Author Diary Entries Thu, 02 Jul 2026 15:53:37 -0400 https://saganmorrow.com/ en-ca © 2026 Author Diary Entries yes Support this Podcast 8f110fa2-76d6-5754-87af-dcd520c9f4c0 Sagan Morrow episodic false The Author Diary Entries podcast (formerly known as Indie Author Weekly) is hosted by Sagan Morrow, a Kamloops-based writer with 15+ years of experience as a small business owner. She is also a hobbyist burlesque dancer and performs on stage as Babe Maverick. 


In this podcast, you'll learn more about the books Sagan writes, her insights and stories of being an author and a multipassionate creative, and a peek behind the curtain of the writer's life. Sagan also shares diary-style personal stories of life as an indie author and her behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing novellas.


Sagan started out as a blogger and freelance writer (and editor) around 2008. In 2016, she began teaching other solopreneurs how to improve productivity and time management, using anti-hustle methods. Nowadays — when she's not writing novellas — she works as an internationally board-certified Life Coach who specializes in personal fulfillment for self-aware individuals. 

Sagan writes the Polyamorous Passions chick lit/romantic comedy series, and has published several business books in addition to her work as a romance novelist. She published her first work of fiction in 2018. 


The first 12 episodes of this podcast were originally published on a “secret” platform only for email subscribers, but you can tune in to all of those original episodes right here. This podcast was rebranded from "Indie Author Weekly" to "Author Diary Entries" in April 2025.

Learn more about Sagan’s published works and upcoming novels at SaganMorrow.com/books. Connect with Sagan on Instagram & Threads: @Saganlives

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) indie author, self-publishing, writing life, authorpreneur, self-published, romance novel, romantic comedy novels, book writing, book author Sagan Morrow https://storage.buzzsprout.com/bhqbceesfj2awnbedb96c08n2ifp?.jpg Author Diary Entries https://saganmorrow.com/ Sagan Morrow 195: Generative AI has a major consent and plagiarism problem in creative spaces 195: Generative AI has a major consent and plagiarism problem in creative spaces This episode explores two extremely problematic aspects of generative AI in creative spaces: a) lack of consent, and b) plagiarism. We discuss this through the lens of the performing arts (such as the burlesque community), as well as book events (such as markets). 

This isn’t a call-out, it’s a calling-in, and please know that all of this is said with love! ALSO: I am addressing this episode to people who are using generative AI in the creative spaces. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and assume that most of our listeners here on the Author Diary Entries podcast are NOT using generative AI — in which case, think of this episode as a resource for discussing with others about WHY you don’t use it, and why they should care. Please do share this episode, because this is a very important topic! 

If, on the other hand, you DO use generative AI in the creative spaces… this episode is an appeal to you. And again, this is a calling-in. I do not believe in shaming people, and this is NOT about shaming anyone. If you feel defensive at any point throughout this episode, that’s probably going to be a good indicator that there’s something deeper to explore. Get curious about any defensiveness you might experience. This is an invitation to go within, to think about your values, to get clarity on what matters to you. 

Remember to leave a voicemail for the author after tuning in to this episode, to share your thoughts, insights, questions, and comments! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode explores two extremely problematic aspects of generative AI in creative spaces: a) lack of consent, and b) plagiarism. We discuss this through the lens of the performing arts (such as the burlesque community), as well as book events (such as markets). 

This isn’t a call-out, it’s a calling-in, and please know that all of this is said with love! ALSO: I am addressing this episode to people who are using generative AI in the creative spaces. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and assume that most of our listeners here on the Author Diary Entries podcast are NOT using generative AI — in which case, think of this episode as a resource for discussing with others about WHY you don’t use it, and why they should care. Please do share this episode, because this is a very important topic! 

If, on the other hand, you DO use generative AI in the creative spaces… this episode is an appeal to you. And again, this is a calling-in. I do not believe in shaming people, and this is NOT about shaming anyone. If you feel defensive at any point throughout this episode, that’s probably going to be a good indicator that there’s something deeper to explore. Get curious about any defensiveness you might experience. This is an invitation to go within, to think about your values, to get clarity on what matters to you. 

Remember to leave a voicemail for the author after tuning in to this episode, to share your thoughts, insights, questions, and comments! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-19362771 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0700 1213 196 full false 194: Analysis of character regression in contemporary romance novel (Scarlett in Book 8 of the Polyamorous Passions series) 194: Analysis of character regression in contemporary romance novel (Scarlett in Book 8 of the Polyamorous Passions series) Is it realistic for a character to regress in a novel? Why might a character regress, and is it relatable for them to do that? In this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast, your host and chick lit indie author Sagan Morrow analyzes character regression in contemporary romance novel Kiss Me — Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series. We do an analysis of the main character, Scarlett, and her character development (or regression!) throughout the series… especially since she is initially viewed through the eyes of OTHER characters (Emma, in Books 1 - 3, and Helen, in Books 4 - 6). 

If you’ve ever wondered what’s going on when your favourite character seems to be regressing, this is a must-listen episode for exploring subtext. 

Remember to leave a voicemail for the author after tuning in to this episode, to share your thoughts, insights, questions, and comments! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Is it realistic for a character to regress in a novel? Why might a character regress, and is it relatable for them to do that? In this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast, your host and chick lit indie author Sagan Morrow analyzes character regression in contemporary romance novel Kiss Me — Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series. We do an analysis of the main character, Scarlett, and her character development (or regression!) throughout the series… especially since she is initially viewed through the eyes of OTHER characters (Emma, in Books 1 - 3, and Helen, in Books 4 - 6). 

If you’ve ever wondered what’s going on when your favourite character seems to be regressing, this is a must-listen episode for exploring subtext. 

Remember to leave a voicemail for the author after tuning in to this episode, to share your thoughts, insights, questions, and comments! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-19294862 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0700 722 195 full false 193: LIVE Tarot reading — what this “why choose” novel (Kiss Me) wants you to know 193: LIVE Tarot reading — what this “why choose” novel (Kiss Me) wants you to know Happy World Tarot Day! In celebration, we are doing our FIRST-EVER live Tarot reading on the Author Diary Entries podcast… This Tarot spread explores the question, “What does Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) want to teach you, or tell you, as the reader of this story?” 

The 5-card spread: 

  • Card 1: Overarching message or theme from this book (III Pentacles) 
  • Card 2: Hidden teachings from this book that you might have overlooked (Knight of Pentacles) 
  • Card 3: The underlying vibe of this story (XI Justice) 
  • Card 4: Key attributes of the main characters to pay attention to (IV Swords) 
  • Card 5: General lesson, advice, or overall insights to take away from this novel (III Wands) 

A video was originally recorded along with the audio. The deck used in this Tarot spread is the Rider-Waite-Smith, in case you want to look it up and see what the cards look like visually! 

Tune in to this episode of the podcast to get a full breakdown of the meanings behind each of these cards, and what the cards want us to know about this chick lit novel!  

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Happy World Tarot Day! In celebration, we are doing our FIRST-EVER live Tarot reading on the Author Diary Entries podcast… This Tarot spread explores the question, “What does Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) want to teach you, or tell you, as the reader of this story?” 

The 5-card spread: 

  • Card 1: Overarching message or theme from this book (III Pentacles) 
  • Card 2: Hidden teachings from this book that you might have overlooked (Knight of Pentacles) 
  • Card 3: The underlying vibe of this story (XI Justice) 
  • Card 4: Key attributes of the main characters to pay attention to (IV Swords) 
  • Card 5: General lesson, advice, or overall insights to take away from this novel (III Wands) 

A video was originally recorded along with the audio. The deck used in this Tarot spread is the Rider-Waite-Smith, in case you want to look it up and see what the cards look like visually! 

Tune in to this episode of the podcast to get a full breakdown of the meanings behind each of these cards, and what the cards want us to know about this chick lit novel!  

