What the Heck Is a Kickstarter Anyway?
If you’ve heard me mention my “Kickstarter campaign” and thought, “Hmm, is that like a donation site? Or a mysterious club?” – you’re not alone.
Kickstarter is not a charity. It’s a place where creators (like yours truly) invite readers to order special editions of a book before it’s released, usually with some fun bonuses!
Think of it as a way to be part of the creative journey before the book hits Amazon and to grab exclusive extras along the way.
Why I’m Using Kickstarter (And Why It’s Not a Charity)
This campaign isn’t about asking for donations, it’s about creating something special together.
By launching on Kickstarter, I can:
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Offer beautiful editions that wouldn’t be possible on Amazon
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Share exclusive stories and content just for backers
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Connect more personally with readers who want to support creative work from the start
You back the project, I deliver the goods. It’s as simple as that.
How It Works (Step by Step)
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You visit my Kickstarter page
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You choose a reward tier [like an eBook, paperback, or hardback edition]
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You “pledge” the amount shown
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Your card isn’t charged immediately, only when the campaign ends (and only if it’s successful)
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When the campaign ends, you’ll receive your rewards, before the book appears on Amazon (check the campaign for the exact timing)
Do I Need to Create an Account?
Yes, you’ll need to create a free Kickstarter account or log in with your email.
It’s quick, and just one more password (I know… but it’s worth it!).
Bonus: you can use the same account to support other bookish (and non bookish) creators too.
Reward Tiers: What You Can Get
Every Kickstarter campaign is a little different and this one (Lake District Cottages and Corpses) is extra special.
All Kickstarter editions are:
✨ Illustrated (12 beautiful images of the Lake District)
✍️ Digitally signed and stamped by me
Include a set of printable bookmarks (PDF)
Come with an Author Note and an Extra Epilogue
Here’s a look at what you can choose from:
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eBook Edition – Delivered early, before the Amazon launch
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Paperback Edition – A lovely illustrated paperback to keep or gift
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Special Hardback Edition – With sprayed edges, a blue ribbon, tail band, and illustrated endpapers with ExLibris
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Kickstarter-Exclusive Short Story – Set during Walpurgis Night, available only for backers
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Leon’s Guide to Near Sawrey – A snout-level look at village life, full of opinions from our favourite hound
Add-Ons: Build Your Own Bundle
After choosing your reward tier, you’ll be able to add extras — like previous books, bonus stories, or additional copies for gifts.
It’s flexible and optional. Think of it as a little mystery-themed pick ’n’ mix.
What If I Change My Mind?
You can edit or cancel your pledge anytime while the campaign is live. Just click “Manage your pledge” on Kickstarter and adjust your choice. No stress. No commitment till the end.
Why Backing Early Matters
Backing early helps build momentum and shows Kickstarter there’s interest in the project — which means more visibility, more support… and a better chance of unlocking stretch goals (extra goodies for everyone!).
Even if you’re not ready to pledge, you can follow the project to stay in the loop.
In Short…
Kickstarter is a chance to:
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Read the book first
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Get exclusive editions and stories
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Support creativity without losing your sanity (or your cake)
No tech skills needed. No secret handshake. Just click, choose, and enjoy!
A Quick Note on Trust (Because It Matters)
Kickstarter is a platform built on trust — you’re supporting a creator so they can bring something special to life. While the vast majority of projects go smoothly, a small percentage sadly don’t deliver.
That’s why it’s smart to take a look at the creator’s track record before backing.
If you’re new to my world: I’m an indie author with 15 published cozy mysteries under my belt, and this is my second Kickstarter. You can check out my Amazon page or explore my Homeswappers and Italian Village series — I’ve been writing and publishing since 2019 and fully intend to keep going for many books to come.
You’re in safe hands here, and I’m so excited to have you along for the ride.
Leon’s Seal of Approval
“If you’re wondering whether Kickstarter is trustworthy, well… I gave it a good sniff. Smells like biscuits, books, and a proper adventure to me. Back it.“
— Leon the Basset, Official Travel Hound & Mystery Sniffer
I haven’t joined Kickstarter until now, but if I missed getting any of the “Homeswappers” after “The Ghost of Glengullion Castle”, can I still get the rest at Amazon on Kindle? If not then where? Thank you for taking the time to read this and in getting back to me. Sincerely, Deven Geyer
Hi Deven,
Thank you for reaching out! I’m so glad you’re interested in the Homeswappers series. To answer your question: the next book, Lake District, Cottages, and Corpses, will be available on Amazon around two months after the Kickstarter campaign.
As for the novellas, I’ve written “Gone from the Manger” and longer short stories like “Menace of Montmartre” and “Witches Flight on the Brocken” all in the Homeswappers series. These will primarily be available through occasional Kickstarter campaigns, or eventually through my own store once I have a larger collection of exclusive content to offer.
I’m also working on another novella set in Shetland during the Up Helly Aa festival, which may be available around Christmas 2025 via Kickstarter, just not too sure yet!
Thanks again for your interest, and I hope that helps clarify things! Let me know if you have any more questions.
All the best,
Adriana