In this special year-end roundup, Craig and Roland look back at some of the biggest developments and trends that shaped the self-publishing world in 2025. It was a year defined by the continuing rise of AI, but in some ways, it also sparked a renewed push for authors to make stronger connections with their audiences. Not only do the hosts recap key moments and movements from the past year, but they also offer insights into what the future might hold for the author community. From the growing acceptance of AI tools (despite ongoing legal challenges), to the increasing accessibility of audiobook production, the landscape for indie authors is evolving rapidly. Craig and Roland explore how genre shifts like the surge in romantasy are opening new paths for creative experimentation, and why more authors are turning to direct sales and special print editions to deepen reader engagement. With 2026 now underway, authors can stay ahead of the curve by not only understanding where self-publishing currently stands, but where it may be headed next.   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

What does it take to turn a passion for writing into a sustainable, income-generating career? In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with Maria Secoy, founder of All Write and an experienced book coach, who shares a clear and practical path for writers ready to take control of the business side of publishing. From managing production costs to building a publishing schedule that works with Amazon’s algorithm, she offers a grounded approach to balancing creativity with strategy. Drawing on her background in education and research, Maria outlines her four-stage model of author development and explains how to align writing goals with long-term growth. In addition, she breaks down key financial concepts, including return on ad spend and series readthrough value, giving authors a framework for making data-informed decisions while staying connected to the heart of their work. Regardless of where you are in your publishing career, today's insights will help you move forward with confidence and a clear path to success.   Maria Secoywww.allwritewell.com   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

What if the book you’re writing isn’t really the product you’re selling? In today's episode of Fully Booked, publishing strategist Michael R. Drew takes us through the deeper business logic behind nonfiction publishing. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience and over 130 bestsellers, Michael explains why the most successful nonfiction authors begin not with the book itself, but by first defining the outcome they want it to achieve. From there, they determine how to measure success, create a strategy to support that goal, and finally use the book as one of the tactics to help fulfill it. In this way, the book becomes a powerful tool to grow a platform, drive business objectives, and establish lasting thought leadership. Michael also shares how nonfiction authors can market their books ethically and effectively by focusing on long-term relationships rather than quick wins. Through real-world examples, he illustrates how clarity of purpose and consistent audience engagement can make a book far more impactful. That's why for many non-fiction authors, their book is not the end goal, but simply a tool to elevate the real product — their platform, expertise, and the value they bring to their audience.   Michael R. Drewhttps://promoteabook.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

Although some view symbolism as something readers discover after the fact, many authors use it deliberately from the very beginning as a tool to add cohesion and depth to their stories. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, visual artist and fantasy author Riley S. Quinn shares how authors can build symbolism into the foundation of their creative process. By doing so, she argues, writers can create more immersive, emotionally resonant narratives that remain thematically focused from start to finish. Riley draws on her background in animation and storyboarding to show how symbolic elements can shape every layer of a story, from character development to the world they inhabit. By pulling from personal experiences and details from everyday life, authors can create symbols that add emotional weight and thematic cohesion. Even the setting becomes part of this symbolic framework, offering opportunities for deeper connection through intentional design. When every element in a story has purpose, the world, characters, and narrative begin to feel inseparable and part of a single, unified vision.   Riley S. Quinnhttps://www.rileyquinnart.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

What makes a short story scary? In today's episode of Fully Booked, we sit down with short fiction author Monte Crabbs, whose stories blend horror, mystery, and a touch of dark humor. Drawing from his background as a school librarian and longtime horror fan, Monte shares how everyday anxieties and personal experiences can be transformed into chilling stories that linger with readers. He explains why horror, when done right, connects on a deep psychological level and how, when presented in fiction, it can even offer readers a “safe scare.” Our discussion explores the craft of writing creepiness into ordinary moments, building tension with brevity, and striking the right balance between scares and levity. Monte also offers insight into the role of endings in short horror, what makes a satisfying psychological twist, and how paying attention to the world around you can spark unforgettable ideas. Whether you’re a horror author or simply interested in adding a bit of eeriness to your own writing, this conversation is full of practical takeaways and creative inspiration.   Monte Crabbshttps://www.montecrabbs.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

