In this practical conference session, Sarah Penner, New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Apothecary, The London Séance Society, and The Amalfi Curse, shares a grounded, experience-based approach to building an online presence that actually serves your writing career.

Drawing on her own path from querying novelist to internationally bestselling author, Sarah explains how writers can use digital platforms thoughtfully—focusing on long-term visibility, authentic reader connection, and sustainable habits rather than constant hustle. She highlights the tools and strategies she has found most effective, especially for authors of historical fiction.

You’ll learn how to:

• Use Facebook and Instagram effectively as platforms for reader engagement and visibility

• Build and maintain a professional author website that strengthens your brand

• Grow and nurture a newsletter list as a long-term asset you actually own

• Develop a content strategy that fits your current career stage

• Understand the difference between posting, engaging, branding, and advertising

• Batch, repurpose, and reuse content to save time and reduce overwhelm

• Use tools like hashtags, Linktree, giveaways, and analytics more intentionally

Sarah also offers candid insight into authenticity, professionalism, kindness, and protecting your mental health online—making this session especially valuable for writers who want to stay visible without burning out.

Perfect for authors who are querying, preparing for launch, or managing a growing backlist, this replay offers practical, adaptable guidance for building an author platform in the digital age.