The holiday season is a prime time for independent authors to connect with readers, boost sales, and set themselves up for a strong start to the new year. From festive promotions to social media, there are plenty of ways to make your book stand out during the holidays. 

Keep reading to learn six ways you can make the most of this season.

1. Holiday Promotions & Discounts

The holidays are a time when readers are actively looking for gifts, so offering limited-time discounts or promotions can be the perfect way to boost sales. 

From offering a special like 20% off to bundling your titles into themed collections, the opportunities are endless. You might also want to consider creating a holiday-themed cover to make your book feel extra festive and collectible.

These small touches can make all the difference, and your story just might be the next favorite holiday gift.

2. Holiday-Themed Content & Social Media

It’s the most magical time of the year, so make sure you tailor your content to fit the season—and to cut through all the holiday noise! 

Here are a few ways to leverage your content for the holidays:

• Write a festive short story, poem, or novella and offer it as a free download to attract new readers.

• Host a holiday-themed social media giveaway, with book bundles, merch, or signed copies

• Curate a seasonal reading blog for your genre that includes your own book

• Share behind-the-scenes content about your book’s creation with a holiday twist

• Produce holiday-themed visuals or videos to engage your audience on social media

3. Digital Newsletters

Email marketing can often be a second thought, but don’t sleep on sending a holiday newsletter. A well-crafted holiday eblast can not only be a feel-good touch, but can also boost engagement, drive sales, and keep your audience connected to your story. 

Here are a few festive email marketing ideas:

• Highlight your book as a holiday gift and include direct links to purchase 

• Offer a special holiday promotion or discount exclusively for your newsletter subscribers

• Include a holiday-themed story, excerpt, or behind-the-scenes peek from your book

• Share a curated reading list or gift guide featuring your book alongside complementary titles

• Add festive visuals and a warm, personal subject line to make your newsletter stand out in crowded inboxes

4. Connect with Readers & Community

The holidays are the perfect time to bring your readers and fellow authors together in a warm, festive way.

Consider hosting a virtual holiday party or live reading—complete with twinkling lights, cozy blankets, seasonal treats, and maybe even a holiday playlist in the background! You can also offer signed copies with personalized holiday messages, adding a thoughtful touch that readers will remember.

To make your holiday efforts more magical, think of other indie authors that you could partner with for festive giveaways or events. This collaboration could expand your reach and foster a sense of community. Just remember to plan early; everyone’s schedules fill up fast as the holidays approach!

5. Holiday Gifting Opportunities

Books make the best gifts, and you don’t want to miss out on getting on someone’s wish or gift list! Start by teaming up with local bookstores or popping up at holiday markets to showcase your titles in a festive setting.

Plus, don’t be shy about reminding your readers that your book makes a thoughtful gift for friends or family. Sometimes, all it takes is a gentle nudge for someone to have that aha moment, realizing they enjoyed your book themselves, and it would make the perfect gift for someone they care about. That little spark can turn a casual reader into a holiday gift-giver.

6. Planning for the New Year

The holiday season is a great opportunity to wrap up the year and set yourself up for success in the months ahead. Start by taking a moment to reflect on your writing accomplishments and think about the goals you want to tackle next year. You can also create pre-orders for upcoming books to take advantage of holiday momentum and generate early excitement with your readers. Think of this as giving your next year a festive head start!