Indie Book Talk

It started with a challenge from Marie Vibbert’s twin sister. “I’ll give you a gift for every 100 rejections you get.” Today Marie has placed 88 short stories with magazines like Fantasy and Science Fiction, Analog and Clarkesworld. She talks about how she does it, plus gives us a quick intro to worldbuilding using the example of her latest novel “The Gods Awoke” in this episode of Indie Book Talk. Mentioned in this episode: Small Gods by Terry Pratchett Website: www.marievibbert.comInstagram: @marievibbertFacebook: @MarieVibbertYouTube: @MarieVibbert

Working in marketing for a big-5 publisher, Nicholas Poe learned a thing or two about Google Ads and other book marketing strategies. He’s carried some of that over into marketing for his own book, Selection Day, published by the small indie De Novo Press. Learn from his experience on this episode of Indie Book Talk. Website: nicholaspoe.com Publisher Website: denovo.press Sound of History Podcast: soundofhistory.podbean.com Twitter: @NicholasPoe_ Instagram: @nicholaspoe_

L.A. Cunningham never meant to be an author. Not really. It all just happened. A blog let to a class which led to a Twitter connection which…well, we’ll let her tell it. She talks to us about Babies with Rabies, why she might die in a freak book-slide, and how she takes pantsing to a whole new level. L.A.'s Website: lacunningham.com Publisher’s Website: asapimagination.com Twitter: @laurcunn Instagram: @asapimagination Facebook: @ASAPComicsUK YouTube: @ASAPIMAGINATION TikTok: @asapimagination

Most sci-fi authors live in the future, but Gideon Marcus spends most of his time in the past. For Gideon, the year is 1968 the Vietnam war is still underway, and Star Trek is in it’s second season on television. From that historical vantagepoint, he’s helping modern readers rediscover underrepresented science fiction classics and newer works from unusual and diverse viewpoints. So don’t touch that dial… Journey Website: galacticjourney.org Publishing Website: journeypress.com Twitter: @journeygalactic Mastodon: @GalacticJourney Instagram: @journeypresspublishers Facebook: @pressjourney2019

10-year-old Harleigh Clark has a couple of big messages to share. First, kids should write books. She thinks its silly that even books for little kids are written by adults. Second, it’s okay to ask for help. She needed a lot of support from her grandmother, Lanette Pottle, her illustrator Sveltlana Lau, and the international community to make her book into an international Amazon bestseller. Harleigh’s Amazon Author page: amazon.com/stores/Harleigh-Clark/author/B0BN151Z5W Lanette's website: shegetspublished.com

Write a novel in a month. Sure. A page a day? Why not. But you've never seen a writing challenge quite like the one Briane Pagel set for himself. Write 365 stories in a year... oh, and the first story has to be exactly 365 words. Every day you write a story one word shorter until you come to the final day, the final story, a single word. We talk about how and why he wrote "Translated From The Original Shark: A Year Of Words" in this episode of Indie Book Talk. Mentioned in this episode: All These Explosions were Someone Else's Fault by James Alan Gardner amzn.to/3kzZ602 Harrison Bergeron by Kurt Vonnegut (in the short story collection Welcome to the Monkey House) amzn.to/3jb7geX Website: goldenfleecepress.com Briane's Instagram: @brianepagel

Emma and Shelley share everything you need to know to successfully pitch a podcast. With advice based on the hundreds of pitches they've seen as podcast hosts. Plus insights from Emma's successful pitches to other podcasts. We talk about everything you need to know to land a podcast guest spot (and be an awesome guest during the interview). Website: indiebooktalk.com Twitter: @IndieBookTalk Instagram: @imperativepress Facebook: @ImperativePress YouTube: @indiebooktalk

High school is tough, especially when you're growing up as the only Middle Eastern girl in an all-white community. Anisa Ashabi funneled all her teenage angst into a novel she started when she was just 14. Years later, she picked it up again. With the benefit of hindsight, Finding Chaz was born. Anisa talks about her relationship with her brother, writing a book that's "too long" for traditional publishing, and her dog Anubis. Website: anisaashabi.com Instagram: @anisa_ashabi Anubis' Instagram: @anubis.gsheppo.pnw Facebook: @authoranisa TikTok: @authoranisa

Growing up in a small midwestern town, Audrey Hanagan found her escape between the covers of Nancy Drew novels. She loved the adventure, the friendships, and, of course, the mysteries. There was just one thing missing...LGBTQ characters. So Audrey set out to write her own mystery series and normalize the presence of LGBTQ characters in the process. Here first novel, The Case of the Canine Capers, is out now.  Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Audrey-Hanagan/author/B0BCXL5R7Y Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087650740563

Dallas Woodburn believes that creativity doesn't stay in one genre. Every author should follow the call of their creative heart to write the stories they have inside them. This might mean writing different genres, publishing with multiple presses, or tackling multiple formats. As a book coach and host of the Thriving Authors Podcast, Dallas has advice on how to do all that and more.  Mentioned on this episode: dallaswoodburn.com/podcast Website: dallaswoodburn.com Instagram: @DallasWoodburnAuthor Facebook: @dallaswoodburnauthor

Author of Tudor fiction, Karen Heenan, tried out pretty much every type of publishing before landing on self-publishing for her most recent books. She talks us through her path from agents to pitch wars to small press and finally to self publishing, with plenty of side-quests along the way. Plus, her adorable cat sings in the background.  Mentioned in this episode: The Rebel Author Podcast Also mentioned in this episode: Take Back Your Book by Katlyn Duncan  Karen's Publishing Checklist Website: https://www.karenheenan.com/ Twitter: @karen_heenan Instagram: @karen.heenan Facebook: @karenheenanwriter

