What Is Book Back Matter (and How It Can Help You Sell More Books)
When you think about writing a book, you probably picture drafting chapters, revising dialogue, or polishing your plot—not the pages that come after your story ends. But here’s the truth:
Your book’s back matter is one of the most powerful marketing tools you have as an author.
Yep. Those extra pages at the end of your book can help you build your readership, promote your other novels, and even increase your long-term sales. Most new writers skip this step entirely… but once you understand how it works, you won’t want to leave it out again.
In this post, I’m walking you through exactly what book back matter is, what you can include, and how to use it strategically to keep your readers engaged long after they finish the last chapter.
And if you want the quick video version, you can watch it right here:
What Is Back Matter?
Back matter is all the content that appears after “The End.”
Think of it like the bonus section of your book—the part that helps you turn casual readers into real fans. Instead of losing the reader the moment the story wraps up, this is your chance to guide them toward their next step with you.
Good back matter helps you:
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Build your email list
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Strengthen your connection with readers
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Promote your other books
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Increase read-through and overall sales
And the best part? Once you set it up, it works for you automatically in every copy you publish.
Example:
What You Can Include in Your Back Matter
Here are some powerful sections you can add—and why they matter.
1. About the Author Page
This is your space to introduce yourself more personally.
A simple About the Author section can include:
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Your author bio
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A friendly, professional headshot
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What you write
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A short, warm sign-off to your reader
This page helps readers connect your name to your personality—which is key for growing long-term fans.
Example:
2. A Dear Reader Letter
This is an optional but personal touch that many readers love.
A Dear Reader letter lets you share:
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Your inspiration for the story
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Fun behind-the-scenes moments
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Little facts or tidbits you discovered while writing
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A warm thank-you message
It’s a great way to deepen your connection with your audience in a genuine, authentic way.
Example:
3. An Email Newsletter Call to Action
This is hands-down the most important piece of back matter.
Invite readers to:
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Subscribe to your email list
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Download a free bonus (like a novella, epilogue, character guide, etc.)
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Stay updated on future releases
You can even make it extra easy by adding a QR code they can scan right from the page. Small touch, big results.
Example:
4. Behind-the-Scenes Extras
Readers LOVE behind-the-scenes content—especially fans of your worlds or characters.
You can include things like:
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Fun facts
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Early brainstorming notes
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World-building extras
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Character inspirations
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Deleted scenes
- Other Fun Extras
This content turns your book into a richer experience.
Example From Our Horse Tales Children's Books:
Example:
5. A Sneak Peek or First Chapter of Your Next Book
If you want to boost sales of your other books, nothing beats a preview of the next one.
You can include:
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The first chapter
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A short excerpt
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A teaser scene
This is especially effective for series fiction, but it works for standalone authors too.
Example:
6. Promotional Pages for Your Other Books
Show readers what else you’ve written!
You can add:
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Your book covers
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Short back-cover blurbs
- Buy Now Link or QR Code
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A “Read Next” recommendation
This is simple, but it’s one of the best ways to encourage readers to continue with your work.
Example:
Example:
Example:
Why Back Matter Can Increase Book Sales
Think about it: When someone finishes your book, they’re emotionally connected. They’re invested. They want more.
If the back matter gives them a direct next step—join your newsletter, read another book, follow you as an author—they’re way more likely to stick around.
This is how authors build:
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Loyal fans
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Full-time writing careers
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Long-term income
Back matter is essentially free marketing space that works for you 24/7.
Watch the Full Video
If you want a quick breakdown of everything above, plus examples, you can watch the full video right here: Click To Watch on YouTube
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This 32-page instructional workbook is packed with valuable fill-in-the-blank templates and practical advice to help you create memorable and effective antagonists and villains. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this workbook will take your writing to the next level.
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Samantha Panzera is an adventurous travel blogger, graphic designer, and multi-media business entrepreneur who uses the experience she’s gained over the years to teach aspiring writers the skills they need to build an author platform and take their careers to the next level.