Kickstarter for Authors Who Want to Write Off Social w/ CJ Milacci
This post was adapted from Writing Off Social: The Podcast, Episode 64. You can listen in here!
For authors who feel weary of social media, Kickstarter offers something refreshingly different. Instead of chasing visibility or trying to perform online, it invites writers to focus on what they do best: creating meaningful work and inviting readers into the process.
Kickstarter is not a shortcut or a gimmick. It is a thoughtful, reader-centered way to fund a book, gauge interest, and build genuine connection—without relying on algorithms or constant posting.
Meet CJ Milacci
CJ Milacci is an award-winning young adult author, speaker, and podcast host whose work centers on hope, purpose, and faith. Through her Talionis series and related novels, CJ writes dystopian action-adventure stories for teens and young adults that openly weave Christian themes into imaginative worlds.
Her work is rooted in a clear calling: to encourage young readers, point them toward Jesus, and remind them that they were created on purpose for a purpose. That clarity shows not only in her writing, but also in how she approaches publishing and marketing.
Why Social Media Isn’t the Only Way
CJ has never enjoyed social media, personally or professionally. She describes it as mentally draining and creatively unfulfilling, a place where effort doesn’t always lead to meaningful connection.
Rather than forcing herself into a system that doesn’t fit, she focuses on deeper engagement through podcasts, newsletters, and direct communication with readers. Many of her readers—especially teens—respond well to this slower, more intentional approach. They listen. They email. They stay.
Her experience challenges the assumption that visibility only happens on social platforms. Connection, she argues, comes from showing up where conversation can actually happen.
What Kickstarter Really Is
Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform designed to bring creative projects to life. For authors, it functions as a way to fund a new book or special edition while inviting readers to participate in the process.
Rather than publishing a book through Kickstarter, authors use the platform to cover costs such as editing, design, printing, and special features. In return, backers receive rewards tied to their level of support.
What makes Kickstarter unique is the space it gives authors to share their story. Campaign pages allow writers to explain why the book matters, what inspired it, and how readers can help bring it into the world.
Who Kickstarter Works Best For
Kickstarter works best for authors who already have some kind of audience they can bring with them. This does not require a massive platform, but it does require people who trust the author and are willing to support their work.
Certain genres, especially fantasy and speculative fiction, have seen strong success on Kickstarter. That said, authors in other genres can also thrive, particularly when they research what has worked before and learn from existing campaigns.
Kickstarter is not ideal for brand-new authors with no audience or unfinished books. Readers who back a project expect clarity, professionalism, and realistic timelines. Preparation matters.
A Reader-Centered Mindset Changes Everything
At its best, Kickstarter is not about asking for money. It is about inviting readers into a shared experience.
When authors approach a campaign with humility and generosity—framing it as “let’s do this together”—readers feel included rather than sold to. They are not just purchasing a book. They are helping create it.
That sense of partnership builds trust and enthusiasm, turning casual readers into long-term supporters.
Benefits Beyond Funding
While Kickstarter does help cover publishing costs, its value extends far beyond money.
It introduces authors to new readers who actively seek out books on the platform. It allows for direct communication through campaign updates and messages. It provides access to reader emails and shipping details, making signed copies and personal touches possible.
Kickstarter also opens creative doors. Authors can offer special editions, bonus content, maps, bookmarks, workbooks, or other stretch goals that would otherwise be financially out of reach.
Most importantly, it fosters a sense of belonging. Readers don’t just receive a book—they witness its creation.
CJ’s Experience With Kickstarter
CJ launched her first Kickstarter for Recruit of Talionis after realizing traditional publishing might not embrace her blend of dystopian storytelling and overt Christian themes. The campaign raised over $8,600, fully funding professional editing, cover design, custom artwork, and additional materials.
Subsequent campaigns raised similar amounts and brought in even more readers. Over time, the focus shifted from large individual backers to a growing community of engaged fans—many of them teens—who eagerly followed each campaign and asked when the next one would launch.
For CJ, the most meaningful outcome has been reader connection. One young reader described watching the campaign unfold as the highlight of her summer. That kind of response confirms the power of inviting readers into the journey.
How to Begin Exploring Kickstarter
The best first step is not launching a campaign. It is becoming a backer.
By supporting other projects, authors learn how Kickstarter works from the reader’s perspective. They see how reward tiers are structured, how updates are written, and how successful campaigns maintain momentum.
Observing what works—and what doesn’t—provides invaluable insight and helps authors decide whether Kickstarter fits their goals, energy, and season of life.
Check out Kickstarter for yourself!
A Final Word for Overwhelmed Authors
Publishing advice can feel endless, and even good ideas can become overwhelming when piled too high.
The reminder here is simple: authors are not called to do everything. They are called to be faithful with what is in front of them.
If Kickstarter feels exciting, it may be worth exploring. If it feels heavy, it may be something to return to later. Choosing one path, learning it well, and moving forward with intention is often more fruitful than chasing every option.
Faithfulness, not frenzy, is what sustains a writing life.
This post was reformatted from our original transcript by ChatGPT and edited for accuracy by Mary K.