Alison McBain does it all. She's the author of The New Empire, editor of Scribes Micro Fiction, and a writing coach for When Words Count. She's also a freelance editor for authors. We talk to her about all of it, plus her writing groups and how she started in the publishing world. Website: alisonmcbain.com Retreat Site: whenwordscountretreat.com Fairfield Scribes: fairfieldscribes.com Twitter: @AlisonMcBain Facebook: @alison.mcbain.9

Emma and Shelley share their best tips for how to start a writing group. From where to find members to how to manage the group once you have it, we'll talk through all the basics you need to know to build a writing group that works for you. Emma's Website: imperativepressbooks.com  Shelly's Website: shelleyshearer.com Twitter: @indiebooktalk Instagram: @imperativepress Facebook: @imperativepress YouTube: @indiebooktalk

K.J. Gillenwater was among the very first authors on Kindle Vella, the episodic story publishing app from Amazon. When the store went live in July 2021, she already had 24 episodes scheduled and ready for reading. The last episode of her sci-fi novel, "The Genesis Machine," dropped in November. She takes a look at what worked for her on the platform and what she plans to do next. K.J.'s Website: kjgillenwater.com Twitter: @kjgillenwater Instagram: @kjgillenwater Facebook: @AuthorKJGillenwater TikTok: @kjgillenwater

Erin Reilly spent three years querying multiple manuscripts because that's how her professor told her publishing worked, but when she received one too many rejections she decided to take a chance on indie publishing. Now that her YA masterpiece "Tossed By The Waves" is out in the world, she's ready to take what she's learned and publish even more books. She talks about her path to indie publishing and lessons learned in this episode of Indie Book Talk. Erin's Twitter: @ereillywrites Erin's Instagram: @erinwrites Erin's TikTok: @erinrwrites

Teen author and Moonbeam award winner A.Y. Johlin started writing The Girl Who Wasn't Chosen when she was in middle school. At 17-years-old, she published the book. Now she visits schools to show kids that you don't have to wait to be chosen to follow your dreams. She talks about her plans for future books and how she found her own path to publishing.  Website: ayjohlin.wixsite.com A.Y.'s Instagram: @ay_johlin Moonbeam Awards: moonbeamawards.com

Stacy Lee's Nubble Light series of novels span romance, family drama, historical fiction and more, all against the backdrop of Maine's Nubble Light house. She talks to us about why books with a strong sense of place are so popular, especially if that place happens to be a beach in New England. Plus, learn how she started working with a producer to potentially turn her five-book series into a TV show! Website: stacyleeauthor.com Twitter: @stacy_author Instagram: @stacyleeauthor Facebook: @StacyLeeNubbleLightSeries

Read the last few chapters of any fantasy series with a "strong female lead" and you might notice something discouraging. That strong woman is likely to lose or give up her power near the end of the story. And Myah Bawadi is sick of it. She started writing the Legends of Infinity Series to turn that trope on its head. In fact, she was so excited about the first book "Infinity Legion", that she wrote a draft in just two months *while* finishing her Freshman year of college!  Myah's Linktree: infinitylegion.com Twitter: @myahbawadi Instagram: @myahbawadiauthor TikTok: @myahbawadiauthor

Tara Platt is an actor, writer and entrepreneur who wrote the first draft of her novel during NaNoWriMo.  But "Prep School For Killers" didn't fully take shape until she gave a TEDx Talk on creativity. She talks about her path to publishing, what it means to have feelings, and the mysterious door in her office on this episode of Indie Book Talk. Links to everything: monkeymayhemhub.com website: Taraplatt.com Twitter: @taraplatt YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHMAxSnoi4e_THlaykY0M8Q TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/yuri_lowenthal_tara_platt_your_life_story_using_story_structure_to_navigate_crisis

Jared Morrison has won a couple of awards and secured several high-profile reviews for his urban fantasy novel Of Dreams and Angels. But the path to what many authors think of as publishing success wasn't always straight. Jared tells us about what has worked for him and what doesn't. Listen all the way to the end for some really good advice.  Instagram: @jaredwrites Twitter: @jaredmwrites Facebook: @jaredmorrisonwriting

As the senior editor and co-owner of Artemesia Publishing, Geoff Habiger has spent the last 18 years helping authors get their books into print. He talks to us about how it started, how it's going, and the big question on every author's mind: what can a small press do for me? If you've ever been curious about small indie publishing houses, this episode is for you. Website: apbooks.net Twitter: @artemesiageoff Facebook: @ArtemesiaPublishing

History can be fun. That's the message Owen Keehnen wanted to share in this latest book LGBTQ+ Icons. It features short bios of members of the LGBTQ+ community alongside vibrant and exciting artwork from David Lee Csicsko. Hear the serendipitous story of how this celebration of LGBTQ+ figures in history came to be. Website: legacyprojectchicago.org Twitter: @lgbt_legacy Owen's Instagram: @owenkeehnen David's Instagram: @csicskokid

In 2019, E.D. Hackett found out she had a pituitary tumor. So she did what any author would do; she wrote a book about it. Now, in honor of Pituitary Tumor Awareness month, she talks to us about how and why she turned a traumatic experience into a women's fiction novel. Website: edhackettwrites.com Instagram: @e.d_hackettwrites Facebook: @edhackettwrites

Jim Stovall is one of the 13 million blind and visually impaired people in the world. He's also an author and president of the Emmy Award-winning Narrative Television Network, which makes television accessible (and enjoyable!) for blind and visually impaired people. Jim talks about the simple process that helped him write dozens of books, several of which have been turned into movies and tell us why he rejected two screenplays before finally making "The Ultimate Gift" into a movie.  Jim's website: jimstovall.com The Ultimate Gift Movie: https://amzn.to/3SVrN47

