Indie Author Life

Growing up during the era of The Lion King or the Warrior Cats books, it makes perfect sense that indie author Morgana Sandpiper has build her shifter universe around big cats. I too was a child of the early 90’s/2000’s, where animal-themed cartoons were big in my life. The excitement and drama of these cartoons definitely inspired a deep appreciation for animal stories (also, anyone remember Kimba the White Lion?)

In this conversation, Morgana speaks about always being captivated by the stories shared by her father in childhood, particularly stories surrounding her roots and Black American history. In Soulmateless, the protagonists struggle as a couple, navigating a world that wants to keep them apart. Morgana describes this theme to be akin to navigating the obstacles that occur with interracial dating and relationships, particularly ones from her family history.

Soulmateless is Morgana Sandpiper’s debut novel. It is set to be a part of a trilogy, with book two scheduled for release in the later half of 2026.

Enjoy the episode!

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

01:32 Morgana’s background

04:50 A day in the life of Morgana

08:05 Hardest vs most enjoyable parts of writing

16:59 Getting into Soulmateless, coming up with the title

18:55 How long it took to get Soulmateless out there

23:07 Soulmateless Cover creation

29:21 Romance in Soulmateless

34:29 Soulmateless trilogy updates

38:20 Where you can find Morgana Sandpiper

Morgana Sandpiper Links

Instagram

Linktree

Threads

Goodreads

Tiktok

Website

MG Hunt Links

Instagram

Linktree

Threads

Goodreads

Tiktok

Facebook

Website

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Author Nicole Rowles has lived a lot of lives; from dancing at the Moulin Rouge in Paris, to being a political journalist back in her home country of Australia. All of this has undoubtedly influenced her latest creative pursuit: the self-publication of her debut novel, Anarchist Underground.

Nicole Rowles’ debut epic brims with mystery, peeling back layers of society to reveal truths hidden beneath the surface. These are my favourite kinds of stories to get into, as I love uncovering what is under the metaphorical underbelly of social and political structures, especially within a high-fantasy setting.

Chatting to Nicole was a delight, and we got into robust discussions around writing practices, juggling new-motherhood and writing, as well as what’s next for her bookish pursuits.

Enjoy the episode!

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

01:57 Nicole’s background and where she grew up

08:34 Fitting writing into a busy schedule

19:14 Reading and engaging with reviews

23:25 Most enjoyable and hardest part of writing

29:35 How a background in journalism helped Nicole

31:20 Why visuals help create the story

33:01 Getting into Anarchist Underground

49:22 Tropes of Anarchist Underground

56:41 Focusing on political intrigue fantasy world building

59:16 What is next for Nicole Rowles

1:03:44 Where can you connect with Nicole Rowles

Nicole Rowles Links

Instagram

Tiktok

Website

Amazon - Purchase Anarchist Underground

Linktree

Threads

MG Hunt Links

Instagram

Linktree

Threads

Goodreads

Tiktok

Facebook

Website

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If I could sum up 2025 in one word it would be, invigorating.

I found a new strength in writing and honing in on my creativity, while putting the social media noise and pressure to perform and be perceived a certain way on the back-burner.

Plans to release by debut novel Still Waters Run Deep had stalled 2024, but 2025 was a rebirth in so many ways. In April, Still Waters Run Deep was officially released, and it was an achievement I will cherish forever. It was also a year of many things: the emergence of a consistent production program for Indie Author Life Show, the development and public announcement of my second full-length novel Darkness in the Flesh, and development of Air & Flame, a short story foray into romantasy.

It was also a year I expanded my social horizons, attending more book launches and author events than ever before.

Major Milestones

Still Waters Run Deep

As mentioned in my introduction, I published Still Waters Run Deep 30th April 2025. This was accompanied by a book launch event that was held at Holmesglen TAFE Chadstone Library. This was an amazing event for me, and the organisation of the library staff were incredible. I was surrounded by friends and family, as well as some reviewers. To see the amount of people show up for me was overwhelming, and brought so much joy to my life.

