Valentine's Day is this month, and I'm going to take a page from Oprah's playbook and give every one of my friends a car! You get a car, and you get a car! What's that, friends? You all already have a car? Well, how about a fruit basket? Perfect!

Whether it's a car, a fruit basket or a classic Hallmark card, use this month o' love to give a token of appreciation to those involved with your career as an author.

People often get so wrapped up in running their lives that they forget about doing the little things that go a long way. Oprah wouldn't be as successful without her devoted viewers and neither would you without the following groups. Show the love to…

Readers
What would you be without your readers? Well, probably not an author. You write so they can read and they read which allows you to write. It's a perfect circle. Remember to keep in touch with your fans through your Facebook fan page, blog or Twitter. Perhaps you could even message certain fans individually to further connect with them.

Try writing a few people each day and see what happens. Showing them love will encourage them to keep loving you and your writing.

Publishers
These are the people who took a chance on you and your writing talent. They deserve some love because they print, distribute and publicize your work – ultimately becoming the vehicle that drives your career forward. Maintain and strengthen this relationship by sending them a no-reason-at-all-thank-you-forbeing- my-publisher gift or just a personalized, heartfelt note. I'd actually recommend Edible Arrangements – just be sure your publisher doesn't eat the basket.

Other Authors
Having alliances in the world of authors is a valuable thing, so support other authors by connecting with them on the Web! Comment on their latest blog post or Tweet praises about their newest book. Or you could write a review on Amazon.com for one of your favorite authors or books. These reviews are priceless and can very much affect whether or not customers purchase.

So help a fellow author out! Perhaps you'll experience good karma later.

Media
Another group that can fuel books sales are the media folk. It's a good idea to make note of your local book review reporters and some prominent national ones (especially those who have reviewed your work before) in case you want to send them updates or thank-you cards. Do you have a new book coming out?

Sending select contacts a signed and personalized "sneak-peek" copy will really show you care.

It may seem like there are a lot of people to keep track of, which is why I've written this column to help you. Feel free to check off each group as you send out the cars ... I mean, the love.