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-19211180 Mon, 25 May 2026 06:00:00 -0700 1964 194 full false 192: Chick lit book club discussion prompts (Kiss Me — Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) 192: Chick lit book club discussion prompts (Kiss Me — Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) Gather together your romance reader friends and book club besties… In this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast, you’ll get chick lit book club discussion prompts for Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series)! Use these discussion prompts to stimulate conversation, enjoy a deeper reading into contemporary romance novels, explore character motivations, analyze themes and parallel storylines in this chick lit novel, put yourself in the main character’s shoes, and more. 

Remember to leave a voicemail for the author after diving into these discussion prompts, to share your thoughts, insights, questions, and comments! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Gather together your romance reader friends and book club besties… In this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast, you’ll get chick lit book club discussion prompts for Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series)! Use these discussion prompts to stimulate conversation, enjoy a deeper reading into contemporary romance novels, explore character motivations, analyze themes and parallel storylines in this chick lit novel, put yourself in the main character’s shoes, and more. 

Remember to leave a voicemail for the author after diving into these discussion prompts, to share your thoughts, insights, questions, and comments! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-19142551 Tue, 12 May 2026 06:00:00 -0700 526 193 full false 191: Book launch day for Kiss Me (plus a reading from this chick lit novel!) 191: Book launch day for Kiss Me (plus a reading from this chick lit novel!) In celebration of book launch day for Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions “why choose” chick lit series), author Sagan Morrow shares 5 of her favourite things about this novel… plus reads a scene from the story! 

Kiss Me is a heartwarming short novel featuring found family, an extra dose of angst, the why choose trope, a couple steamier scenes, and a people-pleasing burlesque performer who is learning how to put herself first. 

The Polyamorous Passions contemporary romance series follows the lives of three best friends as they each embark on their own journeys into consensual non-monogamy. Books 1—3 focused on Emma, Books 4—6 focused on Helen, and Books 7—9 focus on Scarlett. 

Each novella can be enjoyed as a stand-alone… but because they all build on one another, you'll get the most out of reading them all! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In celebration of book launch day for Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions “why choose” chick lit series), author Sagan Morrow shares 5 of her favourite things about this novel… plus reads a scene from the story! 

Kiss Me is a heartwarming short novel featuring found family, an extra dose of angst, the why choose trope, a couple steamier scenes, and a people-pleasing burlesque performer who is learning how to put herself first. 

The Polyamorous Passions contemporary romance series follows the lives of three best friends as they each embark on their own journeys into consensual non-monogamy. Books 1—3 focused on Emma, Books 4—6 focused on Helen, and Books 7—9 focus on Scarlett. 

Each novella can be enjoyed as a stand-alone… but because they all build on one another, you'll get the most out of reading them all! 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-19067255 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0700 950 192 full false 190: 3 things that came up during the experience of writing & editing Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions contemporary romance series) 190: 3 things that came up during the experience of writing & editing Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions contemporary romance series) Following up on Episode 189… In this episode, “why choose” chick lit author Sagan Morrow shares more about her experience with writing and editing her upcoming release, Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) — plus why it’s taken SO LONG to finish this particular book! 

Kiss Me is a heartwarming short novel featuring found family, morally grey decisions, the why choose trope, a couple steamier scenes, and a people-pleasing burlesque performer who is learning how to put herself first. Book release day for this chick lit novel is April 28, 2026. 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Following up on Episode 189… In this episode, “why choose” chick lit author Sagan Morrow shares more about her experience with writing and editing her upcoming release, Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) — plus why it’s taken SO LONG to finish this particular book! 

Kiss Me is a heartwarming short novel featuring found family, morally grey decisions, the why choose trope, a couple steamier scenes, and a people-pleasing burlesque performer who is learning how to put herself first. Book release day for this chick lit novel is April 28, 2026. 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-18933677 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0700 1263 191 full false 189: ANNOUNCING Kiss Me — why choose chick lit novel (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) 189: ANNOUNCING Kiss Me — why choose chick lit novel (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) In this episode, “why choose” chick lit author Sagan Morrow announces her upcoming release Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) — and shares with you the back-of-book blurb, plus what to expect when you read this novel! 

Kiss Me is a heartwarming short novel featuring found family, morally grey decisions, the why choose trope, a couple steamier scenes, and a people-pleasing burlesque performer who is learning how to put herself first. 

Release day for this chick lit book is coming soon on April 28, 2026. 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, “why choose” chick lit author Sagan Morrow announces her upcoming release Kiss Me (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) — and shares with you the back-of-book blurb, plus what to expect when you read this novel! 

Kiss Me is a heartwarming short novel featuring found family, morally grey decisions, the why choose trope, a couple steamier scenes, and a people-pleasing burlesque performer who is learning how to put herself first. 

Release day for this chick lit book is coming soon on April 28, 2026. 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-18931757 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0700 794 190 full false 188: Subversion & politics of creativity (polyamorous romcom novels, burlesque dancing, personal joy) 188: Subversion & politics of creativity (polyamorous romcom novels, burlesque dancing, personal joy) “As the world changes, what place do my polyamorous romantic comedy novels have in our society? If the world now understands and somewhat accepts open relationships, is there even a need for my novels? These novels are for pre-pandemic times, BEFORE a lot of things changed — so what happens now? Are they ‘subversive enough,’ and is there a place for them?”

These are some of the questions your host, polyamorous romcom indie author and Life Coach Sagan Morrow, explores in this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast! 

We discuss the importance of subversion and politics as part of creative expression, Sagan’s thought process in applying this to her Polyamorous Passions novels, examples of what this looks like in burlesque dance (including a play-by-play breakdown of the subtext for one of Babe Maverick’s most recent burlesque performances), and the deeply sinister nature of the seemingly-innocent “You should smile more!” comment that men so often say to women (and the way you can subvert this through the creative expression of living life). 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> “As the world changes, what place do my polyamorous romantic comedy novels have in our society? If the world now understands and somewhat accepts open relationships, is there even a need for my novels? These novels are for pre-pandemic times, BEFORE a lot of things changed — so what happens now? Are they ‘subversive enough,’ and is there a place for them?”

These are some of the questions your host, polyamorous romcom indie author and Life Coach Sagan Morrow, explores in this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast! 

We discuss the importance of subversion and politics as part of creative expression, Sagan’s thought process in applying this to her Polyamorous Passions novels, examples of what this looks like in burlesque dance (including a play-by-play breakdown of the subtext for one of Babe Maverick’s most recent burlesque performances), and the deeply sinister nature of the seemingly-innocent “You should smile more!” comment that men so often say to women (and the way you can subvert this through the creative expression of living life). 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-17563805 Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 1788 Creativity 189 full true 187: You are hurting YOURSELF when you use AI to "write" your books 187: You are hurting YOURSELF when you use AI to "write" your books Using generative AI to quote-unquote “write” a book is harmful not only to the artists those people are plagiarizing from, but it’s also harmful to the plagiarizer and to CREATIVITY, itself. 

Let’s talk about that! In this episode, your Author Diary Entries podcast host — romcom novelist and Personal Fulfillment Coach Sagan Morrow — takes the conversation about *AI as art theft* a step further by exploring the self-exploitation that occurs throughout this process, and the way in which we are now living a creative dystopian nightmare/horror story when so many people willingly give up their own voice, their own creativity, their own artistic experience, by outsourcing it to AI.

Resources you might like and links mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Using generative AI to quote-unquote “write” a book is harmful not only to the artists those people are plagiarizing from, but it’s also harmful to the plagiarizer and to CREATIVITY, itself. 

Let’s talk about that! In this episode, your Author Diary Entries podcast host — romcom novelist and Personal Fulfillment Coach Sagan Morrow — takes the conversation about *AI as art theft* a step further by exploring the self-exploitation that occurs throughout this process, and the way in which we are now living a creative dystopian nightmare/horror story when so many people willingly give up their own voice, their own creativity, their own artistic experience, by outsourcing it to AI.

