If you are a not-well-known author (like me), you need to be alert to new venues through which you can promote and sell your books. Book fairs and festivals are perhaps the most common way non-famous authors can get their books sold. I’ve now been to no fewer than 10 book fairs or festivals. But earlier this month, I tried something that, for me, is new. A book signing at a bookstore.

I learned about the opening of Bound by Books from an online authors’ newsletter I receive. The owner, Tessa Schwabeland, invited local authors to (1) host a book signing during her store’s grand opening week, and (2) bring copies of their books for display and possible sale on consignment. I contacted Tessa almost as soon as I read about this opportunity. She gave me a two-hour block on Thursday afternoon, October 9, to be the “featured author.”

I didn’t have any trouble finding Bound by Books; it is directly across from the Grove City Public Library, which has an area for public parking next to it. The store itself is not much bigger than my living room, but it appears to be very well managed. The books are neatly arranged, and there is a small but comfortable seating area where patrons can analyze potential purchases. Artwork on the walls adds to the feeling of being in a culturally enriching environment.

Tessa set me up on a small table that still had enough room for me to display my books along with a sign that informs prospective book buyers that 2/3 of my sales revenue goes to RAINN and the Ohio Domestic Violence Network. (See “Bold Beginning Taken with Book Launch,” May 18, 2025). I sold one book while I was there and left two others for possible purchase on consignment. Considering that only about 15 or so people came to the store during my time there, I wasn’t too disappointed. (Evidently, more people came earlier in the week during the first couple of days of the grand opening.)

I have already made overtures to three other central Ohio bookstores about having book signings at their locations in the near future. At the same time, my experience at Bound by Books has made me aware that unknown authors have a significant disadvantage at such an event. That’s because although the people coming through the door are looking to buy books, they are definitely not looking to buy your book. They are coming to buy books that are on the shelves; books by authors who are not only better known than you but who also have an established track record of success. Of course, you have the advantage of being there in person and accordingly have the chance to persuade patrons that your book would be a good investment of their dollars.

If I’m able to arrange any future book signings, I’ll be sure to report on my success — or lack of the same — in a later blog post.

Note: If you are in Grove City, I encourage you stop in Bound by Books, located at 3974 Broadway.