This week on Fully Booked, we’re exploring the world of book coaching with Liisa Kovala, a certified book coach and former educator who brings deep insight into how authors can benefit from guided support throughout their writing journey. From idea development to drafting, from pitching to prepping, Liisa shares the practical, emotional, and professional value that coaching can offer writers at any stage of their careers. Alongside the many benefits of hiring a coach, we also discuss the rigorous training behind certification, the evolving nature of the writer–coach relationship, and the realities aspiring authors face in today’s publishing landscape. Liisa also shares her views on the importance of feedback, the pitfalls of unstructured critique groups, and how small-group programs can be a game-changer for productivity and confidence. If you’ve been considering ways to move your book forward, this episode offers an in-depth look at the tools, mindset, and support systems a skilled book coach can provide.   Liisa Kovalahttps://www.liisakovalabookcoach.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

This week on Fully Booked, we speak with Tyler Wagner, founder of Authors Unite, about what it really takes to turn a book into a bestseller. Wagner walks us through the systems and strategies he uses to help thousands of authors hit major bestseller lists on Amazon, USA Today, and more. He explains how these campaigns can deliver a return on investment by elevating a book’s visibility and positioning the author as a trusted expert. For this reason, he primarily works with non-fiction clients such as entrepreneurs and business leaders who are looking to use their books to build personal brands and generate leads for other services. While Wagner’s core expertise centers on non-fiction, the conversation also touches on how fiction authors can adapt aspects of these strategies to build momentum across their own catalogs. He shares insights on what it takes to get a book on major lists like Amazon and USA Today, how packaging and positioning play a critical role, and why even fiction authors need to think in terms of long-term audience building. For any author curious about how bestseller campaigns work and who they work for best, this episode offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at the business of book promotion. Authors Unitehttps://authorsunite.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/ All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

For the 200th episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland go solo to reflect on how much the self-publishing world has evolved since the podcast first launched almost four years ago. This milestone discussion explores the industry’s biggest shifts, from the rise of direct sales and the decline of platform dependence to the growing need for authentic reader relationships. It’s a wide-ranging, state-of-the-industry conversation rooted in insight from past episodes and the hard-earned perspective of two hosts who have seen it all. Whether you're launching your first book or working to stay ahead of changing algorithms and business models, this episode distills key takeaways from hundreds of conversations with bestselling authors, experts, and innovators. From TikTok to Substack, short fiction to sales funnels, and scams to success stories, revisit the trends that matter and the lessons worth remembering in this candid and comprehensive look at where the indie author world stands today and where it may be headed next.   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore the fascinating frontier where science fact meets science fiction. Our guest is debut author Nicholas Keating Casbarro, whose background in medical devices and deep-dive research habits have fueled the creation of a richly detailed hard sci-fi series set 700 years in the future. From warp bubbles to quantum entanglement, Casbarro explains how he grounds speculative technologies in plausible science while keeping the narrative accessible and immersive. He shares how world-building begins with asking the right questions about planetary ecology, authoritarian governments, and underground digital networks, and why anchoring every element in scientific theory lends authenticity. Because whether you're writing about the ethical implications of emerging tech or attempting to craft a believable future without losing the human thread, writing hard sci-fi requires a careful balance between rigorous science and storytelling craft.   Nicholas Keating Casbarrohttps://vitaleriumseries.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

Although short fiction often gets overshadowed in today’s market-driven publishing landscape, for many writers it’s where the most vital work begins. That’s why, in this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we examine both the creative and commercial realities of writing short stories. Our guest is author Chris Kauzlarich, a hobbyist turned published writer who uses short fiction to build both his craft and his audience. From initial inspiration to final revision, Chris shares insights into the short story writing process, and why this form remains meaningful, even in a publishing world dominated by novels. But this conversation doesn’t shy away from the hard truths, as Chris opens up about the challenges of making short stories viable. From limited publication outlets and shrinking markets to the frustrations of pricing, visibility, and discoverability. Still, the episode is filled with practical strategies for using short fiction to grow your readership, test novel-worthy ideas, and stay creatively sharp. For a grounded, honest look at what short stories can—and can’t—do for your career, this episode is a must-listen.   Chris Kauzlarichhttps://www.chriskauzlarich.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