Paul Natkin is the first to tell you that he's not an author, or even a writer. He's a photographer who finally decided to publish a book featuring a few of the hundreds of thousands of photos he's taken throughout his career. You might recognize the names of some of the people he's photographed, people like Prince, Madonna, Mick Jagger, and The Beastie Boys. If you've seen a live show anytime in the last 30 years, there's a good chance Paul was there. Paul's Website: natkin.net Publisher's Book Page: trope.com/blogs/news/paul-natkin-the-moment-of-truth

L.L. Smith is what you might call a jack of all trades. As the author of Healer 2, and founder of Lachdown Productions, his creative interests pull him in all directions, but what he's really passionate about is connecting with other indie creators. He talks about indie books, covers, audiobook production, Kindle Vella, YouTube and more in this hilarious conversation. Check it out.  YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-wDUYozpj8fHCu9YAa7j2w/ Author page: amazon.com/L-L-Smith/e/B08W9NP4RT/ Instagram: @lachdownproductionsyt

Jennifer Milius is a developmental editor who delights in helping authors bring their stories to life on the page. She talks about what a developmental editor is, why you might need one, and how to choose the right editor for you. Listen in, then go check out Emma's episode on Jennifer's Tufish Podcast! Podcast and Website: jennifermilius.com/blog Jennifer's Books: jennifermilius.com/books Instagram: @AuthorJenniferMilius Twitter: @AuthorJenMilius

Your assumptions shape your world. At least, they should. Kyra Wellstrom and Micheal Kilman are the authors of Build Better Worlds: An Introduction to Anthropology for Game Designers, Fiction Writers, and Filmmakers. Drawing on their experience as professors of anthropology, they talk to us about how a basic understanding of people and cultures can and should shape our worldbuilding. Hear from these professors of anthropology and learn how to build a more realistic fantasy or sci-fi world. Website: loridianslaboratory.com Get the Book: https://amzn.to/3Uak2YU These links may be affiliate links, which means you're supporting this podcast while you support the amazing indie authors featured in this episode. That's a win-win.

Author, editor, podcast host and indie bookseller, Jean-Paul L. Garnier lives his life completely immersed in the world of speculative fiction and sci-fi. He talks to us about how to give back to the writing community, choosing books for the Space Cowboy Books store in Joshua Tree, CA and his special brand of spoken word speculative poetry set to music. This is an episode you won't want to miss.  Space Cowboy Books: spacecowboybooks.com Simultaneous Times Podcast: podomatic.com/podcasts/spacecowboybooks Poetry and Stories: spacecowboybooks.bandcamp.com Anthology: bookshop.org/a/197/9781732825741

Corinne has a confession to make. She's actually three authors sharing one body. Learn how she juggles the pen names Fiona Star and Daria Blake and why she's bringing them all together for the first time. From marketing to book covers to writing groups, we cover it all in this fast-paced episode. Corinne's website: corinneoflynn.com

Summary: Every author has faced it, the feeling that you're not good enough, the fear that someone's going to notice you have no idea what you're doing. It's called imposter syndrome. Sarah's been grappling with it her whole life, but that hasn't stopped her from writing The Reaper Chronicles, or tackling teen mental health in Life Support. She shares her secrets with us in this episode. Sarah's Website: sarahmcknightwrites.com

Iris March really cares about sustainability and the environment. She's authored successful grants for the US EPA and is a certified master recycler. So when she set out to write her Succulent Sleuth cozy mystery series, her main character ended up sharing some of those values. Iris tells us how she struck the balance of honoring the character without overwhelming readers. Her website: irismarchbooks.com Instagram: @searchingformysteries

James P. Nettles treats writing as a business, and he wants to show you how to do it too. He applied his 30 years of experience as a consultant to write Business Essentials for Writers: How to Make Money in an Ever-Changing Industry. On this episode, he shares some of his top tips for business planning, marketing and more. So grab a notebook and get ready to learn.  His website: jamespnettles.com Author Essentials: authoressentials.net

Jesse Salvo is the author of Blue Rhinoceros, and the Senior Fiction Editor for Bull Magazine. He talks to us about being in American Living in Spain, lessons learned from the slush pile and his unique process for writing a novel. There's a lot of laughing and plenty of literature.   Maudlin House: maudlinhouse.net/author/jesse-salvo/

Nigerian author Nenny May has taught herself everything she knows about marketing. She's honed her process through trial and error on four books. She talks with us about how Amazon Ads didn't work for her, and what she does instead. Keep an eye out for her YA novel, The Return, available in January 2023.  Nenny's Website: nennymaysbooks.wordpress.com

Despite the title of his new novel, Ian M. Rogers did NOT write it as an MFA Thesis. It's the book he started months after graduating to explore his feelings about creativity and writing in academic settings. He talks to us about sharing a name with another famous writer and what nails have to do with life in Japan. Grab a slice of pizza and settle in for this late night dorm room chat. Ian's Website: ButIAlsoHaveADayJob.com

Jenna Lee is an Australian author and the founder of the Daring Press. She coordinates a small team of authors' assistants to support indie authors who are committed to the business of writing. We talk to her about how to find a good assistant, the right time to hire one, and what assistants can do for writers.  The Daring Pres: thedaringpress.com

Amit Verma, author of The Quiver in the Purlieu, explains how sales of his book help support the Cheetah Conservation Fund. Animal rights is his passion. Writing is what he does when a story seizes him and won't let go. Hear all about it.  Madville Publishing: madvillepublishing.com/portfolio/a-quiver-in-the-purlieu/ Donate: cheetah.org/donate/ Get the Book (Affiliate link): https://bookshop.org/a/23161/9781948692687

