AD GIFTED: I’ve written about my love of indie books and shared many reviews of self published titles over the years since Fraser’s Fun House was created, therefore I thought it’s time to share some of my reasons I recommend readers everywhere check them out too. I’m thrilled to be collaborating once again with the wonderful folks over at Your Paper Quest on this blog post so before we jump into my reasons why you NEED to start reading Indie books let me tell you a little about their exclusively self published book subscription service. (Also be sure to check out our exclusive discount code at the end of this blog which will give you 20% off of your first box making it a complete steal!)
Your Paper Quest was created by Ryan whose early love for reading was reignited when he created his Instagram account to discuss the books he enjoyed During his time as a content creator he has connected with countless authors and taken time to really understand readers and their tastes which lead him to kickstarting his passion project; Your Paper Quest. His aim is to help break the stigma that is often attached to self published titles and to introduce readers to books that would have previously been under their radar. Working alongside Ryan is Steven William Hannah who curates the titles that make it into the monthly mailings. Sifting through numerous submissions Ryan and Steven ensure nothing but the best make it to their readers doors.
What’s included in the Subscription?
Each month you will receive a themed selection on books of varying genres delivered directly to your door in stunning personalised packaging. We recently received the February box which of course was aptly love themed with two self pub books to ‘remind us of the importance of love, and all the different forms that it takes.’ Alongside the books you also receive specially created bookmarks and an information sheet about the monthly choices.
February’s titles were Future Proof by David Atkinson and Love on Dove Street by Cherie Hart both of which sound amazing and I’m looking forward to reading them soon.
As a subscription member you can also receive access to the Your Paper Quest virtual book club which includes exclusive video interviews as well as the opportunity to pose questions to the authors plus it’s the perfect space for bookish discussions with fellow subscribers.
At the moment the subscription package is only available for delivery within the UK and is priced at £18 per month.
So why should you subscribe and choose to read books from self published authors? Let me give you 5 reasons..
Diversity
Traditionally published books are often restrictive when it comes to the stories and voices they choose to publish meaning those in marginalised communities and groups often feel unrepresented. A self published authors’ only restriction is the limits of their own imagination and creativity, meaning they can use their own experiences within their stories to allow readers to feel seen and understood.
Support Small
Online you are often encouraged to support small businesses’ which I’m wholly on board with, but what about Indie authors? They are independent artists who create and edit their work without the assistance of a large publishing house with large marketing budgets to help promote their work and they need your support. In order for all their hard work to pay off and be recognised they need readers like us to pick up their work and spread the word in the book community. Offering support to a self published author is life changing, allowing them to continue doing what they love as well as giving them the opportunity to do a little happy dance when someone buys a book or provides positive feedback! Indie authors are real people who NEED our support.
Unique Stories
As well as offering more diverse stories when reading from a self published author you’ll often discover unique storylines. As a reader I’m sure there have been times when you’ve picked up a ‘new’ book only to discover the storyline mirrors one you’ve read a million times before. With Indie books the sky’s the limit when it comes to storyline and without the constraints of mainstream publishing authors are able to offer a wider range of themes and more original stories which often push the boundaries, in a good way!
Something New
I’ve heard people say that reading from an indie author ‘lacks something’ in comparison to reading from a traditionally published author. However, my experience has shown me first hand that often self published works are of a higher standard as the author has literally poured everything of themselves into the story. I’ve discovered so many new favourites since I began reading indie books and you can find some real hidden gems if you choose to broaden your reading horizons. With unique stories and of course the diversity offered within these books pages there is always something new and fresh to discover outside of the traditionally published realm.
Interactive Authors
One of my favourite things about reading Indie books is just how approachable and friendly the authors are. Over the years I’ve loved connecting with authors online via social media and have enjoyed discussing their books, stories and WIP with them. Indie authors really appreciate their readers and will often take the time to interact with them online or at events which for me adds something extra and it’s lovely to be able to personally offer my appreciation of their work.
Fraser’s Fun House 