The Reader-Author Relationship

How readers can meaningfully support authors beyond

purchasing books in today's evolving publishing landscape.

"Books are a uniquely portable magic."

― Stephen King

In today's digital age, the relationship between readers and authors has developed into something more intimate and symbiotic than ever before. No longer separated by layers of publishing gatekeepers, readers now have direct access to authors through social media, newsletters, and other online platforms (in-person events were already in place in the past, if that makes sense). This connection creates a powerful opportunity for readers to directly impact an author's success—and by extension, their ability to continue creating the books you love.

As 2025 unfolds, let's explore the meaningful ways readers can support authors and why this support matters in creating a vibrant, diverse literary landscape.

Why Author Support Matters Now More Than Ever

The publishing industry continues to undergo significant transformation. With self-publishing now commanding roughly 30% of all eBook sales and authors earning up to 70% of their sales revenue, the financial dynamics have shifted dramatically. (According to data from the Alliance of Independent Authors.) However, with these new opportunities come new challenges.

Writing is both a passion and a business for most authors, whether traditionally published, hybrid, or self-published. Even the most talented writers struggle to gain visibility in an increasingly crowded marketplace. When you actively support an author, you're not just validating their current work but investing in their future stories and contributing to a literary ecosystem that values creativity, diverse voices, and artistic expression.

Powerful Ways to Support Authors Beyond Buying Their Books

While purchasing a book is undoubtedly valuable support, numerous other ways to amplify an author's success are equally, sometimes even more, impactful.

1 - Leave Thoughtful Reviews

Customer reviews have become the lifeblood of book success, particularly for independent authors. According to the latest industry data, the ratio of organic reviews on Amazon is approximately 1 for every 800 books sold. With numbers this stark, every review matters significantly.

Reviews serve multiple critical functions:

• They provide social proof that encourages other readers to take a chance on a new author,

• They improve a book's visibility and ranking on retail platforms,

• They offer authors invaluable feedback about what resonates with readers, and

• They help books qualify for promotional opportunities that require minimum review thresholds.

When writing reviews, focus on what you genuinely appreciated about the book. Even a brief, honest review carries tremendous weight. Set review goals for yourself if you're an avid reader, perhaps commit to reviewing every fifth book you read or all books by debut authors.

2 - Engage on Social Media

Authors increasingly build their platforms through social media, and your engagement significantly impacts their visibility. Simple actions like following an author, commenting on their posts, sharing their book announcements, or using hashtags can dramatically extend their reach. Even liking an author’s post can significantly aid their ability to reach new people.

Consider taking a screenshot of an interesting passage and posting it with your thoughts. Tag the author and use relevant hashtags to help others discover their work. These micro-promotions cost nothing but can lead to meaningful exposure.

3 - Recommend to Your Local Library

Libraries remain vital community resources and significant book purchasers. Most libraries have acquisition request forms that allow patrons to suggest titles for purchase. This single action can introduce an author to hundreds of potential new readers while providing compensation to the author through library sales.

Additionally, many libraries host book clubs and author events. Suggesting an author for a library program can create substantial community exposure and sales opportunities.

4 - Support Independent Bookstores

Local bookstores serve as cultural hubs and tastemakers within communities. When you request that your local bookstore carry a particular author's work, you're helping create in-store visibility that online algorithms can't replicate.

Many independent bookstores now host virtual and in-person author events. Attending these events, and bringing friends, signals to bookstores that investing in author programming is worthwhile. These events often feature fascinating conversations that deepen your appreciation of the book and the author’s life experiences.

5 - Join the Author's Newsletter Community

Direct connection with readers through email newsletters has become invaluable for authors. By subscribing, you receive updates about new releases, behind-the-scenes insights, and special offers, while simultaneously helping authors build their most valuable marketing asset, a direct line to engage readers.

Many authors offer exclusive content or early access to new work through their newsletters, making this a rewarding exchange for both parties.

6 - Spread Word-of-Mouth Recommendations

Despite the digital revolution, word-of-mouth remains the most potent driver of book discovery. Talking about books you love, whether in person, in book clubs, or online, creates ripples of interest that algorithms alone cannot generate.

Consider creating your own social media "shout-outs" for books you've enjoyed. Take a picture with the book, share what you loved about it, and tag the author. These authentic recommendations from readers often carry more weight than formal marketing.

Making Author Support a Regular Practice

Supporting authors shouldn’t be overwhelming or time-consuming. By incorporating a few simple practices into your reading life, you can make a significant impact:

• Set a personal goal to leave reviews for a certain percentage of books you read,

• Follow and engage with your favorite authors on at least one social media platform,

• Join at least one author newsletter per quarter,

• Request author titles at your local library twice per year,

• Attend one virtual or in-person author event monthly, and/or

• Purchase directly from author websites when possible, often providing them with higher royalties.

The Reciprocal Benefit

While author support primarily benefits creators, readers also reap significant rewards. By actively engaging with authors and their work, you:

• Become part of a community of like-minded readers,

• Gain access to exclusive content and early announcements,

• Develop a deeper understanding of and connection to the books you love,

• Help ensure your favorite authors can continue creating, and

• Contribute to a more diverse, vibrant literary landscape.

The author-reader relationship is truly symbiotic; each enhances the other's experience. As readers, our support sustains the creators whose work enriches our lives, challenges our thinking, and provides countless hours of entertainment and enlightenment.

By taking even small steps to support the authors you enjoy, you're not just helping individual writers; you're contributing to a literary culture that values creativity, connection, and the enduring magic of storytelling.

All good things,

Kristen and Maira

PRESStinely.com