10 Simple and Free Ways to Support Your Favorite Authors

When you find an author whose work truly resonates with you, it feels natural to want to support them. Buying books is one way, but there are many simple and free actions that can make a big difference for authors. These efforts help authors reach new readers, build their reputation, and keep creating stories you love. Here are ten practical ways to support your favorite authors without spending a dime.

Share Their Work with Friends and Family

Word of mouth remains one of the most powerful tools for authors. When you recommend a book to someone, you help expand the author’s audience. You can:

• Tell friends about the book in casual conversations.

• Suggest the author’s work in book clubs or reading groups.

• Gift a book you already own to someone who might enjoy it.

  
  

Personal recommendations carry more weight than online ads or promotions. Your enthusiasm can inspire others to discover new stories.

Write Honest Reviews Online

Reviews on websites like Amazon, Goodreads, or local bookstore pages help authors gain visibility. A thoughtful review can encourage others to pick up the book. When writing reviews:

• Focus on what you liked or what stood out.

• Avoid spoilers but share enough to spark interest.

• Keep your tone genuine and respectful.

  
  

Even a short review can boost an author’s profile and improve their chances of being recommended by algorithms.

Engage with Authors on Social Media

Many authors use social media to connect with readers and share updates. Following and interacting with them shows support and helps their posts reach more people. You can:

• Like and comment on their posts.

• Share their announcements or book releases.

• Join live chats or Q&A sessions.

  
  

This engagement helps authors build a community and stay motivated.

Participate in Online Book Events

Authors often host free online events such as readings, discussions, or workshops. Attending these events shows interest and encourages authors to keep organizing them. Look for:

• Virtual book launches.

• Author interviews or podcasts.

• Writing workshops or webinars.

  
  

Your participation can also introduce you to other fans and deepen your connection to the author’s work.

Add Books to Your Reading Lists and Libraries

Adding an author’s book to your reading list on platforms like Goodreads or your local library’s digital catalog signals demand. Libraries often track these lists to decide which books to purchase or promote. You can:

• Mark books as “Want to Read” or “Currently Reading.”

• Request the book at your local library.

• Recommend the book to librarians or book buyers.

  
  

This helps authors reach readers who prefer borrowing over buying.

Share Quotes and Favorite Passages

Sharing a meaningful quote or passage from a book on your social media or with friends can spark curiosity. When you share:

• Include the author’s name and book title.

• Explain why the quote resonated with you.

• Use hashtags related to the book or author if applicable.

  
  

This kind of sharing spreads awareness and invites others to explore the author’s work.

Support Author Newsletters and Blogs

Many authors maintain newsletters or blogs where they share insights, updates, and exclusive content. Subscribing and engaging with these platforms helps authors stay connected with their audience. You can:

• Sign up for newsletters.

• Reply to emails or comment on blog posts.

• Share newsletter content with others.

  
  

This direct connection often leads to more loyal readers and better support for the author’s projects.

Recommend Their Books to Bookstores

Local bookstores appreciate recommendations from customers. Suggesting your favorite author’s books to bookstore staff can encourage them to stock those titles. You might:

• Ask if the bookstore carries the author’s books.

• Request they order specific titles.

• Suggest the author for book signings or events.

  
  

Supporting local bookstores while promoting authors creates a positive cycle for the reading community.

Use Library and Bookstore Review Cards

Some libraries and bookstores offer physical or digital review cards where readers can leave feedback about books. Filling these out helps staff understand what readers enjoy and which authors to promote. You can:

• Write a brief review on a card.

• Share your thoughts on what made the book special.

• Encourage others to do the same.

  
  

This grassroots support can influence purchasing and event decisions.

Spread the Word in Online Communities

Online forums, book groups, and reading communities are great places to share your enthusiasm for an author. Whether on Reddit, Facebook groups, or book-specific sites, your voice matters. You can:

• Start discussions about the author’s books.

• Recommend the author in response to reading suggestions.

• Share links to interviews or articles about the author.

  
  

Active participation in these spaces helps authors reach readers who might not find them otherwise.

by A. Piper Burgi

Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, Medium, and Goodreads