Helping A Debut Author Build a Lasting Brand

When Lori Rader-Day joined our Books Forward family in 2014, we knew she was one of a kind. Her debut mystery novel The Black Hour garnered starred reviews from Booklist, Publishers Weekly, and Library Journal, signaling her as a fresh new voice in crime fiction. Early in her career, we partnered with Lori to position her as a standout debut author and build long-term visibility for her brand.

Building Buzz Through Regional Events and Recognition

Lori’s first book tour across the Midwest offered the perfect opportunity to secure local media coverage, generate buzz and introduce her to regional readers. We worked to amplify her presence at every stop, while also focusing on industry visibility to build her author reputation. Our team helped manage nominations for prestigious awards and industry honors—including securing an Indie Next Pick selection, which The Black Hour proudly won.

Long-Term Partnership for Continued Growth

Since her debut, Lori has gone on to receive accolades from the Edgar, Macavity, Thriller, Barry and Mary Higgins Clark Awards. Over the course of five subsequent releases, we’ve continued to help her grow her author brand—targeting well-known literary events, facilitating media coverage and reaching new readers.

Lori has made the impressive journey from first-time novelist to established, award-winning author—and we’re proud to be part of her literary team.