Rachael Eckles Author Risky Assets Trading Secrets blog

I’ve always been a bibliophile, but until I became a writer, I didn’t think much about writers as people. Sure, I’d see the headshot on the back cover, yet I had no desire to connect with the author. I didn’t wonder what compelled them to write a story I loved. I didn't provide reviews or sign up for newsletters. I’d never been part of book clubs. Reading was largely a solo journey for me.

Now that I’m on the other side of it, I see how the relationship between author and reader is sacred. An author shares what they are driven to create and a reader consumes it, seeking knowledge, escapism, adventure, or self-help. I want to support other authors and readers. It’s been such a privilege to have my small world grow so much bigger and to hear from readers all over the globe.

In creating Celeste Donovan in the Trading Secrets series, I had no idea the finance mogul with a supermodel physique would resonate with so many women and men. Yet people from all walks of life found something relatable in her, whether it was her history of trauma, her sarcasm, her impeccable taste or how she pretended not to care about her loved ones while risking everything to protect them.

Reading and writing are no longer solo endeavors for me, and it’s so fun to share Celeste’s adventures with people as enamored with her as I am. I’m beyond excited to hear what you think of Risky Assets!

3 Ways to Support Your Favorite Authors

If you’ve found an author you love, here are three ways you can support them.

Spread the Word

Word of mouth is often where readers find their next book. If you love a book, let friends and colleagues know about it. Recommend it to your book club and have a themed book party. (Champagne and macaroons are perfect for a Trading Secrets party!). Request the book be carried at your local libraries and alma maters. Finally, books make great gifts. Buy a few copies to gift for holidays or birthdays.

Write Great Reviews

I read books to obtain more information on a topic of interest (yoga, meditation, nutrition) or as an escape (thrillers, romantic suspense). That means there are a lot of sections in a bookstore that don’t interest me. I spent most of my twenties in grad (Master’s in Philosophy—talk about snoozy content) and law school. So you won’t find me clamoring to read dense philosophy texts or literary fiction for enjoyment.

If I happen to begin a book that is not in one of my favorite genres, I don’t review it. My rationale is that I don’t want to deter someone who may truly enjoy the book just because I am bored or decide not to finish it. That said, when I love a book, I let people know.

If you loved Trading Secrets and Risky Assets, I’d love for you to share your thoughts on GoodReads and Amazon.

Socialize!

Most authors nowadays are on major social media platforms. So many ways to help them promote their books. Follow their accounts, take photos of their books with you out and about in the world, review their book for your followers, join their Instagram or Facebook Live events.

I’m on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. I’m most active on Instagram these days. I’d love to hear from you and I am grateful for your support!