Resources you might like and links mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-17423776 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0700 655 Creativity 188 full false 186: The art of creative weirdness (and an ode to Z Nation, burlesque dancing, and My Lady Jane) 186: The art of creative weirdness (and an ode to Z Nation, burlesque dancing, and My Lady Jane) What is the art of creative weirdness? What are some great examples of creative weirdness, and how can YOU tap into your own creative weirdness when you are creating art (of any kind)? What is the ONE situation in which creative weirdness is NOT effective? Does art NEED to be “weird” in order to be powerful and incredible? What social commentary and feminist lenses can we view mainstream blockbuster action movies like Die Hard and Top Gun? 

We answer all of these questions and more in this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast! 

We collectively, as a society, do NOT share our weirdness enough! So let’s talk about that today, through the lens of creative weirdness in TV (this is essentially a rave review of Z Nation), creative weirdness in performance art (burlesque dancing and what makes the burlesque community so special in general), and creative weirdness in novels (My Lady Jane). 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> What is the art of creative weirdness? What are some great examples of creative weirdness, and how can YOU tap into your own creative weirdness when you are creating art (of any kind)? What is the ONE situation in which creative weirdness is NOT effective? Does art NEED to be “weird” in order to be powerful and incredible? What social commentary and feminist lenses can we view mainstream blockbuster action movies like Die Hard and Top Gun? 

We answer all of these questions and more in this episode of the Author Diary Entries podcast! 

We collectively, as a society, do NOT share our weirdness enough! So let’s talk about that today, through the lens of creative weirdness in TV (this is essentially a rave review of Z Nation), creative weirdness in performance art (burlesque dancing and what makes the burlesque community so special in general), and creative weirdness in novels (My Lady Jane). 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-17346188 Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0700 1356 Creativity 187 full false 185: "Reader mindset" method for rewrites (book writing update!) 185: "Reader mindset" method for rewrites (book writing update!) In this episode, your host and indie author Sagan Morrow shares her experience with reviewing her current work-in-progress (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) using a "reader mindset" prior to doing rewrites! 

She shares her process and results for reviewing her current WIP as a reader: 

Find out a breakdown of the process she’s using, the game-changing book writing method that’s shifted her out of Author mindset and into Reader mindset (plus why this matters), and 5 fascinating things that came up for her throughout this process... 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, your host and indie author Sagan Morrow shares her experience with reviewing her current work-in-progress (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series) using a "reader mindset" prior to doing rewrites! 

She shares her process and results for reviewing her current WIP as a reader: 

Find out a breakdown of the process she’s using, the game-changing book writing method that’s shifted her out of Author mindset and into Reader mindset (plus why this matters), and 5 fascinating things that came up for her throughout this process... 

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-17270317 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0700 1716 186 full false 184: Creative cross training as a tool to navigate creative blocks 184: Creative cross training as a tool to navigate creative blocks What is creative cross training, and how can it help you navigate (and overcome) creative blocks? In this episode, Sagan shares examples of creative cross training and the importance of creative cross training (and how it’s prevented her from having any major creative blocks as a business owner, indie author, and multi-passionate creative)...

...Plus why focusing on one thing can get boring and lead to creative stagnation, and 5 important tips for effective creative cross training.

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> What is creative cross training, and how can it help you navigate (and overcome) creative blocks? In this episode, Sagan shares examples of creative cross training and the importance of creative cross training (and how it’s prevented her from having any major creative blocks as a business owner, indie author, and multi-passionate creative)...

...Plus why focusing on one thing can get boring and lead to creative stagnation, and 5 important tips for effective creative cross training.

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-17152844 Tue, 13 May 2025 14:00:00 -0700 1118 Creativity 185 full false 183: Can you write about polyamory if you aren’t actively polyamorous? 183: Can you write about polyamory if you aren’t actively polyamorous? In this episode, we explore the difference between polyamorous IDENTITY vs the PRACTICE of that identity, and answer these questions: Can you write about polyamory if you aren’t ACTIVELY polyamorous? Do you ever think being polyamorous is a phase, and that you and your spouse might go back to being monogamous?

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we explore the difference between polyamorous IDENTITY vs the PRACTICE of that identity, and answer these questions: Can you write about polyamory if you aren’t ACTIVELY polyamorous? Do you ever think being polyamorous is a phase, and that you and your spouse might go back to being monogamous?

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-17037893 Tue, 06 May 2025 07:00:00 -0700 584 Polyamory 184 full false 182: Let people ENJOY things! (In defence of Twilight Instagrammers) 182: Let people ENJOY things! (In defence of Twilight Instagrammers) Find out why Sagan got outraged at a random person’s Instagram comment when they were dismissive of a 30-something Twilight Instagrammer reading Young Adult novels, the POWER of the YA genre, why you should read what makes you happy, her opinions about referring to romance novels as “fluffy,” and more!

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Find out why Sagan got outraged at a random person’s Instagram comment when they were dismissive of a 30-something Twilight Instagrammer reading Young Adult novels, the POWER of the YA genre, why you should read what makes you happy, her opinions about referring to romance novels as “fluffy,” and more!

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-16955029 Tue, 29 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0700 875 Romance Novels 183 full false 181: Queerness in my romance novels 181: Queerness in my romance novels “Do you write queer characters?” → Well… Yes and no! In this episode, I explain why this question is a tricky one, what makes a novel “queer enough” (an even more loaded question!), the nuance behind all of this, and the importance of using the words and labels that feel right for you.

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> “Do you write queer characters?” → Well… Yes and no! In this episode, I explain why this question is a tricky one, what makes a novel “queer enough” (an even more loaded question!), the nuance behind all of this, and the importance of using the words and labels that feel right for you.

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-16949086 Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0700 371 Romance Novels 182 full false 180: Labels and gatekeeping in romance novels 180: Labels and gatekeeping in romance novels Is it rude to refer to a romance novel “smut”? Not to me ;) You can call my books whatever you want! …BUT, there’s a lot of nuance to this (and context matters) — so in this episode, we’re exploring important questions we need to ask around the labels we use, our intentions behind our word choices, and the problems with gatekeeping in the romance novel community. 

Examples we discuss in this episode include: Smut, enemies to lovers trope, spice levels, smutty vs spicy vs sexy, and “fairy porn” in romantasy.

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Is it rude to refer to a romance novel “smut”? Not to me ;) You can call my books whatever you want! …BUT, there’s a lot of nuance to this (and context matters) — so in this episode, we’re exploring important questions we need to ask around the labels we use, our intentions behind our word choices, and the problems with gatekeeping in the romance novel community. 

Examples we discuss in this episode include: Smut, enemies to lovers trope, spice levels, smutty vs spicy vs sexy, and “fairy porn” in romantasy.

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-16949034 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0700 712 Romance Novels 181 full false 179: Author update (one year later) 179: Author update (one year later) In this episode, your host (and indie author) Sagan Morrow shares an author update about what she's been working on since our previous episode over a year ago, plus why we've rebranded the podcast from "Indie Author Weekly" to "Author Diary Entries!"

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

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]]> In this episode, your host (and indie author) Sagan Morrow shares an author update about what she's been working on since our previous episode over a year ago, plus why we've rebranded the podcast from "Indie Author Weekly" to "Author Diary Entries!"

