities are endless, many new authors grapple with the same chilling question: what should I include? Fear not, for I have unearthed the essential elements that should grace the pages of your online domain:

About Me: This section is your digital handshake, an opportunity to share your journey, inspirations, and even snippets of your personal life, fostering a deeper connection with your readers. Your bio should not only highlight your professional achievements but also offer a glimpse into the soul behind the pen. Don't forget to include a picture of yourself, for a face is often more memorable than a name. Invest in professional headshots; they can serve double duty for your social media and book jackets, making it a wise investment in your authorial brand.

Contact Section: Accessibility is key. Your website should provide visitors with a clear path to connect with you or your agent. A dedicated contact form or a direct email link can bridge the gap, fostering communication and opening doors to feedback, inquiries, and exciting opportunities. Be prepared to face the lurking shadows of spam, and consider implementing reCAPTCHA to shield your inbox from these digital fiends.

Mailing List Signup: Building a loyal readership is the lifeblood of your authorial success. An email list acts as a direct line to your most engaged fans, allowing you to share updates, announcements, and exclusive content, keeping them enthralled and invested in your work. Be transparent about the frequency of your mailings; no one wants to be bombarded with daily messages. Establishing trust and respecting their preferences will ensure your readers remain loyal companions on your literary journey.

List of Works: This section is your digital bookshelf, showcasing the fruits of your creative labor. Each title should be accompanied by its cover art, a captivating description, its price, and links to purchase it. For works in progress or upcoming releases, a "Coming Soon" section can generate buzz and anticipation among your readers, leaving them eagerly awaiting your next masterpiece. Don't be afraid to get creative with this section; after all, it's a chance to make your books stand out from the crowd.

Blog: A regularly updated blog can breathe life into your website, transforming it from a static page into a dynamic platform. Share insights into your writing process, delve into book reviews, offer personal reflections, or even unleash short stories that tantalize your readers with glimpses into your upcoming works. Engaging content can attract new readers and keep your existing audience coming back for more. However, remember, consistency is key. Choose a posting frequency you can realistically maintain, for a blog filled with cobwebs of abandoned posts can leave a haunting impression.

Social Media Links: In the age of digital connection, fostering a community around your work can amplify your reach and engagement. Include links to your social media profiles, encouraging visitors to connect with you on the platforms where you're active, offering them a more personal glimpse into your authorial life. Remember, social media can be a powerful tool, but it requires dedication and consistent interaction. If you're already active on these platforms, consider using them as your primary means of connecting with readers, as maintaining both a blog and active social media can be a daunting task.

Expanding Your Reach: Unveiling Hidden Gems

Beyond the core elements, consider incorporating features that enhance user engagement and provide value to your visitors. A dedicated section for reader comments can foster a sense of community and allow you to interact directly with your audience. Offer exclusive content, such as short stories or excerpts from your works, available only through your website. This not only rewards your loyal readers but also incentivizes new visitors to explore your site further.

The Unseen Observer: Monitoring Your Website's Performance

Once your website is up and running, don't let it become a forgotten tomb in the vast digital graveyard. Tools like Google Analytics offer invaluable insights into visitor behavior, unveiling the secrets of what works and what needs improvement. Pay attention to metrics like bounce rate, page views, and the average time spent on the site. These indicators act as your compass, guiding you towards refining your content and design to better captivate your audience. Remember, even the most visually stunning website can become a ghost town if its content fails to engage visitors.

SEO: The Whispers of Search Engines

To ensure your website reaches its intended audience, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) cannot be ignored. Use relevant keywords in your website's titles, headings, and content to improve its visibility in search engine results. Regularly updating your website with fresh content is ...like casting fresh blood onto an ancient altar, drawing the attention of the search engine gods. However, beware the whispers of charlatans peddling quick fixes and magic spells. True SEO mastery lies in creating high-quality content that resonates with your audience and naturally attracts search engine favor. Remember, Google, the all-seeing eye of the internet, values accessibility (responsive design) and quality content above all else. Fancy meta tags and keyword stuffing may seem tempting, but ultimately, content is king, and only genuine value will earn you a place in the coveted search results.

Security and the Shadows of Malice

Website security is paramount, especially when safeguarding the personal information of your readers, such as email addresses for your mailing list. Ensure your website is equipped with SSL encryption, acting as a shield against malicious forces lurking in the digital shadows. SSLs are not just for security; they are also seen favorably by search engines, giving your website an extra edge in the rankings. Remember, regular updates for your CMS and plugins are crucial, patching vulnerabilities and keeping your website running smoothly, free from the clutches of digital demons.

A Disclaimer: Perseverance is Key

Building and maintaining an author website is a journey, not a destination. It requires effort, dedication, and a healthy dose of patience. Don't be discouraged if your website doesn't attract hordes of readers overnight. Remember, social media fame rarely happens instantaneously, and the same applies to building a loyal online audience. There will be moments of doubt, whispers of discouragement telling you your website is lost in the vast digital wilderness. But persevere, dear author, for with consistent updates, engaging content, and genuine interaction with your readers, your website will blossom into a powerful tool, amplifying your voice and connecting you with the readers who crave your chilling tales.

Remember, your author website is a reflection of you and your work. Infuse it with your personality, your passion, and your unique voice. With each update and refinement, you not only enhance your website's appeal but also deepen the connection with your readers, forging a community that celebrates the power of your written word. So, step boldly into the digital labyrinth, embrace the shadows, and weave your own literary magic on the world wide web. Your chilling stories await their audience, and your website is the key that unlocks the door to their hearts—like casting fresh blood onto an ancient altar, drawing the attention of the search engine gods. However, beware the whispers of charlatans peddling quick fixes and magic spells. True SEO mastery lies in creating high-quality content that resonates with your audience and naturally attracts search engine favor. Remember, Google, the all-seeing eye of the internet, values accessibility (responsive design) and quality content above all else. Fancy meta tags and keyword stuffing may seem tempting, but ultimately, content is king, and only genuine value will earn you a place in the coveted search results.

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