Writing is a long-term endeavor. If you have a writer in your life, that person is going to need your support over the long haul. If you’re looking for something to give this holiday season or for other occasions, consider the following five gifts.

If you’re thinking of giving up your day job to become a full-time writer, be sure to read the Authors Guild’s first survey on income in six years. It’s a sobering report that shows authors are not making as much money, even though they spend more time marketing their works.

If you once had a collection of Metallica albums or Kurt Cobain posters, then you’ll understand why romance author Christa Maurice writes about rock stars. She admits to being that rare first grader who knew about Black Sabbath and Blue Oyster Cult. In this Q&A, she talks about her latest book, “A Gift to be Simple,” and what she likes about being a hybrid author.

Whether it’s in the supermarket or the airport or the dentist’s office, we all eavesdrop. But it’s likely to be a passing experience. Not so for independent writer Audrey King. A conversation she heard in a gift shop combined with the romantic atmosphere of the town where the shop was located inspired her latest romance book, “Love As It Seems.”

Back in 2009, e-books accounted for only about 3-5 percent of book sales, so a 25 percent royalty didn’t have as much impact on an author’s earnings. Today, e-books represent 25-30 percent of all adult trade book sales, but the e-book royalty has remained the same for most traditionally published writers.

Someone once told Kristina Mathews, a self-professed “sports fanatic,” that romance novels about athlete heroes wouldn’t sell. It’s good she didn’t listen to the naysayers.

In Mae Clair’s latest book, Halloween is scorching hot. “I always wanted to write a tale centered on that holiday,” she said. The result is “Myth and Magic,” a romantic suspense and mystery novel inspired by her childhood fascination about a haunted house in her neighborhood.

I discovered James Salter’s “A Sport and a Pastime” last year, thanks to my writing critique partner’s recommendation. I don’t know how I missed such a beautiful novel all these years, but better late than never.

Michele Stegman, an author and artist, weaves historical romance novels, as well as fabric. Her passion as a fabric artist is reflected in her writing.

When Erin Fanning was learning how to knit a few years ago, she happened to read an article about an Italian woman who occupied herself by knitting when she got trapped underneath her bed after an earthquake.