The Business of Writing

Simple Ways to Support Indie Authors

Behind every novel, memoir, or nonfiction book lies a writer working hard to connect with readers and build a sustainable career. As a fellow writer, there are many ways we can help authors succeed. Cec Murphey is an incredible example of a writer helping writers. Most recently, Helena Smrcek asked Cec’s proteges for help launching her new book and has given step-by-step tools (which can be duplicated) to multiply her reach, thereby getting new readers for Love Across Time. Here are eight simple ways to help other authors.

• Participate in Book Launches

Our participation helps spread info and creates buzz about upcoming books. Pre-purchasing a copy also influences sales rankings, and snapping a photo with a review adds boost. Most of us have one or more social media accounts to share on and can reach a broader audience.

• Share Books on Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for sharing your favorite reads. Post a link, share a cover image, or write a quick comment like “Just finished this amazing book—highly recommend!” Personal recommendations help authors reach new readers.

• Invite Authors to Speak

Even if you’re not in a book club, you might belong to community groups, schools, churches, or professional organizations. Help authors grow their audience by inviting them to speak about their writing journey or insights into the business of publishing.

• Feature and Follow Authors via Newsletters

In our blogs, newsletters, or websites, spotlight authors with interviews, guest posts, or reviews, offering them new audiences. Check out Katherine’s newsletter at www.drkatherinehayes.com. Many authors, such as Cec Murphey and Twila Belk, provide newsletters sharing updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and exclusive content. Subscribing keeps us among the first to help spread the word about new releases or events.

• Write Reviews on Amazon & Goodreads

Reviews are crucial for an author’s success. Both Amazon and Goodreads utilize reviews in their algorithms, making books more discoverable. Even a short review (and photo) highlighting what you enjoyed can make a big difference. Leave positive comments on Bookish Forums. Communities like Reddit’s r/books or genre-specific forums are great places to share authentic book recommendations.

• Engage with Authors on Social Platforms

Simple interactions like commenting on posts, answering Instagram Story polls about titles or cover designs, retweeting tips, and sharing other info boosts author visibility.

• Let Others Know What You're “Currently Reading”

When you mark a book as currently reading, it shows up in your friends’ Goodreads feeds. This can spark curiosity and encourage others to check out the book.

• Share Books as Gifts and with Libraries/Bookstores

Books make perfect gifts. Buying books for friends or family not only supports the author financially but also introduces new readers to their work. All my close friends KNOW what they’ll be unwrapping for their special days. Plus, suggest your favorite books/authors to your local bookstore and library and get them on the shelf.

Supporting fellow authors is essential for the business side of writing. Every small action you complete encourages writers to keep creating the stories we love. Want to help an author today? Pick just one of these ideas and make a writer’s day brighter! I’ve already completed six of these for Helena in the last two weeks!

Author, Kelly Fordyce Martindale

www.kellyfordycemartindale.com www.issuu.com/consumerreport

Kelly Fordyce Martindale is the epitome of a survivor, rising above adversity. She’s survived the deaths of two of her children, experienced domestic violence, divorce, and remarriage. She writes on God’s power to heal the brokenness. She supports parents in their singleness, grief, and other struggles. Published by Revell, her book, Loved by Choice: True Stories that Celebrate Adoption is available on Amazon. She publishes a newspaper that is 26 years old. Martindale lives in Colorado with her husband of 34 years. She enjoys spending time with their children and grandchildren, writing, reading, and camping.