All Writers need the press, especially new writers. As a new novelist, I know I need name recognition. The best way for me to get the public to learn about my novel, The League, I figured, was to get some reviews in major magazines and newspapers.

Now, being unknown, this might seem like a tall task. It really isn't. In fact, I was shocked by how simple it really is.

In looking for media coverage for the May 2005 release of my novel, I first decided to approach magazines that focus on the area that is most closely related to the plot of my novel. So, I started with fantasy football magazines and websites, since my novel, The League, is about a group of wealthy men who play fantasy football for $30 million prize.

My approach was simple but effective. I e-mailed the editor or publisher of as many magazines and web sites as I could find that focus on professional football and fantasy football. I sent them the synopsis of my book, and I told them that my book has major appeal, because it is the only work of fiction of its kind. Then, I asked them for a review in their magazine or just a quote that I could put on the dust cover of my novel, with a tagline that would also promote their magazine or web site.

I found this method of self-promotion to be a lot like sales. I got about a five percent return -- that is five percent of the people I contacted actually gave me a review or a quote. All, just because I asked.

So, when you write your article, short story or novel, don't hesitate to ask people to review your work. You'll be shocked at the results.

Mark Barnes is the author of the new novel, The League, the first work of fiction, based on fantasy football. He is also an investment real estate and home loan finance expert. Learn more about his suspense thriller at http://www.sportsnovels.com. Get his free mortgage finance course at http://www.winningthemortgagegame.com