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Google PlayThanks to TikTok, people have found a special space to discuss books. The #BookTok hashtag is known hidden gems, viral reads, or banter about books.
In Lloyd Richards’ case, his book “Stone Maidens,” which was published in 2012, is the newest #BookTok hit, charting at #1 on Amazon Thriller/Mystery Genre – all thanks to his daughter.
On Friday, Richards and his daughter appeared on Today With Hoda & Jenna to discuss the book’s new success. “It’s been a whirlwind. I’m pretty grateful, but I don’t understand it, really. I just didn’t understand the power of TikTok. I just am not aware of those things,” the author said.
Around two weeks ago, the 74-year-old’s book had nearly zero sales. Richards daughter, Marguerite, took to TikTok in hopes of introducing her father’s book to the world. The 16-second TikTok shows Richards seemingly working at his desk, revealing the front and back of the paperback book.
The video reads: “My dad spent 14 years writing a book. He worked full time and put his kids first. But made time for a book. He’s so happy even though sales aren’t great. I’d love for him to get some sales. He doesn’t even know what TikTok is.”
The video has received over 47M views, 10.4M likes and recognition all over the internet. “I’m very grateful to her and to everybody here. Without my daughter and her love and support of me this would not be happening,” Richards said.
“He would work all day, come home, have dinner with [my brothers and me], and spend time with us and grab little pockets of writing. When it published, we were so excited — so proud of him,” his daughter said.
The book synopsis says, “From TikTok sensation Lloyd Devereux Richards comes the heart-pounding story of FBI agent Christine Prusik as she attempts to unmask a serial killer who leaves a calling card with a terrifying connection to her own haunted past.”
The book is now available on Amazon prime for $9 and Kindle Unlimited.
