How to Find a Hidden Bestseller: Unlocking the Secrets of Great Reads
In today’s vast literary market, finding a hidden bestseller might feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. With millions of books being published each year, it’s easy for a real gem to slip through the cracks, waiting to be discovered. But, if you’re someone who loves books, this search can be one of the most exciting parts of your journey.
In this post, we’ll dive into effective strategies to find hidden bestsellers. This is geared toward book lovers, curious readers, and even authors looking to study great under-the-radar works. Along the way, we’ll sprinkle in tips for finding long-tail keywords, because let’s face it, whether you’re selling a book or searching for one, SEO matters!
Why Discover Hidden Bestsellers?
Hidden bestsellers are often overlooked treasures. Unlike mainstream successes, these books typically receive less attention but offer just as much value—if not more. They are diamonds in the rough, works that captivate readers despite not having the backing of a massive marketing machine.
What Makes a Bestseller "Hidden"?
Many books fly under the radar due to limited promotion, niche audiences, or small publishing houses. But thanks to word-of-mouth recommendations and online platforms, readers can discover these works that are otherwise left in the shadows. "Hidden bestsellers" are books that haven't reached mainstream success yet, but have potential due to their powerful storytelling, unique themes, or niche appeal.
Where to Look for Hidden Bestsellers
1. Niche Genres and Categories
One of the easiest ways to find hidden bestsellers is by exploring niche categories in genres that may not always make it to bestseller lists. For instance, categories like "hard science fiction," "historical romance," or "self-published fantasy" often hold hidden gems that haven’t yet been discovered by the masses.
2. Explore Independent and Small Publishing Houses
Independent publishing houses are a haven for new and underrated authors. While big publishing firms tend to focus on commercial success, indie publishers often take more risks on unique voices and innovative stories.
Look at small presses like:
Graywolf Press
Coffee House Press
Melville House Publishing
These houses have a reputation for producing quality books that might otherwise get lost in the shuffle. They frequently showcase authors whose work resonates deeply with a smaller, but passionate, audience.
3. Use Amazon’s “Customers Who Bought This Item Also Bought” Feature
Amazon is a goldmine for discovering hidden bestsellers, but most people don’t dig deep enough. Instead of sticking with the traditional Top 100 lists, explore related books through Amazon’s "Customers Also Bought" feature. This will take you down a rabbit hole of lesser-known titles based on your preferences. Be sure to use long-tail keywords when searching, like “sci-fi novels with strong female leads” or “psychological thrillers with a twist ending” to refine your results.
External resource: Amazon book recommendations
4. Leverage Goodreads Lists and Reader Groups
Goodreads is an essential tool for any book lover. Search for curated lists, such as "Hidden Gems of [year]" or "Under-the-Radar Bestsellers," which feature books voted on by readers. The platform also allows you to follow avid readers who often highlight hidden treasures in their reviews.
Goodreads also offers various genre-specific groups where members frequently share recommendations on hidden gems. Being active in these communities helps you stay in the loop on books that might otherwise pass you by.
External resource: Goodreads book lists
5. Read Indie Book Blogs
There’s a wide array of indie book bloggers who dedicate their time to reviewing lesser-known titles. These blogs are fantastic for discovering hidden bestsellers because the bloggers often review self-published books or works from smaller presses. Some of the most trusted indie book bloggers include:
The Indie Book Review
Bookish
Indie Reader
These blogs often review niche genres, debut authors, and books with more focused followings—ideal for anyone looking to unearth a bestseller before it becomes mainstream.
6. Use Book Subscription Services
Book subscription boxes are another great way to discover hidden bestsellers. Curated by industry experts, these services handpick lesser-known titles to send to subscribers each month. Popular book subscriptions like Book of the Month and OwlCrate are well-known for featuring books from indie authors or debut writers who haven't made a splash in the mainstream yet.
How to Spot a Potential Bestseller
1. Read Reviews Carefully
Reviews offer a window into a book’s potential. While a book may not be on a bestseller list, if it has a high percentage of 5-star reviews (particularly on Amazon and Goodreads), there’s a good chance it’s something special. Readers often leave detailed reviews on books they feel passionate about. Pay attention to long-form reviews that point out unique themes, character depth, or unpredictable plot twists.
2. Look for Author Engagement
Authors who engage with their audience often have a dedicated fan base, and these books can quickly transition from hidden to well-known. Authors who run active blogs, engage with readers on social media, or frequently participate in reader Q&A sessions often create communities that help their books gain traction.
Utilizing Long-Tail Keywords to Search for Hidden Bestsellers
Long-tail keywords are crucial in discovering hidden bestsellers. These are more specific phrases that cater to a smaller, more targeted audience. For example, instead of searching for “bestselling thrillers,” try “psychological thrillers with unreliable narrators.”
Not only does this narrow down your search, but it can also help you uncover niche books that aren’t in the spotlight but have rave reviews from a particular audience.
Some long-tail keywords for book lovers might include:
“Lesser-known sci-fi novels with strong character development”
“Fantasy series by indie authors”
“Romantic comedies with quirky protagonists”
The Power of Word of Mouth
Nothing beats the power of word of mouth when it comes to finding a hidden bestseller. Connect with fellow readers, ask friends for recommendations, and don’t hesitate to join book clubs where members share their favorite reads. Online book communities and social media platforms like Instagram’s #Bookstagram and Reddit’s r/books subreddit are bustling with recommendations from avid readers.
External resource: Reddit Books Community
How to Find An Unknown Best Selling Novel
Finding hidden bestsellers isn’t just about stumbling across a great book; it’s about knowing where to look, what to search for, and how to use available tools to your advantage. Whether you dive into niche categories, explore indie presses, or use long-tail keywords to refine your searches, there are plenty of ways to uncover books that others might miss.
Remember, great books don’t always come with flashy marketing campaigns. Some of the best stories are the ones that quietly find their way into the hands of readers who love to discover something new and exciting. So, get out there, and start uncovering your next favorite hidden bestseller!
External resource: Book of the Month Subscription Service
