M.G. Hunt's Blog, page 3
March 6, 2025
Author Chat with Rachel O'Rourke
Disclaimer: Please note that this content contains sensitive material. Viewer and listener discretion is advised.
She primarily writes romances featuring MM relationships, and tackles some heavier themes that are not often found in traditional romance novels. Enjoy listening to Rachel's experience being an indie author!
Where to find Rachel O’Rourke on the internet:
March 4, 2025
Why author networking events are crucial for indie authors
Indie author Laura Catherine (left), and me (to the right of Laura) chat with Victoria from Titlepieces. Image by Curves and Lace Photography.As mentioned in the subheading, this author networking event was run by Aussie based event operation, The Book Booth. It is “The home of A.M. Nelson & Indie Bookworm Events”, run by Ashleigh who aims to give back to the author community where she can. It’s these event organisers, for which Ashleigh is also an indie author, that are crucial for fostering community between other indie authors.
And give back she does. The event that I and many other authors attended, was superb. There were many areas in particular that made this event so enjoyable. From the location choice to the vendors, every part of this event was well thought-out and certainly gave back to the hardworking indie authors out there.
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As an indie author, I often feel isolated since my interactions with other authors are mostly online. When opportunities arise to attend in-person events for authors, I make it a point to attend whenever I can.
The offerings and itinerary, Author Network Event. Source: The Book Booth Instagram page.The locationHeld at Cargo Hall, South Wharf, Victoria the room was both spacious for the amount of attendees, and intimate for conversations with vendors. The location was close to parking and public transport options (tram and train). I will note that the closest parking is at DFO South Wharf, where it is worth pre-booking tickets to get a lower price (approx $18 for the day).
The vendors were arranged in four rows, providing plenty of space for visitors to roam freely. The panel was positioned at the front, making it easily visible to all when the chat started.
To me, the location was well chosen. While a CBD event might be challenging for some attendees to access due to city parking, holding it on a Sunday helped ease some of these difficulties. The South Wharf and Convention Centre area is a well-known location. This makes it a little easier for people from all over Melbourne, the surrounding suburbs as well as regional Victoria, access the space.
The vendors
The Author Networking Event held at Cargo Hall, South Wharf VIC. Front table is the vendor ‘Titlepieces’.It was clear that a lot of thought went into the selection of vendors for this networking event. Not only was their a diversity of offerings, but also an opportunity for purchasing book related goodies and such. This could also be a testament to the venue, but despite the large turnout, the space never felt cramped or overcrowded. It allowed me and others to easily engage in conversation with the vendors.
Indie authors are often on the lookout for trusted vendors to help bring their project to life. Whether it be editing services, marketing services and/or cover art. Having all these services in one location made it convenient to speak with vendors about all your self-publishing needs.
I could imagine that if you had your completed manuscript ready, all you would have needed to do is chat to the relevant vendors, who fortunately are all in one location, and if you’re happy with their offerings, lock them in. Heck, you could have walked away from the event having organised your editor, marketing strategy and cover art all in one day!
And that is why author events like these are amazing, and so helpful for indies. It can be overwhelming to scour the internet/social media for editors, marketing specialists and artists. Having them all in front of you is an accessible and trusted option to make your life just a little bit easier when publishing your book.
The event offeringsAlong with food included, headshots. Opportunity for tattoo
The panel from 10:30-11:30 held space for authors and publishing gurus to share their perspectives numerous topics. Some of these topics included, how to market your books, writing motivation, writing schedules and balancing “day jobs” with writing work.
Other offerings included at the event were plentiful. There was delicious food, pastries and savoury bites a plenty. For the authors, there was an opportunity to receive a headshot, complimentary with the event ticket. The photos were taken by Curve and Lace Photography, and turned out great!
Complimentary headshot taken at the author event.Oh, and I also got a tattoo! How good is it having a fine line tattoo artist at a book event, specialising in fantasy themed tattoos.
Final thoughtsNetworking events are invaluable for indie authors. The Book Booth’s event provided a unique opportunity for collaboration, learning, and exposure for both indie authors and the attending vendors.
Through chatting to the vendors and other authors alike, the conversations had can lead to new opportunities for marketing, connecting, and cross-promotion. These opportunities to connect in person, are why I believe these events are crucial and delightful for anyone in the self publishing space. Thank you to Ashleigh and everyone that aided in this event, it was amazing!
Special shout out to my wonderful bookish pals, love you all:
From left to right: Laura Ibic (Hummingbird Editing), me (MG Hunt), Laura Catherine, Krystal from Aussie Indie Reads, and SK May.Thanks for reading Indie Author Life! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
February 20, 2025
Author Chat with Jade Andrews
Jade Andrews is not only a hardworking self-published author, but also a creative professional who has recently (with other individuals) launched Coven Press HQ, a self-publishing hub.