When you write a book, you just hope that one person at least would enjoy it. I am reminded of the quote from Yayoi Kusama, from the exhibition I attended at NGV Melbourne this year. This quote on the wall read: If there is a chance that in 100 years’ time there will be just one person who will look at my work and be touched by it, then I must continue to create art for that one person.’

I quoted that statement in my book launch presentation as a way to capture how I feel about my creative practice. It is certainly not always how I feel about the writing and illustrations that I make, as I do believe there should be a strong element of self fulfilment in creativity, rather than caring about what others may think. However, the feeling you get when someone else other than yourself also cares about your work, is a feeling like no other. So I find myself coming back and reflecting on that statement to reinvigorate me when I need it to.

Events

What a year for events! Along with my first ever book launch, I also attended the following events as a signing author:

* Verandah Sessions, Grace & Louie Booksellers

* All Booked Out, Coven Press

* Novel Nook group signing with other authors, Mandi Kontos, Rachel O’Rourke, SK Stapar, SK May

* Sweet Love Book Fair

* Adelaide Indie Author Book Fair, Greenhill Press

Though I am a self-determined introvert, I found myself similarly reinvigorated by the book events, no matter how many people passed by my table and how much my cheeks ached after smiling all day. Nothing that a good nap cannot fix anyhow. But it is also another testament to how I know I am in the right place, when social events are not draining in ways that I am used to. Yes, physically, recovery time is a must. But I went away from every single book event with a renewed sense of motivation and joy from the customers and other authors I interacted with at the book events. That is why in 2026 I plan to go to a total of ten book events as a signing author!

It is one of the most enjoyable parts of being an author I have found, and the connection I feel with other authors and patrons in these spaces is incredibly special.

Behind the Scenes, challenges and growth

While the polished posts and reels on social media tell one story, this year was not without background rumblings and challenges. That is the reality of human existence, and I relish a good challenge, no matter how painful it might be!

I have been in the thralls of manuscript writing for my next full-length novel, Darkness in the Flesh. Oh how it has been challenging! It is my first time writing in first person, which I have very much enjoyed. However, I have to keep reminding myself that the story must be written through the protagonist’s eyes, so I cannot write anything that does not include her (Gatira). Unless I use some sort of dark magik power to do so… hmm that is an idea (No, no more ideas). I have to finish this manuscript, that is the goal I have set for myself. 100,000 was the word count goal, but it is now looking like it will surpass that. Isn’t that always the case? Especially so since I wanted Gatira’s backstory to be a novella, maximum 20,000 words. Well, now sitting at 95,000 words or so, I can safely say we are no longer in short story territory.

But that is the exciting thing about creativity, sometimes you have to let things unfold and that is the best way when it happens like that. Of course, I have set myself a goal to get the manuscript to my editor by June 2026 (with all personal edits completed of course).

I have been finding this manuscript to be particularly difficult, and at times hard to write. I think this is a combination of life being busy in regards to promoting my current release Still Waters Run Deep. But the contents and themes of Darkness in the Flesh, are like the title implies; dark. There’s a lot of vulnerable moments in this story, ones that I can relate to on many personal levels. Perhaps a lot of the writing in this story comes from a cathartic place, which perhaps might confuse those who know me personally. I think there are so many differences and so many similarities to the character of Gatira and myself. In many ways, I see Gatira as a representation of the underbelly of my existence. A vulnerable, dark side that only I see. She perhaps acts in ways that I wish I could, release a lot of pent up frustration in ways that are self fulfilling. But where Gatira and I differ is the empathy level.

Though there is a certain level of empathy Gatira does possess, I would certainly say our differences lie in the amount if said empathy levels. I feel at times I am overwhelmed by empathy, and that can stifle the true extent of releasing my emotions at the fear of hurting other people. The same cannot be said for Gatira’s temperament, but I will not go into her story any deeper for now. You’ll just have to find out more in mid 2026 ;)

What’s next in 2026

The Indie Author Life Show will continue to expand and grow. I have signed on a full roster of guests for the entire year so that an episode a fortnight can be released. Additionally, there is now a guest application form open for 2027! I am so proud of the way things are going with the show, and I cannot wait to post more interviews and author chats next year.

Finally, thank you.

