We’re not afraid to say it: we love a good horror story. There’s something exhilarating about reading a ghost story knowing you’re safe and sound whenever you put the book down (or in the freezer).
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Here are five things authors can do to participate in Horror Week on Goodreads, which we’re celebrating October 16 – 22, 2017.
1. Take questions from readers. Like the monster under your bed, Ask the Author questions are only visible to you. Once you choose to answer the questions they become visible to your followers, and show up in your updates feed and the update feed of the person who asked the question. If you skip a question, it’s like it never existed (because nobody gets notified).
Find Ask the Author on your Goodreads Author Dashboard when you’re signed into your account. Find inspiration by reading Best Practices here.
2. Tell us a two-sentence horror story. Any author – horror writer or not – can respond to this question on Goodreads (we’re looking forward to the creative replies!).
We’re sending out an official question via Ask the Author on October 16, but start thinking about your favorite one now (find some inspiration here). Be sure to share a link to your answer on Twitter on you post it on Ask the Author to increase engagement.
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3. Browse our list of top horror novels and shelve your favorites. Which books make your blood run cold? Connect with other readers over a shared passion for the macabre. Review the books you loved—just be wary of spoilers.
4. Trick or treat? Choose to treat your readers to some original content. We’re sharing five writing prompts that authors can respond to in the comment sections, on Twitter, the Goodreads blog, or in the writing section. You might also consider sharing an excerpt of your upcoming book or the cover – whatever you think will make readers scream (with delight of course)!
5. Tag social activity with #Horrorweek. This allows readers to discover your content across social channels, and gives you the chance to amplify your message to all those participating.
These five things are just a few way to get you going. There are many ways to engage with readers on Goodreads and you can find the activity that’s right for you. Horror Week is just an excuse to have a ghoulishly good time!
Next: Goodreads Believes in Book Fairies - and You Can, Too
You might also like: The Five Readers You Meet in Publishing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
posted by Cynthia on August, 28

Here are five things authors can do to participate in Horror Week on Goodreads, which we’re celebrating October 16 – 22, 2017.
1. Take questions from readers. Like the monster under your bed, Ask the Author questions are only visible to you. Once you choose to answer the questions they become visible to your followers, and show up in your updates feed and the update feed of the person who asked the question. If you skip a question, it’s like it never existed (because nobody gets notified).
Find Ask the Author on your Goodreads Author Dashboard when you’re signed into your account. Find inspiration by reading Best Practices here.
2. Tell us a two-sentence horror story. Any author – horror writer or not – can respond to this question on Goodreads (we’re looking forward to the creative replies!).
We’re sending out an official question via Ask the Author on October 16, but start thinking about your favorite one now (find some inspiration here). Be sure to share a link to your answer on Twitter on you post it on Ask the Author to increase engagement.

3. Browse our list of top horror novels and shelve your favorites. Which books make your blood run cold? Connect with other readers over a shared passion for the macabre. Review the books you loved—just be wary of spoilers.
4. Trick or treat? Choose to treat your readers to some original content. We’re sharing five writing prompts that authors can respond to in the comment sections, on Twitter, the Goodreads blog, or in the writing section. You might also consider sharing an excerpt of your upcoming book or the cover – whatever you think will make readers scream (with delight of course)!
5. Tag social activity with #Horrorweek. This allows readers to discover your content across social channels, and gives you the chance to amplify your message to all those participating.
These five things are just a few way to get you going. There are many ways to engage with readers on Goodreads and you can find the activity that’s right for you. Horror Week is just an excuse to have a ghoulishly good time!
Next: Goodreads Believes in Book Fairies - and You Can, Too
You might also like: The Five Readers You Meet in Publishing
Goodreads Authors can subscribe to the Monthly Author Newsletter by editing their account settings.
posted by Cynthia on August, 28