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-16948993 Wed, 09 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0700 987 Indie Author 180 full false 178: On being a beginner vs intermediate at your practice (and why being a beginner can be a lot easier!) 178: On being a beginner vs intermediate at your practice (and why being a beginner can be a lot easier!) In this episode, we explore the dynamic of being a beginner vs being intermediate at your practice... and why being a beginner can, in some ways, be a lot easier! Tune in now to find out about the pressure I put on myself in my 2nd solo burlesque dance performance, what I took from that experience compared to my 1st solo burlesque act, how this connects back to my work as a fiction author, and the top 3 takeaways for how you can apply this to your own creative practice or craft (including important questions to ask yourself in order to relieve fear and/or pressure from yourself).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

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]]> In this episode, we explore the dynamic of being a beginner vs being intermediate at your practice... and why being a beginner can, in some ways, be a lot easier! Tune in now to find out about the pressure I put on myself in my 2nd solo burlesque dance performance, what I took from that experience compared to my 1st solo burlesque act, how this connects back to my work as a fiction author, and the top 3 takeaways for how you can apply this to your own creative practice or craft (including important questions to ask yourself in order to relieve fear and/or pressure from yourself).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14548814 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 22:00:00 -0800 983 Creativity 179 full false 177: Ideation, content creation, and writing process for my Solopreneur Diary Entries weekly newsletter 177: Ideation, content creation, and writing process for my Solopreneur Diary Entries weekly newsletter In our previous episode, Episode 176, we talked about what it means to be a creative and an indie author — and how it can be so much more comprehensive than book writing! That's why, in today’s episode, I want to build on that and share with you the idea creation and writing process around my weekly Saturday email newsletter: the Solopreneur Diary Entries.

Tune in now for the inside scoop on what that weekly newsletter is all about, an exercise to expand your own creativity, why I never worry about coming up with fresh new ideas (even after writing these emails for 8-ish years), the logistics of my writing process, and more...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

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]]> In our previous episode, Episode 176, we talked about what it means to be a creative and an indie author — and how it can be so much more comprehensive than book writing! That's why, in today’s episode, I want to build on that and share with you the idea creation and writing process around my weekly Saturday email newsletter: the Solopreneur Diary Entries.

Tune in now for the inside scoop on what that weekly newsletter is all about, an exercise to expand your own creativity, why I never worry about coming up with fresh new ideas (even after writing these emails for 8-ish years), the logistics of my writing process, and more...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14474697 Mon, 19 Feb 2024 22:00:00 -0800 1189 Creativity 178 full false 176: What does it mean to be a creative and an indie author? 176: What does it mean to be a creative and an indie author? In our most recent couple of episodes here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we’ve been exploring the importance of trust in the creative process — including self trust and trusting others. I want to take it a step back today and ask this question: What does it even mean to be a creative, and, since this is the Indie Author Weekly podcast, what does it mean to be an indie author?

Especially given that recently here on the podcast, I’ve been sharing about my creative process in designing burlesque choreography. What does that have to do with being an indie author? Can we count that as something appropriate for our purposes of being on this podcast? 

TUNE IN NOW for my take on the question of “What does it mean to be a creative and an indie author” — plus what you can expect as we move forward with the Indie Author Weekly podcast...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

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]]> In our most recent couple of episodes here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we’ve been exploring the importance of trust in the creative process — including self trust and trusting others. I want to take it a step back today and ask this question: What does it even mean to be a creative, and, since this is the Indie Author Weekly podcast, what does it mean to be an indie author?

Especially given that recently here on the podcast, I’ve been sharing about my creative process in designing burlesque choreography. What does that have to do with being an indie author? Can we count that as something appropriate for our purposes of being on this podcast? 

TUNE IN NOW for my take on the question of “What does it mean to be a creative and an indie author” — plus what you can expect as we move forward with the Indie Author Weekly podcast...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14452324 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 22:00:00 -0800 888 Creativity, Indie Author 177 full false 175: Creative process as a solo artist (trusting OTHERS) 175: Creative process as a solo artist (trusting OTHERS) In this episode, we explore the delicate balance of the creative process when you are a solo artist — Because it’s hard to maintain distance and objectivity when you are working on creative pursuits in a silo! Is it good enough? Is it good at all? Are you conveying what you intend to convey? Even if it IS “good enough,” what interesting improvements can be made? And if you don’t have confidence in it being “good enough,” how is that going to affect the way you share your work with the world?

These are all big questions! 

In our previous episode here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we talked about the value and importance of trusting yourself and building that self trust muscle. Tune into episode 174 to check it out — it’s a great episode and includes a 3-part exercise for improving self trust!

So in this episode, let’s talk about a different element of TRUST — trusting other people and bringing them into the creative process when you're a solo artist...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we explore the delicate balance of the creative process when you are a solo artist — Because it’s hard to maintain distance and objectivity when you are working on creative pursuits in a silo! Is it good enough? Is it good at all? Are you conveying what you intend to convey? Even if it IS “good enough,” what interesting improvements can be made? And if you don’t have confidence in it being “good enough,” how is that going to affect the way you share your work with the world?

These are all big questions! 

In our previous episode here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we talked about the value and importance of trusting yourself and building that self trust muscle. Tune into episode 174 to check it out — it’s a great episode and includes a 3-part exercise for improving self trust!

So in this episode, let’s talk about a different element of TRUST — trusting other people and bringing them into the creative process when you're a solo artist...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14450389 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0800 1348 Creativity, Indie Author, Self Trust 176 full false 174: Self trust thought exercise when you experience self doubt as a creative 174: Self trust thought exercise when you experience self doubt as a creative In this episode, I talk about the balance between trusting yourself AND not believing that negative voice in your head which might be filled with self doubt.

As long-time listeners of the podcast will already know, I’m a Personal Fulfillment Coach when I’m not writing novels! And many of my clients first come to me because they’re struggling internally: there’s an internal battle going on, where they have a mean voice in their head that sends them into negative thought spirals.

I feel like we can ALL relate to this. Most of us have at the very least experienced this from time to time. And when it comes to ANYTHING in life — including our creative endeavours — we need to be able to differentiate between those parts within us.

TUNE IN to this episode for a 3-question thought exercise to help you navigate self doubt and improve your self trust.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, I talk about the balance between trusting yourself AND not believing that negative voice in your head which might be filled with self doubt.

As long-time listeners of the podcast will already know, I’m a Personal Fulfillment Coach when I’m not writing novels! And many of my clients first come to me because they’re struggling internally: there’s an internal battle going on, where they have a mean voice in their head that sends them into negative thought spirals.

I feel like we can ALL relate to this. Most of us have at the very least experienced this from time to time. And when it comes to ANYTHING in life — including our creative endeavours — we need to be able to differentiate between those parts within us.

TUNE IN to this episode for a 3-question thought exercise to help you navigate self doubt and improve your self trust.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14340711 Mon, 29 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0800 809 Self Trust, Creativity, Personal Fulfillment 175 full false 173: 5 observations while reviewing my current work-in-progress 173: 5 observations while reviewing my current work-in-progress Last week, I went through the entirety of my current work in progress — Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series. So today I want to share with you what happened when I read through it… It had been a few months since I last worked on it, so it was great to review it with fresh eyes!

There were 5 main things that jumped out at me… TUNE IN to this episode to find out what I realized and discovered as a result of reviewing the first full draft of my current work in progress manuscript.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Last week, I went through the entirety of my current work in progress — Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series. So today I want to share with you what happened when I read through it… It had been a few months since I last worked on it, so it was great to review it with fresh eyes!

There were 5 main things that jumped out at me… TUNE IN to this episode to find out what I realized and discovered as a result of reviewing the first full draft of my current work in progress manuscript.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14340679 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0800 1199 Indie Author 174 full false 172: Improving one's relationship with the creative process 172: Improving one's relationship with the creative process This episode is a follow-up to the previous episode, and shares recommendations and thoughts about how to improve your relationship with the creative process (what to do BEFORE you even sit down at the computer and start writing, plus a beautiful question to hold onto and guide you through the creative process).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> This episode is a follow-up to the previous episode, and shares recommendations and thoughts about how to improve your relationship with the creative process (what to do BEFORE you even sit down at the computer and start writing, plus a beautiful question to hold onto and guide you through the creative process).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14315351 Mon, 15 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0800 645 Creativity 173 full false 171: Applying my 2024 Word of the Year to creative writing 171: Applying my 2024 Word of the Year to creative writing In this episode, find out how my 2024 Word of the Year — ELEVATE — connects back and translates into my work as a writer... elevating my approach to my work! PLUS, tune in to find out what I am NOT doing this year as an indie author (this decision feels so, so good).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

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Support the show

]]> In this episode, find out how my 2024 Word of the Year — ELEVATE — connects back and translates into my work as a writer... elevating my approach to my work! PLUS, tune in to find out what I am NOT doing this year as an indie author (this decision feels so, so good).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-14272088 Mon, 08 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0800 570 Creativity, Indie Author 172 full false 170: 3 steps to make time for creative pursuits when "life is life-ing" 170: 3 steps to make time for creative pursuits when "life is life-ing" How can you prioritize writing (or any creative pursuit, or a solopreneur business, or a passion project, or a hobby, etc) when life “gets in the way”?

