Blogging With BRAE

Blogging with BRAE: Amplifying Black Literature & Voices

Every month, Blogging with BRAE dives into topics that matter to the Black reading community and authors. From industry shifts to cultural conversations, we tackle key issues that shape our literary world. By sharing information and engaging in meaningful discussions, we stay informed about current literary events while fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our community. Our blog is more than just content—it’s a space for connection, empowerment, and advocacy for Black literature. Join the conversation, stay informed, and help us amplify our voices. #BloggingWithBRAE

The Impact of an Amazon Boycott on Indie Authors

The frustration with Amazon’s ongoing changes—many of which negatively impact indie authors, particularly Black and marginalized writers—is completely valid. However, boycotting Amazon, especially through Kindle Unlimited (KU) cancellations, could unintentionally harm the very authors readers want to support.

Here’s why:

  1. Loss of Income for Indie Authors – Many self-published authors rely on Kindle Unlimited because they are paid based on pages read. A sudden drop in subscriptions means fewer royalties, making it harder for them to sustain their work.

  2. Decreased Visibility – Amazon’s algorithm favors books that are frequently borrowed, reviewed, and purchased. If indie authors lose engagement on the platform, their books become harder to discover.

  3. Fewer Opportunities for Growth – Many authors use KU to build an audience. With fewer readers in the program, indie books could struggle against traditionally published ones with more marketing resources.

  4. Accessibility vs. Affordability - For many indie authors, maintaining a private website to sell their books is financially out of reach. Website costs, payment processing fees, and marketing expenses can add up quickly, making platforms like Amazon a necessary tool for visibility and sales. Amazon acts as a one-stop shop where indie authors can showcase their work, reach a global audience, and provide readers with an easy purchasing experience.

What Readers Can Do Instead

If you want to take a stand against Amazon’s unfair policies while still supporting indie authors, consider these alternatives:

✅ Buy Direct – Many authors sell ebooks, audiobooks, and paperbacks through their websites, platforms like Payhip, or bookstores like Bookshop.org. Buying directly ensures more of the profits go to the author.

✅ Use Other Reading Apps – Platforms like Scribd, Kobo Plus, or libraries (via Libby/Hoopla) offer ways to access books while diversifying support for authors.

✅ Support Independent Bookstores – Sites like Bookshop.org, Libro.fm (for audiobooks), and local indie bookstores help sustain Black and marginalized authors.

✅ Follow & Engage – Supporting an author on social media, sharing their books, leaving reviews, and joining their mailing lists can be just as valuable as purchasing a book. Reviews especially help indie authors stay visible.

✅ Check for Patreon or Subscription Models – Some authors offer exclusive content through Patreon, Substack, or Buy Me a Coffee, giving readers direct access while cutting out the middleman.

✅ Attend in-person book events to purchase hard copies directly from authors. It’s a great opportunity to meet your favorites, get signed and personalized editions, and discover new authors to support. Engaging in these events strengthens the reading community and helps ensure their continued success. Your presence makes a difference!

Instead of completely boycotting, shifting how we support indie authors can make a bigger impact. The goal is to empower Black and marginalized writers while challenging unfair industry practices. 💜📚