If you've ever asked, “How can I help?”—especially if money’s tight—this is for you. As someone who struggles with finances, I know how hard it can be to support creators. So, here’s a list of totally free ways you can help indie authors like me thrive in this industry:

1. Sign up for newsletters.

Mine is through [Substack], and it’s where I share updates, exclusive content, behind-the-scenes peeks, and more. (Plus, it’s free!)

2. Interact with us online.

Like, comment, and share our posts. Every single interaction helps the algorithm push our work further. It’s free—and it means the world.

3. Share our books.

Mention us in your book groups, to your friends, family, or anyone who’ll listen. Word of mouth is powerful. Your voice can help us find our next favorite reader.

4. Create fan art, graphics, or character designs.

I think I speak for all authors when I say: We LOVE fan art.
One of my dreams is to one day search “When Blood Meets Earth” or “Supersized Bubblegum” and see fan-made art. It would mean everything.
If you're a book content creator, or just love books, making graphics, adding our titles to your “must-read” or “fantasy recs” lists, or featuring us in your posts makes a huge impact.

Supa is one of the main characters from Supersized Bubblegum art by Mochi_myy

Readers don’t want to hear from authors that their books are good, readers want to hear this from other readers. Your recommendations go a long way and can make or break a sale.

5. Leave reviews.

Especially if you enjoyed the book! Reviews help other readers find our work and remind us that our words matter. We get a lot of hate, so seeing something positive is like a balm to the soul. Your kind words truly keep us going.

6. Vote for us in organizations you're part of.

If you're a member of groups like SFWA, IBPA (Independent Book Publishers Association), PEN America, or ALLi (Alliance of Independent Authors), you can nominate or vote for our books. Reader support in these spaces helps elevate our stories.

7. Become a beta/alpha reader—or join our ARC list.

Want to read early drafts and help shape stories before they hit the shelves? Join our ARC or beta/alpha reader lists! All it costs is your time. Many authors (myself included) shout out our early readers in acknowledgements—we couldn’t do it without you.

Bonus: Be a cheerleader.

The writing journey is already hard—then add in being Black, disabled, neurodivergent, Queer, writing in niche genres—and the road gets even lonelier.

I have one reader who cheers me on so fiercely, I swear I’m writing my next books just for her. Her support—her comments, shares, and belief—has kept me from quitting more than once. Every writer needs someone in their corner.

If you believe in an author’s work, fight for them.

Thank you for reading.
Did I miss anything? Is there something you’re doing that helps authors like me? Drop a comment—I might turn it into Part 2!

How to Support an Indie Author — For Free!