The confusion between domain names, website platforms, and websites themselves is one of the biggest stumbling blocks authors face when building their online presence.

Here's the thing: you wouldn't start writing a novel without understanding the difference between a plot, a publisher, and a finished book.

Similarly, you shouldn't start building your author website without understanding these three fundamental components.

Picture this: A potential reader discovers your book through a recommendation and immediately searches for your website. They land on your homepage and within three seconds—before they've even read a single word—they've formed a negative opinion about you as an author.

The culprit? Your typography.

"Should I use WordPress? What about Wix? Or maybe I need a custom-coded site?"

Sound familiar? If you're an author trying to choose a website platform, you've probably asked yourself these questions. With so many options out there, it's easy to get overwhelmed.

But here's what I've learned from building custom author websites: Squarespace isn't just good for authors—it's perfect for them.

I just finished Ava Reid's A Study in Drowning, and I highly recommend this book. It’s dark and moody, suspenseful and poignant. But more than that, it mirrors a profound shift we’re seeing in today’s society.

When visitors land on your website, you have mere seconds to make a lasting impression. And if you’re a picture book author, your site should feel just as imaginative and engaging as the stories you write. But here’s what I see all the time: websites built on default settings. White background. Black text. Nothing necessarily wrong with that… but for a picture book author? It’s a missed opportunity.

Your website is your digital home, and your books are the star of the show. Let’s talk about why it makes a big difference to feature your books right on your homepage—and how that simple shift can help you sell more copies, connect with readers faster, and build a stronger author brand.

A website’s structure plays a massive role. It’s not just about having a site; it’s about how easily visitors can navigate the site, how quickly they can find information, and how engaged they become with the author’s work. Many authors assume a website with more pages is better. However, a one-page website offers numerous advantages that often get overlooked. Which option is best for you? Let’s dive in and find out!

You need a website, but there are a seemingly infinite number of website platforms where you can build your website (or hire a designer to build your website for you). Squarespace, Wix, WordPress, GoDaddy, Weebly, Nexcess…the list goes on and on. So how to choose?

So yes, the best strategy for a task as time-consuming and important as designing your professional website, is to find a designer and use their Zone of Genius to uplevel your career. After all, no matter where a reader, literary agent, or publisher first hears your name, at some point they’re going to Google you. And when they do, you’ll want to have your best foot forward.