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But now that I'm about to launch my tenth book, and I'm poised to reach a huge new audience, I've decided I don't want THE SEX CLUB to be the first thing new readers see about me. I don't want to be defined—and possibly rejected—by this title.
I considered simply changing the name, but thousands of people have read it—and loved it—and I'm not willing to annoy my faithful readers who might buy the story again with a new title, not realizing they've already read it. And a new title won't alter the content, which is disturbing to some conservative readers.
So I've moved THE SEX CLUB into my standalone thriller column. The truth is when I wrote the novel, it was intended to be a standalone with dual protagonists. Then at some point, it occurred to me the detective would make a great series character. When I wrote SECRETS TO DIE FOR three years later, I based it on the Jackson character, thinking I'd try to make a series of it. So SECRETS is really the first book I intended as the start of a series. Of course, readers can begin with either one.
In simple terms, this is a very competitive market with e-books selling for 99 cents and $2.99, and I can't afford to alienate thousands of potential readers with one little word.
This has been a huge undertaking. I not only created a whole new website, I also had to make a change in my Titles list and republish each of my e-books. I've also had to redo my bio everywhere it's posted online! And I'm sure I haven't found them all yet.
But with millions of new people joining the e-reading revolution, I think this move makes sense. Have you read THE SEX CLUB? What do think of this re-branding decision? Brilliant or cowardly? Worthwhile or waste of time? One person to comment will win a copy of my new book: LIARS, CHEATERS & THIEVES. Every comment will receive a link to get THE SEX CLUB for free (download ebook).
About L.J. Sellers
L.J. Sellers is an award-winning journalist and the author of the bestselling Detective Jackson mystery/suspense series: The Sex Club, Secrets to Die For, Thrilled to Death, Passions of the Dead, and Dying for Justice. Her novels have been highly praised by Mystery Scene, CrimeSpree, and Spinetingler magazines, and the series is on Amazon Kindle’s bestselling police procedural list. L.J. also has two stand alone thrillers: The Baby Thief and The Suicide Effect. When not plotting murders, she enjoys performing standup comedy, cycling, social networking, and attending mystery conferences. She’s also been known to jump out of airplanes. Check out her updated web site
Comments
64 comments posted.
This looks like an enticing new series to start reading.
(Taunna Jarvimaki 3:47am December 15, 2011)
I haven't read The Sex Club, but I think that a change of title is a good idea. Titles and book covers are important.
Blessings,
Marjorie
(Marjorie Carmony 6:37am December 15, 2011)
I think it is a great book! The name doesn't bother me, but I can see where others might be bothered by it.
(Jenny Finstrom 10:38am December 15, 2011)
I prefer the new title, but regardless of which title is used, the story sounds interesting.
(Anna Speed 11:34am December 15, 2011)
I would chnge the title-it doesn't sound much like a mystery book
(Joy Isley 11:49am December 15, 2011)
sounds like another great book - and I would love to win a copy. Happy Holidays!!!
(Nancy Reynolds 12:35pm December 15, 2011)
I read The Sex Club and wasn't offended at all by the name. Changing the name of the book and keeping it the number one book in the Detective Jackson series would have been the route to go. BUT, I'm sure LJ has done her homework- having it as a stand alone, may bring more people 'in' because of the title, and after they read about Det.Jackson, they WILL want more.
(Jeannie Chambers 3:01pm December 15, 2011)
I don't find the title offensive and I hate to be confused if there was another book with same character but wasn't part of the series list.
(Fresh Fiction 1:01am December 16, 2011)
Personally, I think to change the title is a good move. I have not read this book but would like to. Hope to win a copy.
(Mary Christian 11:06am December 16, 2011)
I haven't read the book, and I wouldn't think that the Sex
Club as a title had anything to do with being a mystery book.
So I believe the rebranding is correct
(Susan Meikle 11:23am December 18, 2011)
Sounds like another great book. Thanks for giving me a chance to win it and read it. Happy Holidays to everyone.
(Linda Hall 12:27pm December 20, 2011)
I agree that the name can be a turn off as well as a turn on for attracting readers.
I haven't read The Sex Club but would like to. Thanks for the contest and the
download.
(Julie Robinson 1:22am December 20, 2011)
I have not read The Sex Club but I can see where the name could be a turn off for a lot of readers. At my advance age I prefer the rebranding. I would like to read this series after reading the book. I do love detective stories. Thanks for the free download.
(Brenda Hill 1:32am December 20, 2011)
I am an avid reader...although the title is racy, seeing the cross would automatically peak my interest and make me open the cover. As to changing the name, that is really a difficult decision...I also read series books and would hunt this one down if I knew it was originally the first book...not the rebranded name, just in case something else is changed.
(Sumiyati Monoarfa 4:59am December 20, 2011)
Sounds like an interesting decision. Hope you will let us know how you think this works out.
Blessings,
Marjorie
(Marjorie Carmony 6:03am December 20, 2011)
As I haven't read the book, the title could mean the book is about a variety of things. It takes courage to change something, so, no it's not a cop out for you. It's your baby, so if you think re-branding is the way to go, then I say 'you go girl!' But now am intrigued so will add this to my TBR pile. Thanks.
