Support indie authors
Let’s talk about supporting indie authors—because let’s be real, publishing is no joke. Whether we’re self-published or with a small press, indie authors pour their time, energy, and cold hard cash into bringing books into the world. And while buying books is always appreciated, there are plenty of ways to show support that don’t cost a dime.
Here are five simple but mighty ways to help indie authors keep writing the stories you love:
Leave a review (Seriously, it’s gold)
Reviews are everything. Even a short review—just a sentence or two—on Amazon, Goodreads, or BookBub boosts visibility and helps new readers find our books. If you loved a book, please take just 60 seconds to write about it. Your words have more impact than you realize!
Tell your friends (or your entire social media following)
Word of mouth is still the most powerful marketing tool. If you’re raving about a book in your group chat, on Instagram, or even in line at the coffee shop, you’re giving that book life. Post about it, tag the author, and help more readers discover their next favorite read.
Engage on social media
The more likes, comments, and shares a post gets, the more people see it. If your favorite indie author posts about a new release, a cover reveal, or even their cat sitting on their manuscript, engage! Your likes, shares, and comments help get their book in front of more readers.
Request indie books at your local library
Did you know that most libraries will order books if you request them? This not only puts indie books on library shelves but also introduces them to new readers who might not have discovered them otherwise. Plus, libraries pay for books, which supports the author financially.
Subscribe to their newsletter (and actually open it)
Social media is unpredictable. Newsletters give indie authors direct access—both ways! You get direct access to the author and they have reliable support from you. Subscribing to an author’s newsletter ensures you never miss a book release, exclusive content, or special deals. And opening those emails? That tells email providers the content is valuable, keeping it out of the dreaded spam folder.
If you love it, shout if from the rooftops
If an indie book wrecked you in the best way, say so! Create a TikTok, start a Twitter thread, make a Pinterest board—whatever fits your vibe. Passionate readers are the heartbeat of indie publishing, and your enthusiasm means the world to us.
Supporting indie authors doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does make a massive difference. What’s your favorite way to help indie creators? Let’s spread the love in the comments!
