Indie Writers Club

In this episode of the Indie Writers Club, Cara talks us through her launch strategy for a standalone book (a Chatterly retelling with vampires and spice!).This is one of the toughest challenges for indies. Our process generally relies on series and readthrough, but with the many options emerging for exploiting your book (translations, special editions etc) might this be a future strategy we can all follow?**** WARNING - NSFW - WE DO DISCUSS SPICE SCENES ****USEFUL LINKS:Join the AI Translations course waitlist:https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/aitranslationsGet 15% of annual plans at our sponsor ProWritingAid by using code IWC15https://www.prowritingaid.com Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support

This week Cara and I review the current happenings in the world of indie and we briefly discuss our own plans for 2026.And at 43.47 (if you want to skip ahead) Cara makes a sad announcement :(We both wish you a Happy New Year and here's to an enjoyable, fun 2026!James.USEFUL LINKS:Get 15% of annual plans at our sponsor ProWritingAid by using code IWC15https://www.prowritingaid.com Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support

In this festive episode of the Indie Writers Club, James Blatch and Cara Clare discuss the challenges of taking downtime during the holiday season while managing their writing businesses. They reflect on sales trends during Christmas, share personal experiences with marketing strategies, and delve into the impact of TikTok's algorithm changes on book promotion. The conversation also highlights success stories in indie publishing, the implications of AI in translations, and innovative book launch strategies. Finally, they share their favourite Christmas movies, emphasising the nostalgia and comfort these films bring during the holiday season.TakeawaysTaking downtime during the holidays can be challenging for business owners.Sales trends often dip during the holiday season, particularly for eBooks.Marketing strategies need to adapt to changing platforms like TikTok.Success in indie publishing often comes from direct engagement with readers.AI can be a useful tool for translations, but it requires careful management.Book launch strategies are evolving, with influencer marketing gaining traction.Nostalgia plays a significant role in holiday movie preferences.The pace of change in the publishing industry is accelerating.Personal experiences can inform marketing decisions and strategies.Finding a balance between work and downtime is essential for creativity. Get 15% of annual plans at our sponsor ProWritingAid by using code IWC15https://www.prowritingaid.com Join our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/supportChapters00:00 Christmas Reflections and Business Challenges03:03 Marketing Strategies During the Holiday Season05:48 Navigating TikTok's Algorithm Changes08:47 Celebrating Success: Sasha Black's Journey11:34 The Future of AI in Translations14:35 Book Launch Strategies and Influencer Marketing21:06 Christmas Movie Nostalgia26:46 The Comfort of Familiar Films31:06 Jane Austen and Holiday Humor

In this week's episode Cara and James are joined by Robin Bennett-Freebairn whose non-fiction gift books are flying off the virtual Etsy shelves. This has big implications for special editions and box sets, especially at this time of year.USEFUL LINKS:Get 15% of annual plans at our sponsor ProWritingAid by using code IWC15https://www.prowritingaid.comJoin our Patreon for exclusive access including Live Q&As with James & Cara and your chance to discuss your writing career.https://www.indiewritersclub.com/support

Cara and James explore the evolving landscape of AI acceptance, highlighting how many still resist its integration. They discuss the growing potential of direct selling for indie creators, emphasizing innovative tools like Shopify and TikTok Shop. The duo also weighs the benefits of collaborating with micro-influencers versus opting for paid promotions. They dive into the practicality of using AI for creative tasks, translations, and marketing, while advocating for thoughtful use that enhances accessibility. Tune in for insights and laughs!

James and Cara dive into the fast-paced world of indie publishing, exploring the game-changing potential of AI translations. They share insights on the A10 Amazon Algorithm and its impact on sales dynamics. The hosts advocate for authentic storytelling and highlight the benefits of using tools like ProWritingAid. They discuss the rise of Substack for connecting with niche readers and warn authors about prevalent scams. With a nod to the democratizing effect of indie publishing, they emphasize the importance of organic marketing strategies.

In this engaging conversation, AP Beswick, an independent author who leveraged TikTok to amass a loyal readership, shares his journey of empire-building through direct sales. He dives into the effective use of TikTok Lives for community engagement and boosting sales, discussing innovative tactics like mystery book bags and live packing. AP also explores organic marketing strategies, the benefits of separate accounts for targeted growth, and offers practical advice on scaling operations while maintaining a personal touch in fulfillment.

Join the hosts as they dive into the excitement of Novel November, revealing their draft progress and word counts. They discuss the benefits of writing retreats and how different environments enhance creativity. Cara shares her gothic retelling challenges, while James navigates pacing and structuring his plot. They explore overcoming writer's block with unique strategies and debate the pros and cons of rewriting while drafting. Plus, find out how community sprints can boost productivity and keep you accountable in your writing journey!

The hosts dive into the world of influencers and their potential for book marketing, especially in the romance genre. James warns about the future of AI in ad campaigns, emphasizing that ad creative is becoming the new way to target audiences. They also discuss the importance of young readers in driving romance discoverability and offer insights on using smaller influencers for better ROI. Plus, hear about exciting upcoming events and the revival of a popular podcast, all while navigating the challenges of the rising cost of living.

James reports from AuthorNation, sharing insights on a recovering indie market and the rapid adoption of AI in publishing. The discussion includes AI's impact on advertising dynamics, targeting problems, and the emerging needs for clear product packaging. Amidst the talk of scams targeting authors, they offer practical advice on spotting fraudulent outreach. The duo also explores the potential of AI voice tools and emphasizes the importance of human creativity alongside technology. With a nod to digital nomad life, they brainstorm productive retreats for authors.