This week on Fully Booked, we’re joined by Aaron Calafato, creator of the acclaimed podcast "7 Minute Stories", which has reached over 30 million listeners. A master of short-form storytelling, Aaron shares how he builds powerful connections with his audience through a personal process he calls “story catching.” By drawing meaning from everyday experiences and telling them with clarity and heart, he has carved out a unique space in the storytelling landscape. In this fascinating conversation, Aaron takes Craig and Roland through the principles that make a story truly resonate. He explores how trust, authenticity, and vulnerability play a vital role in shaping stories that stick with listeners. Whether you're an author, a podcaster, or a creative of any kind, this episode offers practical insight into telling stories that engage deeply and keep your audience coming back.   Aaron Calafatohttps://www.7minutestoriespod.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

What does it take to go from decades in biopharmaceuticals to publishing a time-travel mystery novel? In today’s episode of Fully Booked, debut author Mark Wilson shares how he applied his scientific mindset to the unpredictable world of fiction writing. From mapping out timelines on graph paper to learning key storytelling principles through trial and error, Mark walks us through the unexpected but rewarding journey that led to his first published book. While balancing a full-time job, Mark tackled the challenges of character development, world-building, and narrative pacing, only to be faced with how to get it all published. By staying open to feedback and taking a methodical approach to the entire writing process, he refined his novel and partnered with a hybrid publisher to bring it to market. This episode offers an inspiring look at how persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to take creative risks can launch a new author’s path.   Mark J. Wilsonhttps://www.markjwilson.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

In this week's episode of Fully Booked, we speak with a young adult dystopian author whose years of humanitarian work across conflict zones have given her fiction an uncommon depth. Drawing on firsthand experience in Afghanistan, Colombia, and Sierra Leone, CC Robinson explains how real-life crises shaped her understanding of survival, resilience, and human connection, and how these insights now fuel her gripping post-apocalyptic stories. From clean water to cross-cultural grief, the real priorities behind individual motivations can differ wildly depending on background, and weaving those motivations into a narrative can lead to richer, more realistic characters and interactions. The discussion also highlights the challenges and responsibilities of writing outside one’s own experience, particularly when developing characters from diverse cultural, racial, and social backgrounds. CC shares her intensive research process, including in-depth interviews, primary-source reading, and collaboration with sensitivity readers, all aimed at ensuring each voice is distinct and grounded in truth. For writers exploring how shared human experiences can bridge cultural divides or looking to craft fiction that reflects today’s complex world, this conversation offers valuable insight into how to do so with care and authenticity.   CC Robinsonhttps://ccrobinsonauthor.com/hiddengems   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

When self-published authors invest in outside help, the goal is to amplify their work, not end up worse off than when they started. Yet that is sometimes the unfortunate reality, especially when authors don't do enough due diligence before handing over their hard-earned money. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, author Aspry Jones shares a candid account of how he fell victim to a publicist who overpromised, underdelivered, and ultimately left him without access to his own social media accounts to repair the damage. From losing money and control to seeing key book spoilers posted online, Aspry walks us through a cautionary tale that every author should hear before signing a contract. While our recent podcast episodes have spotlighted experienced publicists who deliver real value, this conversation reveals what can happen when authors put their trust in the wrong hands. Aspry’s experience underscores the importance of referrals, clear expectations, and maintaining ownership of your author platform. By sharing the hard lessons he learned, and how he ultimately turned things around, he hopes to help fellow authors avoid the same costly mistakes.   Aspry Joneshttps://aspryjones.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

Publicity is one of the most misunderstood parts of an author’s career, and in this episode of Fully Booked, we break down what it really involves. Publicist and author Terena Bell joins Craig and Roland to explain how writers can approach publicity with clear goals, whether the aim is to sell more copies, reach new readers, or secure recognition in libraries and the media. From podcasts and library pushes to finding unexpected outlets beyond the book world, the discussion explores practical strategies authors can use to draw attention to their books. While Terena shares insight into how effective publicists can support authors, she also warns against common traps such as cookie-cutter campaigns and costly hourly billing models. Packed with tips and real-world examples, this episode offers a focused guide to making publicity serve your goals, whether by hiring an expert or putting the strategies into practice yourself.   Terena Bellhttps://terenabell.com/bookpr/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

