Welcome to the Indie Writers Club, a place to chat about all things self publishing.

In episode 025, James & Cara discuss different ways to get your novels translated into German. It's a fast growing market and it can be the different between profit and loss for some authors.

Grab the final IWC Writing Retreat slots: indiewritersclub.com/retreat

Join Cara & James as they discuss the latest developments in the ongoing saga of AI and copyright legalities.

Join the waitlist for the inaugural IWC Writers' Retreat: indiewritersclub.com/retreat

They come for the story but stay for the characters... 

That's how important character development is. In this episode we explore why character is crucial, when it's good, when it's not so good and some practical tips on getting your development to help your plot.

Useful links:

Retreat waitlist: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/retreat

Ireland's Publishing Show: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/ireland

The 22 rules of storytelling from Emma Coats, a former Pixar writer, have been doing the rounds for years and for good reason. Although Emma herself now describes them as guidelines, rather than rules, they are seen as the foundation on which the best novels are built.

Cara and James go through them one by one.

Useful links:

Retreat waitlist: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/retreat

Ireland's Publishing Show: https://www.indiewritersclub.com/ireland

We all get One Star reviews. But when should we take them seriously and when can they be safely ignored? In this episode we talk about our own hurtful reviews and talk about coping strategies.

Useful links:

The IWC Retreat: indiewritersclub.com/retreat
Ireland's Publishing Show: indiewritersclub.com/ireland

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, Cara Clare and James Blatch discuss various topics including the potential ban of TikTok in the US, the importance of diversifying social media presence, and the planning of an indie writers retreat. They delve into productivity techniques known as 'razors', exploring how these principles can simplify decision-making and enhance productivity for writers. The conversation emphasises the need for authors to adapt to changes in the digital landscape while maintaining a focus on their craft. In this conversation, James and Cara Clare explore various cognitive biases and decision-making frameworks that impact authors and their publishing journeys. They discuss the importance of understanding how perceptions can be influenced, the significance of prioritizing tasks effectively, and the challenges of self-assessment in creative fields. The dialogue also touches on the dynamics of risk management, accountability, and the need for simplicity in complex systems, providing valuable insights for writers and entrepreneurs alike.

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, James & Cara discuss their ad spend and book revenue for 2024.

Happy New Year from the Indie Writers Club.

In the first episode of 2025, Cara and James discuss what's in store for indie authors in the next twelve months.

They also set out their own goals for the year.

Useful Links:

SPS Live London 2025: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spslive

WWM's Predictions for 2025: https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/the-top-10-publishing-trends-for-2025/

Takeaways

Reflecting on the past year helps shape future goals.
Earnings should be evaluated after considering expenses.
Success is subjective and varies for each author.
Productivity and growth are essential for long-term success.
AI will play a significant role in the writing process.
Indie and traditional publishing are merging in new ways.
Diversifying marketing strategies is crucial for authors.
Creative projects can lead to new opportunities.
Community engagement enhances the writing experience.
Predictions for the future of publishing are evolving.

Chapters

00:00 Reflections on 2024: A Year in Review
05:56 Defining Success: Beyond the Numbers
12:00 Marketing Strategies: The Importance of Focus
17:51 Navigating Challenges: Balancing Work and Life
25:22 Exploring Dual Timelines in Writing
32:52 Predictions for AI in Writing
39:39 The Importance of Human Connection

James & Cara are down the pub with a couple of author friends to reflect on 2024.

Many thanks to our friends at The Salisbury Arms in Cambridge!

James returns. Cara chats to Sacha Black about productivity tips.

Our next episode will be a live recording from a pub, released on Christmas Day!