(Sue Peterson 6:10am December 20, 2011)
While I understand looking back I think you have overthought everything
and created more confusion. You probably should post a discreet
explanation with The Sex Club and Secrets to Die For to clarify where this
book comes in the reading order though. I would want to know before
starting the series about all the stories the heroine plays a part in and let
readers decide which to read.
(Lindsey Ekland 6:34am December 20, 2011)
I really think that you should decide what you really feel the most comfortable with doing. I think there is always a chance in life that you must take that chance and just hope for the best outcome.
(Cheryl English 6:54am December 20, 2011)
I READ THE SEX CLUB AND LOVED IT..A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME?!!
(Silvana Moscato 7:10am December 20, 2011)
I have not read The Sex Club. The title change sounds like a good idea.
(Estella Kissell 7:12am December 20, 2011)
am avid reader, however am not acquainted with your books..but reading about them has increased interest..hope to win and whet my appetite for more.
(Mal Kaplan 7:28am December 20, 2011)
I think the change was a smart move! I am not bothered by the name, but I
can see how others might be! Looking forward to reading your books!
(Suzanne P 8:08am December 20, 2011)
Wow - this is my "introduction" to the series - love it already - thank you for the opportunity to win - and agree with the re-branding concept -
(Felicia Ciaudelli 8:53am December 20, 2011)
This book, heck the entire series sound like something that I would like to read. Since I'm about to go on vacation I will definitely be reading it.
(Margie Coats 9:27am December 20, 2011)
I think you're a savvy author who understands the wide spectrum of readers. I suppose you could have just changed the title, but then you would have lost all of your previous reviews, and some readers could have been confused and thought it was a new book. The title does not offend me, but I believe that it is a turnoff for some part of the reader population.
(Vickie Taylor 9:51am December 20, 2011)
Love your books. Would love to win the contest. Happy Holidays.
(Nancy Reynolds 9:54am December 20, 2011)
The Sex Club doesn't have to be a turn off but if you change the name you should have a disclaimer under the new title that identifies it as a reprint. It will still be a joy to read,
(Barbara Ricks 9:56am December 20, 2011)
This is a new to me series. Honestly, when I saw the title, I was not thinking it was a detective novel. I think the title change was a good idea.
(Anne Muller 10:04am December 20, 2011)
I would not have thought of a detective novel just by glancing at the cover. More of a bondage type. As I like both I would have read the back to see if it was something I would like to read.
(Gin Reeves 10:12am December 20, 2011)
I agree maybe a change of name for the Book would be a good idea. I have small children that I would not want to question the book title.
(Annetta Stolpmann 10:41am December 20, 2011)
I think that it was a good move that you put that title as a stand alone. I have not read your books yet, but knowing which genre your books fall under, I'd love to read them. I'm actually hoping that when I'm through, I'll be able to pass them along to my Husband to read as well. I know he loves detective novels, too. Best of luck with the re-vamping of your website. I know you're bending over backwards to please everyone, and it's no easy task. Have a Merry Christmas, and a Happy and Healthy New Year!!
(Peggy Roberson 10:48am December 20, 2011)
I haven't read the book. As for the re-branding, I think it is an innovative maneuver.
(G. Bisbjerg 11:07am December 20, 2011)
Sounds like an interesting book.
(Wilma Frana 11:47am December 20, 2011)
Greetings:
Have not read you amazing sounding books. See, it did work
I am going to check out your series. Love thriller books.
Glad that you respected your readers and not change the titles
of your Sex club books. WTG on your writing skills and thanks for the book giveaway too.
(Dayle Butler 11:57am December 20, 2011)
I have not read your books... you are a new author for me...
(Colleen Conklin 12:39pm December 20, 2011)
I haven't read the book. You are a new-to-me author. I think the re-branding makes sense. I almost didn't read your post because I presumed the title of your book represented a genre I don't read. I was wrong. I'm glad I read your column. I look forward to meeting Det. Jackson.
(G S Moch 12:39pm December 20, 2011)
Sounds like a terrific story line - I can't wait to read it!
(Sami Coghill 2:30pm December 20, 2011)
I haven't had the opportunity to read your books yet and I do enjoy mystery, suspense/thrillers. The title, 'The Sex Club' for your book is definitely eye-catching, but may be offensive in some aspects to readers that would not care to be holding and reading a book displaying that title in public places. It wouldn't bother me, but would for some, therefore, I would probably change the title to obtain more readers (esp. those who may confuse the genre that it actually is). I want to read it, but am unsure if I can without an e-reader. I am one that prefers paperbacks--even with the new trend of e-books. Will too much of these electronic gadgets eventually eliminate books altogether?? I hope not (even if it is somewhat cheaper)--isn't recharging batteries using electricity and how long is the battery life for these hand-held devices? Thanks for the contest!
(Linda Luinstra 4:10pm December 20, 2011)
Well. While I would have no problem reading this book with the title, i can understand someone's hesitancy in doing so. So, it's smart business tactics to change the title!
