Center of Authenticity

Author Blurb, Indie Author Mindset

Do You Know Your Center of Authenticity as an Indie Author?

 

As an indie fiction author, understanding your Center of Authenticity—your WHY—can make all the difference in how you connect with readers. It’s the heart of your story, your motivation, and the passion that drives you to write.

Your Center of Authenticity is the story behind your stories—the reason why you create the worlds, characters, and plots you do. When you tap into this, you can weave a powerful narrative that draws your ideal readers in and keeps them coming back for more.

So, what is it?

Start by asking yourself this:

What experiences in your life—good or bad—have shaped the stories you write?


Think about the moments, emotions, or themes that keep showing up in your work. Whether it’s a personal challenge, a passion for a certain genre, or a love for creating characters who overcome great odds, these are the elements that will resonate with your readers.

If you’re further along in your author journey, you can deepen your connection with your audience by reflecting on your writing career itself.

Ask yourself:

What has happened in your writing journey—successes or struggles—that could inspire and connect with your readers?

The more authentic and specific you can be with your messaging, the more powerful your connection will be. Readers crave genuine stories, both in your books and in the person behind them. When you get clear on your why, you’ll find it easier to craft engaging emails, social media posts, and book descriptions that truly speak to your audience.

Your Action Step:

Ask yourself the Center of Authenticity question—either as it applies to your life or your writing career. Then, use what you discover to shape your messaging and connect with your readers on a deeper level.

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When you’re ready, here’s how else I can help:

1. Join the Indie Fiction Authors Circle for just $25/year for ongoing support here

2. Take the Online Marketing Map for Indie Fiction Authors course here

3. Book at 1:1 session with me here

Why Your “About the Author” Section Matters: Creating a Personal Connection with Readers

Author Blurb, Email Marketing, Growing Newsletter List

As an indie fiction author, you’re not just selling books—you’re inviting readers into your world.

A well-crafted “About the Author” section is one of the most powerful tools for making that connection.

It’s more than a simple biography; it’s an opportunity to build trust, foster loyalty, and give readers insight into who you are beyond the page.

When done right, this section can turn casual readers into dedicated fans.

Here are 5 reasons why your “About the Author” page is so important and how to make the most of it.

1. Your Story Behind the Story

Readers are naturally curious about the person behind the books they love. They want to know what inspires you, what your journey has been, and how your life experiences shape your stories. This creates a personal connection, making you more relatable and human in their eyes.

In your “About the Author” section, share key moments that led you to become a writer.

For example:

Did a childhood love for fantasy or an unforgettable experience inspire your stories?

Was there a particular book that changed your life or a moment when you realized writing was your true calling?

Telling your story will help readers understand your work on a deeper level and feel more connected to you as an author.

2. Show Your Passion for Writing

Readers love to get inside the mind of an author and see why they write what they do.

Your “About the Author” section is the perfect place to explain your writing philosophy.

Whether you believe in the power of storytelling to change minds or simply enjoy crafting rich, fictional worlds, let readers know what drives you.

Be authentic and honest in sharing why you’re passionate about writing.

For example:

If you write romance, talk about the joy of creating happily-ever-afters.

If thrillers are your genre, explain the thrill of creating tension and surprise.

By sharing your motivations, you give readers a reason to invest emotionally in your work.

3. Connect Your Life to Your Work

In addition to sharing your journey, tie your personal experiences to the themes in your books.

For example:

If you write crime novels and have a background in criminal psychology, mention how this influences your storytelling.

If you write fantasy, maybe your travels or love of mythology play a role in your world-building.

This helps readers see your books as an extension of your life and interests, creating a deeper bond between you and your audience. It also makes your work more memorable because readers can associate your personal story with the stories you tell.

4. Make It Engaging and Relatable

The tone of your “About the Author” page should reflect your writing style.

For example:

If your books are humorous, let your sense of humor shine through.

If they’re serious and thought-provoking, keep your tone more reflective.

The goal is to give readers a sense of who you are, both as a writer and a person.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to invite readers to engage with you beyond your books. Encourage them to follow you on social media, sign up for your newsletter, or participate in your next book event. This creates an ongoing relationship that goes beyond a one-time book purchase.

5. Your Readers Want to Know You

Ultimately, readers are looking for a connection. By sharing your story, passions, and motivations in an engaging way, you invite them into your world.

Your “About the Author” section is not just about telling readers who you are; it’s about showing them why they should invest in your stories and your journey as a writer.

Take the time to craft a thoughtful and authentic “About the Author” page, and you’ll build stronger relationships with your readers—relationships that can last through your entire writing career.

When you’re ready, here are some other ways that I can help you:

  1. Want some 1:1 time with me? I have a few spots open for private messaging sessions ​here​.
  2. Reach More Readers & Sell More Stories~in less than one hour a week, even if you hate marketing! ​Click here for more info​

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