In this episode, learn my 3-step strategy for how to DO this — plus a personal example of this in action with my own writing projects.

Want help with unpacking mindset blocks, setting and upholding boundaries, strategizing plans, and keeping accountable to what you want from you life? I’m here to support you! Book a coaching call: https://saganmorrow.com/coaching/ 


Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> How can you prioritize writing (or any creative pursuit, or a solopreneur business, or a passion project, or a hobby, etc) when life “gets in the way”?

In this episode, learn my 3-step strategy for how to DO this — plus a personal example of this in action with my own writing projects.

Want help with unpacking mindset blocks, setting and upholding boundaries, strategizing plans, and keeping accountable to what you want from you life? I’m here to support you! Book a coaching call: https://saganmorrow.com/coaching/ 


Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13930013 Tue, 07 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0800 1490 Creativity, Work Life Balance, Personal Fulfillment 171 full false 169: How a new dance class is affecting my book writing plans 169: How a new dance class is affecting my book writing plans I began a new solo development dance class last month in preparation for my first-ever solo burlesque show... and that's given me a few ideas for incorporating burlesque choreography and culture into my upcoming romcom novel (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series)!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> I began a new solo development dance class last month in preparation for my first-ever solo burlesque show... and that's given me a few ideas for incorporating burlesque choreography and culture into my upcoming romcom novel (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series)!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13832341 Mon, 23 Oct 2023 22:00:00 -0700 688 Indie Author, Burlesque, Romance Novels 170 full false 168: Writing alternative relationships, Q&A Part 3 168: Writing alternative relationships, Q&A Part 3 This episode provides Q&A inspired by the Weeknight Writers "Writing Alternative Relationships" panel discussion I spoke at this past summer — it's a follow up to our previous two episodes where I answered the first 5 questions: 

  • Q6: In romances, people usually expect a level of sexual tension that leads to sexual catharsis; how can you create a relationship arc where people have a similar level of emotional catharsis without the sexual aspect?
  • Q7: How do you manage a story with multiple love interests and/or romance arcs?
  • Q8: What kinds of alternative relationships do you want to see more of? How would you like existing representation of alternative relationship models to change?
  • Q9: What do you love MOST about writing the alternative relationships you do?

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode provides Q&A inspired by the Weeknight Writers "Writing Alternative Relationships" panel discussion I spoke at this past summer — it's a follow up to our previous two episodes where I answered the first 5 questions: 

  • Q6: In romances, people usually expect a level of sexual tension that leads to sexual catharsis; how can you create a relationship arc where people have a similar level of emotional catharsis without the sexual aspect?
  • Q7: How do you manage a story with multiple love interests and/or romance arcs?
  • Q8: What kinds of alternative relationships do you want to see more of? How would you like existing representation of alternative relationship models to change?
  • Q9: What do you love MOST about writing the alternative relationships you do?

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13665513 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1224 Polyamory, Indie Author 169 full false 167: Writing alternative relationships, Q&A Part 2 167: Writing alternative relationships, Q&A Part 2 This episode provides Q&A inspired by the Weeknight Writers "Writing Alternative Relationships" panel discussion I spoke at this past summer — it's a follow up to our previous episode where I answered the first 3 questions: 

  • Q4: What level of awareness is it important to have when thinking about writing alternative relationships? (harmful tropes to avoid, poor representation traps, trusted places against which to check info/questions about types of alternative relationships we’re less familiar with?)
  • Q5: What advice would you give to a writer who wants to create a world where these alternative relationship models are considered normal or even the norm? What changes would this normalization have?

Stay tuned for Part 3 of this Q&A, coming next week!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode provides Q&A inspired by the Weeknight Writers "Writing Alternative Relationships" panel discussion I spoke at this past summer — it's a follow up to our previous episode where I answered the first 3 questions: 

  • Q4: What level of awareness is it important to have when thinking about writing alternative relationships? (harmful tropes to avoid, poor representation traps, trusted places against which to check info/questions about types of alternative relationships we’re less familiar with?)
  • Q5: What advice would you give to a writer who wants to create a world where these alternative relationship models are considered normal or even the norm? What changes would this normalization have?

Stay tuned for Part 3 of this Q&A, coming next week!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13665486 Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:00:00 -0700 823 Polyamory, Indie Author 168 full false 166: Writing alternative relationships, Q&A Part 1 166: Writing alternative relationships, Q&A Part 1 This episode provides Q&A inspired by the Weeknight Writers "Writing Alternative Relationships" panel discussion I spoke at this past summer...

  • About the type of alternative relationships I write in my novels.
  • Q1: Do you believe it’s inherently radical to write alternative relationship models?
  • Q2: How does writing alternative relationships affect the way in which you construct your setting and/or frame the in-story relationship between the level of support (or difficulty) the alternatively romantic characters have with the society they live in?
  • Q3: How do you deal with the exploration & creation of boundaries in alternative relationship models? 

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this Q&A, coming next week!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode provides Q&A inspired by the Weeknight Writers "Writing Alternative Relationships" panel discussion I spoke at this past summer...

  • About the type of alternative relationships I write in my novels.
  • Q1: Do you believe it’s inherently radical to write alternative relationship models?
  • Q2: How does writing alternative relationships affect the way in which you construct your setting and/or frame the in-story relationship between the level of support (or difficulty) the alternatively romantic characters have with the society they live in?
  • Q3: How do you deal with the exploration & creation of boundaries in alternative relationship models? 

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this Q&A, coming next week!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13665449 Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0700 999 Polyamory, Indie Author 167 full false 165: Writing childfree women 165: Writing childfree women In this episode, we discuss...

  • Why I write childfree women in my Polyamorous Passions novel and Small Town Stilettos (quick examples of my characters).
  • My personal reasons for being childfree.
  • What it means to be "selfish" (wanting to have children vs not wanting to have children).
  • The societal pressures to have children (a masquerade to control women's bodies).
  • A trope I cannot STAND in fiction related to childfree women.
  • My reaction when I found out that physically I shouldn't/can't have children (years after deciding I didn't want kids).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we discuss...

  • Why I write childfree women in my Polyamorous Passions novel and Small Town Stilettos (quick examples of my characters).
  • My personal reasons for being childfree.
  • What it means to be "selfish" (wanting to have children vs not wanting to have children).
  • The societal pressures to have children (a masquerade to control women's bodies).
  • A trope I cannot STAND in fiction related to childfree women.
  • My reaction when I found out that physically I shouldn't/can't have children (years after deciding I didn't want kids).

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13598401 Mon, 18 Sep 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1362 Childfree, Indie Author, Romance Novels 166 full false 164: Book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos (part 2 — marketing expenses, book sales and dollars earned, and mindset struggles) 164: Book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos (part 2 — marketing expenses, book sales and dollars earned, and mindset struggles) In this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we are doing PART TWO of the book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience!

We discuss: 

  • Breakdown of book marketing expenses and total monetary investment.
  • Results of the book launch (actual numbers for book sales and dollars earned).
  • Mindset struggles and shifts.
  • Next steps moving forward with general book marketing.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we are doing PART TWO of the book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience!

