10 Ways to Support Independent Authors (Even if You Can’t Buy Right Now)

(And yes — they really do help)

Not everyone can buy every book that catches their eye — I get that. Whether it’s budget, timing, or just trying to avoid another towering to-be-read pile, sometimes it’s just not the moment to click “buy now.”

But here’s the truth most people don’t realise:

You don’t have to spend a penny to support an independent author.

In fact, some of the most powerful ways to help are completely free — and they can make a huge difference in helping books like mine reach more readers.

Here are ten easy, meaningful things you can do to support Through Water & Ruin (or any indie book you believe in):

1. Request the Book at Your Local Library

Can’t afford to buy it? Ask your local library to stock it!

Libraries often take community requests seriously — and if they add Through Water & Ruin to their shelves, it means anyone can read it for free.

It’s a win for you, for other readers, and for me too.

2. Borrow It — and Talk About It

Once your library has it (or if a friend lends you a copy), don’t be shy about sharing it!

Take a photo, tag me, or just post your thoughts. It doesn’t have to be polished — just your honest reaction. You’d be surprised how far a single post can go.

3. Share a Blog Post That Resonated With You

Liked a blog post here on the site? Pass it on.

Whether it’s about Luminovels, storytelling, or the journey to sell 1,000 copies — sharing is a free way to help others discover my work. Bonus points if you add a personal note!

4. Join the Email List

It’s the easiest way to stay connected.

You’ll be first to know about new releases, behind-the-scenes content, and subscriber-only updates. I promise not to spam you — just occasional, meaningful updates.

5. Leave a Review (Even if You Didn’t Buy It!)

Yes — if you borrowed the book from a library or a friend, you can still leave a review.

Sites like Goodreads and Amazon don’t require you to be a verified purchaser to share your thoughts. And reviews help massively when it comes to discoverability.

Only do this is you have read the book though :)

6. Tell Someone in Real Life

Seriously — word of mouth is golden.

Mention it to a friend who loves reading. Talk about it at work, at your book club, or during that “what are you reading?” moment we all have. Personal recommendations always carry weight.

7. Follow (and Interact With) Me on Social Media

It might not seem like a big deal, but likes, comments, and shares help push content further — especially on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok.

If you see something you enjoy, give it a boost!

8. Use It in Creative Ways

Seen a photo or passage that resonated?

Feel free to reference or respond to it creatively — whether that’s reposting, journaling your own thoughts, or even using the story as a jumping-off point for conversation.

9. Recommend It to a Bookshop

If you’re friendly with a local bookseller or indie shop, recommend the book!

Even just putting it on their radar helps. If they’ve never heard of it, they’re not going to stock it — and recommendations from readers go a long way.

10. Come Along for the Journey

This whole thing — creating books, building a new format like the Luminovel, telling stories that blend text and photography — is a big, personal experiment.

Just by showing up, reading, and caring, you’re already part of it.

Thanks for being here.

And if you’ve done even one of the things above — truly, thank you.

It’s people like you who help independent authors like me keep going.