Why You Need One and How to Build It Without Losing Your Mind
If you’re an author, you’ve probably heard the advice a million times: “You need a website.”
And if you’re like most authors, you’ve either ignored it (because social media is “good enough”) or you’ve Googled it, had a panic attack about domains and hosting, and sworn to never touch WordPress again.
I get it. Websites feel complicated, technical, and, honestly, like a waste of time when you could be writing.
But here’s the thing:
Your website isn’t just a digital business card. It’s your home base. It’s where readers connect with you, discover your books, and—if you’re doing it right—buy directly from you.
The good news? Building an author website isn’t as scary as it sounds. I’ll walk you through the why, the what, and the how—so you can stop procrastinating and get it done.
Why Do You Need a Website?
Let’s start here: Why bother? You’re already on Instagram or Facebook, right?
The short answer: you don’t own social media. Platforms change their rules, tweak their algorithms, or disappear completely. You don’t want to wake up one day and realize your entire reader base is gone because Zuckerberg sneezed.
Your website is yours. Forever. It’s where you control the experience and build a real connection with your readers.
Here’s what it can do for you:
• Show professionalism. A good website makes you look like a pro, not a hobbyist.
• Sell your books. Direct sales? Bigger royalties. Plus, you own the customer data.
• Build your list. Readers on your email list = readers you can reach anytime.
• Tell your story. Your site is a place where readers can learn about you and become lifelong fans.
Think of it like this: If Amazon is your rented apartment, your website is your house. Build your house.
What Should Be on Your Author Website?
You don’t need 47 pages, fancy animations, or custom coding. Keep it simple. A clean, professional website can include just a handful of pages:
1. Your Homepage: The first thing readers see. It should say who you are and what you write. Include your latest book, a photo of you (so they know you’re a real human), and a call-to-action like “Sign up for my newsletter.”
2. About Page: People love stories. So tell yours. How did you start writing? What makes you tick? Keep it short and conversational, but don’t be afraid to let your personality shine.
3. Books Page: A page for your books—simple and clean. Include covers, descriptions, and links to buy them.
4. Newsletter Signup: This is the most important thing on your site. Offer a free short story, a bonus chapter, or anything enticing. The goal? Get readers on your email list.
5. Blog (Optional): You don’t have to blog every day. But sharing updates, behind-the-scenes stories, or tips about writing keeps your site active and helps you get found on Google.
6. Contact Page: Make it easy for readers or the media to reach you. A simple contact form works wonders.
How to Build Your Author Website in 3 Steps
Ready to get started? Here’s how to build a professional author website without breaking a sweat (or your bank account).
Step 1: Get a Domain and Hosting
The domain is your web address (like YourName.com), and hosting is where your website lives.
Hosting is often where things get overwhelming for authors. That’s why I created AuthorHosts.com—a hosting platform designed specifically for authors like you. It’s fast, reliable, and easy to use. Plus, I’m here to make sure you don’t get stuck.
Grab a domain, set up hosting, and you’re halfway there.
Step 2: Set Up WordPress
WordPress is my go-to recommendation. It’s powerful, flexible, and works perfectly for authors.
Here’s the cool part: At AuthorHosts, we’ll help you get it set up in just a few clicks. No coding, no headaches.
Once WordPress is ready, you can choose a clean, professional theme (think of this as the “design” of your site). There are plenty of free themes to get you started.
Step 3: Add Your Content
Now the fun part: building your pages. Start with your homepage, add your bio, and upload your book details.
Don’t overthink it. Keep it simple and clean. Your site isn’t a museum exhibit—it’s a tool to connect with readers.
How Much Does This Cost?
Surprisingly, not much.
• Domain: Around $10-20/year.
• Hosting: Affordable plans at AuthorHosts.com (check them out [here]).
• Themes/Plugins: Many great ones are free.
For less than the cost of a coffee habit, you can build a website that pays dividends for your author career.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a tech genius to build an author website. You just need a plan, a little time, and a reliable host to make sure your site works the way it should.
Your readers are out there. Make it easy for them to find you, connect with you, and buy your books.
Need help? I’ve got your back. Head over to AuthorHosts.com—I’ll walk you through it and get you up and running in no time.
Your author career deserves a home. Let’s build it.