Emma got her hands on an advance reader copy of Scribes' Descent, a richly imagined sci-fi adventure from Dylan West. Listen to this review then go grab a copy of the book from your favorite indie bookseller. Get the book here (affiliate link): bookshop.org/a/23161/9798985983104

Elyse Russell is curating an anthology for Band of Bards Comics. Funded by Kickstarter, The Dark Side of Purity, will feature comics, artwork, prose, and poetry from female and non-binary creators. After the the project is fully funded the book will be available in bookshops and online, with proceeds benefiting NARAL. Elyse talks to us about why the project is being fast-tracked and how creators can succeed with crowdfunding.  Fund it on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bandofbards/the-dark-side-of-purity Band of Bards: bandofbards.com Elyse's Website: elyserussellauthor.squarespace.com

This is an unusual episode of Indie Book Talk. A former guest turns the tables on one of our co-hosts. Author Emma Jean interviews Indie Book Talk co-host Emma G Rose on why suicide prevention is part of her author platform. They discuss Rose's journey from grieving family member to published author and why she keeps talking about mental health.  Read the Article in She The Magazine: shethemagazine.com/article/emma_g_rose Donate to the AFSP: afsp.org Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 Text the Crisis line at: 741741 Thank you for listening. The world is better with you in it. 

After finishing his first movie, Fronteras, indie filmmaker Andrew Dean decided the pace of movie making was too slow. He started transforming his screenplays into novels.  His first novel, Surfacing, came out April 2022. We talk to him about the process and why he gender-swapped his main character from male to female. About the movie: imdb.com/title/tt7308310/ His Author Profile: amazon.com/Andrew-Dean/e/B09Y3JFSZV/

Author and Poet Joseph Fasano is writing a poem for his son publicly on Twitter. He also runs the @_PoemForYou_ community where poets and others recite poetry by request. We talk to him about poetry, the creative process, and his upcoming novel The Swallows of Lunetto coming from Maudlin House in November. His website: josephfasano.net Poem For You: @_PoemForYou_ Poem For His Son: @stars_poem

Shelley interviews co-host Emma G Rose on her experience as a visiting author at high schools and colleges. Hear how she got started and why schools pay her to talk about writing, mental health, and creativity. Learn More: emmagauthor.com/author-visits/

Mike Hilbig, author of Judgement Day and Other White Lies, is a punk rock academic fascinated by mythology and philosophy. He talks to us about getting an MFA, the nature of story, and why we might all be descended from drug addicted monkeys. Deep, but down to earth, this episode is guaranteed to get you thinking. Mike's Website: mikehilbigwriter.com Mike's Publisher, Madville Publishing: madvillepublishing.com

Emma and Shelley discuss their favorite books on writing, editing, and craft. These 8 books will help writers at any stage of their writing journey turn their ideas into compelling stories. Call it the Indie Book Class reading list. See all the books: https://bookshop.org/lists/books-about-writing-and-editing

Ricardo Victoria, author of the Tempest Blades series, was born and raised in Mexico, but he writes in English. He talks to us about the state of publishing in Mexico, hope-punk, and why he and his friends decided to start their own publishing house. His website: ricardovictoriau.com

Gerald Dean Rice shares strategies for writing anywhere and staying on track toward your writing goals. He also talks about how compiling his collection of short stories and poetry revealed something about himself he hadn't realized before, and how anxiety both hinders and helps his writing practice.  Gerald's website: redhandbooks.net

Emma and Shelley run the worlds tiniest book club to talk about their reading of Unravel by Amelia Loken. This spoiler-free review covers genre, character building, and how Amelia handled writing a deaf main character. Also, listen for a special guest appearance from Emma's dog Teddy.  Learn more: amelialoken.com

14-year-old Shanti Hershenson is a normal kid. She goes to school, hangs out with friends... but she's also published 10 books. From poetry to dystopian to fundraising projects, Shanti does it all. Hear how she does it. Shanti's website: shantihershenson.com

Cat gods in space, wind-based burial ceremonies, and sticky situations are just some of what Emma and Shelley find in their experiment using Mythulu Creation Cards* to develop a story on the fly. *this isn't a paid ad. We just get excited about writing tools and wanted to try this one Learn more about Mythulu Cards at mythulu.com

New York Times Bestselling indie author Michele Scott shares the big news that her book has been optioned for a movie. We talk about how that happened, plus the role of luck in indie publishing. And Michele shares the five P's every indie author needs to succeed in this industry.  Her site: michelescott.com Pen Name Site: akalexander.net

Horror and mystery author Bryan Nowak talks about navigating genre, where genres overlap, why you should write what you love to read. We talk steam punk, 50 shades, and tips for finding an editor. Hear more from Bryan on his podcast All Things Writing. Mentioned in this episode: Take to the Skies series by Katherine McIntyre Bryan's Podcast: All Things Writing Bryan's website: bryannowak.com

Kindergarten teacher by day and paranormal investigator by night, Eleanor Wagner is the author of Sussex County Hauntings and Other Strange Phenomena. She tells us how she went from being a children's birthday clown to recording first-hand accounts of hauntings, cryptids and near-death experiences. Plus, why she chose indie publishing and how to contribute your paranormal experience to her next collection.  Eleanor's website: authoreleanorwagner.com Listen to her podcast: Eleanor Wagner's Strange and Scary World Contact the Lady Ghostbusters Paranormal Team: authoreleanorwagner.com/about