We discuss: 

  • Breakdown of book marketing expenses and total monetary investment.
  • Results of the book launch (actual numbers for book sales and dollars earned).
  • Mindset struggles and shifts.
  • Next steps moving forward with general book marketing.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13557643 Mon, 11 Sep 2023 22:00:00 -0700 2157 Small Town Stilettos, Book Launch, Indie Author 165 full false 163: Book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos (part 1 — marketing strategies, mistakes made, and what I'd do differently next time) 163: Book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos (part 1 — marketing strategies, mistakes made, and what I'd do differently next time) In this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we are doing PART ONE of the book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience!

We discuss: 

  • 5 marketing strategies I used for the book launch.
  • 6 mistakes I made with this book launch.
  • 7 things I'd do differently with a future book launch.

Stay tuned for PART TWO of the Small Town Stilettos book launch recap on next week's episode of Indie Author Weekly — we'll be diving into the numbers (book expenses, book sales, and dollars earned), as well as the mindset stuff that came up throughout this book launch, plus 3 big experiments I want to try for general book marketing.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast, we are doing PART ONE of the book launch recap for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience!

We discuss: 

  • 5 marketing strategies I used for the book launch.
  • 6 mistakes I made with this book launch.
  • 7 things I'd do differently with a future book launch.

Stay tuned for PART TWO of the Small Town Stilettos book launch recap on next week's episode of Indie Author Weekly — we'll be diving into the numbers (book expenses, book sales, and dollars earned), as well as the mindset stuff that came up throughout this book launch, plus 3 big experiments I want to try for general book marketing.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13513258 Mon, 04 Sep 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1902 Small Town Stilettos, Book Launch, Indie Author 164 full false 162: How my polyamorous romcoms all fit together 162: How my polyamorous romcoms all fit together In this episode, we explore how the stand-alone novel Small Town Stilettos fits into the Polyamorous Passions series, and the interconnectedness of the “world” of these polyamorous romantic comedy novels. Learn more about the world of Polyamorous Passions, background on the fictional settings, character overlaps and interactions, and more!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we explore how the stand-alone novel Small Town Stilettos fits into the Polyamorous Passions series, and the interconnectedness of the “world” of these polyamorous romantic comedy novels. Learn more about the world of Polyamorous Passions, background on the fictional settings, character overlaps and interactions, and more!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13491735 Tue, 29 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0700 928 Polyamory, Romance Novels, Polyamorous Passions, Small Town Stilettos 163 full false 161: Frivolity, worthiness, and internalized misogyny (from Taylor Swift to romcoms) 161: Frivolity, worthiness, and internalized misogyny (from Taylor Swift to romcoms) In this episode, we explore...

  • What makes something "frivolous,” vs worthy or deserving of your attention and enjoyment? 
  • Internalized misogyny that can come to play with how we perceive Taylor Swift, romantic comedies, and more.
  • The perceived validity and worthiness of more "serious" content vs women being allowed to have fun and put themselves first.
  • Questions to explore to overcome feelings of embarrassment and shame about your (or other people's) "guilty pleasures," and the freedom and liberation of allowing more frivolity and personal enjoyment, regardless of how "silly" a thing may be perceived.

(This episode contains swearing between 6:45 - 7:02)

Resources & links mentioned on the podcast: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we explore...

  • What makes something "frivolous,” vs worthy or deserving of your attention and enjoyment? 
  • Internalized misogyny that can come to play with how we perceive Taylor Swift, romantic comedies, and more.
  • The perceived validity and worthiness of more "serious" content vs women being allowed to have fun and put themselves first.
  • Questions to explore to overcome feelings of embarrassment and shame about your (or other people's) "guilty pleasures," and the freedom and liberation of allowing more frivolity and personal enjoyment, regardless of how "silly" a thing may be perceived.

(This episode contains swearing between 6:45 - 7:02)

Resources & links mentioned on the podcast: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13444214 Mon, 21 Aug 2023 22:00:00 -0700 723 Romance Novels, Feminism, Personal Fulfillment 162 full true 160: The responsibility, risk, privilege, and choices involved in writing polyamorous romantic comedies 160: The responsibility, risk, privilege, and choices involved in writing polyamorous romantic comedies “What made you decide to write polyamorous romcoms?” Today we’re answering THIS question!

In this episode, we address the luxury and privilege of talking about “controversial” topics such as polyamory and burlesque, the responsibility vs risks of being open about this, the concept of sharing your values without explicitly stating them, the reasoning behind my very deliberate decision to use the setting of contemporary romantic comedy to feature polyamory, and more.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> “What made you decide to write polyamorous romcoms?” Today we’re answering THIS question!

In this episode, we address the luxury and privilege of talking about “controversial” topics such as polyamory and burlesque, the responsibility vs risks of being open about this, the concept of sharing your values without explicitly stating them, the reasoning behind my very deliberate decision to use the setting of contemporary romantic comedy to feature polyamory, and more.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13409886 Tue, 15 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700 1438 Polyamory, Romance Novels, Polyamorous Passions 161 full false 159: Book club discussion prompts for Small Town Stilettos 159: Book club discussion prompts for Small Town Stilettos "Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience" deals with a variety of different themes (including grief, loss, and personal identity) and it’s the perfect novel to discuss at your book club! This episode features 10 book club discussion prompts, ranging from character development to fat positivity to societal expectations of women and more.

Get the PDF version of these book club discussion prompts when you join Sagan's author newsletter: http://saganmorrow.com/secretpodcast

GRAB YOUR COPY of Small Town Stilettos: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> "Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience" deals with a variety of different themes (including grief, loss, and personal identity) and it’s the perfect novel to discuss at your book club! This episode features 10 book club discussion prompts, ranging from character development to fat positivity to societal expectations of women and more.

Get the PDF version of these book club discussion prompts when you join Sagan's author newsletter: http://saganmorrow.com/secretpodcast

GRAB YOUR COPY of Small Town Stilettos: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13309624 Mon, 07 Aug 2023 22:00:00 -0700 390 Small Town Stilettos, Book Club Discussion, Romance Novels 160 full false 158: On writing "selfish" women 158: On writing "selfish" women In this episode, I’m addressing a particular complaint that some readers have had in their reviews about my latest romance novel, Small Town Stilettos — some of the reviews dislike the main character, Margaret, because she is perceived as “selfish.”

In this episode, we explore this idea a little further: What makes a person selfish? How do we determine whether a person is selfish or not? Why are we put off by a character who puts their own self-interest first? Why is there a double-standard for women vs men when it comes to how “selfish” we are allowed to be?

I want more readers to give themselves permission, in their own lives, to put themselves first, and to recognize that putting themselves first doesn’t make them a bad person, it doesn't make them selfish, and it doesn’t even necessarily need to mean that other people won’t get what they want or that putting yourself first is at the detriment or cost of other things. 

You can get what you want, and do good things in the world. These aren’t mutually exclusive! 

You are allowed to know what you want, to express what you want, to put yourself first. Especially if you are constantly putting others before you. Especially if you feel guilty about expressing your wants and needs. Especially if you are not ALLOWING yourself to have and be what you want in life.

So every time a reviewer mentions something about my characters being selfish, to be honest, it just makes me want to write MORE " selfish" women. To normalize women asking for what they want and need; to normalize women speaking up for themselves and asserting themselves; to normalize women being unapologetic about their drives and desires.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, I’m addressing a particular complaint that some readers have had in their reviews about my latest romance novel, Small Town Stilettos — some of the reviews dislike the main character, Margaret, because she is perceived as “selfish.”

In this episode, we explore this idea a little further: What makes a person selfish? How do we determine whether a person is selfish or not? Why are we put off by a character who puts their own self-interest first? Why is there a double-standard for women vs men when it comes to how “selfish” we are allowed to be?

I want more readers to give themselves permission, in their own lives, to put themselves first, and to recognize that putting themselves first doesn’t make them a bad person, it doesn't make them selfish, and it doesn’t even necessarily need to mean that other people won’t get what they want or that putting yourself first is at the detriment or cost of other things. 

You can get what you want, and do good things in the world. These aren’t mutually exclusive! 

