In this episode of Indie Author Showcase, host Chad Robert Morgan digs into the realities of indie publishing—creative freedom, marketing risks, convention life, and the constant balance between writing for passion and writing for survival.

We open with an honest conversation about resisting trends, writing the stories you actually want to tell, and why indie authors often have more creative control—but also more responsibility—than their traditionally published counterparts. Chad also shares updates on upcoming conventions, vendor opportunities, and why sometimes breaking even is still a meaningful win.

We also make a special announcement for fans of Erin Louis, revealing her upcoming book There’s No Grave Like Home, and giving listeners an early heads-up on what promises to be another bold, unapologetic release.

The discussion then shifts into book marketing, where Chad breaks down his real-world experiment using Book Reverb, examining the potential benefits, costs, and risks of paid review platforms for indie authors trying to gain visibility in an overcrowded marketplace.

Finally, we move into this week’s featured showcase: 📖 The Witch of Blackwood Hollow by B. Humphrey

A classic haunted house horror with sharp pacing and a no-frills plot, the novel follows Eleanor Frost as she inherits a decaying Victorian manor steeped in ritual, curses, and something ancient that refuses to stay buried. Chad praises the book’s visceral witch encounters, escalating tension, and satisfying payoff, while offering thoughtful critique on character depth and why the story truly shines once its most compelling figures step into the spotlight.

As always, every book featured on Indie Author Showcase meets a quality bar—this episode isn’t about tearing stories down, but helping readers decide if a book belongs on their TBR pile.