Amelia Loken, author of Unravel, talks to us about her debut novel featuring a main character who is a deaf, self-rescuing princess with embroidery magic. Amelia talks about her efforts to make sure her book represents the true experience of a deaf person, even though its set in a fantasy world. And she shares her own experience dealing with hearing loss. Get Unravel: books2read.com/u/4joMrD Connect on Twitter: @amelialoken

In this session of Indie Book Class, Emma and Shelley consider the 3.5 different kinds of publishing. Learn the pros and cons of each and the choices you have as an author considering publication.  Emma's blog goes into even more detail on different types of publishing. Check it out at emmagauthor.com

Spaceship pilot Bryn Michaels has just killed her captain. That's the conflict at the start of After Io by Elliot Wink. This sci-fi adventure story keeps readers guessing. It features a character driven storyline and a predominantly female cast...in space! Emma reacts to her two day reading binge of the first book in the Far Light series in this #spoilerfree review. Twitter @WinkAuthor website: elliotwink.com

Kelsey Kuptiz was certain that motherhood would mean she'd lose all her writing time, so she scrambled to finish her first book and publish her novella, The Right Thing, before the little one was born. Except now she's writing more than ever before. Find out how she does it on this episode of Indie Book Talk. Kelsey's Website: kelseykupitz.wixsite.com/authorsite

Lee Hall, author of Consistent Creative Content shares his secrets to building a massive Twitter presence without selling your soul in the process. Just inspire, inform, entertain, and give value with a little extra incentive added on. That's how you reach the improvement to enjoyment death loop. Eh, we'd better let Lee explain it. Listen in.   Lee's Website: leehallwriter.com Follow Lee on Twitter: @lhallwriter I'm an Author Academy: Imanauthor.com

Author and real-life dragon wrangler Savannah Goins talks about her dragon adventure series of fantasy novels. From how to use trigger warnings to what details to include, Savannah helps us understand how to weave real life challenges into a fantasy story without losing the magic. Find out how she does it in this episode of Indie Book Talk. Savannah's Website: savannahjgoins.com

Renaii West won the Indie Reader Discovery Awards in fiction: women's issues for her novel Death by Chaos. She shares her incredibly simple strategy for getting book awards and her insights on why indie publishing was the right choice for her.  Her website: renaiiwest.com Emma's review of the book: emmagauthor.com/2022/01/indie-book-review-death-by-chaos-by-renaii-west/

Gary Lee Vincent, founder of Burning Bulb Publishing, explains how an small author's cooperative in West Virginia grew into a movie studio. It's a tale of zombies, sarcasm, and the will to create something great. Burning Bulb Publishing: burningbulbpublishing.com Uncle John is a Zombie: myunclejohnisazombie.com

Nicholas Woode-Smith author of the 16-book Kat Drummond urban fantasy series tells us how he planned and marketed it such a long series. He also shares his thoughts on his hometown of Cape Town, South Africa  and why most forms of social media are terrible. Nichola's website: nicholaswoodesmith.com

This book may be middle grade, but it's worth a read at any age. In this STEM fantasy chapter book Sleeping Beauty and her princess friends are cursed. Can they use science and technology to break the spell and save their kingdoms? That's the question author Emma Jean explores in this mind-expanding middle grade fantasy full of science, princesses, technology, curses, and frogs. Get the Book  Emma Jean's Website: 4pigs2fly.com Learn to Write Like Emma Jean Becoming Instagram Famous Episode 37

Michelle Bowser introduces us to the weird world of bizarro fiction - fun and funny fantasy that is NOT appropriate for children. Plus, hear how she partnered with Burning Bulb Productions to turn her indie book into an indie movie. Michelle's Facebook - @authormichellebowser Burning Bulb Productions - burningbulbpublishing.com The Desk Clerk on Amazon Video - https://www.amazon.com/Desk-Clerk-Michelle-Bowser/dp/B07Z5GVMGY

In session five of Indie Book Class, Emma and Shelley discuss tools and strategies for getting to know your characters whether you're a plotter, a pantser, or something in between. Listen for tips on how to create 3-dimensional characters your readers will love. Mentioned in this episode:  Creepy Lucinda - instagram.com/creepylucinda/ Assembling Ella - bookshop.org/a/23161/9781733907972 Our Twitter Page - twitter.com/IndieBookTalk

Meriah Crawford is an author and English Professor, but she's also a private investigator. Hear how that experience influences her mystery writing, plus thoughts on the apocalypse, in this episode of the Indie Book Talk podcast. Featuring a special guest appearance by D’Argo the bloodhound-great-Pyrenees Mix.  Meriah's Website: meriahcrawford.com Check out the snail poem: https://inksweatandtears.co.uk/minnesota-land-snail-by-meriah-lysistrata-crawford/

Author and music producer Morgan Quaid gives us a peek at how to use music to promote books - from book trailers to custom soundtracks, he uses music to support and market his stories. Hear his music and his perspective on this episode of Indie Book Talk. Music Credit: "Ode to Emma" by Morgan Quaid, available on BandCamp Morgan's website: www.morganquaid.com Find his music: https://vanillagroove.bandcamp.com/album/rust-chronicles-soundtrack

Fans of urban fantasy adventure stories will love this urban fantasy series by Nicholas Woode-Smith. Part-Time Monster Hunter is a little bit Buffy the Vampire Slayer, a little bit Harry Potter in college, with just a touch of iZombie thrown in for good measure. Get all the details in this indie book review. 