You are allowed to know what you want, to express what you want, to put yourself first. Especially if you are constantly putting others before you. Especially if you feel guilty about expressing your wants and needs. Especially if you are not ALLOWING yourself to have and be what you want in life.

So every time a reviewer mentions something about my characters being selfish, to be honest, it just makes me want to write MORE " selfish" women. To normalize women asking for what they want and need; to normalize women speaking up for themselves and asserting themselves; to normalize women being unapologetic about their drives and desires.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13282073 Mon, 31 Jul 2023 22:00:00 -0700 856 Romance Novels, Feminism, Personal Fulfillment 159 full false 157: Book release day for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience (what readers are saying about this romance novel!) 157: Book release day for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience (what readers are saying about this romance novel!) Happy book release day to Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience!

In this episode, I share with you what advance readers are already saying about this romance novel, so you can determine whether it's something you might be interested in reading, too...

Join me in celebrating this book launch on social media! You can find me on Twitter or Instagram, @Saganlives — a ReTweet about this book release or sharing it to your Instagram Stories truly does help with spreading the word so that more readers can find this novel.

GRAB YOUR COPY: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

(Featuring an ambitious childfree fat-positive fashion designer heroine, love triangle with cinnamon roll heroes, closed door romance, only one bed, positive female friendships, polyamory, and more.)

Please rate and review Small Town Stilettos on Amazon and/or Goodreads so that more readers can find and enjoy this fun summertime romance novel!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Happy book release day to Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience!

In this episode, I share with you what advance readers are already saying about this romance novel, so you can determine whether it's something you might be interested in reading, too...

Join me in celebrating this book launch on social media! You can find me on Twitter or Instagram, @Saganlives — a ReTweet about this book release or sharing it to your Instagram Stories truly does help with spreading the word so that more readers can find this novel.

GRAB YOUR COPY: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

(Featuring an ambitious childfree fat-positive fashion designer heroine, love triangle with cinnamon roll heroes, closed door romance, only one bed, positive female friendships, polyamory, and more.)

Please rate and review Small Town Stilettos on Amazon and/or Goodreads so that more readers can find and enjoy this fun summertime romance novel!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13265527 Mon, 24 Jul 2023 22:00:00 -0700 465 Small Town Stilettos, Book Launch, Indie Author, Romance Novels 158 full false 156: A(nother!) reading from Small Town Stilettos 156: A(nother!) reading from Small Town Stilettos In this episode, I'm doing a reading from the first chapter of Small Town Stilettos — this is the scene where Margaret first hears about how she's being forced into a modern marriage of convenience in order to access her inheritance...

Small Town Stilettos on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/174111898-small-town-stilettos

Small Town Stilettos on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, I'm doing a reading from the first chapter of Small Town Stilettos — this is the scene where Margaret first hears about how she's being forced into a modern marriage of convenience in order to access her inheritance...

Small Town Stilettos on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/174111898-small-town-stilettos

Small Town Stilettos on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13175136 Mon, 17 Jul 2023 22:00:00 -0700 748 Small Town Stilettos, Indie Author, Romance Novels 157 full false 155: Some of the inspiration for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience 155: Some of the inspiration for Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience In this episode, you'll get an overview about the plot of Small Town Stilettos, plus background about the real-life inspiration for this story and how some of the ideas in this novel came about.

Small Town Stilettos on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/174111898-small-town-stilettos

Small Town Stilettos on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, you'll get an overview about the plot of Small Town Stilettos, plus background about the real-life inspiration for this story and how some of the ideas in this novel came about.

Small Town Stilettos on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/174111898-small-town-stilettos

Small Town Stilettos on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13174987 Mon, 10 Jul 2023 22:00:00 -0700 797 Small Town Stilettos, Indie Author, Romance Novels 156 full false 154: 7 ways to help with an indie author’s book launch 154: 7 ways to help with an indie author’s book launch Find out 7 ways you can support an indie author with their book launch — this is a wonderful opportunity to support the creatives in your life (and some of these are simple, easy ideas you can do in just a few minutes!)

I share why it matters so much to get my novels in the hands of as many people as possible — we are literally changing lives around here and helping more readers discover themselves, embrace who they are and what they want from life, and deepening our understanding, compassion, and empathy for one another.

Stories are powerful and life changing. And YOU can play a part in that life changing experience! Tune into this episode to find out how…

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Find out 7 ways you can support an indie author with their book launch — this is a wonderful opportunity to support the creatives in your life (and some of these are simple, easy ideas you can do in just a few minutes!)

I share why it matters so much to get my novels in the hands of as many people as possible — we are literally changing lives around here and helping more readers discover themselves, embrace who they are and what they want from life, and deepening our understanding, compassion, and empathy for one another.

Stories are powerful and life changing. And YOU can play a part in that life changing experience! Tune into this episode to find out how…

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13103389 Mon, 03 Jul 2023 22:00:00 -0700 678 Book Launch, Indie Author 155 full false 153: Book launch marketing plans and goals for Small Town Stilettos (7 strategies I'm using) 153: Book launch marketing plans and goals for Small Town Stilettos (7 strategies I'm using) This episode shares the top 7 things I’m doing as part of the “Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience” book launch! We discuss…

  • The specific marketing strategies and platforms I’m using, and why I’m doing these particular types of experiments.
  • How this is different from my previous book launches.
  • What’s working well and what I’ve already decided to do differently in future book launches.
  • My conversion rate estimates and book sale goals for this book launch.
  • And more!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode shares the top 7 things I’m doing as part of the “Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience” book launch! We discuss…

  • The specific marketing strategies and platforms I’m using, and why I’m doing these particular types of experiments.
  • How this is different from my previous book launches.
  • What’s working well and what I’ve already decided to do differently in future book launches.
  • My conversion rate estimates and book sale goals for this book launch.
  • And more!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13100513 Mon, 26 Jun 2023 22:00:00 -0700 2130 Small Town Stilettos, Book Launch, Indie Author 154 full false 152: A reading from Small Town Stilettos (sneak peek excerpt) 152: A reading from Small Town Stilettos (sneak peek excerpt) Get a sneak peek of Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience! This episode features a reading from Chapter 1.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 


Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Get a sneak peek of Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience! This episode features a reading from Chapter 1.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 


Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13041543 Mon, 19 Jun 2023 22:00:00 -0700 692 153 full false 151: Small Town Stilettos cover reveal day! 151: Small Town Stilettos cover reveal day! Today is a special day, because it is COVER REVEAL DAY for my upcoming romance novel, Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience! In this episode I want to share more about that novel!

Here’s the working blurb…

Aunt Eleanor fully intends to arrange a marriage for me from beyond the grave—to my childhood sweetheart, no less—and she doesn’t seem to have considered that I might be falling for my other childhood best friend! 

But her inheritance is the only chance I have to make my dream a reality: to create a fashion line for bodies like mine. I would almost be willing to give up that dream, if Aunt Eleanor hadn’t stipulated in her will that my inheritance will go to my cruel cousin unless I marry a man I barely know. 

There’s no way around it: a modern marriage of convenience is my only option. Now I just need to convince my “intended” that this is a good idea...

Tropes: 
Modern marriage of convenience
Small town contemporary romance
Love triangle, second chance, friends to lovers, only one bed.
Fat positive, sex positive, ethical non-monogamy positive.

RELEASE DAY: Tuesday July 25 2023

ADD TO YOUR WANT TO READ LIST ON GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55302931-small-town-stilettos

PRE-ORDER ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 
Tune into Indie Author Weekly on your favourite podcast platform at https://saganmorrow.com/podcast 
Learn more about all of Sagan’s books (including the Polyamorous Passions romcom series, Small Town Stilettos, and her business books for solopreneurs) at https://saganmorrow.com/books/ 
Subscribe, rate, and review this podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/indie-author-weekly/id1469586590 
Check out Sagan’s YouTube channel to watch the video versions of these podcast episodes: https://www.youtube.com/user/SaganMorrow 
Get success & life coaching: https://saganmorrow.com/coaching 
Enroll in the Productivity Powerhouse anti-hustle e-course: https://saganmorrow.com/powerhouse 
Work with Sagan: https://saganmorrow.com/workwithme/ 

Let’s chat about this episode:
@Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram
Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly
Email: hello@saganmorrow.com 
Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) at https://saganmorrow.com/question 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today is a special day, because it is COVER REVEAL DAY for my upcoming romance novel, Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience! In this episode I want to share more about that novel!