In our chat we discuss her experience in the publishing industry, her thoughts on the self-publishing world, and an exclusive insight her next novel - the sequel to ‘Pantheon of Life’, ‘House of Death’.
I hope you all enjoy this chat with Jade Andrews/Alana as much as I did.
Jade Andrews links:
Coven Press HQ links:
February 17, 2025
How to run a successful book launch as an indie author
It is well known that indie authors must coordinate and market largely themselves. And the way Sanja (S.K. Stapar) organised and curated the entire event was incredible.
It is a testament to her passion for the debut novel she’s released, but also the drive to create a meaningful and personable experience for all attendees. So, after the amazing night that was had, I decided to record this experience in a blog post – and, it has also provided me with inspiration for my own book launch happening in late April.
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The LocationThe event was held at Gallery Elysium, Hawthorn VIC. Hawthorn tends to be busier compared to other suburbs, but parking was plentiful, and the gallery was situated in a quieter area of Burwood Road.
Having the launch at a gallery space gave visitors a chance to roam around a beautiful, artistic space before being seated. The walls were decorated with brightly coloured large format paintings, that did not detract from S.K. Stapar’s book displayed at the front.
It also allows for having a dedicated space for your audience who specifically is attending for your book, rather than running the risk of having to battle over other noises in a library, etc.
Based on my experience as an attendee, I think gallery spaces are excellent choices for a book launch. While there will most likely be other artwork in the space, overall, you can make it your own, and decorate/cater how you want.
The GoodiesUpon entrance, I was greeted by Sanja’s sister who handed every guest a goodie bag (what an amazing sister!).
I was taken aback by this, since the event cost me a whole $0 to attend! I was impressed by the gesture.
Inside the bag was a selection of bookmarks, flyers and cards from other authors, bookstores and editors; a great way to combine publicity and encourage participation and potentially sponsorship from others in the publishing/writing field.
Along with those items, the bag included a highlighter, gel pen, and snacks – all important items for any note taking reader! Such lovely touches, and it was well received by all attendees.
Below is a photo of the goodie bag items:
All the bookmarks, flyers and gifts in the goodie bag I received.Oh, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my absolute favorite thing in the world – food!
Sanja provided guests with delicious traditional Serbian food, burek, upplied by Serbian caterer Sweet Galore. Along with that Sanja’s mum made a gluten free cake and biscuits, and an unforgettable Midnight Gate themed cake!
Check out the picture below of this amazing sweet creation, made by Laura, @petit.patissier:
The beautiful Midnight Gate cake.The ExperienceFrom being treated to a goodie bag and food from the beginning of the event, I was so excited for the main event – the book discussion and a Q and A.
Sanja was introduced and interviewed by the wonderful Steph Huddleston, which was her critique partner. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the book and the conception of the story, enticing me even further to get my nose in this book!
The presentation ended with a Q and A session, and Sanja was so informative and receptive to all questions asked.
Following the presentation, the book signing and purchasing begun. I was so touched by Sanja, as she took the time to chat with every person in line, and take a polaroid pic with everyone, and here’s mine below:
Polaroid picture of me (left) and S.K. Stapar (Right)Final thoughtsThe launch for Midnight Gate was such a special event. I could tell it meant so much to Sanja and her family that supported her that night. It was the culmination of lots of hard work, and it certainly paid off by not only the number of attendees but the overall buzzing vibe of the experience.
Finally, Sanja herself is a wonderful person. She greeted me by my first name and with a hug (despite never meeting in person, only on Instagram) when I entered the event – and this shows a great care for the people who came out to support her that evening.
Well done to you, S.K. Stapar, and I am confident there are infinitely great things coming your way.
Check out S.K. Stapar’s debut romantasy book - Midnight Gate.
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January 28, 2025
Author chat with Claire Butler.
Claire has graciously given her time to chat all things writing, and indie author life related, as well as insights into her latest book release ‘Of Sky and Embers’, which is a sequel to her novel ‘Of Sand and Silk’.
I learned so much from Claire, and I am inspired by all her insights into the self-publishing world. Her catalogue of books are so captivating, exploring unique fantasy environments with a focus on often complex characters.
So, I hope you enjoy this episode!
Claire Butler's links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clairebutlerauthor/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clairebutlerauthor
Website: https://www.clairebutlerauthor.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/31895705.Claire_Butler
January 6, 2025
Author chat with Laura Catherine
We discuss their upcoming novel 'Enemies to Booksellers' (scheduled publishing date 18 January 2025), as well as their writing process and their author life.
I learned so much from Laura, especially with their take on writing realistic relationships in a fantasy world setting, and tackling popular tropes such as found family and enemies to lovers.
So, enjoy this episode and I hope you have fun listening or watching to this episode!
