Author Website Domain Names: How to Choose the Perfect One
Choosing the right author website domain name is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when building your online presence. Your domain name is not only your digital address but also a key part of your branding strategy. A memorable, professional, and SEO-friendly domain name can help you attract readers, agents, publishers, and collaborators. This article explores everything you need to know about selecting the best domain name for your author website, along with tips, examples, and pitfalls to avoid. It’s part of a 12-step Guide to Building an Author Website, written by a former literary agent who’s helped 400+ authors get literary agents and/or traditional publishers.
What is an Author Website Domain Name?
An author website domain name is the web address where readers and visitors can find your website. For example, in “www.JaneDoeAuthor.com,” the domain name is JaneDoeAuthor.com. It’s your unique digital identity that sets you apart and makes your work accessible online.
Why is a Good Domain Name Important for Authors?
1. First Impressions Matter
Your domain name is often the first thing people see when searching for your website. A clear and professional domain name leaves a strong first impression, showing that you take your writing career seriously.
Anecdote: One self-published author shared in a Writer’s Digest interview that a polished domain name made readers feel more confident purchasing directly from their website.
2. Improves Discoverability
A well-chosen domain name enhances your search engine visibility. Including relevant keywords like your name or book titles can help readers find you more easily online.
Statistic: According to a Moz study, 16% of all website traffic comes from organic searches, which can be boosted by keyword-rich domain names.
3. Builds Your Brand
Your domain name is part of your brand identity. It should reflect who you are as a writer, whether you’re a novelist, poet, or non-fiction author. A strong domain name can also grow with your career.
How to Choose the Perfect Author Website Domain Name
1. Use Your Name
For most authors, using your name is the best choice for a domain. Readers, agents, and publishers often search for your name when looking for your work. A simple format like FirstNameLastName.com is ideal.
Example:
- JaneDoe.com
- JohnSmithAuthor.com
Tip: If your name is common or already taken, consider adding modifiers like “author,” “books,” or your genre (e.g., JaneDoeWrites.com or JaneDoeMysteries.com).
2. Keep It Short and Memorable
Shorter domain names are easier to remember and type. Avoid long, complex names that can confuse visitors.
Example: Instead of JaneDoeFictionWriterExtraordinaire.com, choose something concise like JaneDoeBooks.com.
3. Choose the Right Domain Extension
The most common domain extension is .com, and it’s generally the best choice for authors because it’s widely recognized and trusted. However, you can also consider:
- .net or .org (if .com is unavailable)
- .author, .books, or .writing (specific to the writing industry)
- .co (short and modern)
Fact: According to Statista, 52.8% of all domain names use the .com extension.
4. Avoid Numbers and Hyphens
Numbers and hyphens can make your domain name harder to remember and share. For example, Jane-Doe123.com is less user-friendly than JaneDoeBooks.com.
5. Make It Timeless
Choose a domain name that will still be relevant years down the line. Avoid references to a single book or project if you plan to publish more in the future.
Example:
- Better: JaneDoeAuthor.com
- Avoid: TheGreatNovelByJane.com
6. Check for Availability
Before finalizing your domain name, ensure it’s available. Use domain search tools like Namecheap, GoDaddy, or Google Domains to check availability.
Tip: If your ideal domain is taken, try slight variations or different extensions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Difficult-to-Spell Words: Avoid words that might confuse visitors or are prone to typos.
- Choosing Overly Specific Names: A domain like FantasyWorldJane.com might limit you if you switch genres.
- Not Securing Social Media Handles: Ensure your domain name aligns with your social media profiles for cohesive branding.
- Ignoring SEO: Exclude unrelated or irrelevant words that could hurt your search rankings.
Steps to Register Your Domain Name
- Choose a Domain Registrar: Popular options include Namecheap, GoDaddy, and Bluehost.
- Search for Your Desired Domain: Use the registrar’s search tool to check availability.
- Purchase and Register: Prices typically range from $10 to $20 per year for most domains.
- Connect to Your Website Builder: Platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, or Wix make it easy to link your domain.
Examples of Successful Author Domain Names
- StephenKing.com: Direct and professional, using the author’s full name.
- ColleenHoover.com: Reflects her identity as a bestselling author.
- BrandonSanderson.com: Uses the .com extension for trust and recognizability.
These examples show the power of simplicity and clarity in domain naming.
What If Your Name Is Taken?
If your preferred domain name is unavailable, try these alternatives:
- Add “Author” or “Books” (e.g., JohnDoeAuthor.com)
- Use a middle initial (e.g., JohnADoe.com)
- Include a genre or niche (e.g., JohnDoeMysteries.com)
Why Start Early?
Even if you haven’t published your first book, registering your domain name ensures that it’s available when you need it. Think of it as reserving your space in the digital landscape.
Fact: Over 1,000 domain names are registered every hour, according to Domain Name Stat. Starting early ensures your name isn’t taken.
Conclusion – Author Website Domain Names
An author website domain name is more than just a web address—it’s a crucial part of your brand as a writer. By choosing a domain that’s professional, memorable, and aligned with your goals, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a seasoned writer, investing in the right domain name is a step you’ll never regret. Start building your online presence today with a domain name that reflects your unique voice and vision as an author. Now that you’ve read “Author Website Domain Names,” click here for the next part of this guide to making an author website called, “Author Website Hosting.”
The Bestselling Author, LLC
Founded by Mark Malatesta in 2011, The Bestselling Author has helped 400+ writers get literary agents and/or traditional publishers. Notable authors Mark has worked with include Nelson Johnson, author of Boardwalk Empire, which Martin Scorsese produced for HBO; Leslie Lehr, author of A Boob’s Life, which is being adapted for an HBO Max TV series by Salma Hayek; and Scott LeRette, author of The Unbreakable Boy, published by Thomas Nelson and now a major motion picture by Lionsgate starring Patricia Heaton, Zachary Levi, and Amy Acker.
Authors who’ve worked with Literary Agent Undercover, a division of The Bestselling Author, have gotten six-figure book deals; been on the New York Times bestseller list; had their books adapted for TV, stage, and feature film; had their work licensed in 40+ countries; and sold many millions of books. Mark’s work as an author coach and consultant is informed by his previous experience as a literary agent, literary agency owner, AAR member, and Marketing & Licensing Manager for the gift and book publisher Blue Mountain Arts.
Click here to see Mark Malatesta reviews.