(Anne Harris 4:22pm December 20, 2011)
I don't judge a book by its title. I always read the inside cover or the back page to find out a little about the book. Also, I've read your books, so the Title didn't bother me. Can't wait for the new books.
(Pat Wilson 4:25pm December 20, 2011)
I agree with Pat. I do not judge a book by it's cover. It is
the back page with the story line that I go by. Looking
forward to the series.
(Katherine Ingram 4:48pm December 20, 2011)
As the saying goes, "Don't judge a book by it's cover" or by it's title. A person has to read the inside cover or back book cover first to gain some insight as to what it's about. Anything goes these days for books and book titles, so it doesn't affect my judgement. I will be looking for your books to read.
(Rich Cook 4:53pm December 20, 2011)
I haven't read THE SEX CLUB but the title wouldn't stop me and I would love to read it. I do know some people that buy their books based on titles and covers first and if that attacks them then they read the back cover or inside the front cover. I honestly tell you to keep or change the title but if it was me I'd go with my gut and my heart. Be true to yourself and you won't go wrong. Best of luck to you remember it's your work Be Proud.
(Janice Bennett 6:15pm December 20, 2011)
I haven't read The Sex Club. I think that your rebranding decision comes from an honest place and I think it's great that you are concerned about your existing fan base. I have bought a book that I thought was new but was just retitled. I was NOT happy! I don't shop by title or cover alone. Yes, it might help guide about what to consider but it is not the ultimate reason I choose any book. I am always looking for new authors to read and I love the thriller catagory!
(Jennifer Beyer 6:40pm December 20, 2011)
Titles don't stop me from reading a book - I'mn more interested in the back blurb.
(Mary C 6:41pm December 20, 2011)
Names and covers mean a lot!
(Lisa Garrett 6:47pm December 20, 2011)
I haven't read The Sex Club but I can appreciate the strategy in rebranding. When I'm browsing for books, the title and perhaps the graphics have to cue me to check out the blurb. In a series, it is normal to check for the first one (coming into the middle of series always make me aware that I am missing some background). If the first in the series does not catch one of my triggers, I likely won't buy.
(Carol Drummond 7:07pm December 20, 2011)
I haven't read The Sex Club. Honestly, I probably wouldn't pick it up. I'd never guess it was a detective mystery. Now I know the genre, I'd read it. I'm glad you didn't change the name. As others commented, I'd find it confusing.
(r w 7:20pm December 20, 2011)
Titles are not important to me. Cover blurbs and authors drive my purchases.
(Tammy Yenalavitch 7:38pm December 20, 2011)
I'd probably like it with a re-title. Sounds like an interesting series.
(Michelle Fidler 8:13pm December 20, 2011)
I haven't had the opportunity to read this series. They sound like something that I would enjoy.
(Cindy Olp 8:24pm December 20, 2011)
It sounds fun and a little bit of rambunctious.
(Alyson Widen 8:49pm December 20, 2011)
Merry Christmas to me a free ebook .Can't wait to read it. I like the title.
(Deb Pelletier 9:20pm December 20, 2011)
Sounds like a genius idea to me. Sure to reach new readers. Have not read The Sex Club.
(Lisa Kendall 12:29pm December 21, 2011)
I think it's a brave and logical move, cuz I can definitely see how such a
blatant name would alienate some readers who might have enjoyed it if they
gave it a chance. It's just natural for a reader (me included) to judge a book on
its title and cover and when there's so much to choose from you go with the
best bet. This series is new to me but the original title wouldnt have put me
off; I would however be expecting sex scenes lol.
(Bella Franco 4:53am December 21, 2011)
I can understand why some people are put off by the title of the book but if they take the time to read the jacket I'm sure they would see it isn't what they initially thought it was, after all it's like the old saying "you should never judge a book by it's cover, you might miss out on a really great story.
(Lynn Paterson 12:07pm December 21, 2011)
I've read several of LJ Seller's books and love them. I always like a great detective mystery and from what I've already read of Sellers I'm sure this one won't disappoint.
(Karen Appleby 4:44pm December 21, 2011)
I think the change sounds brave to me. I get really upset when I buy a book or download an ebook and find the only thing that changed is the cover or name, and I already have it. I haven't read this particular series so it would be a safe download and would probably get me interested.
(Annetta Sweetko 8:49pm December 21, 2011)
I'm always looking for new series. This sounds interesting
(Donna Wager 10:52pm December 21, 2011)
This a series I would love to start
(Patricia Kasner 12:31pm December 22, 2011)
I never let a little thing like the word "sex" keep me from a good book. I look forward to reading it!
(Shelly Blackmore 1:15pm December 25, 2011)
I am courious about your books. I'll give them a try.
(Tracy Wickman 1:17am December 26, 2011)
Thank you, everyone, for participating and sharing your thoughts! I hope you enjoy the story.
L.J.
(L.J. Sellers 9:46pm December 28, 2011)
I am grateful to have opened this discussion. This question
is quite interesting to me. Finally the answer was found
bullet force
(Anna Shetty 3:51am October 25, 2018)
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