Are you an indie or self-published author struggling to see returns on your books? Or a reader who wants to better support the authors you love? This post is for both of you. Hawthorn & Aster breaks down the real financial realities of self-publishing, the symbiotic relationship between authors and readers, and what you can actually do to make a difference—whether you're writing the books or reading them. Because visibility matters, skilled labor deserves compensation, and this community is worth fighting for.

Wondering whether to go wide or stay on KindleUnlimited? This guide for indie and self-published authors breaks down everything you need to know about publishing distribution strategies—including the pros and cons of KDP Select, what "going wide" actually means, and how to decide which platform approach is right for your book. Whether you're a first-time author feeling overwhelmed by your options or an experienced indie looking to diversify your revenue, Hawthorn & Aster is here to help you navigate your publishing journey with confidence and clarity.

Hawthorn & Aster unpacks the most human of author compulsions—responding to bad reviews. We’re here to explain how your reaction can negatively impact your author brand and how to protect yourself.

Publishing a book is a marathon—and what happens after release day is something no one talks about enough. In this post, we're pulling back the curtain on the emotional experience of indie authors post-launch: the highs, the silence that follows, and how to rebuild without burning out. If you've ever felt lost after releasing a book, you're not alone.

If you've ever sent out 100 ARC copies and only received 30 reviews, you're not alone—and no, it's not your book. In this guide, we're breaking down the real math behind ARC review conversion rates, why readers ghost, and whether working with an ARC dispersal platform or a romance book marketing company is the right move for your indie author journey.

If you're an indie or self-published romance author wondering whether hiring a book marketing company is worth it—you've come to the right place. In this guide, we're breaking down exactly what to expect from a romance book marketing company, what red flags to watch for, and how to find the right fit for your book. Whether you're planning your debut launch or your fifth release, understanding how ethical book marketing actually works could be the difference between a campaign that flops and one that gets your story into the hands of readers who will love it.

So you want to publish a book—but no one told you about editing stages, cover timelines, or why marketing matters before launch. Let Hawthorn & Aster’s resident gay bookish auntie walk you through the process with clarity, humor, and real-world advice.