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.