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.

In this special on-location episode of Indie Author Showcase, host Chad Robert Morgan sits down with Josh and TT, the creative team behind Hal-Lore-Ween, at the horror-themed venue Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales in Costa Mesa.

From building one of the most eye-catching booths on the convention circuit to landing a TV appearance, this episode breaks down what it really takes to grow as indie creators.

We cover:

• How Hal-Lore-Ween evolved into an award-winning indie series

• The role of community, networking, and collaboration in success

• How they landed a TV spot through authentic outreach

• Strategies for building ARC teams and growing a fanbase

• The mindset needed to push through rejection and keep creating

TT also dives into her hand-drawn charcoal illustration process, keeping the project fully human-made, while Josh shares insights on marketing, conventions, and building a creative team around the brand.

We also get into:

• Getting books into Barnes & Noble (and why “returnable” matters)

• Convention strategy and booth design

• Expanding into audiobooks, merch, and a growing creative universe

All recorded on location at Slashers Axe Thowing and Ales at Costa Mesa, a horror fan’s dream environment that perfectly matches the spirit of the conversation.

If you’re an indie author, artist, or creator trying to build something real, this episode is packed with practical insight and inspiration.

In this episode of Indie Author Showcase, host Chad Robert Morgan revisits the mission behind the podcast: giving indie authors a platform to share their work and helping readers discover great books they might otherwise miss.

With WonderCon just weeks away—the convention that originally inspired the creation of the show—Chad reflects on the power of indie authors supporting one another and why the podcast focuses on context rather than harsh criticism when discussing books.

The episode then dives into a craft discussion on conflict in storytelling. What exactly counts as conflict? Chad breaks down the three major types writers use to drive stories forward:

• Character vs. Character • Character vs. Environment • Character vs. Self

Using examples from films, TV, and literature—including A Few Good Men, Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Martian, and the Cormoran Strike novels—he explores how conflict creates stakes, tension, and momentum in storytelling.

Finally, this week’s indie showcase features the unsettling horror novella:

📖 I Found Puppets Living in My Apartment Walls by Ben Farthing

When a man discovers one of his grandfather’s old puppets crawling through the walls of an apartment built on top of a former television studio, the mystery quickly spirals into something far stranger. Beneath the building lies a maze of hidden spaces, duplicate sets, and seemingly endless layers of reality—all tied to a bizarre and creeping puppet apocalypse.

Short, eerie, and imaginative, this novella blends claustrophobic exploration with childhood fears in a way that makes it perfect for a quick but memorable horror read.