A love of books has always been the foundation of independent publishing. But today, authors are taking their storytelling beyond the page as well. They are expanding into new business ventures that funnel people back toward their story worlds. They are exploring new avenues to connect with audiences in person and online. And they’re finding new tools to make their businesses sustainable in the long term.

In this issue, dive into ten ways authors are growing their businesses beyond books—and learn how you can follow suit. Read how automations can give you back countless hours of creativity, and what you can learn from other industries to inspire you in your business. And discover how J.D. Barker, a former ghostwriter, launched his career as a hybrid author and landed among stars like Dacre Stoker, Stephen King, and James Patterson.

Also read about the ways in which the independent publishing industry has changed since its inception and what the path forward looks like for the modern indie author. Find practical tips, in-depth insights, and an inspiring look at what it means to be an independent author today.

The Rainmaker Behind the Curtain
How J.D. Barker, Behind-the-Scenes Book Doctor, Became One of the Most Strategic Minds in Modern Fiction
More Than a Book: Designing an Author Business That Endures
Discover how indie authors at every stage—from first-time writers to seasoned pros—can diversify revenue with speaking engagements, online courses, rights licensing, retreats, and more to build a sustainable author business beyond book sales.
Buy Back Your Writing Time: Five Automations That Actually Help
Discover five simple, no-code automation setups that help indie authors cut busywork, streamline publishing tasks, and free up hours for writing.
After “Publish”: How to Give Your Book a Second Life
Publishing is only the start. Learn how to keep your self-published book alive—maintain buzz, diversify formats, rebrand smartly, and tap into new audiences to drive ongoing sales and engagement.
10 Proven Ways Indie Authors Can Expand and Monetize Their Story Worlds Beyond Books
Audio-first stories, premium editions, games, props, and bonus perspectives deepen the world and diversify income. Build what fans want to touch, hear, and collect.
Borrowed Playbooks: What Other Industries Already Solved for You
Explore four actionable strategies—from reality TV and crowdfunding to digital and physical product sales—that indie authors and self-publishers can adapt to level up their business operations and boost revenue.
History, Unbuttoned: Reframing the Past for Today’s Romance Reader
Historical romance readership may be waning, but indie and self-published authors can reignite engagement by embracing new eras, modern covers, genre crossovers, and bookstore partnerships.
The Table That Sells: Simple Booth Tweaks with Big Returns
Learn how to design an eye-catching booth, spark authentic conversations, and fine-tune your pitch to boost sales and build a loyal readership at in-person reader events.
Keep the Voice, Use the Tools: A Practical Truce with AI
Discover practical strategies to integrate AI tools into your writing process—boost productivity, streamline tasks, and keep the authentic voice that makes your stories uniquely yours.
4 Resources Indie Authors Need: Negotiate Better Deals, Automate Marketing & Boost Sales
From FBI-tested negotiation tactics to time-saving social media automations and Kickstarter insider tips, these four tools will help self-publishers streamline their workflow and grow their audience.
How Indie Authors Are Redefining Publishing and Building Sustainable Self-Publishing Businesses
Discover how modern indie authors have evolved from fringe self-publishers to multi-platform entrepreneurs, leveraging new technologies and the creator economy to connect with readers and build lasting careers.
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