The Journal.

Readers Can’t Get Enough of BookTok. Publishers Are Cashing In.

57 snips
May 26, 2025
In this engaging discussion, author Penn Cole, known for the Kindred's Curse Saga, shares insights on the impact of BookTok on the publishing landscape. She highlights how TikTok redefines reader engagement and marketing strategies, especially in romance and fantasy genres. Cole also dives into the rise of diverse romance subgenres, like sports romance, and discusses the balance between self-publishing and traditional routes. With nearly a million copies sold, the conversation reveals how personalized algorithms on BookTok are reshaping reader preferences and driving a new wave of sales.
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ANECDOTE

BookTok Boosts Romance Bookstore

  • Leah Koch shares how BookTok drew new readers to her romance bookstore, The Ripped Bodice.
  • Customers brought TikTok-inspired shopping lists, causing her to stock popular titles quickly.
ANECDOTE

Author's TikTok Growth Journey

  • Penn Cole self-published her romanticy fantasy series by actively engaging on BookTok.
  • Through daily posts and community interaction, her books steadily grew in popularity and sales.
INSIGHT

BookTok Shapes Publishing Trends

  • BookTok gives publishers real-time insights into reader preferences and trends.
  • This access allows publishers to acquire titles and repackage older works appealing to new audiences.
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