The continued support and enthusiasm shown to the show and myself has been so amazing. I am always blown away when I am chatting to someone in the indie book world and they say ‘I love listening to your show’ and the like. What started as a little side project has quickly turned into a new found passion, and every episode that I record teaches me something new. I am forever thankful and grateful for all the support I have received over the last year. So, to all of you wonderful listeners/watchers/supporters out there - THANK YOU.

2026 will be bigger and better than ever, mark my words.

Take care, all.

Timestamps

00:00 introduction

00:43 One word that describes 2025

01:46 Still Waters Run Deep

06:50 What is happening behind the scenes

12:22 The Book Events I attended

26:25 Personal journey with managing energy levels and fatigue

33:36 Darkness In the Flesh, new book

39:30 What is coming up in 2026!

MG Hunt’s Links

Instagram

Linktree

Threads

Goodreads

Tiktok

Facebook

Website

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When EM Greville was pregnant with her fifth child in the turbulent year of 2020, she decided to do a creative writing course. Completing this course was like the final puzzle piece in an already existing creative writing tapestry, and encouraged EM Greville to get her to publish debut middle-grade novel, Raine in the Underlands.

Throughout her life, EM Greville has explored many facets of a writing career. From studying it at a tertiary level, to working in London and dabbling in music journalism in Australia, writing has consistently been both a creative outlet and a professional constant

Settling down in Geelong, Australia, she continues to hone her writing craft and work as an editor along side publishing her own work. Her latest project was inspired by a Reddit thread about a call centre that sparked inspiration. That seems to be the nexus of EM Greville’s practice; working with the flow of inspiration and creativity, how ever nebulous or fickle it may be. Better to embrace the flow than chase it.

Chatting with EM Greville was inspiring, and we found so many common interests, particular in approaching creative practice in the writing space. Enjoy the episode!

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

02:32 EM Greville’s background and where she grew up

04:50 out of the crazy year of 2020 the book Raine in the Underhands

06:19 Writing is good for mental health

12:28 EM Greville’s writing routine

19:42 What is the hardest versus most enjoyable part of writing

26:25 Winning 2nd place CYA award

30:43 Entering competitions is like a litmus test

40:11 Motivation when things are tough

46:16 managing expectations with social media

50:29 Success isn’t linear

58:03 Where you can get in contact with EM Greville

EM Greville’s Links

Instagram

Facebook

Linktree

Website

Newsletter - The Massive Missive

Editing Services

MG Hunt’s Links

Instagram

Linktree

Threads

Goodreads

Tiktok

Facebook

Website

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Romance author Emma Mugglestone is no stranger to publishing, having spent years immersed in the world of love stories. Grateful for the support of her family, Emma devotes much of her time to writing—except Wednesdays, which are reserved for marketing and catching up on emails!

Many readers first discovered Emma through her beloved Wattle Junction series, which follows the lives of several brothers in a fictional town with, as Emma cheekily notes, an unusually high concentration of attractive residents. These cosy romances quickly won the hearts of readers, and the success of her self-published titles helped pave the way for traditional publishing opportunities.

Emma’s journey is a testament to the power of self-publishing; not only as a stepping stone to bigger deals, but as a meaningful way for authors to share their stories on their own terms.

Enjoy the episode!

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

03:35 Emma Mugglestone’s background

08:51 Word count goals and writing sprints

14:28 Emma’s university education

20:48 Learning by doing

23:37 Illustrative covers

25:25 Going from self publishing to traditional publishing, In the Long Run

35:21 Timeline and Editing of In the Long Run

40:43 Cover designing

43:35 Making editing decisions in traditional publishing

55:03 Wattle Junction

1:03:18 Where you can find Emma online and in-person

Emma Mugglestone Links

* Instagram

* Website

* Substack

* Tiktok

* Penguin Books Australia

* Goodreads

MG Hunt’s Links

* Instagram

* Linktree

* Threads

* Goodreads

* Tiktok

* Facebook

* Website

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When I invited romantasy author Melissa J. Kincaid to appear on my show in early 2025, the plan was for her to discuss her novella. But by the time we recorded the episode in November, that novella had blossomed into a full-length novel!

