Here’s a common pitfall we see with indie authors: they work tirelessly on their book, publish it… and then start trying to promote it. But by that point, they’ve missed the most powerful window: the pre-launch phase.
Pre-launch buzz is about building anticipation, sparking curiosity, and letting your future readers know something special is coming. A thoughtful lead-up not only boosts launch day visibility but creates long-term momentum for your book’s success.
This blog will walk you through a 6–8 week pre-launch timeline to help you generate buzz—authentically and effectively.
📅 6–8 Week Pre-Launch Timeline for Indie Authors
Week 1–2: Announce the Journey + Warm Up Your Audience
✅ Share that the book is coming!
✅ Let people in on the why behind the project.
✅ Start showing up consistently.
Ideas to Post:
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A video or written post about your journey
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“I wrote this book for…” message
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Newsletter: What to Expect in the Coming Weeks
Pro Tip: This is also a great time to finalize your ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) list or start a beta reader team.
Week 3–4: Reveal the Cover + Start the Visual Tease
✅ Share your cover reveal—this is a big deal!
✅ Start teasing themes, aesthetics, or quotes from the book.
✅ Offer exclusive content for early sign-ups or email subscribers.
Ideas to Post:
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Behind-the-scenes of the cover creation
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Mood board or teaser quotes
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Countdown to cover reveal
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Launch your preorder if it’s ready!
Pro Tip: Begin collecting blurbs or endorsements if you’re working with other authors or influencers.
Week 5–6: Activate Your ARC Team + Collect Early Reviews
✅ Distribute your ARC to early readers
✅ Follow up with reminders and review deadlines
✅ Post social proof from early feedback
Ideas to Post:
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Screenshots of reader reactions
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Testimonials from ARC readers
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Polls or Q&As about your characters or themes
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Sneak peeks: the first line, favorite scene, or a “deleted” moment
Pro Tip: Encourage ARC readers to schedule their reviews to go live on release day.
Week 7: Engage + Build Anticipation
✅ Focus on countdowns, emotional storytelling, and connection
✅ Go live or post videos sharing why this book means so much to you
✅ Ask questions and build two-way engagement
Ideas to Post:
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“3 days left” countdowns
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Live reading or excerpt video
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“Ask me anything” stories or posts
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Behind-the-scenes feelings (vulnerable, real, excited!)
Pro Tip: Use call-to-actions like “Tag a friend who would love this book” or “Share this post if you’re excited!”
Week 8: Launch Week!
✅ Celebrate your release!
✅ Post often—this is your moment
✅ Ask readers to share and review
Ideas to Post:
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Book unboxing
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Fan reactions or photos
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A message from you to your readers
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“What’s next” teaser if you’re working on another project
Pro Tip: Use social proof right away.
“This review just came in and I’m speechless…”
Post-Launch Continuation (Optional Bonus Section)
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Send thank-you emails to ARC team
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Repurpose content from your launch into evergreen posts
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Plan out a 3-month post-launch nurture campaign (light posting, check-ins, fun extras)
Final Thought
Your book launch isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement.
Start early, show up consistently, and infuse every post with heart. When you bring readers along for the journey, they’ll show up not just for your book—but for you.
Want marketing assets that actually help you show up online—without losing your voice?
At Gatekeeper Press, our custom social media marketing bundle helps authors create engaging, authentic content that resonates with readers and gets real results.
✨ Stay true to you.
📈 Grow your visibility.
📣 Let your story shine.
Let us help you market with heart and strategy.