Thanks for reading and listening Indie Author Life! This post is public so feel free to share it.
Laura Catherine's important links.
December 25, 2024
Looking ahead, 2025 goals and plans
This year saw the release of my debut short story ‘Elara and the Passing’. Expect to see more elemental magik stories in 2025.Re-reading the opening subheading above is a surreal experience. Not the ageing part, I knew that nice, round age was coming thick and fast. But to know that after many years ‘Still Waters Run Deep’ is finally coming out fills me with incredible joy.
Also, this year I plan to attend a few book events held in Melbourne. One of them being the Author Networking Event in February. There is also another event I will be selling at in October, but I will keep the details of that one a secret for now, until the news is officially released.
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Finally, The Indie Author Life show is set to include more interviews with fabulous and intriguing people. We are approaching another year's end, and the looming presence of a nice round number year is getting me excited!
The release of my debut novel,Still Waters Run Deep
Those that know me intimately know that the road to creating, writing and publishing SWRD has been a tad turbulent. I do plan on sharing some of the details around this in the near future. But what I can say is, the release date is upon us.
There is a reflection practice to think of what your younger self would think of you now. I can confidently say that my younger self did not have ‘written a novel’ on her “bingo card”, but would be so impressed that it happened. She wouldn’t have thought it was possible to write a novel at all.
But here I am, writing almost every day.
When I created the Goodreads page for ‘Still Waters Run Deep’, it was an strangely emotional moment. And I know that sounds a tad dramatic, but it really was the culmination of lots of small and big moments to get to this stage. Creating a book page for it on Goodreads solidified its presence. It is my creation, and it has come to life. Of course, the next step is to feel the physical book copy in my hands. And when that happens, I am sure it will be a similarly potent moment.
The ‘Indie Author Life’ show will go onSo many new voices will be heard and featured on my show. I have discovered a new found joy in recording videos and podcast episodes, and in particular, featuring guest authors. Sometimes, working as an indie author can be a little isolating. Sure there is support online on social media, and even the occasional meet-up at book fairs.
But I have fostered some incredible and deeper connections with hosting author chats with other indie authors. I have enjoyed and been inspired by different approaches to writing and the creative process.
The show’s itinerary for 2025 is destined to feature more indie authors, particularly in the fantasy genre. There are many indie fantasy books I am excited to read as well, check out my other post for more details on that (and possible hint to who I may be featuring on the Indie Author Life show).
Getting out and aboutI have plans to attend a few book fairs and events this year. Not only as an attendee, but as an exhibiting author as well. Seeing other indie authors set up their stalls all decked out with banners, posters and arrays of book merch has got me excited! I too want to be a part of that, so I have made it my mission to get involved and put myself out there to exhibit at some shows.
For the release of ‘Still Waters Run Deep’, I also plan to have an official book launch. The details of this are yet to be finalised, but I plan to hold this event somewhere in Melbourne, hopefully in the Eastern suburbs where it’s easier for most of my family and friends to attend. As soon as details for this are revealed, you will be the first to know!
Final thoughtsThey say when practising manifestation, you are to use present tense instead of future tense. I am or I have, rather than I will.
So, let me practice that. For me, 2025 is the year I publish my debut novel Still Waters Run Deep. It is also the year I grow and enjoy the Indie Author Life show. Finally, I finish my draft Darkness in the Flesh, and schedule it’s release for 2026.
Reflecting on the year that it has been, I am so thankful for everything the year 2024 brought. This year has been my first foray into taking my authorship seriously, and the release of my short story ‘Elara and the Passing’ was a brilliant test of my author marketing skills. The connections and friendships I have developed with other indie fantasy authors, particularly on Instagram, has been crucial to my continued enjoyment in working in this space.
To each and everyone who has supported me in some way, to you I say a sincere thank you. Words cannot express how thankful I am for the support I have received, and in 2025 I plan to continue showing my support for all the indie authors out there.
With love, Mon xx
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December 17, 2024
Interview with Jess McFarlane
We discuss so many wonderful topics in this episode - from intuitive writing routines, astrology, feminism and the ‘one-horse trope’. I learned a lot from Jess in this chat, and I am incredibly inspired by the way she approaches her writing process and character development.
Her highly anticipated novel, ‘Woman of Wolves’ is scheduled for release 25th February 2025.
I hope you all enjoy this chat as much as I did.
Where to find Jess McFarlane online:
December 12, 2024
December 10, 2024
5 indie fantasy books I'm excited for in 2025.
Hi it’s me! Hope you like my Christmas tree in the back :)No. 1: Woman of Wolves by Jess McFarlaneAs soon as I saw the title of this novel, I knew it was meant for my ‘To be read’ list. It proclaims ferocity, strength, and not to mention ‘feminine rage’ as author Jess McFarlane describes it.
