Are you an independent author who has spent months (or years) writing your book, only to hit a wall when it comes to publishing and marketing? You’re not alone.
Many authors reach this stage and feel unsure what to do next. With so many opinions, tools, and “must-do” lists out there, it’s easy to fall into analysis paralysis — doing nothing for fear of doing the wrong thing.
Publishing and marketing a book can feel daunting from the outset. Conflicting advice and unfamiliar terminology often lead to overwhelm, or the feeling that the only alternative is a marketing agency charging high fees and tying you into long contracts.
At Smarketing, we take a different approach. We offer calm, structured support for independent authors who want to get started properly. Through foundational marketing services, practical guidance, and clear next steps, we help you put the essential building blocks in place — reducing confusion and bringing clarity to your author journey.
Not sure what you need yet? Start here to understand how we support independent authors and what your next steps could look like.
Many authors reach this stage and feel unsure what to do next. With so many opinions, tools, and “must-do” lists out there, it’s easy to fall into analysis paralysis — doing nothing for fear of doing the wrong thing.
Publishing and marketing a book can feel daunting from the outset. Conflicting advice and unfamiliar terminology often lead to overwhelm, or the feeling that the only alternative is a marketing agency charging high fees and tying you into long contracts.
At Smarketing, we take a different approach. We offer calm, structured support for independent authors who want to get started properly. Through foundational marketing services, practical guidance, and clear next steps, we help you put the essential building blocks in place — reducing confusion and bringing clarity to your author journey.
Not sure what you need yet? Start here to understand how we support independent authors and what your next steps could look like.
About Us
Hi, I'm Lewis — Owner at Smarketing!
Just like an author sharing their journey, I believe it’s important you get to know the people behind the marketing! Me and my partner Chloe (with some help from our dog, Hugo!) make the book marketing magic happen. When we aren't working, we travel the world, play games and enjoy nature.
Click below and you’ll find out more about us, our background, what led me here, and the people and values that matter most to me.
What We Offer
Our work is centred on helping independent authors get started properly. From author websites and marketing strategy to calm, practical guidance around publishing decisions, we focus on the essentials — the things that make everything else easier later on.
Marketing foundations work for all kinds of books — whether fiction, non-fiction, memoir, children’s, or niche reads. What matters most is reaching the right audience with a clear message.
Marketing foundations work for all kinds of books — whether fiction, non-fiction, memoir, children’s, or niche reads. What matters most is reaching the right audience with a clear message.
Marketing Foundations & Direction
We help you make sense of what to do first and what can wait. Our strategies focus on clear priorities, realistic next steps, and a structure you can actually follow, rather than overwhelming plans or complicated launches.
Social Media Guidance & Support
We don’t manage social media accounts, because your readers want to hear from you — not an agency. Instead, we provide clear guidance and content direction to help you show up consistently and confidently, in a way that feels sustainable and authentic.
Author Websites & Brand Foundations
Your author website is your digital home and is the foundation of everything else. We design clear, professional websites supported by simple brand direction, so readers understand who you are, what you write, and where to go next.
Paid Visibility &
Advertising
Advertising
Advertising can be useful when it’s done with clarity and purpose. We help you understand when ads make sense, how they fit into your wider foundations, and how to approach them realistically — without pressure to spend more than you’re ready for.
Email & Reader Connection Setup
Email is one of the most reliable ways to stay connected with readers — if it’s set up properly. We help you choose the right tools, organise your contacts, and build simple systems that support your book over time.
Promotional Materials & Assets
When you do need promotional materials, we help you create assets that feel consistent and considered. From digital downloads to event materials, everything is designed to support your foundations and present your work professionally.
Not sure what you need yet? Start here to understand how we support independent authors and what your next steps could look like.
Why Choose Us?
We believe authors make better decisions when they have clarity, not pressure. Our approach is built around honest guidance, clear structure, and steady support — especially at the early stages where it’s easy to feel unsure.
The principles below reflect how we work and what you can expect if you choose to work with us.
Realistic Expectations
We’re honest about what publishing and marketing can (and can’t) do. We don't hide behind hype or inflated promises, but provide clear guidance grounded in reality.
Your Voice, Intact
We guide and support, but your voice always stays front and centre. We don’t speak for you or write as you — your work remains authentically yours without compromise.
Clear, Plain English
Everything we do is explained simply and clearly. No jargon, no confusion — just straightforward advice so you always understand what’s happening and why.
No Long Contracts
You won’t be tied into lengthy agreements or pushed into ongoing services. We start with what you need now and build from there.
Built Around You
Your book, your audience, and your situation shape everything we recommend. We don’t use templates or one-size-fits-all solutions.
Value That Lasts
Our focus is on strong foundations that continue to serve you as your author journey grows — helping you avoid early mistakes that are costly to fix later on.
News, Insights & Stories
Our blog mixes how-to guidance, downloadable resources, and honest reflections from Lewis on building campaigns that work. Explore the most recent articles below.
What “Marketing Foundations” Actually Means (and What It Doesn’t)
You’ll hear the phrase “marketing foundations” mentioned a lot when…
The Hidden Cost of Doing the Right Things in the Wrong Order
One of the most frustrating experiences for independent authors is…
Why Author Marketing Feels Overwhelming Before It Even Starts
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by author marketing before you’ve…