Let’s get real for a second: the publishing world is a cutthroat arena where traditional publishing companies and big-box booksellers are the reigning gladiators, and indie authors and small booksellers are left to fight for scraps. One word? Pricing.

Here’s the dirty little secret of traditional publishing: they’ve got the game rigged. Major publishers have the cash to pump into massive print runs, slick marketing campaigns, and prime shelf space in big-name stores. They negotiate fat discounts with these commercial giants, allowing them to slash prices. Sure, it’s great for readers who love a bargain, but it’s a death sentence for indie bookstores that can’t compete with these markdowns. They simply can’t afford to sell books at cutthroat prices, so their stock ends up looking expensive in comparison. Who wants to pay $20 for a novel when you can get it for $10 at the local big-box store or on Amazon?

Indie authors are stuck in the same vicious cycle. Traditional publishers can afford to sell books for next to nothing because they’ve got a thousand other titles making up the difference. Meanwhile, indie authors are often self-financing their work. They have to set higher prices just to break even, let alone make a living. It’s no wonder readers flock to the cheaper, more visible options.

Check out this Thread on the topic: Link here, image below.

And visibility? Forget about it. Big publishers have the clout to get their books plastered everywhere—from bookstore windows to online ads. Indie authors? They’re lucky if they can scrape together enough to fund a few social media boosts. It’s not that their books aren’t worthy—it’s just that they’re drowned out in the sea of commercially-backed noise.

Sure, e-books and self-publishing platforms have thrown indie authors a lifeline. But even here, traditional publishers can afford to play the pricing game. They drop e-book prices to levels that indie authors can’t compete with without taking a financial hit. The result? Indies are perceived as overpriced, making it even harder to win over new readers.

So, what’s the solution? Awareness, baby. Readers need to wake up and smell the coffee. That extra few bucks spent on an indie book isn’t just buying a story; it’s supporting a writer’s dream. It’s investing in unique voices and fresh perspectives. And for God’s sake, let’s talk about policies that could level the playing field—fair trade practices that don’t let the big guys hog all the market share.

In the end, if we want a rich, diverse literary world, we’ve got to support the little guys. Indie authors and booksellers aren’t just filling a niche—they’re the lifeblood of creativity and innovation in literature. So next time you’re about to click “buy” on that heavily discounted bestseller, think about who you’re really supporting and consider giving an indie a shot. The future of our bookshelves depends on it.

Check out our other Fringe Fiction posts, here!