In this hilarious interview, E.G. Creel tells us how she wrote The Immortal despite the distractions of being a full-time caregiver and the challenges of her dyslexia. Plus, she shares her first-hand experience of the Kindle Vella platform and offers tips on how to get your book into your local Barnes & Noble.  E.G.'s website: theshrew.wixsite.com/egcreel

Are there rules for writing the first draft of your novel or short story? Yes and no. Emma and Shelley share the one unbreakable rule for writing the first draft in this session of Indie Book Class. 

Mark Harbinger author of The Be(k)nighted: The Untold Origin of the Precept, tells us about writing a superhero who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. He shares his thoughts on how to write multi-dimensional characters with psychological disorders and why the experience made him more empathetic toward those in his own family affected by the disorder. Sign up for his newsletter to get a free copy of The Precept's Prologue, a short story about the Be(k)nighted hero.  His website: coffeebeatcafe.com

Dominic Martell won the author lottery. Twenty years after his traditional publisher dropped his Pascual Rose series, an indie press approached him with an offer too good to refuse. They wanted to resurrect his series and bring Pascual back for more adventures. Listen in as this author of geopolitical thrillers talks about writing a post-cold war character in a post-9/11 world. Find him at: dominicmartell.com Find his publisher: dunnbooks.com

Young adult fantasy author, Missy Sheldrake, doesn't just write novels, she also designs all of her own covers. Her degree in illustration and painting means she can add beautiful artwork to the Keepers of the Wellspring series and her children's book. She even has a coloring book available! In this episode, Missy shares her insights about cover design and indie publishing.   See her art: missysheldrake.com

Libby Klein, author of The Poppy McAllister Mysteries, is an oddity on the Indie Book Talk podcast. She's traditionally published by Kensington Cozies. She talked with us about the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of traditional publishing. Spoiler alert: even traditionally published authors do a lot of their own marketing. If you're still deciding between traditional and indie publishing, this one is for you. Listen wherever podcasts play.  Learn more at: libbykleinbooks.com

After writing two books of her own, former English teacher and current web developer, Tonya Gough, noticed a need for a writing platform that lets writers play with narrative formats without immediately publicizing their work to the world. She's building Storybilder to fill that need. We talk to her about the trials of building a writing tool and how writers can get free access to the platform.  Tanya's Books: Root Bound (book 1 of Emma and the Elementals) Water Works (book 2 of Emma and the Elementals) https://storybilder.com/  

Elizabeth Spann Craig has written more than 40 books. We talk about how she writes two books at the same time (!) and why she gave up traditional publishing to become an indie author. Listen in to this episode of the Indie Book Talk podcast to hear all about it. Then go check out her website for tons of writer resources. Website: ElisabethSpannCraig.com

You have a great idea for a story, or maybe you just have a character or a setting. How do you keep writing when that first flush of excitement fades? In session three of Indie Book Class, we offer some strategies that can help you overcome the fear of the blank page and start writing your story today.  Mentioned in this episode:  For notes about why you don't want to include song lyrics in your book, listen to episode #36: Turning Memoir Into Fiction with Christy Alexander Hallberg Quote for the day: "The first draft of anything is shit." - Ernest Hemmingway

Before psychotherapist Verlin Darrow wrote the novel Prodigy Quest he was a professional volleyball player, a country-western singer/songwriter, and an assistant guru. He explains his winding path to publication and shares his one big tip for living a better life in this episode of Indie Book Talk.  Learn more at verlindarrow.com

Are you a Plotter or a Panster? That's writer-speak for do you plan ahead or just see where the story takes you. In our second Indie Book Class episode we debate the pros and cons of each style.  Mentions:  Episode 30: Romancing the SquidgieWitty, featuring Walter H. Hopgood and Lisa D. Whitte Episode 31: Stormi Lewis: 6 Months to Write and Publish a Novel Find us on Twitter @IndieBookTalk and tell us if you're a plotter or a pantser, and why.

Author Domenic Marinelli followed the beat of his own drum to write 16 books since 2016. From beat poetry to transgressive fiction his work spans genres and formats. Plus he has a great accent. Hear him read from his latest work "His Old Tapes" on this episode of the Indie Book Talk podcast. See is retro-fabulous website: https://marinellidomenic.wixsite.com/authorsite

How do you know an idea is worth writing? In our first Indie Book Class episode of the Indie Book Talk podcast, we start at the very beginning - the idea. Where to find it and what do to when you think you have "the one." In this episode we talk about:  The magical idea factory every author has a key to Where to store your writing ideas Why cleaning the house really is part of the writing process Why bodies won't float in Lake Superior How to willfully misunderstand things Why kids are little idea factories The answer to the most commonly asked question at book events. Join the conversation on Twitter @IndieBookTalk

If you've ever wondered what kind of editor you need, our chat with R. T. Cole might get you started in the right direction. Hear how this author of epic fantasy became an editor of other writers and discover what you can do to make your editor happier on this episode of Indie Book Talk. And, if you’re a fan of epic fantasy, check out The Realm of Areon series by R.T. Cole, available now. Hire him on Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/rtcole8383 Or check out his books on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17954648.R_T_Cole

@emma.jean.author has more than 11,000 followers on Instagram. On this episode of Indie Book Talk, she shares how she used IG Live and other strategies to grow her following in just a year and why you might not want to do the same. We also chat about her latest book, Sleeping Beauty and the Cursed Code, a STEM fantasy novel for girls who don't want to choose between science and princesses. #beboth Find Emma Jean at 4pigs2fly.com And on Twitter, TikTok and Instagram @emma.jean.author Mentioned in this episode:  One Million Followers by Brendan Kane Hook Point by Brendan Kane Aristotle's Poetics Xena Warrior Princess 2BR02B by Kurt Vonnegut

What started as a personal memoir transformed into Christy Alexander Hallberg's first novel. Hear how she did it and the real-life events that set the story in motion on this episode of Indie Book Talk. As well as being the author of the upcoming Searching for Jimmy Page (Livingston Press, 2021), Christy is a teacher of literature and writing at East Carolina University.  Christy's Recommended Reading List for Aspiring Authors:  Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemmingway Tony Morrison Jhumpa Lahiri Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo *Note, the quote, "The first draft is just you telling yourself the story." Is from the immortal Sir. Terry Pratchett. (Emma is embarrassed that she forgot this.) We weren't able to find the source of the quote, "Write about the things that keep you up at night." If you know who said it first, Tweet at us.  Find Christy at: christyalexanderhallberg.com On Twitter and Instagram @ChristyHallberg And please remember to Like, Review, and Subscribe. It helps more listeners discover our podcast.

