Authors Welcome: Submit Your Book

Welcome Local Authors to The Charmed Page!

Thank you for considering The Charmed Page in Lake Charles, LA, as a home for your book! Writing and publishing a book is an incredible accomplishment, and we’re thrilled to connect with local authors who are enriching the literary landscape of Southwest Louisiana.

As much as we’d love to support every author, our shelf space is limited, and we strive to curate a collection that best serves our customers while celebrating local talent. To ensure a fair and transparent process, we’ve outlined some criteria and opportunities for local authors below.

You must live within the following boundaries: north to Deridder, East to Iowa, West to the Texas border, and South to the Gulf. 

How to Submit Your Book for Consignment

To have your book considered for consignment at The Charmed Page, please ensure it meets the following requirements:

  • Book Format:
    • The book must be professionally printed and bound
    • Author and title on the spine is preferred, especially since not all our indie published books get a chance to be face out on the shelves (if customers can only see a blank spine or a staple, it’s highly unlikely that anyone will find your book). 
    • Covers should be of high quality (paperback, hardcover, or equivalent material) and include both the title and author name.
    • Your book needs to be comparably priced to other titles of its size and genre. You also agree to have the same price listed in The Charmed Page as on other platforms or sell channels. Meaning the book is available for the same price no matter where it is sold.
    • A 13-digit International Standard Book Number (ISBN) must be visible on the front or back cover.
  • Submission Process:
    • Submit a copy of your book along with a completed submission form, which you can find at https://forms.gle/qebXLFvy2nQxW4pSA
    • Include a brief description of your book, target audience, and any marketing plans you have in place.

The Charmed Page will review your submission and notify you if we decide to carry your book. Unfortunately, we cannot respond to every submission. If you don’t hear from us, it simply means that your book may not align with our current inventory needs.

Consignment Terms

  • Authors earn 60% of the retail price for each copy sold.
    • Through research, and speaking to other bookstore owners, we’ve found this is the industry standard.
    • Sales Tax is covered by The Charmed Page; please consult a tax professional for your responsibilities
  • Books must be provided directly by the author and will be sold on consignment.
  • The Charmed Page reserves the right to decline any book without explanation.

Author Events and Opportunities

We believe in fostering a vibrant literary community and offer additional opportunities for local authors:

Monthly Local Author Faire

  • Held once a month, often with a specific theme.
  • Authors can apply for a shared 10x10 space for $30/author. Authors are responsible for providing their own books and managing payments (all proceeds go to the author).
  • Authors who have their books on consignment with The Charmed Page may set up for free to sign books during the book fair. However, customers must purchase the books through The Charmed Page before obtaining a signature.

In-Store Author Events

  • Book Launches
    • Authors who choose to have their books on consignment with us are invited to have book launch parties in our store.
  • Book signings or readings
    • While you are here, the focus is on you. We will not schedule other events to disrupt or take away from your experience.
    • We will provide a table and chairs for you and a guest or two.
    • You will be in a prime location for visibility and interaction during book signings.
    • Social media promotions across multiple platforms.
  • Workshops at The Charmed Page.
  • Priority is given to authors who actively promote their events and The Charmed Page. 

Tips for Success

To maximize your book’s success in a bookstore setting, here are a few tips:

  • Hire a professional editor to ensure a polished manuscript.
  • Invest in a professionally designed cover and layout to attract readers.
  • Research similar titles in your genre and price your book competitively.
  • Encourage your friends, family and others to purchase your books at The Charmed Page.
  • The link to your book on charmedpagebooks.com MUST be present on your website and any social media/online presence you have.
  • Contact your local media, send out press releases and use social media to get the word out.
  • Get involved with book clubs, libraries and any other organizations that would be a fit for your book.

Marketing

Promote your book’s availability at The Charmed Page on social media, your website, and through word of mouth.

List The Charmed Page as a purchase location during publicity campaigns.

Congratulations on Publishing Your Book!

Whether or not we choose to carry your book, we wish you continued success on your writing journey. Thank you for sharing your passion and creativity with the world and our community.

For more information, please contact us at authors@charmedpagebooks.com.

We can’t wait to hear from you!