Indie publishing refers to the process of self-publishing books or other media without the involvement of traditional publishing houses. Authors take control of their work, managing everything from writing and editing to marketing and distribution. This approach allows for greater creative freedom and the potential for higher profits. With the rise of digital platforms, such as Amazon Kindle and Smashwords, indie publishing has become more accessible. Many authors choose this route to reach niche audiences or to publish works that may not fit mainstream market trends. This democratization of publishing has led to a diverse range of voices and stories.