dōjin writer; fanfiction writer; coterie author
Refers to a writer who creates self-published or fan-based works, often in manga, novels, or games, typically distributed at events like Comiket. The term is neutral but strongly associated with otaku culture.
See also: 同人
She is a popular dōjin writer who releases a new book at every Comiket.
While working as a dōjin writer, he is aiming to become a professional manga artist.
同人 refers to the group or the self-published works themselves, while 同人作家 specifically denotes the creator/writer.
同人誌 is the self-published magazine or book, whereas 同人作家 is the person who creates it.
Compound of 同人 (dōjin, 'coterie' or 'like-minded people') and 作家 (sakka, 'writer' or 'author'). The term emerged from the self-publishing culture in Japan.