Four Effective Ways to Support and Boost Authors

In the enchanting world of words, where stories come alive and ideas take flight, authors are the unsung heroes who bring narratives to our fingertips. Whether you’re an avid reader or just someone who appreciates a good tale, supporting indie authors is pivotal. With the rise of self-publishing and digital platforms, indie authors have more opportunities to share their voices with the world. However, they often lack the resources and reach of traditional publishing houses. So, how can you, a dedicated book lover, champion their cause? Here are four effective ways to support and boost authors both on and off line.

1. Leave Reviews!!!

Perhaps the most obvious way to support indie authors is to buy their book. Not only does this provide them with financial support, but it also boosts their sales rankings, making their work more visible to more potential readers. but buying a copy is only the first step. leaving a review is perhaps more important when it comes to visibility for an author. Oftentimes, we need over 50 reviews for platforms like Amazon or Bookbub to notice we exist, and maybe they should try pushing our books to readers.

After reading, leave a thoughtful review on platforms like Goodreads, Amazon, or the bookstore’s website. Reviews are crucial as they influence buying decisions and increase the author’s credibility. Even negative reviews can help the right readers find the right books for them.

Statistics:

Did you know that 70% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations? Your review might just be the nudge someone needs to discover their next favorite book.

2. Attend Book Signings and Readings

Nothing beats the personal touch of meeting an author face-to-face. Book signings and readings are fantastic offline opportunities to show your support and connect on a deeper level.

events can be expensive though, and then you have to buy books and merch and pay for parking on top of that.

For a low cost alternative to large events and conventions you can Keep an eye on local libraries, bookstores, and community centers for events featuring indie authors. sometimes you can even find a wild author at a farmers market!

Many authors also do online events on social media, like tiktok, discord, and facebook.

3. Join and Participate in Book Clubs

Book clubs are a fantastic way to support indie authors while engaging in stimulating discussions. They offer a platform to introduce new voices and expand everyone’s reading horizons.

Tips:

• Choose Indie Books: When selecting titles for your book club, prioritize works by indie authors. This can introduce members to new genres and perspectives.
• Discuss and Share: Share your thoughts on social media using hashtags, and encourage fellow members to do the same. This creates a ripple effect, increasing the book’s visibility. a common saying on #booktok is “authors don’t sell their books, readers do.”

There are some really great online book clubs. check out Allthingsducky.com here for a great indie book club.

4. Engage on Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media is a powerful tool for amplifying voices. By engaging with indie authors online, you can help broaden their reach and introduce them to new audiences.

Tips:

• Follow and Interact: Follow your favorite indie authors on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok. Engage with their content by liking, sharing, and commenting.
• Use Hashtags: Use hashtags like #SupportIndieAuthors and #IndieBooks when sharing posts about their work. This increases the chances of reaching potential readers.

Did you know?

Colleen Hoover gained a massive following through her active presence on social media. Her engagement with readers helped her transition from indie publishing to mainstream success. Recently, I have also seen Rebecca Thorne transition to traditional publishing on Tiktok.

Statistics:

A survey revealed that 86% of readers discover books on social media. Your engagement could be the catalyst for an author’s breakthrough.

Conclusion:

Supporting indie authors is not just about buying their book. it’s about nurturing creativity and celebrating diverse voices in literature. By embracing both online and offline methods, you can play a crucial role in the success of these storytellers. Whether you’re writing a review, attending a reading, or telling your friends, every action counts.

In a world where 1.7 million books are self-published annually, your support can make all the difference. So, how will you champion indie authors today? What stories are waiting to be discovered through your support?

If you’re passionate about supporting indie authors and want to join a community that celebrates creativity, follow me on socials(Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok) @BDCarpenterbooks for more insights, book recommendations, and discussions. Together, let’s build a world where every author has the chance to shine.