Glossary

Author Ring

 

The curated web ring built by The Writing Wives to connect indie fiction authors who sell direct to readers. Authors join the ring, add a navigation widget to their site, and become part of a discovery loop that helps readers hop between storefronts.

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Web Ring

 

A collection of websites linked together in a loop, so visitors can navigate from one site to the next. Web rings were popular in the early internet era and are making a comeback as a way for niche communities to help people discover like-minded sites without relying on search engines or social media.

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Ring Navigation

 

The "Previous | Home | Next" button set that every Author Ring member adds to their website. When a reader clicks a button, they move to the next (or previous) author in the ring, keeping the discovery loop going.

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Ring Widget

 

The small snippet of HTML code that powers the ring navigation on each member's site. It's a single block of code — no plugins required — that any author can install in minutes on Wix, Squarespace, WordPress, Shopify, or any storefront platform.

 

Ring Hop

 

The act of clicking through the ring from one author's site to another. A reader who ring hops is actively exploring and discovering new authors in the loop.

 

Ring Hub

 

The central home base of the Author Ring at authorring.net. The hub is where readers can learn about the ring, and where authors can apply to join.

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Ring Member

 

An indie fiction author who has been accepted into the Author Ring and has the ring navigation widget installed on their direct-sale storefront.

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Sell Direct / Buy Direct 

 

When an author sells books through their own website or storefront instead of through a retailer like Amazon. Buying direct means more money goes straight to the author, and often gives readers access to exclusive bundles, signed editions, or bonus content.

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Direct-Sale Storefront

 

An author's own website or shop where readers can purchase books directly. Common platforms include Payhip, Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix Stores, and BookVault.

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Read-Through

 

When a reader finishes one book in a series and goes on to purchase and read the next. High read-through rates are a sign of strong storytelling and a healthy author business.

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Indie Author

 

A self-published author who publishes independently, outside of traditional publishing houses. Indie authors control their own covers, pricing, distribution, and marketing.

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Discovery Loop

 

The connected chain of author sites in the Author Ring. Because the ring is a loop, a reader can keep clicking through member sites and always find someone new to discover.