The term "author platform" refers to an author's ability to reach and engage with their audience. It encompasses all aspects of an author's online presence, including social media followers, email subscribers, website traffic, and any other means by which they can connect with readers. A strong author platform is essential for building a following, promoting books, and establishing credibility within the publishing industry. It allows authors to reach potential readers directly, rather than relying solely on traditional marketing channels such as book reviews or advertising. In short, an author's platform is their ability to effectively communicate with their audience and build a community around their work.