When mass market publishing first started, short and sweet “dime novels” were all the rage. Over the decades, books have fattened up considerably, with some of the most popular modern fiction weighing in at nearly 800 pages (I’m looking at you, A Court of Silver Flames!) In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, Craig and Roland welcome returning guest Terrance Layhew back to the podcast to discuss whether it’s time to embrace a return to shorter fiction, such as his recent award-winning novella Unwanted Passenger. In terms of printing costs, purchase price, and even just the time you have to invest reading shorter fiction, there’s a lot to like about the format of classic, pocket-sized paperbacks - and in this lively discussion, Terrance, Craig, and Roland ponder whether smaller books might be the next big thing in publishing.     Terrance Layhewhttps://terrancelayhew.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

For aspiring authors navigating the world of self-publishing, the path to success is lined with potential missteps. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, publishing consultant and seasoned author Michelle Hill joins Craig and Roland to break down the most common mistakes that can derail new writers. Drawing from her journey as a “recovering ghostwriter” and her extensive experience guiding nonfiction authors, Michelle shares practical insights for those looking to produce polished, professional books that stand out in today’s competitive market. The discussion covers essential topics including professional editing, cover design, and how to avoid predatory publishing services, while also exploring the importance of creative vision, effective collaboration, and staying involved throughout the publishing process. For writers ready to take their craft seriously, Michelle’s advice offers a roadmap for avoiding costly errors and building a strong foundation for long-term success.   Michelle Hillhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCL4CN5V   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

This week, Fully Booked turns the conversation to the complex and often misunderstood world of dark romance and the anti-heroes that readers obsess over. Actor, coach, and author M.C. Paas joins Craig and Roland to explore the emotional depth and psychological nuance behind stories of morally gray characters, dangerous obsessions, and high-stakes relationships. Drawing on her upbringing in post-Soviet Estonia, M.C. reveals how personal history and deep emotional awareness shape her writing, and why dark romance offers a safe space to explore the forbidden. The discussion examines the ethics of writing taboo characters, the central role of consent in fiction, and the enduring appeal of protagonists who might be irredeemable in real life. M.C. explains how fantasy provides freedom rather than endorsement, and how these stories can bring catharsis, solidarity, and even healing. Whether you’re looking to craft your own unforgettable anti-heroes or curious about what makes them so irresistible to readers, this episode offers an unflinching look at why darkness can tell the most powerful love stories.   M.C. Paashttps://mcpaaswrites.com/   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

What happens when a celebrated magazine editor and ghostwriter faces the collapse of traditional publishing? For Peter Moore, it sparked a creative reinvention. In this week’s episode of Fully Booked, we explore how Peter used Substack to rebuild his career on his own terms, transforming a period of professional uncertainty into a thriving platform where he writes, illustrates, and connects directly with thousands of readers. He shares how the platform became more than just a newsletter, evolving into a community, a launchpad, and a sustainable creative outlet for his humorous and insightful work. Whether you’re new to Substack or already experimenting with it, this discussion will give you a variety of practical ideas for using the platform to gain more control over your audience and writing. Among other things, Peter breaks down strategies for growing your subscriber base, the importance of defining a clear creative niche, and why reader feedback now matters to him more than ever. If you’ve been on the fence about Substack, this episode offers a compelling case for why it could be a game-changer for your self-publishing career. Peter Moorehttps://petermoore.substack.com/ Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book?  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/   All episode details and links:  https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast

Publishing a paperback book through Amazon KDP can seem straightforward, but producing a professional, print-ready title involves a lot of behind-the-scenes work. In this week's episode of Fully Booked, author Michael Pickard joins Craig and Roland to break down the KDP paperback process. From formatting your manuscript and solving layout challenges to working with cover designers and preparing final files for upload, Mike shares the key steps many first-time authors overlook. With more than a dozen titles to his name, Mike offers practical advice drawn from years of self-publishing experience and from guiding other authors through the process. He explains how to avoid costly formatting mistakes, manage ISBN decisions, and ensure that your book meets professional standards before it goes live. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from proofing, coordinating with designers, and navigating KDP’s print-on-demand limitations. For anyone beginning their print book journey, this conversation delivers a clear and realistic guide to creating a high-quality paperback without traditional publishing support.   Michael Pickard https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B000APFNIO   Hidden Gems Need our help publishing or marketing your book? https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/author-services/ All episode details and links: https://www.hiddengemsbooks.com/podcast