In this episode of The Profitable Author Podcast, JD Caron and Julie Titterington pull back the curtain on A+ Content... Amazon’s hidden gem for indie authors who want to stand out and sell more books.

They break down what A+ Content actually is, why it matters, and how it can turn a “just browsing” shopper into a paying reader. From smart design choices to subtle storytelling techniques, JD and Julie reveal what separates polished, professional book pages from forgettable ones. They even dive into how to test, tweak, and measure what’s really working (and what’s not) in your A+ setup.

And if you love their rapid-fire insights, stick around for their lightning round.

• A+ Content = visibility and credibility. It’s your secret weapon for standing out on Amazon.
• Formerly known as Enhanced Brand Content (EBC), it’s now available to indie authors through KDP.
• Well-crafted A+ Content can boost conversion rates by 3–30%.
• Keep visuals consistent with your book cover and overall brand.
• Use strong imagery—it grabs attention faster than text.
• A professional, cohesive look signals trust and quality.
• Showcase editorial reviews, awards, and genre cues to build authority.
• Add lifestyle imagery to evoke emotion and genre tone.
• Refresh your A+ Content periodically using real data—not guesswork.

👉 Want to sell more books with confidence? Check out the Profitable Author Blueprint Workshop

👉 Have questions or want to work with us? Reach out at hello@weekendpublisher.com

In this episode of The Profitable Author Podcast, JD Caron and Julie Titterington tackle one of the most overlooked success factors for indie authors: credibility. Beyond reviews, they break down what really helps readers trust your book — from editorial reviews and awards to author endorsements and professional memberships.

You’ll hear honest takes on which credibility boosters actually matter, which ones don’t, and how to use them strategically without wasting money. Whether you’re launching your first book or leveling up your author brand, this episode will help you make your book look and feel legitimate to readers who are ready to buy.

Takeaways

• Credibility is what turns browsers into buyers.
• Editorial reviews reduce buyer hesitation and make your book look professional.
• Awards can add authority, but not all carry real weight.
• Endorsements from respected authors can move the needle — if they fit your genre.
• Professional memberships help with industry credibility, not reader persuasion.
• Editorial reviews offer the best return on investment for new authors.
• Focus on recognized award programs; skip pricey “vanity” contests.
• Networking with peers can open doors for blurbs and collaborations.
• Keep expectations realistic — credibility doesn’t guarantee sales, but it builds trust.
• Strategic use of credibility signals (in blurbs, A+ content, ads) can amplify your marketing.

👉 Want to sell more books with confidence? Check out the Profitable Author Blueprint Workshop

👉 Have questions or want to work with us? Reach out at hello@weekendpublisher.com

Summary

Struggling to get book reviews that actually sell copies? In this episode of the Profitable Fiction Author podcast, JD Caron and Julie Titterington reveal why reviews are the most powerful form of social proof, how to get them ethically, and what to do when those dreaded 1-stars show up. You’ll also learn the best ways to ask for reviews without sounding desperate and why even negative feedback can fuel your growth as an author.

Takeaways

• Reviews reduce friction and boost trust.
• Social proof drives readers to buy.
• Gather reviews ethically to protect credibility.
• Handle 1-stars with curiosity, not panic.
• Spot patterns to improve your future books.
• Verified reviews carry more weight than unverified.
• Asking strategically gets more responses.

👉 Want to sell more books with confidence? Check out the Profitable Author Blueprint Workshop

👉 Have questions or want to work with us? Reach out at hello@weekendpublisher.com