starting a forum can be hard im currently starting my own its been up three weeks and i have 22 users, i also help run another forum that is also in the start up stages, about it being a book forum yes it will be hard but it will work, advertising wise just submit to directories and exchange links (in person not through a service, those link mostly likely will be on a page not even linked to the homepage) but if you need any advice or anything IM on aim @ WhiteSnake6767 also i would be happy to be one of your first members