Do I Really Need a Website as an Indie Author?

If you’re an indie author, your website isn’t just a digital business card, it’s your headquarters. It serves a lot of purposes in your marketing game, from somewhere to capture subscribers for your newsletter, a place to display and link all your books, and stay relevant with the occasional blog post. Here are my top reasons why you should consider building one (and soon).

1. You own it, unlike social media platforms.

Social platforms can change algorithms, shut down, or lock you out, and then suddenly, all your connections vanish. But with your own site, you’re in full control of how your story and brand are presented.

2. Having a website builds credibility.

Journalists, readers, or even agents often Google an author’s name. A professional, up-to-date site makes a far better impression than a blank page.

3. One central hub for everything writing-related.

Your site can centralize your books, blog posts, media interviews, events—streamlining discovery and increasing opportunities to connect.

4. Build a newsletter list.

Mailing lists/newsletters allow you to connect directly with readers, with no pesky algorithm between you and them. (I’m looking at you, Google.) Your own site makes it easy to capture emails with minimal hassle.

5. Learn a little SEO, and you’ll be more discoverable.

Optimized with thoughtful keywords, page titles, and blog content, your author site helps search engines find you. When someone Googles your name or book title, your site can be the first result. Stay tuned for some of my best SEO tips as an SEO Specialist in the marketing industry.

6. Control over reader engagement.

You decide: blog about writing behind the scenes, share free short stories, post updates—or keep it minimalist. Control keeps it genuine.

The best and/or easiest tools for building an author website.

There’s no need to hire someone who can code or even any need to learn code yourself. Here are some of my favorite platforms I’ve used.

WordPress (Self-Hosted): If you want full control, endless plugins, and future scalability, WordPress is a solid choice. Its user-friendly interface and huge library of plugins and customizable themes make it a top platform.

Squarespace: Known for sleek, polished templates and minimal tech hassle, it’s perfect for authors who want something beautiful with minimal effort.

Wix: Extremely beginner-friendly with good SEO built-in, which is great for authors who just want a smooth, intuitive editing experience. It's what I'm currently using for this site!

Weebly: Simple drag-and-drop builder with free and affordable plans, so it’s ideal if you’re on a tight budget and want something clean and quick. Also features e-commerce tools.

Medium: If you’re focused on long-form writing and want exposure, Medium simplifies publishing, but it lacks customization, ecommerce, or full SEO control.

BookBub Author Sites (beta): BookBub is offering cheap hosting and domain name purchase, all in one package. Plus, it offers an easy template to display your books, keep up a blog, and an easy way to create a reader magnet and newsletter list signup. It’s cheap and user-friendly.

Thinking of saying yes to an author website? Great! Here are the pages you should include:

Once you’ve chosen a platform, the next step is deciding what pages to include in your navigation. Here are the essentials (plus a few optional ideas) for indie authors:

1. Home

Your digital front door. It should immediately introduce you and your work with a clear headline, book cover(s), and a call-to-action (like “Join My Newsletter” or “Buy the Book”).

Allie’s Tip: Keep it clean and focused. One or two main CTAs are better than overwhelming readers with choices.

2. About

Readers love to know the person behind the stories. Share your author bio, writing journey, and maybe a few fun personal tidbits that humanize you.

3. Books

Showcase your titles with covers, descriptions, order links, and reviews. For multiple series, consider child pages or a grid layout to keep it organized.

4. Contact

Make it easy for readers, media, and event organizers to reach you. A simple contact form and links to your social profiles are enough.

5. Newsletter Signup

Your email list is your most valuable tool as an indie author. Dedicate a page (or section on the homepage) where readers can sign up for exclusive content, freebies, or updates.

6. Events / News

If you do book signings, virtual launches, or speaking engagements, create a page to highlight upcoming appearances.

7. Blog (Optional)

A blog can help with SEO and reader engagement. Share writing updates, behind-the-scenes insights, or extras related to your books. (If blogging isn’t your thing, skip it—consistency matters more than frequency.)

8. Media / Press Kit (Optional)

For authors seeking press coverage or doing interviews, include a media kit with high-resolution headshots, book covers, bios of different lengths, and contact info for quick access

So, website? Yes or no?

Having an author website isn’t obligatory—but it’s a powerful asset that gives you professionalism, discoverability, and direct connection with your readers. Choose a platform that matches your comfort level and goals. Want something quick and beautiful? Squarespace or Wix might be your jam. Want control and flexibility to grow? WordPress is your friend.

No matter the tool, the key is ownership. Your website is your space to welcome readers, share your writing story, and build your author brand on your terms.

If you enjoyed this post, I’d love for you to check out the first in my murder mystery series: The Kylie Bell Chronicles! When Snapdragons Whisper is based on the Nancy Drew Series, just with a lot more murder and a little bit of spice. :) I’m also on Instagram, where I share life as an indie author with bipolar disorder.