Authors, whether indie or traditionally published, are the creative forces behind the stories that shape our imaginations, challenge our perspectives, and entertain us. They work tirelessly to craft the words that become books, often facing the pressures of deadlines, marketing, and the constant pursuit of reaching readers.
Supporting authors is crucial to helping them continue to create the stories you love. While purchasing a book is an obvious way to show support, there are many other meaningful ways to help authors thrive. Every small action you take—from spreading the word about an author's work to engaging with them directly on social media—can help them gain more visibility, connect with new readers, and stay motivated to keep writing.
In this post, I’ll share simple yet effective ways you can support the authors you admire—with and without a financial commitment. Your support is a vital part of their journey; by showing it, you're helping ensure that their voices and stories continue to be heard in a crowded world.
DIRECT SUPPORT SUPPORT THEIR GROWTH
VISIBILITY & REACH FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Leave Honest Reviews
One of the simplest and most impactful ways to support an indie author is by leaving a review. Honest feedback helps authors improve and grow, while also giving future readers valuable insights into the book. Whether you loved the book or not, your thoughts matter. A few sentences about what resonated with you can really help an author build their audience.
Don't Report "Errors" on Platforms
It can be tempting to report errors like typos or formatting issues to Amazon and other platforms, but this can negatively impact an author’s sales and visibility. Instead, if you notice something that really bothers you and you feel compelled to say something, reach out to the author directly. A kind message can help them address the issue without penalizing their account or sales.
However, remember that what you perceive as an error might actually be a stylistic choice. Crazier yet, it might be grammatically correct, but you may not have the editorial knowledge to recognize it as such.
Recommend Their Books to Others
Word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for authors. If you’ve enjoyed a book, let others know! Recommend it to friends, family, and followers. Personal recommendations can help authors reach a wider audience and get their work into the hands of those who might love it.
Social Media
Sharing a post about a book you’ve enjoyed or tagging the author in your posts helps amplify their reach. You’re not just helping the author gain exposure; you’re also influencing your own followers to discover a new read—and possibly reach new followers as a result!
Every time you like, comment, or share, you increase the chances that others will see and interact with the work. It’s a simple yet powerful way to show your support, and it only takes a few seconds.
Don’t forget to check if the author has an Author Page on Amazon as well.
Request Their Books at Your Library
Libraries are an often-untapped resource, especially for indie authors. By requesting books, you help increase the chances of them being stocked. This not only spreads the word but also allows others to read the book without the reader having to make a purchase. It’s a win-win!
In the US, libraries pay for the initial copy of the book, equaling royalties for the author. In the UK, Australia, and Canada, authors receive a few cents per borrow (regardless of the medium) through the Public Lending Rights (PLR) program. Plus, libraries actively promote the books in their collections, helping to further increase their visibility and readership.
Request Their Books in Your Book Club or Group
If you’re part of a book club or reading group, consider suggesting an author’s book for your next read. This not only helps expose the author’s work to new readers but also fosters great conversations about the book’s themes, characters, and writing style. It’s also a fun way to connect with others who share your love for reading.
Consider KU for Re-Reads
If you loved a physical book and want to read it again, consider checking it out through Kindle Unlimited. Authors get paid per pages read—but keep in mind, they only get paid for the first time you read it on KU. Also, don’t just swipe through quickly; Amazon’s bots will flag your read if the speed doesn’t match your average reading speeds.
This is a great way to revisit a beloved story while supporting the author’s royalties at no extra cost to you (aside from your monthly KU subscription, of course).
Subscribe to Their Newsletters
Subscribing to an author’s newsletter is an excellent way to stay connected and show ongoing support. Newsletters often contain exclusive content, sneak peeks, and updates on upcoming projects. By subscribing, you’re not just staying in the loop, you’re giving the author another way to communicate directly with their audience.
Attend & Participate in Author Events
Attending an author’s events is a fantastic way to support them in person or virtually. Author readings, signings, and workshops give you the chance to interact directly with the author and learn more about their creative process. Many authors also host interactive events like Q&As, online book club discussions, and webinars. These events provide a great platform for you to ask questions, engage with the author and fellow readers, and offer support.
Recommend Their Books to Your Local Bookstore
Local bookstores are always on the lookout for new books to stock. If you know of an author whose book isn’t on the shelves, consider asking your local store to carry it. This helps increase the author’s visibility and gives other readers the chance to discover their work, whether you’re buying it yourself or encouraging others to do so.
Host or Invite to Virtual Book Tour "Pit Stops"
If you host a podcast, write a blog, or share a newsletter, consider making it known that you’re willing to interview authors and share those interviews with your audience. This is an excellent way to help expand their reach and introduce them to new potential fans.
Another great idea is to host an IG or FB Live Q&A session.
If you know of a podcast, blog, or influencer account that regularly interviews authors, consider sharing this information with your favorite authors for exposure opportunities.
Contribute to Crowdfunding Campaigns
Many indie authors turn to crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon to fund new projects or book releases. Contributing, whether through a small donation or signing up for ongoing support, helps keep their projects alive and gives them the financial backing they need to succeed.
Pre-Order Their Books
Pre-ordering a book helps authors secure early sales, which can significantly boost their book’s visibility.
Plus, you might get exclusive bonuses or content!
Ask Authors Where to Buy Their Books—and then Buy Them There
Many authors sell their books on multiple platforms and may earn higher royalties from their own websites or from a specific platform. Before you buy, consider asking the author where they’d prefer you to purchase the book. Your thoughtful gesture can make a big difference in their earnings.
Give Their Book as a Gift
Books make wonderful gifts! Not only are you sharing the gift of a great story, but you’re also helping the author reach new readers who may not have discovered their work otherwise.
Buy Their Merch
If an author offers merchandise—bookmarks, tote bags, apparel, etc.—purchasing it is a fun way to support them. It provides them with a financial boost and helps them build their brand and share their work in new, creative ways.
Supporting authors is more than just buying their books. It’s about building a community and helping them thrive in a competitive industry. Every action counts! Your support can make a world of difference in ensuring that more amazing stories are shared with the world.
With care and creativity,
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