Now labelled as Book 4 in ‘The Strings of Fate’ series, ‘After the Fury’ focuses on a continuation of the story of two main side characters, Nemesis and Krepth. Melissa is fully embracing the creative freedom of self-publishing: staying true to her vision for to write what she wants for ‘The Strings of Fate’ saga, while also satisfying fans eager for more from her series.

The ‘Strings of Fate’ series is a testament to the success and joy that self-publishing can bring. It reached the number one spot on Dymocks shelves, loved and adored by many readers and has beautiful illustrations and covers as well. There is so much to admire about the work Melissa J. Kincaid does in the self-publishing world. She takes the upmost care in producing her own literary content, as well as supporting other indie authors by being a fervent ARC reader and thorough book reviewer.

I was honoured to have had the opportunity to chat to such a wonderful and positive individual in the Aussie Indie Author space, and I watch with intrigue to see what Melissa does next.

Enjoy the episode!

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

03:54 Background of Melissa J Kincaid

10:22 Melissa’s Illustrations

11:27 What a day/week of Melissa J Kincaid looks like

14:06 Hardest part about writing

15:35 Most enjoyable part of writing

18:34 The Writing Community

21:06 The Strings of Fate Trilogy

27:07 Latest Release, Book 4 After the Fury

31:44 How Melissa’s writing has developed

36:45 Melissa’s Reviews and Bookstagram

43:39 Where you can find Melissa J Kincaid online/in-person

Melissa J. Kincaid Links

* Instagram

* Website

* Tiktok

* Facebook

* Threads

* Youtube

MG Hunt’s Links

* Instagram

* Linktree

* Threads

* Goodreads

* Tiktok

* Facebook

* Website

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When I first heard about Kate Louise’s Wing Woman, the ‘pilot/farmer romance’ outline had me intrigued.

I got to chat with the author herself, and through that conversation, I learned so much more about Mia, the female main character (FMC). Working for the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS) the main character Mia meets Charlie male main character (MMC) through a “disasterous helicopter accident meet-cute”. The two navigate their relationship through a rich backdrop of their careers, grief and expectations.

Wing Woman is a contemporary romance set in Queensland, Australia - a region close to author Kate Louise’s heart. Growing up in the region herself, it is clear Kate was inspired to write a romance novel that paid homage to her roots. The result is a romance that features tropes many readers know and love, while also challenging stereotypes with a female main character in a career typically dominated by men.

I am excited to see what Kate Louise does next, as her career trajectory in the indie author space continues to grow exponentially.

Wing Woman is available 27th October 2025, via many online distribution websites including Amazon.

Enjoy this wonderful chat I had with the lovely Kate Louise! Also, if you haven’t already, please check out The Grumpy Sunshine Podcast, ran by Kate herself, and Laura (Hummingbird Editing).

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

03:43 Kate Louise’s Background

09:50 A day in the life of Kate Louise

13:55 Social media marketing thoughts

17:49 Hardest vs most enjoyable parts of writing

25:28 All about Wing Woman!

33:31 Subverting stereotypes in romance novels

36:28 Comparing past work

30:40 Media that inspires Kate Louise’s writing

46:01 Chronic illness and writing

55:00 Finishing up and what’s next

Kate Louise Links

* Amazon

* Goodreads

* Instagram

* Podcast

MG Hunt Links

* Instagram

* Linktree

* Threads

* Goodreads

* Tiktok

* Facebook

* Website

Where to purchase Still Waters Run Deep by MG Hunt

* Amazon

* Beventi

* Etsy

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After a long and fulfilling career as a primary school teacher and head teacher, Pam Keevil is turning the page to begin an exciting new chapter as a writer. Having experimented with romance and erotica, she’s now found her stride in the gripping world of thrillers and mysteries.

Sprinkles of romance are remain as through-lines throughout her work, however. Her latest release in the DS Mulroney Mystery series, It’s An Ill Wind, poses this question: What do you do when you discover the man you’re falling in love with is the same person who tried to kill you?

