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Indie Writers ClubAuthor: James Blatch & Cara Clare
Cara Clare and James Blatch host a weekly light-hearted chat about all things self publishing. Join the Word Count Club to be a part of the accountability partnership. We'll support each other in getting the words done :)Send in your questions, comments and talking points to our discord channel. Language: en-gb Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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434 - The New Cohost is Revealed!
Episode 76
Friday, 13 February, 2026
The Self-Publishing Show enters a new era as James Blatch officially introduces his new co-host, romance author Cecilia “Cissy” Mecca. In this wide-ranging conversation, they explore Cissy’s indie journey, from mediaeval romance to paranormal and contemporary pivots, her decision to consolidate pen names, and the realities of building a sustainable author career. The episode also dives into the latest AI controversy in the romance world, discussing reader backlash, industry adaptation, and why platform-building may matter more than ever in an AI-powered marketplace.Show notes: Official introduction of Cecilia “Cissy” Mecca as the new co-host and what she brings from the romance genre perspective.Cissy’s indie origin story: discovering self-publishing through conference connections and following the Learn Self Publishing LaunchPad roadmap to leave her teaching career.The pros and cons of genre pivoting, combining pen names, and choosing creative fulfilment over strict niche strategy.The New York Times article about Coral Heart and AI-written romance books and the strong reaction from romance readers and authors.Why adapting to AI, strengthening reader connection, and building direct platforms (mailing lists, community, in-person events) will be critical for authors moving forward.Links & Resources Mentioned:ProWritingAid (sponsor & discount code IWC15): https://prowritingaid.comNotebookLM by Google (research & synthesis tool discussed): https://notebooklm.google.comLearn Self Publishing - Launchpad course https://www.learnselfpublishing.comThe New York Times article with Coral Heart https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/08/bu... From learnselfpublishing.com