Historical characters should be more than friends in other clothes. We talk with Jessica Dall, author of The Stars of Heaven, about how to write believable but relatable historical characters on this episode of Indie Book Talk. Find Jessica at: jessicadall.com

In honor of Emma's upcoming book launch (July 24!) Emma and Shelley talk about how they use mythology in their fantasy stories, including Emma's latest novel, Assembling Ella. Visit her website for launch details, but first, check out this episode of the Indie Book Talk podcast. We discuss gods, teenage Kraken, and respecting cultural traditions while borrowing from ancient myths. Visit Emma's website www.emmagauthor.com to discover Ella's story and get all the book launch details. 

On this episode of Indie Book Talk, we review A Touch of Darkness, the first in the spellbinding Hades X Persephone series by Scarlett St. Clair Emma doesn't usually like romance, but she does LOVE Greek mythology and this unique retelling is steamy and satisfying. Instagram @authorscarlettstclair

We keep putting off this episode, but the time has come. Emma and Shelley talk about ways to overcome procrastination and dispel distractions so you can actually get some writing (or whatever creative work you do) done.

On this episode of Indie Book Talk, we talk with Stormi Lewis a.k.a The Story Sharing Guru, host of the Bookish Chatter podcast, and author of the Sophie Lee Trilogy of thrillers about writing with ADHD, taking care of grandma, and how to write and release books quickly. Stormi's top tips from this episode:  Have a plan or schedule for when you'll write Focus on writing for a particular timeslot, not word count Celebrate everything you do! Follow her on Instagram @thestorysharingguru or visit chasingstormi.com

He's a married gay man who loves the smell of markers on a whiteboard, she's his bi-sexual cowriter and massager of words. Together they're Squidgiewitty Authors of the Harts Square series of gay romance novels including the delightfully named AI Think I Love You. Get a peek at their collaboration process and discover why there's kitty litter everywhere in this episode of Indie Book Talk. Instagram: @walterwrites Twitter @squidgiewitty Web: walterwrites.com

Bookshop.org might sound like a dangerous idea--An ecommerce platform to sell books. Sounds familiar right? The twist is that every book sold supports indie bookstores and indie booksellers. This episode of the Indie Book Talk podcast isn't an ad, it's a PSA. If you're a book lover, book seller, reviewer, or author, you want to know about bookshop.org.  Bookshop.org is awesome.  the site: https://bookshop.org/ Emma's Storefront: https://bookshop.org/shop/ImperativeBooks

Dave Baker drew Nicole Goux into the world of indie comics more than six years ago. Together they've written and drawn dozens of books, and attended hundreds of conventions. Hear how their indie adventures drew the attention of Dark Horse, D.C., and Simon and Schuster. More about Dave: heydavebaker.com More about Nicole: nicolegoux.com Their new book, Everyone is Tulip, launches June 16th. 

Two more brave writers have shared their work with us, and we're going to critique it on air for you.  Think of it as a virtual writer's group. Like this critique? Want to share your stories? Visit our podcast page at imperativepressbooks.com Thank you to Amanda Sharp and Amelia Loken for sharing their first chapters with us.  Amelia has a book coming out in 2022, follow her on Instagram @amelialoken

We talk to Elissa Dickey about being published by an Amazon imprint (no we're not talking about KDP). Her mission to help people understand life with MS. Her website: https://elissaadickey.wordpress.com/

Emma and Shelley compare their reactions to The Sense of Death: An Anne Kinnear Mystery Thriller from Matty Dalrymple. The first book in her Ann Kinnear series.  Spoiler alert! They loved it.  Learn more about Matty: https://www.mattydalrymple.com/ Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GW9DUVY/

Two brave souls sent in their writing...and we critiqued it. Think of this as a virtual writer's group. Featuring:  The Gracelynn Doe by V. George & Demon Curse by Marie Flynn Like this critique? Want to share your stories? Visit our podcast page at imperativepressbooks.com

What is a beta reader? Why do you need one? How can they help make your books better? All those questions answered, plus best practices for managing beta readers in this episode of Indie Book Talk. Want more? Check out this blog post Emma wrote about The Care and Keeping of Beta Readers: https://www.emmagauthor.com/2020/01/beta-readers-care-and-keeping/

In our most meta episode ever, Matty Dalrymple shares what she's learned about podcasting as an indie author. Plus, we chat about her current and upcoming projects in the Ann Kinnear Suspense series and the Lizzie Ballard Thrillers. Check Out Matty's Podcast the Indy Author Podcast Get Matty's Guide to Podcasting for Authors Listen in as Emma guest on her podcast to talk about Handling Difficult Topics in YA Fiction Get  Meet Ann Kinnear and Lizzy Ballard. 

