Get ready for a vampire tale that will leave you questioning everything!
Imagine a novel that literally smells of garlic. Yes, you read that right! Jennifer L Armentrout, a bold author, decided to print 1,000 copies of her new book, "The Primal of Blood and Bone," using garlic-infused ink. Now, this might seem like a bizarre choice, but there's a method to her madness.
Armentrout's "romantasy" series, featuring Vampry and Craven, has taken the BookTok world by storm. And while garlic isn't traditionally associated with repelling vampires, this unique marketing strategy has caught the attention of romantasy enthusiasts. The special edition, a collaboration with Hellmann's mayonnaise, includes a coffin-shaped package with the garlic-scented book and a free bottle of garlic aioli. It's a clever way to engage the BookTok community, a dedicated corner of TikTok where readers and book lovers unite.
However, not everyone is on board with this garlicky gimmick. Some, like author David Barnett, argue that such tactics are unnecessary for successful authors. But here's the twist: romantasy, a genre often met with skepticism, thrives on word-of-mouth recommendations. And Armentrout's unconventional approach has sparked excitement among readers, creating a buzz around her work.
As a self-proclaimed romantasy fan, I understand the allure. It's a genre that brings people together, and finding fellow enthusiasts is part of the fun. I devoured Sarah J Maas' series during a turbulent time, and the "book hangover" that followed led me to discover Armentrout's work. While her books may not be perfect, they offer the escapism and tropes that romantasy lovers crave.
So, while I won't be adding a garlic-scented book to my collection, I believe that unconventional marketing strategies, when done right, can ignite a passion for reading. It's a bold move, but one that might just encourage more people to pick up a book and get lost in a good story. What do you think? Is this a clever marketing ploy or a step too far? Let's discuss in the comments!
