This list was inspired by the reading prompt: Read an Indie or Self-Published Book in the Playing Card Reading Challenge (Jack of Diamonds).
What is an Indie book?
An indie book is not published by a mainstream publishing house. The author works with an independent press instead. Authors might choose this method of self-publishing to retain more control over their work, have more flexible deadlines, or have more autonomy to change direction. Typically, indie authors earn higher percentages in royalties from their published works.
How to know if a book is self-published?
Product descriptions may tell you that a book is self-published. The author’s website or social media are other sources of this information. You can also look into the name of the publisher to find out if this is a small press that supports independent authors.
Why read Indie & self-published authors?
- Reading books by indie authors puts more money directly in the author’s pockets. Its the most effective way to support a new author.
- Many self-published titles are digital only – making them an environmentally friendly choice.
- Often, independently published books are available faster than traditionally published books, so you might not have to wait as long for the next book in a series.
The list below consists of books that were at least originally self published, though some may have editions traditionally published.
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Matt Dinniman
When Earth’s buildings collapse into an 18-level dungeon, a man and his ex’s cat must survive by entertaining alien viewers while fighting monsters and gathering followers.
Alice Oseman
Shy and softhearted Charlie Spring sits next to rugby player Nick Nelson in class one morning. A warm and intimate friendship follows, and that soon develops into something more for Charlie, who doesn’t think he has a chance. But Nick is struggling with feelings of his own, and as the two grow closer and take on the ups and downs of high school, they come to understand the surprising and delightful ways in which love works.
Also fulfills: Read a book with LGBT Representation.
Read a romance.
Anthony Ryan
A young boy is left at a warrior school by his father and must learn to hone his skills and overcome his anger to become a true warrior.
Also fulfills: Read a fantasy novel.
Jonathan Renshaw
A high-ranking officer brings a warning to the Mistyvales, igniting Aedan’s journey to the royal academy, where he uncovers ancient power and confronts his fears.
Also fulfills: Read a fantasy novel.
Read a book that won an award.
Lisa Genova
A poignant portrayal of a vibrant woman experiencing early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, showing her gradual memory loss while maintaining her dignity and remaining an active community member.
Rachel Aaron
A witch hires a team of mercenaries to protect him from warlocks, but gets more than he bargained for when he discovers they’re demons.
J. Zachary Pike
A disgraced dwarven hero embarks on a dangerous quest with a band of misfit adventurers, seeking redemption and stolen treasure while evading powerful investors with a sinister master plan.
Also fulfills: Read a book that won an award.
Read a fantasy novel.
Carissa Broadbent
A human girl enters a deadly vampire tournament, forming an irresistible yet dangerous alliance with a ruthless rival.
Also fulfills: Read a book over 500 pages.
Ashley Lynn East
The Nemesis Pact is a laugh-out-loud, slow-burn romantic comedy about second chances, unexpected chemistry, and what happens when your worst enemy becomes the best thing that’s ever happened to you.
Also fulfills: Read a romance.
Jacquelyn Benson
A woman archaeologist and a rogue explorer race to find a legendary lost city and stop a villain from obtaining a powerful artifact.
Jane Austen
A tale of two sisters, their romantic entanglements, and the delicate balance between reason and emotion in a society that demands both.
Also fulfills: (Maybe:) Read a classic you’ve never read.
Jane Steen
In 1881 Sussex, recently widowed Lady Helena investigates her husband’s suspicious death, while a French physician’s murder theory leads her to uncover dark family secrets.
Elisabeth Wheatley
Cursed sorceress assassin must break archduke’s curse or damn empire, caught between duty and growing feelings.
Also fulfills: Read a fantasy novel.
Sarah A. Denzil, Anni Taylor
Two broke young backpackers find fruit-picking work at a farm, but something seems strange about the owner and his workers.
C.J. Archer
A librarian with a mysterious past and a war hero with a secret join forces to find a stolen magical painting and uncover the truth about the librarian’s heritage, while evading dangerous adversaries.
Also fulfills: Read a book about books/libraries.
Olivie Blake
Six talented magicians compete for five spots in the prestigious Alexandrian Society. During their year-long initiation, they must prove mastery over impossible subjects while fighting for survival.
Have other suggestions for amazing books indie/self-published books? Leave a comment so we can check it out!
Indie authors, feel free to self-promote!
May your life be as full as your bookshelf and as long as your TBR list.
Happy Reading!
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