I’ve received enough amazing news lately from my publisher and beyond that I thought it’s time for an update here. How have things been going with the debut, you ask? Well, friends, let me tell you.
At launch, The Extra hit #1 on Ingram’s sales charts in a couple of categories: psychological horror and sci-fi. All of science ficiton. (!) In fact, it’s STILL #1 on Ingram’s Psychological Horror charts! (I will resist discussing genre for now, but to give you a broad perspective, Goodreads readers have shelved it most commonly in these terms: horror, science fiction, novella, thriller, fiction, mystery, audiobook, adult, suspense, favorites :D)
In the less than two months since release (September 9th), The Extra sales have increased nearly 400% over launch day sales totals! That means the magic thing that all authors hope for: word is spreading. People are talking. The book is gaining traction after launch rather than losing steam.
My publisher also shared that The Extra is nearing Shortwave’s Top 5 All-Time Bestsellers list. This is stellar news not just because I want the book to do well for my sake (duh), but also because I want it to be successful for my publisher! They’ve taken a huge chance on me, a debut, with not one but THREE novellas in The Outsiders Sequence, so this is validating and encouraging.
And in a plot twist I never saw coming, The Wall Street Journal reviewed The Extra in their paper (digital and print!!) with glowing praise. Some highlights:
“Annie Neugebauer’s The Extra offers a short, sharp shock; a combination of logistical and existential dread makes it feel like a much longer (and more frightening) experience.”
“Ms. Neugebauer is a poet and speculative-fiction writer who is no stranger to tales of horror. With The Extra she has written a nearly perfect, claustrophobic novella with a very effective countdown clock.”
“If you have time for only one terrifying tale this spooky season, make room for The Extra.”
All of this feels overwhelming, surreal, and slightly unbelievable to me as I gather it together for a blog update. It may not be an instant international bestseller, but damn, this is good stuff. Some more odds and ends to share:
I joined in on Next Chapter Bookseller’s Bookstore Horror Day here in Minneapolis–Saint Paul this weekend, and I sold out of The Extra before my hour was up! I met so many cool readers, tabled with fellow Shortwave author Patrick Barb, and had a blast. If you’re in the Twin Citities, be sure to check out Next Chapter.
My dear longtime writing friend and critique partner Lisa Bubert hosted me in her wonderful newsletter sharing some more behind-the-scenes writerly stuff about The Extra, including submission stats! If you’re not already subscribed to Lisa’s newletter, go sign up!
We broke through 100 written reviews on Goodreads and are well over 300 ratings! 50 on Amazon. Only a couple on Barnes & Noble. We need more everywhere! If you’ve enjoyed the book, please do consider copy-pasting a sentence or two saying why into your favorite sites. It really helps new readers take the leap.
Other free ways to help boost the book: mention it at your local bookstores. Request it through your library. Talk about it with your friends. Suggest it for your book club. Share posts online. So many of you have already done so much of this, and all I can say is thank you. It’s helping!!
I had a fabulous launch party. I’ve seen my book on library shelves. I’ve seen my book on bookstore shelves. I’ve seen my book with a shelf talker. I’ve signed my book for readers who’ve read it and loved it. Basically, I’m having the time of my life and savoring every single second of this ride. I have no idea what the future holds, but right now this part of things is an absolute blast.
Thank you to everyone who is celebrating with me, boosting the signal, and, of course, reading the book! I’m so grateful for you all.
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