Glossary
Reader magnet
Also called lead magnet, freebie
A reader magnet is a free book, story or guide an author gives away in return for a reader joining their mailing list.
What it means
A reader magnet is the gift at the door. A reader sees an offer in your back matter, on social media or in a group promotion, gives their email, and gets the book.
A fantasy author might give away a prequel novella. A mystery author might offer a short case for their detective. A nonfiction author might give a checklist, a chapter or a short companion guide. A cookbook writer might send a free set of seasonal recipes.
The goal is not the free book itself. It is a reader who now hears from you when the next book comes out.
Why it matters when you sell direct
Your mailing list is where most direct sales start. A reader magnet grows that list, and the welcome emails that follow can point new readers to your store, a starter bundle or book one.
Readers who join through a magnet and then buy from you are the core of a direct business.
How Lanternbee handles it
Lanternbee does not run reader magnet giveaways today. If you use BookFunnel or StoryOrigin for them, keep it. Lanternbee handles the sales.
Readers can join your list from your Lanternbee store, a welcome email can greet them, and you can connect MailerLite or Klaviyo to keep your email tool in step.