In this podcast episode, we explore the transformative influence of BookTok, the TikTok community dedicated to books, on the romance and fantasy publishing landscape. The platform has sparked a remarkable increase in sales, especially for self-published authors who skillfully harness its algorithm to reach readers directly. This shift has compelled established publishers to reassess their approaches, resulting in heightened sales for both new and older titles while placing a stronger emphasis on tapping into readers' preferences highlighted by TikTok trends. Though BookTok brings its own set of challenges, such as negative comments and added pressure for authors, it ultimately empowers both readers and writers by breaking down traditional barriers in publishing and opening up fresh opportunities for success.
