i am seeing so many authors across socials post that it's been a terrible month/week for sales, some saying it's their worst ever, others saying they might have to quit publishing if this keeps up. and, like, i get all the nuance. i do. i'm only saying it sucks indies are being hit hard. :(
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It's almost like "put your books somewhere other than Amazon" is just victim blaming from people who just don't care how much this is going to hurt people
Cause it is rough out there.
I hope people who are afraid, can see that supporting local matters.
It seems that "not buying Amazon" has resulted in not buying indie, even when other options are available.
On the rare occasion I sell print via Ingram Spark, I make pennies per copy.
We lead with that one because of limited posting space, knowing most people will shop there 1st.
That has to change on our ends too.
But the message we need to get out is if you love an author, please look for their work on other platforms.
1) that they offer a free sample somewhere (preferably downloadable) to see if I get interested in the story
2) a trustworthy distribution platform (like Payhip or Ko-fi)
3) ebooks with no DRM (my Kindle still works)
But then authors have gotta eat too; then there's Amz boycott, but those of us who are tied into KU can't move as we're in a 90-day contract.
So many of them still unironically think that indie store = indie books.
The base knowledge is still missing.
I think people are stressed and their budgets are tighter, and one of the first things they hold back on when money is low is entertainment.
With books, I'll support indie authors. If your books can be found elsewhere, I'll buy there first. If they are only on Amazon, I will purchase there.
Like you, I understand the reasons. But it sucks.