Now, in total candor and complete honesty, I don't expect anyone to actually do this. But I won't know until I ask, and I figure it's an interesting, possibly even revolutionary, thing to try.
If you say no, please tell me why in the comments. If you say yes, tell me why in the comments and then email me.
Have a look at this:
That's a smaller version of the widget I have in my sidebar. When you click on Afraid, it offers you a choice of options on the Internet to find out more about it, or buy it if you so desire.
I've got a bunch of extra first edition copies of my second Jack Daniels book, Bloody Mary.
Here's what I propose:1. You agree to put the Afraid widget on your blog sidebar or website for 30 days.
2. I'll send you a free, autographed, first edition hardcover copy of Bloody Mary.
So, what does everyone think? Good idea? Bad idea? Does anyone want to try it out?
I seriously have no clue if anyone will go for this. If not, lesson learned. But it seems like an innovative idea, trading signed books for internet real estate. A win-win, mutually beneficial, everyone is happy kind of thing.
A few years ago, I sold T-shirts with my book cover on it, and people bought those. If people are willing to pay to advertise my books on their torsos, why not actually give them something to put a widget on their site?
This widget is also customizable. You can make it skinnier, wider, different colors, add more titles, and so on. Click on "J.A. Konrath" on the widget, then click on "Grab this widget" and it will show you how to personalize it.
So tell me what you think.