Including an extract from your novel on your website can be a game-changer in attracting and engaging readers. By showcasing a sample of your writing, you provide a taste of your storytelling style, hook potential readers, and build trust in your work. Here’s why you should add an extract to your website and how to address common concerns about doing so.

Benefits of Having a Novel Extract on Your Website

1. Hook Readers Immediately
A well-chosen extract can draw readers into your story from the first few lines. By offering a sample of your book, you create an emotional connection and make them curious to know what happens next.

2. Build Credibility and Trust
When readers can preview your writing, they’re more likely to trust that your book is worth purchasing. This transparency builds credibility, especially for new authors.

3. Boost Book Sales
A gripping extract can be the nudge a reader needs to buy your book. It reduces hesitation by giving readers a glimpse of the story’s quality and appeal.

4. Increase Engagement
An engaging extract encourages readers to spend more time on your website. This can improve your website metrics, like time-on-site, and strengthen the likelihood of a purchase or subscription.

5. Grow Your Mailing List
Pair your extract with a lead magnet. For example, offer the first chapter for free in exchange for an email address, then follow up with a thank-you email and a discount link to purchase the full book.

6. Attract the Right Audience
A sample helps filter out readers who may not connect with your style or story, ensuring that the ones who do engage are your target audience.

How to Choose the Right Extract
Start with a chapter or passage that hooks readers immediately, such as your opening chapter or a pivotal scene. Choose a section that ends on a cliffhanger to leave readers wanting more and reflects the genre, tone, and themes of your book.

Best Practices for Displaying an Extract
Format for readability by using clear fonts, short paragraphs, and ample white space to ensure a great reading experience. Include a call-to-action at the end of the extract, such as “Want to know what happens next? Get your copy today!” with a link to purchase. Offer multiple formats by making the extract available as a downloadable PDF, an easy-to-read webpage, or both.

FAQ: Common Concerns About Adding an Extract

1. Won’t readers just read the extract and not buy the book?
Most readers use extracts to decide whether a book is worth buying. If your extract is compelling, it will entice them to purchase the full book. Only a small percentage of readers will stop at the extract.

2. What if my book is pirated because of the extract?
Piracy is a risk for any published work, but the benefits of an extract outweigh the minimal risk of misuse. A small sample is unlikely to be pirated, and the exposure can drive legitimate sales.

3. Should I include the entire first chapter?
You don’t have to include the whole chapter. You can share just enough to intrigue readers, such as the opening scene or a section that sets up the story’s conflict.

4. What if my writing isn’t polished enough?
Ensure your extract is well-edited and professionally polished. This is your chance to make a strong first impression, so take the time to refine your sample.

5. How do I stop readers from leaving my website after reading the extract?
Use a clear call-to-action to guide readers to the next step, such as purchasing the book, subscribing to your mailing list, or reading more about the story.

6. Should I offer the extract for free or behind a signup form?
Both options work, depending on your goals. Offering it for free removes friction and increases exposure, while requiring an email signup can help you grow your mailing list.

Conclusion
Adding an extract from your novel to your website is an effective way to showcase your writing, attract the right audience, and boost book sales. By addressing concerns with thoughtful solutions and presenting your sample professionally, you can turn curious visitors into loyal readers. Don’t miss the opportunity to hook your audience—let your story do the talking!