At Margin to Margin Books, we understand that an independent publisher is only as strong as the community that surrounds it. The small press industry doesn’t have the massive marketing budgets of large publishers – but we do have you. And you have a vital role to play.
Here are five ways you can help independent publishing:
1. Buy a book published by an independent publisher
The most direct way to support the mission is to vote with your wallet. Every book bought from a small press like Margin to Margin Books is a direct investment in future titles and the authors that will compose them. Your purchase helps facilitate the next independent project. But buying a book is only the beginning of your key role.
2. Read and review (Amazon, Goodreads, and beyond)
In the digital age, reviews are the lifeblood of independent titles. If you’ve read a good book from an independent publisher, please take five minutes to leave a review on Amazon, Goodreads, StoryGraph, or anywhere. Your reviews inform algorithms that these stories matter, helping independent publishers reach more readers who are tired of predictable mainstream offerings.
3. Post about the book online
You don’t need to be a pouting influencer to make a difference. A simple photo of your current read on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, or Bluesky helps spread the word far beyond our own reach. Tag M2M Books; we love to see our titles out there in the wild.
4. Follow us and talk to us
Independent publishing is about connections. Follow us on social media, reply to our posts, join the conversation. We want to hear from the communities we are publishing for. When you engage with M2M Books, you’re helping maintain the important literary dialogue that keeps independent publishing vibrant and relevant.
5. Tell your friends and your book clubs
Word of mouth remains the most powerful tool in literature. If a story resonates with you, tell a friend; recommend it to your local book club. By sharing these titles, you are helping to build a stronger independent publishing sector.
Independent publishing is not a solo project; it is a collective effort. Help make 2026 the year the independent voice becomes impossible to ignore.
Gareth James – Chief Reader, M2M Books
Margin to Margin Books 