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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. SellersL.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
Comments64 comments posted.
This looks like an enticing new series to start reading.
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.
I think it is a great book! The name doesn't bother me, but I can see where others might be bothered by it.
I prefer the new title, but regardless of which title is used, the story sounds interesting.
I would chnge the title-it doesn't sound much like a mystery book
sounds like another great book - and I would love to win a copy. Happy Holidays!!!
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.
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.
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.
I haven't read the book, and I wouldn't think that the Sex
Sounds like another great book. Thanks for giving me a chance to win it and read it. Happy Holidays to everyone.
I agree that the name can be a turn off as well as a turn on for attracting readers.
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.
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.
Sounds like an interesting decision. Hope you will let us know how you think this works out.
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.
While I understand looking back I think you have overthought everything
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.
I READ THE SEX CLUB AND LOVED IT..A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME?!!
I have not read The Sex Club. The title change sounds like a good idea.
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.
I think the change was a smart move! I am not bothered by the name, but I
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 -
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.
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.
Love your books. Would love to win the contest. Happy Holidays.
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,
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.
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.
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.
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!!
I haven't read the book. As for the re-branding, I think it is an innovative maneuver.
Sounds like an interesting book.
Greetings:
I have not read your books... you are a new author for me...
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.
Sounds like a terrific story line - I can't wait to read it!
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!
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!
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.
I agree with Pat. I do not judge a book by it's cover. It is
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.
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.
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!
Titles don't stop me from reading a book - I'mn more interested in the back blurb.
Names and covers mean a lot!
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.
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.
Titles are not important to me. Cover blurbs and authors drive my purchases.
I'd probably like it with a re-title. Sounds like an interesting series.
I haven't had the opportunity to read this series. They sound like something that I would enjoy.
It sounds fun and a little bit of rambunctious.
Merry Christmas to me a free ebook .Can't wait to read it. I like the title.
Sounds like a genius idea to me. Sure to reach new readers. Have not read The Sex Club.
I think it's a brave and logical move, cuz I can definitely see how such a
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.
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.
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.
I'm always looking for new series. This sounds interesting
This a series I would love to start
I never let a little thing like the word "sex" keep me from a good book. I look forward to reading it!
I am courious about your books. I'll give them a try.
Thank you, everyone, for participating and sharing your thoughts! I hope you enjoy the story.
I am grateful to have opened this discussion. This question
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