According to the tropes guide post on McFarlane’s instagram, the book features the following:
True enemies to lovers
Slow burn romance, where the heat scale keeps going up
Strong female characters with a hell of a lot of feminine rage
Huge muscly warrior men with hard shells but gooey centres
Medieval fantasy is a favourite of mine, and the promise of an exploration into ancient Irish folklore gets me excited. I am highly anticipating this release, which is scheduled for 25th February 2025.
Woman of Wolves: Arasgain Rule Book One Tropes List Graphic, from Jess McFarlane’s Instagram.No. 2: Of Sky and Embers by Claire ButlerNot only are the covers in this series stunning (check out my write up about my favourite covers here) but this book promises more intrigue and depth into this sand-magic filled world.
‘Of Sky and Embers’ sees characters survive deserts and deal with secrets revealed. In the author Claire Butler’s words,
“There are choices to be made, victory and success above or else? Or is the risk and cost of such too great. As gods and kings wage war, is love strong enough to stand between death and divinity?”
What intrigued me about this series in the first place was the desert/Middle Eastern inspired world building. It is a beautiful setting, ripe for magic and intrigue. And, as per what was featured in the first book in the series ‘Of Sand and Silk’ the romantasy elements are continued. In ‘Of Sky and Embers’, you can expect to encounter plot twists, sand-magic, deities, multiple character POV, and passionate romance.
Release date is scheduled for 18 January 2025.
Cover for ‘Of Sky & Embers’, Claire Butler. No. 3: A Kingdom of Curses - The Emergence by Danielle D. DrummondAs someone who is unapologetically drawn to pretty images and graphics, I couldn't resist the stunning tarot-themed posts on Danielle D. Drummond’s Instagram page (see below).
aussieindiepa
A post shared by @aussieindiepaI love tarot and all things mystical. To see a novel that encapsulates these topics has me invested. Drummond has also shared a selection of tarot cards on her Instagram, which form the reading that the character Paege receives.
The book is set to include some notable and favourable themes, such as a unique magic system, some hidden lineages, an enemies to lovers romance, and some secret identities.
As Drummond writes about the book “The King is our Judge, the people are our Jury and my prince, he is the Executioner.”
Release date is scheduled for 28 March 2025.
A Kingdom of Curses cover reveal post, sourced from the author’s Instagram page.No. 4: A City of Smoke and Demons by Kate SchumacherThe title of this dark fantasy immediately caught my attention. And the focus of this novel is set to be steamy in a slow burn kind of way.
Schumacher describes this book as a “gaslamp fantasy romance” and it is set to be filled with magic and secret societies, with Victorian-era gothic aesthetics.
There’s a plethora of popular tropes in this book, such as:
Forced proximity
Will they, won’t they romance
Found family
Low magic systems
And of course, it wouldn’t be a typical review of mine if I didn’t mention the cover! It is gorgeous, and would certainly look delightful on anyone’s book shelf. See the Instagram post below for a cover preview:
kate.schumacher.writer
A post shared by @kate.schumacher.writerA City of Smoke and Demons is scheduled for release November 2025.
No. 5: Enemies to Booksellers by Laura CatherineThe title of this is so playful, it’s hard to not be intrigued by this book. Especially the blurb, where the story starts off with a character named Morgan faking her own death. The story within boasts to be a cosy fantasy, focusing themes such as:
Found family
Mental health representation
Queer/sapphic romance
Learning to speak up and to trust
I love to break up some heavier and darker fantasy novels with something cosy, so this offering from Laura Catherine has got me interested in what’s next.
And when reading the overview, I was particularly intrigued with this statement, “Can Morgan keep her happy ending or will her secrets destroy everything?”
I guess I’ll have to read to find out.
Enemies to Booksellers is scheduled for release 18 January 2025.
Cover of ‘Enemies to Booksellers’ by Laura Catherine. This release only misses out on the list because of a date technicality. It was brought earlier for release in December 2024 (original release date was January 2025), but I would be remiss for not mentioning it.
We follow characters Nik, Roman and Larissa again in the aftermath of a brutal attack.
From the author’s overview: With threats emerging from unexpected places-friends turned foes, vengeful witches, and lurking werewolves-Larissa and Nik must navigate a treacherous landscape of betrayal and magic. Will they uncover the secrets hidden in the darkness, or will Larissa ultimately succumb to the curse?
In true SK May fashion, this sequel Whispers in the Blood is set to be filled with many shock discoveries and twists and turns.
Cover of ‘Whispers from the Curse’ by SK May.Of course, there are many more indie releases coming out in 2025. This list are my picks, but I would love to know yours. Let me know what you’re interested in reading from indie authors in 2025, drop a comment below if you would like.
Thank you for reading, and bring on 2025!