Speaking with Pam was an absolute delight. She shared how pivotal her writing group has been. Not just in honing her craft, but in helping her stay on track with her annual publishing goals. Pam also spoke passionately about her love for character development, revealing that inspiration often strikes in unexpected places, like spotting stylish concertgoers who spark entire storylines!

Join us for a thrilling ride through Pam Keevil’s creative process and her journey into crime fiction.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

1:16 Pam Keevil’s background, teaching and past writing experiences

6:46 A day/week in Pam Keevil’s current life

11:06 Daily and weekly writing habits

16:37 Necessary marketing

25:42 Discussion around It’s An Ill Wind

30:30 a doomed romance?

32:31 How long Its an Ill Wind took to write and the research behind it

38:25 The meaning of the titles chosen for this series.

40:04 Looking to the future book

44:01 How to connect with Pam Keevil and where to purchase her books

Pam Keevil Links

* Amazon

* Goodreads

* Instagram

* Website

* X

MG Hunt Links

* Instagram

* Linktree

* Threads

* Goodreads

* Tiktok

* Facebook

* Website

Where to purchase Still Waters Run Deep by MG Hunt

* Amazon

* Beventi

* Etsy

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Self-published author Madeline Nixon is no stranger to paranormal activity. Her latest publication, Robins the sequel to her debut Feathers, draws inspiration from her own ghost stories. While she could easily establish herself in the captivating genre of paranormal fiction, Nixon chooses to explore various genres, following wherever her creativity leads her.

When she’s not creating content for children’s educational literature on topics like sharks, natural disasters, or dance, she’s immersed in writing her latest romance novel. A self-proclaimed lover of ‘banter’, she enjoys crafting tension-filled, dialogue-driven romance stories. One of Nixon’s most compelling and popular works is the quirkily titled Last Christmas I Love Spelled Us Apart - a blend of Halloween and Christmas perhaps? I’m here for it!

Madeline Nixon’s extensive literary experience makes her an inspiring and intriguing storyteller in the indie author space.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

00:48 Madeline Nixon’s background

05:39 What writing life routine looks like

08:58 Pantser or Plotter

11:54 Current project: Small town romance

15:22 Hardest vs enjoyable part of writing

21:30 Madeline nixon’s diverse genres: Ghost stories

30:40 Latest release: Robins

32:19 Educational writing

36:20 Romance books

43:15 Community helping each other

50:03 Looking ahead future plans

Madeline Nixon links:

* Instagram

* Tiktok

* Goodreads

* Facebook

* Threads

* Website

MG Hunt links:

* Instagram

* Linktree

* Threads

* Goodreads

* Tiktok

* Facebook

* Website

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Indie author K E Barden wrote her first draft entirely on her mobile phone. That’s not just commitment, it’s creative grit at its best.

A seasoned storyteller in the realm of fairytale retellings, Barden has spent years weaving magic into her stories. With a successful series re-release behind her, she’s turned every setback into storytelling gold. Proof that resilience and imagination make a powerful combination.

Barden’s ‘Finding Ever After’ series is already three books in, with book four and five scheduled to be released 2026. The series is an exploration into commonly familiar fairytales with a dark, YA twist to them. It is also an exploration into how far one would go to find their ‘happily ever after’.

The momentum doesn’t stop there. Barden’s indie journey is on an impressive trajectory. She was recently invited to pitch the ‘Finding Ever After’ series for a film/TV adaptation. It’s a bold reminder that indie authors aren’t just keeping up, rather, they’re redefining an industry once ruled by traditional publishing.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

02:01 K E Barden's background

07:51 Writing routine

16:14 What K E Barden's writing process looks like

21:39 Hardest vs. Most Enjoyable part of writing

31:37 The Finding Ever After Series

38:16 Publishing Timeline for Finding Ever After Series

45:39 Latest publication: Book 3, A Glass Darkly

56:31 Future for K E Barden

K E Barden’s Links

* Instagram

* Amazon

* Goodreads

* Facebook

* Tiktok

* Threads

* Newsletter Sign up

MG Hunt’s Links

* Instagram

* Linktree

* Threads

* Goodreads

* Tiktok

* Facebook

* Website

Follow Indie Author Life on Instagram!

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