How to Support Indie Authors in the Romantasy Genre

If you’re a romantasy reader (hi, bestie 👋), you already know the magic indie authors bring to the table. The swoony slow burns, morally gray heroes, and lush fantasy worlds they create are unmatched. But did you know that indie authors are essentially one-person small businesses? From writing the book to designing covers, marketing, and sometimes even shipping signed copies themselves, indie authors wear all the hats—and they do it with so much passion.

Here’s how you can support your favorite indie romantasy authors and keep this genre thriving.

 

What Makes Indie Books Unique?

Indie authors bring fresh, fearless creativity to the table. They’re not bound by traditional publishing constraints, which means:

• Unique Stories: Ever read a book with tropes so specific you didn’t even know they existed? Indie authors deliver. From “mortal falls in love with a cursed dragon prince who’s also her childhood enemy” to “witch with ADHD teams up with a morally gray assassin to save the fae realms”—indie authors create the stories we didn’t know we needed.
• Diverse Voices: Indie books often showcase perspectives and voices that are underrepresented in mainstream publishing, including authors from marginalized communities and characters with identities we rarely get to see.
• Genre-Bending Goodness: Want a romantasy with cozy murder mystery vibes? Or maybe a steamy romance set in a dystopian fae kingdom? Indie authors push boundaries and experiment with genres in ways that feel totally fresh.
• Direct Connection with Readers: Indie authors are deeply connected to their readers. They share sneak peeks, ask for feedback, and often interact directly with fans on social media. It’s like being part of an exclusive club where your opinion really matters.

 

Why Indie Authors Are Small Business Heroes

When an author chooses to self-publish, they take on a whole lot more than just writing. They’re essentially running their own publishing business, which includes:

• Cover Design: Many indie authors hire freelance designers or create their own covers.
• Editing: Without a traditional publishing house, indie authors invest in professional editors or carefully edit their work themselves.
• Marketing & PR: Social media posts, book trailers, preorder campaigns—you name it, they do it, often learning from scratch.
• Production Costs: Printing, formatting, and distribution costs come out of their own pockets. Every gorgeous paperback or e-book you buy is the result of their hard work and investment.

When you support an indie book, it’s like shopping local. You’re directly supporting a creator who’s pouring their heart, soul, and resources into their work.

 

10 Ways to Support Indie Authors

1. Buy Their Books

This one’s obvious, but it bears repeating: buying indie books directly supports authors. If you’re able to, purchasing the paperback or e-book is one of the most direct ways to help. Bonus points if you buy through local indie bookstores or platforms like Bookshop.org, which help authors earn a bigger cut.

2. Leave Reviews

Reviews are the lifeblood of indie authors. Platforms like Goodreads, Amazon, and BookBub use reviews to boost books in their algorithms, making it easier for others to find them. Even a short review like “Loved this! Couldn’t put it down!” makes a huge difference.

Not sure where to start? Mention your favorite character, trope, or scene.

3. Shout Them Out on Social Media

Did you fall head-over-heels for a romantasy book? Tell the world! Post about it on Instagram, TikTok, or Threads (sorry not sorry, X). Share a pretty bookstagram photo, gush about the plot, or even create a silly reel. Tag the author so they can see it—you might just make their day!

Need ideas?

• Make a reel ranking the spiciest moments.
• Create a “Which romantasy hero is your soulmate?” quiz.
• Compare the book to your favorite Taylor Swift album.

4. Recommend Them to Friends

Word of mouth is powerful. Tell your book club, your barista, or that friend who keeps asking for recs (cough we all have one). Gifting books for birthdays or holidays is another way to spread the love.

5. Preorder Their New Releases

Preorders are a game-changer for indie authors. They help authors gauge demand and boost their book’s visibility on release day. Plus, many indie authors offer preorder goodies like bookmarks, art prints, or exclusive short stories.

6. Support Their Other Ventures

Many indie authors sell more than just books. Check out their merch, exclusive content on Patreon, or signed bookplates. Many indie authors even work with small art business, etsy shop owners, etc. to make officially licensed merch! Supporting these ventures helps fund their writing while giving you extra goodies.

7. Join Their ARC Team or Newsletter

Advance Review Copies (ARCs) are a way to read books early in exchange for an honest review. Joining an ARC team not only gets you free books but also helps the author build buzz before release day.

Newsletters are another great way to stay connected. Many authors share exclusive content, updates, or even free short stories in their emails.

8. Engage with Their Content

Liking, commenting, and sharing their posts helps authors grow their audience. Every interaction boosts their visibility in social media algorithms, so don’t be shy—double-tap that post!

9. Show Up at Events

If the author is doing a signing, virtual Q&A, or attending a book festival, show up if you can! It’s a great way to connect and show your support.

10. Celebrate Their Wins

Writing a book is no small feat, and indie authors juggle so much. Celebrate their milestones—whether it’s a release day, a bestseller appearance, or just a heartfelt post about their journey. Your enthusiasm means more than you know.

 

Supporting indie romantasy authors isn’t just about helping them—it’s about keeping the genre alive and thriving. So the next time you swoon over a brooding fae prince or cheer for a dagger-wielding queen, take a moment to show the author some love.

And if you’re looking for your next romantasy obsession, check out my list of 100 indie romantasy books you need to read right now. (Yes, I’m shamelessly plugging it again. No regrets!)

 

What’s your favorite way to support indie authors?