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Marketing 6 min read July 21, 2026

Free Book Promos: How to Run KDP Select Campaigns that Work

Running a KDP free promotion? Learn how to schedule campaigns, promote to promo lists, and build reader lists.

M

Marcus Sterling

Creative Director

"Free book promotions can introduce your writing to thousands of new readers. Planning a KDP Select promo requires scheduling deals and coordinating newsletter ads."

Core Key Takeaways

  • Scheduling Free Promo Days in KDP Select
  • Submitting to Free Book Directories and Newsletters
  • Tracking Email Signups and Review Submissions

1. Scheduling Free Promo Days in KDP Select

Use your KDP Select promo days (up to 5 days every 90 days) during mid-week windows (Tuesdays to Thursdays) when book downloads are highest.

  • Schedule free promo days in mid-week windows.
  • Promote campaign days to email lists and social media.
  • Add links in your book’s back matter to encourage email signups.

2. Submitting to Free Book Directories and Newsletters

Submit your book details to directories (like Freebooksy) two weeks in advance to drive downloads on your promo days.

3. Tracking Email Signups and Review Submissions

Track download numbers and newsletter signups to measure the return on your marketing campaign.

The Takeaway

Free promos build your reader audience. The marketing team at Golden Ivory Publishing designs promotional assets and plans book launch campaigns.

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