Author Website Showcase: Before the Book Deal
If you've ever found yourself wondering, “Is it too soon to publish my author website?”—you’re in good company.
So far this year, I’ve had the pleasure of designing websites for four smart, talented, and dedicated writers: Lauren Hall, Julie Murdock, Valerie Saul, and Rosemary Broome, who had this in common:
None of them had a book deal when we worked together.
(Update: Valerie’s debut novel, The Badass Widows, will be published in 2026 by Sibylline Press!)
What they do have is clarity, commitment, and a strong sense that their writing career is worth investing in.
These projects were a delight—and occasionally a delightful challenge—because each author was building her platform early, before book covers, final titles, or even agents were in place. That meant we had the freedom (and the fun) of crafting a visual identity that reflects their voice, values, and vision—without the guidance or constraints of a finished product.
Why build a website before your book is finished?
Each of these authors had their own reasons for getting online early, but common themes included:
Looking professional and credible to literary agents and potential readers
Establishing a permanent place to share their essays, writing, and ideas (and possibly getting into the blogging habit, too!)
Sometimes, show earlier publications, either academic or in a different genre, that contribute to their credibility as a writer
Creating a home base for building an email list or linking to a Substack
Link to a social media account where they are active and building community around their topic
Boosting their confidence as emerging authors
And, not least, making a commitment to their writing and publishing journey
One writer wondered if she was “bragging” or getting ahead of herself, to launch an author website before her book was done. I get it—that impostor voice can be loud! But I gently remind my clients that a website isn’t about pretending you’ve arrived. More often, it’s about telling the world, “I’m doing this.”
The creative challenge—and opportunity
When a book doesn’t yet have a cover, branding becomes more exploratory. Should we lead with cozy, bold, modern, classic? How do we hint at a genre, tone, or future title, without boxing ourselves in? After all, most literary agents and acquiring editors will form their own opinions about the voice and vibe of this debut manuscript, and —crucially— where they think a book sits in the marketplace.
Helping clients make some early choices is one of my favorite parts of the process. And while I provide strategy and visuals, I also offer something less tangible but just as important: encouragement.
Because showing up online, before your first book is published, takes courage. And these four authors did it beautifully!
Meet the four authors
I’ll share a little about each website below, including screenshots and what we included to begin growing their potential readership from day one.
1. Lauren Hall, author and academic
Lauren Hall, author and academic, writes about Radical Moderation
Lauren’s website pages: Home, Speaking, Resources, Other Books, Articles, About, Contact
Notable website features: embedded Substack feed, Substack signup form, praise from others in her field for her work, multiple examples of other writing
Valerie Saul, novelist
Valerie Saul writes women’s fiction featuring the power of female friendship
Valerie’s website pages: Home, Book, Blog, About, Contact
Notable website features: email sign up form, book blurb, praise from early readers, blog
Julie Murdock, novelist
Julie Murdock is the author of thrillers, suspense, and occasionally, humor
Julie’s website pages: Home, Writing, About, Contact
Notable website features: embedded Substack feed, Substack signup form, published short stories, and praise from judges
Rosemary Broome, Memoirist
Rosemary Broome’s captivating memoir celebrates the timeless allure of exploring the unknown
Rosemary’s website pages: Home, Book, About, Contact
Notable website features: book description, appealing photos, resource links, praise from early readers, writing credentials
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Thinking of starting your author website early?
If you're working on (or already pitching) your first book and wondering when to build your website, take heart from these four inspiring writers.
There’s no rule that says you have to wait for a publishing contract or book cover, to look credible
In fact, the earlier you start, the more time you have to shape your online presence with intention. And the more time you have to get used to the idea of “putting yourself out there”.
If you'd like to talk about your ideas (or fears!) for your own author website, I’d be delighted to hear from you.
Learn more, and then schedule a complimentary chat with me.
Popular resources for debut author websites
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