“Treat marketing like storytelling instead of advertising…” - Saleema Ishq

In this episode, thriller author and TikTok book marketing influencer Saleema Ishq joins me to talk about the craft of writing page-turning stories and how to grow your readership through BookTok.

In this conversation, we dive into:

• Her latest release, Sisters Arcana, an edge-of-your-seat psychological thriller
• How she crafts a story that keep readers hooked
• What actually works when marketing books on social media (and what doesn’t)
• Her best tips for authors on writing and social media marketing

About Saleema:

Saleema Ishq is a former copywriter turned award-winning thriller author who accidentally fell in love with book marketing while launching her debut novel. Since then, she’s sold thousands of books, built a TikTok community of 16k+ readers, and picked up a few awards and media shoutouts along the way (all without burning out or selling out). Now she helps other authors do the same, making marketing feel authentic, sustainable, and even fun.

Free Social Media Kit for TSP listeners from Salmeema:

• https://stan.store/saleemaishq/p/traditionally-self-published-listener-bonus

Resources mentioned in our podcast:

• Quill and Cup (women’s writing group): https://www.quillandcup.com
• Editor Nicole Meier: https://nicolemeier.com

Connect with Saleema on:

• TikTok: saleemaishq
• Instagram: saleemaishq
• Website: www.fearlessphrases.com

Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com

Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter

Website: micamerrillrice.com

Instagram: @micamriceauthor

Facebook: @micamerrillrice

TikTok: @micathenightwriter

"Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

“As long as we are making progress everyday toward that goal, we will get through the imposter syndrome…” - Edy Hackett

In this episode, I sit down with Edy Hackett, an author and seasoned writing coach, to talk about what it really takes to keep going and build a solid habit that you can commit to for the long term.

We discussed:

• The essentials of the writing craft every author should master
• How to stay motivated and build sustainable writing habits
• The benefits of working with a writing coach
• And we wrap up with Edy's 5 Best Tips for Authors: actionable tips you can use to help elevate your manuscript today.

Whether you’re staring down a blank page or dreaming of finally writing the book, this episode is packed with encouragement, strategies, and insight to help you build sustainable habits so you can show up for your writing and honor your gift.

If you are interested in learning more about Edy Hackett's coaching, please follow her links below:

• https://www.lastpagepress.com
• https://linktr.ee/thestorykeeperbookcoach

Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com

Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter

Website: micamerrillrice.com

Instagram: @micamriceauthor

Facebook: @micamerrillrice

TikTok: @micathenightwriter

"Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

“When the characters take over, let ‘em.” - Maria Glymph

In this episode, we sit down with author and indie press owner, Maria Glymph, to talk about her newest release Biography of Deception, her self-publishing journey, and the road to founding Modern Odyssey Books.

She shares with us:

- A look behind Biography of Deception, a literary mystery, and what inspired it

- Why she chose the self-publishing route

- What inspired her to go from self-published author to founder of her own indie press: Modern Odyssey Books.

- Advice for authors who are considering options for their publishing journey

About Maria:

Maria Glymph is a writer who explores poetry, fiction, essays, and hybrid forms, guided by the belief that each story finds the shape most fitting for its tale. An avid reader and art lover, she draws inspiration from diverse voices and creative expressions.

Alongside her own work, Maria is the founder and publisher of Modern Odyssey Books, where she champions global authors and innovative narratives. She divides her time between her writing and building Modern Odyssey into a respected independent press. Learn more at mariaglymph.com and modernodysseybooks.com.

Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com

Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter

Website: micamerrillrice.com

Instagram: @micamriceauthor

Facebook: @micamerrillrice

TikTok: @micathenightwriter

"Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