Labor Day is a time to honor the hard work and dedication of those who keep our world turning. As we celebrate the contributions of workers in every industry, I’d like to shine a light on the often unseen labor that goes into being a self-published author. The journey of bringing a book into the world, especially as an indie author, is one filled with relentless effort, necessary resilience, and (thank goodness!) passion.

As I am self-published, I wear every hat in the business: writer, editor, cover designer, marketer, social media manager, accountant—the list goes on. Every word on the page is the result of hours, days, weeks, or even years of dedication. Behind every book is a story of sleepless nights, countless revisions, and the continuous pursuit of perfection progress. But the work doesn’t stop when the book is finished. Marketing, engaging with readers, managing finances, and planning future projects are all part of the day-to-day labor that many don’t see.

As rewarding as it is to hold my books in my hands, the road to self-publishing can be overwhelming. The constant balancing act between creativity and business, the pressure to be everything at once, and the emotional toll of putting your work out there for the world to judge—all these are part of the burden that indie authors carry. On top of a demanding day job! (And I’m not a mom—indie authors with families have all those hats to wear as well!)

This Labor Day, I invite you to take a moment to show your appreciation to the indie authors you love by leaving a review. Reviews are the lifeblood of indie authors, helping to boost visibility (the Amazon algorithm doesn’t even pick up a book until it has at least 50 reviews!) and connect with new readers.

How to write a short, effective review of a romance novel

You don’t have to be a literary critic to write a meaningful review. Here are some tips to help you craft a quick review that will make a big impact:

1. Start with your overall impression: How did the book make you feel? Did you enjoy the story? A simple sentence like "I loved this book!" or "This romance kept me hooked from start to finish" goes a long way.

2. Highlight what stood out: Was there a character you particularly connected with? Did the romance feel genuine? Was there a moment that made you laugh or cry? Sharing these specifics helps other readers know what to expect.

3. Keep it brief: A review doesn't have to be long. A few sentences that capture your thoughts are perfect. If you’re pressed for time, even a 15-word review can make a difference!

4. Be honest, but kind: If there were elements you didn’t enjoy, it’s okay to mention them, but try to keep your feedback constructive. Indie authors appreciate both honesty and respect.

5. End with a recommendation: Would you recommend this book to others? Saying who might enjoy the book, like “Perfect for fans of contemporary romance” or “A must-read for anyone who loves strong female leads,” helps guide future readers.

Your words matter more than you know. This Labor Day, consider taking a moment to thank an indie author for their labor of love by leaving a review. It’s a small gesture that carries a lot of weight in the indie publishing world.

Happy Labor Day, and happy reading!