In honor of Indie Bookstore Day on April 24, we talk to indie bookseller Gibran Graham about how authors can get their books into indie bookstores like The Briar Patch in Bangor, Maine.  Learn more about the Briar Patch: https://linktr.ee/briarpatchbooks What is Indie Bookstore Day: https://www.indiebound.org/independent-bookstore-day Related Episode: People Really DO Judge a Book by It's Cover (Episode 19)

We chat with comic book publisher Dirk Manning about using Kickstarter to fund his projects and the Butts in Seats campaign closing on April 16. Check it out at buttsinseatscomic.com or visit Dirk's website at DirkManning.com

On this episode of Indie Book Talk, we talk about covers. Yes, you should judge a book by its cover, and you'd better believe readers are going to. We share the essential elements every cover needs and discuss how to match your cover to your genre.  For a peak at the cover designs we talked about, click below.   Nothing's Ever Lost, old cover   Nothing's Ever Lost, new cover

Rebecca Ellette Fincher writes fantasy novels and D&D modules. We talk about how the two kinds of writing influence each other and what's next for Rebecca's series The Gemtouched Memoirs. Book 1: Escape from Salmira Find her D&D modules on The Dungeon Masters Guild Follow Rebecca on Facebook  And read her D&D based serial novel at Fanfiction.net (special thanks to Angar via Freesound.org for the knocking sound effect used in this episode)

Lisa Regan is the author of 10 Detective Josie Quinn Mystery Novels. Hush Little Girl (Book 11) Comes out next month! We talk to Lisa about Murder Conventions, how she chooses between small press and self-publishing, and how she manages to write 3 books a year. Plus, we get a sneak peek at a passion project that's a little out of her comfort zone. 

Lost in a Dream by R.E. Fury is a Fantasy novel with surprising depth and a unique use of language. Check it out Fury also shares short stories and artwork on his Instagram account at: https://www.instagram.com/r.e.fury/

Emma shares her top tips on how to host a virtual book launch event, and why it's worth doing even after the world goes back to normal. 

How to find a book marketing strategy that works for you, without making you feel icky or overwhelmed. We talk about blogging, emails, and unconventional marketing methods. #ducks

Overcome self doubt and get your book into the world with advice from Life and Business Strategist, TEDx speaker, and author Lanette Pottle. "It's really about deciding that you will dance with the fear." - Lanette Read more in her upcoming book You Are a Success Magnet

We talk with 8-year-old kid-author, Holly Marshall, about her children's chapter book Princess Clara's Royal Adventures: At the Lily Pond in Rivers Hollow. Follow @princess_clara_adventures on Instagram And follow high-school cover artist Judit Laidlaw @mud.arts.22 or visit mudarts22.com to purchase her artwork. Proceeds benefit Voices Against Violence.

What do authors need from their friends and family in order to succeed and feel supported? Emma and Shelley talk about what works for them. Share this episode with your friends and family so they know how to support you. 

Stephanie Mirro is the author of the Immortal Relics Series and the Last Phoenix Series. She talks to us about why she switched her book covers, the challenges of defining your genre, and the marketing tactics that work for her.  Find her at https://www.stephaniemirro.com/ or on social @StephanieMirro

Emma and Shelley talk about how writing groups have helped them become better writers, and what the ideal writing group looks like. 

Barb Goffman talks about her journey as a mystery writer and why she writes exclusively short stories. Find her latest stories in Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine and Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine. Or visit www.barbgoffman.com for more details. Mentioned in this podcast:  www.elleryqueenmysterymagazine.com/ www.alfredhitchcockmysterymagazine.com/ https://www.sleuthsayers.org/

More about doing your own page-a-day challenge: https://www.emmagauthor.com/2018/12/taking-the-page-a-day-challenge/

This week we find out that Shelley has been reading The Panda of Death by Betty Webb. This cozy mystery is #6 in the Gunn Zoo Mystery Series and is published by Poisoned Pen Press, an independent publisher of mystery novels. 

Emma shares her tips for getting noticed by news media, bloggers, and podcasters in this episode of Indie Book Talk.  Emma and Shelley talk about:  finding your hook how to pitch a media person when to start working on press For more on how to get press for your book, check out this blog post. 

Listen in on our surprisingly heartwarming conversation with Gibran Graham, owner of The Briar Patch in Bangor, Maine, as he talks about the trials and triumphs of running a bookshop during the pandemic.  Find The Briar Patch on Facebook @BriarPatchBooks Or order from their Bookshop.org site.

Indie author Martin Wilsey shares what he's learned from publishing nine sci-fi audiobooks.  Finding the right voice royalty sharing vs. out-of-pocket production his #1 tip for audiobooks Martin Wilsey is a full-time author and creator of the bestselling, SOLSTICE 31 SAGA. His first novel, STILL FALLING, was published March 31st of 2015. Less than three years and over a half a million published words later, he retired from his career as a research scientist for a government-funded think tank. As a full-time science fiction writer, Martin still uses his research and whiteboard skills to keep the books flowing. He likes to put the science back into science fiction. Martin is also the founder and CEO of Tannhäuser Press, a small press and collaborative environment that was explicitly created by writers for writers. Snag his books or learn more at martinwilsey.com Hear Shadows of the Sentinel on Audible Also mentioned in this podcast: The Kepos Chronicles series by Erica Rue (not audiobooks, still awesome)

We review this contemporary fantasy novel with engaging characters and a trope-bending storyline. Will it be your next favorite indie book? Negative Zero is book one in the Soldier of Light series by Ireland Gill. Get it here

What are indie books anyway?  Emma and Shelley talk about:  what indie books actually are what sets them apart from traditionally published books and why Emma hates the term "self-published"

Meet your hosts Emma G Rose and Shelley Shearer and find out what Indie Book Talk is all about.