Stereotypes about indie authors are the main obstacle to their success. If you ask an average man about indie authors, he will say: " They are not real authors, because they are not publishing in a traditional way. "
If you go with questions further, there are some myths:
Indie authors should give their books free to readers.
They are not professionals.
They should make the price of books lower.
Such things I heard so many times. Don't expect your friends will support you if you are on the way to becoming an indie author.
They will say:
"If she can write, I can write too. What do I have because she is an author? Why should I buy her books, she is not famous!"
So, in short, when an indie author publishes his book, he will pay for the cover, formatting, editor, beta reader, and sometimes for book promotion. If you want your product to look good for buyers, you must hire professionals, and it will cost you. After all this, you will meet people who are not willing to give even 2 dollars for your book.
Once I saw the reaction when I put my book at a price of 2.45 dollars. "Wow! It is not free. Isn't it too much for the short story?"
Can you remember how many times you give 2 dollars for things you did not need it? You will give more to beggars, probably. You will buy Kim Kardashian products because she is famous. Also, you will buy a cigarette even this is bad for your health. Well, if you need to buy a book, suddenly there is no money.
So, why should you buy a book from indie authors?
When you buy a book, you show appreciation for their work.
When you buy a book, you will get someone's experience and a story to read.
When you buy a book, you can learn about another culture or a different perspective, in a way you did not know it.
When you buy a book, you are supporting authors who are not earning big money. Mostly, they spend more than they earn.
If you are buying a book that is a product from someone you know well, you are showing your loyalty. You are proud of your friend, happy to support them.
If you buy and review the book, you are participating in the author's work. You help them to know what is good, and what is wrong in their writing.
It is easy to underestimate others' work, but it is easier to support people. One day you might need support in some of your ideas, too.
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