This week on the Indie Author Showcase, Chad covers a packed lineup of indie publishing insights, upcoming releases, and a brutally honest review of a dark romance that didn’t go quite as expected.

🔎 In this episode:

• Major indie book releases coming this May from Jennifer Milne, Aaron Lewis, and Raven Belasco
• The rise of social media book recs—and how indie authors can use them for visibility
• The growing backlash against AI-generated book covers… and where the line actually is
• A breakdown of real vs. assumed AI usage in indie publishing
• Whether tools like Photoshop’s generative fill “count” as AI

📚 Featured Review: Feral MF by Mila Crawford — a dark, nonlinear romance involving trauma, obsession, and complex relationships. Chad breaks down:

• What works incredibly well (character depth, cultural backstory, emotional stakes)
• What doesn’t quite land (pacing, missing story beats, tonal shifts)
• Why this book sits right on the line between recommendation and hesitation

🎧 Plus:

• A look at BookReverb and whether it’s worth it for audiobook reviews
• Updates on conventions, including Monsterpalooza
• How indie authors can get free promotion on the show

If you’re an indie author navigating marketing, AI controversy, or just looking for your next unconventional read—this episode delivers insight, nuance, and a few strong opinions.

👉 Listen now and decide for yourself: where do YOU draw the line with AI in publishing?

This week on the Indie Author Showcase, Chad sits down with guest Cynthia Diamond to talk about her journey into paranormal and monster romance—and what it’s like diving into writing full-time.

They break down:

• The reality of going full-time as an indie author (and the marketing grind that comes with it)
• Why TikTok is finally starting to click—and how she approaches content
• The surprising demographics of romance readers
• The difference between “closed door” and “open door” romance
• How (and why) sex scenes are more technical than you’d think
• Writing emotion-first vs. shock value in steamy scenes

Plus, Cynthia shares her influences—from fantasy and theater to Gargoyles—and how those shaped her unique voice in romance.

They also dive into:

• Monster romance (and why it’s more approachable than you think)
• Writing humor into romance
• Tabletop RPGs, D&D-style storytelling, and how it inspires her work

📚 Cynthia’s latest book Bardic and the Beast is available for preorder now!

If you’re an indie author, romance reader, or just curious about what really goes into writing “spicy” fiction—this episode delivers both insight and plenty of laughs.

🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to follow for more indie author interviews, insights, and book recommendations!

In this episode of Indie Author Showcase, host Chad Robert Morgan dives into the realities of being an indie author in today’s market—from convention struggles to the growing controversy around AI in publishing.

We start with a candid breakdown of WonderCon, where rising costs and economic pressure are making it harder for indie authors to turn a profit—or even break even. Chad shares firsthand insights on vendor strategy, pricing, and why conventions still matter despite tightening margins.

Then we tackle a major industry topic: ⚖️ AI in publishing and the dangers of false accusations

Using the controversial case of Shy Girl, Chad explores:

• The reliability (or lack thereof) of AI detection tools
• Where AI has legitimate uses vs. where it crosses the line
• Why authors must remain accountable for their work
• The risks of “trial by internet” and how quickly reputations can be damaged

Finally, this week’s featured showcase: 📖 The Light at the End by Craig Spector & John Skipp

A gritty, fast-paced vampire horror set in the New York subway system, this novel follows a newly turned vampire unleashing chaos while a group of bike messengers bands together to hunt him down. With visceral horror, unique takes on vampirism, and a strong 1980s atmosphere, this book stands out as one of the best reads of the year so far.

If you’re an indie author navigating today’s challenges—or a horror fan looking for your next read—this episode delivers both insight and entertainment.