Field Notes is where I post short, observational pieces about the week behind me—work, home, heritage, and whatever else insists on being noticed.
Finding Readers Through Community: Why In-Person Connection Still Matters
Independent authors often struggle to market books without large advertising budgets. With the release of my latest book, I decided to take a more organic and cost-effective approach to publicity. That has meant no major spending on book tours, paid reviews, or advertising. Instead, I’ve been focusing on reaching potential readers wherever they may be — through conversation, community, and genuine connection.
A large part of that effort has gone into expanding my digital footprint. Over the past few months, I’ve appeared on three podcasts, participated in newspaper interviews, and encouraged readers to leave reviews on Goodreads. While all of that can feel like a tremendous amount of work for what sometimes seems like a modest return, the experience has reminded me of something important: the most effective way to connect with new readers is still in person.
In a single evening, I likely sold as many books as I had over the previous two months online. That success came through Tertulia Night, an event I am still gleaming over. What an incredible achievement it was for myself and the group of authors from the Mirador Artistry Collective, who organized the event for the second year in a row. The evening was presented alongside the Núcleo de Leitura of Casa de Alentejo, and it would not have been possible without everyone who performed, attended, supported, and helped make the night so memorable.
It truly was an unforgettable celebration of storytelling, music, art, and community. It also marked my first time serving as master of ceremonies — something that brought a fair amount of anxiety beforehand — but thankfully it went very well. I was grateful for such a kind, attentive, and engaged audience. More than anything, the night brought together writers, musicians, artists, and creatives in a meaningful celebration of Portuguese culture and artistic expression.
Experiences like this reinforce my belief that in-person interaction is unmatched when it comes to connecting with people and translating that connection into book sales. Even without being a natural salesperson, readers can sense authenticity when they hear your story directly, see your passion, and have the opportunity to engage face-to-face. Having books physically available in that moment creates the closest thing possible to a guaranteed sale. At the same time, for introverts, that level of social energy can be exhausting, and there is only so much of yourself you can give at events like these.
It’s also worth noting that this kind of success tends to happen in the right environment — targeted audiences who are already invested in literature, culture, or the arts. I’ve participated in other markets and events over the years with varying results, but nothing compares to the impact of genuine in-person connection. Online promotion certainly has its place and can support that visibility, but as I’ve learned, it often requires a significant amount of effort for relatively short-term return.
Events like Tertulia Night are powerful reminders of how important community spaces are for creativity, connection, and preserving cultural heritage. I’m already looking forward to the next one — and to continuing the journey of finding new readers along the way.
Photos From the Field.
Field Notes.
Fragments from a Portuguese descendant learning where he stands
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