Here’s the working blurb…

Aunt Eleanor fully intends to arrange a marriage for me from beyond the grave—to my childhood sweetheart, no less—and she doesn’t seem to have considered that I might be falling for my other childhood best friend! 

But her inheritance is the only chance I have to make my dream a reality: to create a fashion line for bodies like mine. I would almost be willing to give up that dream, if Aunt Eleanor hadn’t stipulated in her will that my inheritance will go to my cruel cousin unless I marry a man I barely know. 

There’s no way around it: a modern marriage of convenience is my only option. Now I just need to convince my “intended” that this is a good idea...

Tropes: 
Modern marriage of convenience
Small town contemporary romance
Love triangle, second chance, friends to lovers, only one bed.
Fat positive, sex positive, ethical non-monogamy positive.

RELEASE DAY: Tuesday July 25 2023

ADD TO YOUR WANT TO READ LIST ON GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55302931-small-town-stilettos

PRE-ORDER ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Small-Town-Stilettos-marriage-convenience-ebook/dp/B0C776DB4M

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 
Tune into Indie Author Weekly on your favourite podcast platform at https://saganmorrow.com/podcast 
Learn more about all of Sagan’s books (including the Polyamorous Passions romcom series, Small Town Stilettos, and her business books for solopreneurs) at https://saganmorrow.com/books/ 
Subscribe, rate, and review this podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/indie-author-weekly/id1469586590 
Check out Sagan’s YouTube channel to watch the video versions of these podcast episodes: https://www.youtube.com/user/SaganMorrow 
Get success & life coaching: https://saganmorrow.com/coaching 
Enroll in the Productivity Powerhouse anti-hustle e-course: https://saganmorrow.com/powerhouse 
Work with Sagan: https://saganmorrow.com/workwithme/ 

Let’s chat about this episode:
@Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram
Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly
Email: hello@saganmorrow.com 
Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) at https://saganmorrow.com/question 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-13010820 Mon, 12 Jun 2023 22:00:00 -0700 940 152 full false 150: Backstory about the delays (and an update!) to my book cover design... plus how I used it as an excuse to procrastinate 150: Backstory about the delays (and an update!) to my book cover design... plus how I used it as an excuse to procrastinate I was originally going to publish Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience a couple years ago… so, why has it taken so long to actually publish it?? In this episode, I’m sharing a few of the obstacles that have gotten in my way — plus the story behind the delays I experienced with the cover design, and how that has contributed to my procrastination. 

We discuss… 

  • Why the book cover design was such a big roadblock (backstory to the cover design saga of Small Town Stilettos)
  • The customer service “red flags” that led to me choosing a different cover designer
  • The importance of being an active participant in the decision-making process as a self-published author
  • How I was using the book cover design delays as an excuse to procrastinate on doing book edits

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> I was originally going to publish Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience a couple years ago… so, why has it taken so long to actually publish it?? In this episode, I’m sharing a few of the obstacles that have gotten in my way — plus the story behind the delays I experienced with the cover design, and how that has contributed to my procrastination. 

We discuss… 

  • Why the book cover design was such a big roadblock (backstory to the cover design saga of Small Town Stilettos)
  • The customer service “red flags” that led to me choosing a different cover designer
  • The importance of being an active participant in the decision-making process as a self-published author
  • How I was using the book cover design delays as an excuse to procrastinate on doing book edits

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12981876 Mon, 05 Jun 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1451 151 full false 149: Writing 1 chapter/day for a week — results from attempt #2 (daily breakdown) 149: Writing 1 chapter/day for a week — results from attempt #2 (daily breakdown) In this episode, I want to follow up on recent episodes where I shared about my writing experiment of doing 4,000 words/day for a full week. You can learn about the background of this experiment in Episode 145, and the results from my first attempt in Episode 147. I’d also recommend tuning into Episode 148, in which I also share all about how I mapped out the entire story and chapter outline in great detail.

So in this episode, I want to share with you the results from my second attempt of writing a chapter/day for a full week (working on Book 8 in my Polyamorous Passions series).

We discuss...

  • Why I changed the official experiment from 4,000 words/day to 3,500 words/day.
  • An important method for successfully "killing your darlings" (this makes it SO MUCH EASIER).
  • Daily breakdown of how the week went (including actual word count achieved each day).
  • Problems I ran into along the way over the course of this week — and what I did about those struggles.
  • Powerful mindset shifts I experienced (plus invaluable life lessons that came up). 
  • How I handled distractions and the importance of minimizing barriers.
  • Final results from this writing experiment and my next plans moving forward with making good progress for this book

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, I want to follow up on recent episodes where I shared about my writing experiment of doing 4,000 words/day for a full week. You can learn about the background of this experiment in Episode 145, and the results from my first attempt in Episode 147. I’d also recommend tuning into Episode 148, in which I also share all about how I mapped out the entire story and chapter outline in great detail.

So in this episode, I want to share with you the results from my second attempt of writing a chapter/day for a full week (working on Book 8 in my Polyamorous Passions series).

We discuss...

  • Why I changed the official experiment from 4,000 words/day to 3,500 words/day.
  • An important method for successfully "killing your darlings" (this makes it SO MUCH EASIER).
  • Daily breakdown of how the week went (including actual word count achieved each day).
  • Problems I ran into along the way over the course of this week — and what I did about those struggles.
  • Powerful mindset shifts I experienced (plus invaluable life lessons that came up). 
  • How I handled distractions and the importance of minimizing barriers.
  • Final results from this writing experiment and my next plans moving forward with making good progress for this book

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12904963 Mon, 29 May 2023 22:00:00 -0700 2104 150 full false 148: How I mapped out parallel plot lines for my current romcom WIP 148: How I mapped out parallel plot lines for my current romcom WIP Curious about how an author organizes themes, plots, scene ideas, chapter outlines, etc? We’re covering all of that in this behind-the-scenes look at my current work-in-progress, Book 8 of the Polyamorous Passions series! 

This episode includes:

  • Follow up to Episode 147 — re: going back to the drawing board with my current romcom work-in-progress novel (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series)
  • The 3 main plotlines and 2 core themes featured in Book 8
  • 4-step process for how I mapped out the parallel plot lines with incorporating the core themes throughout the story
  • My colour-coded sticky note method for mapping out major plot lines with the themes for the beginning, middle, and end of the story, as well as my colour-coded sticky note method for organizing scenes into the chapters
  • How I use a Google doc for organizing my chapter outlines with the parallel plot lines, core themes, and additional subplots and scenes

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Curious about how an author organizes themes, plots, scene ideas, chapter outlines, etc? We’re covering all of that in this behind-the-scenes look at my current work-in-progress, Book 8 of the Polyamorous Passions series! 

This episode includes:

  • Follow up to Episode 147 — re: going back to the drawing board with my current romcom work-in-progress novel (Book 8 in the Polyamorous Passions series)
  • The 3 main plotlines and 2 core themes featured in Book 8
  • 4-step process for how I mapped out the parallel plot lines with incorporating the core themes throughout the story
  • My colour-coded sticky note method for mapping out major plot lines with the themes for the beginning, middle, and end of the story, as well as my colour-coded sticky note method for organizing scenes into the chapters
  • How I use a Google doc for organizing my chapter outlines with the parallel plot lines, core themes, and additional subplots and scenes

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12845600 Mon, 22 May 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1312 149 full false 147: Results from my first attempt at the 4,000 words/day writing experiment 147: Results from my first attempt at the 4,000 words/day writing experiment This episode gives you an update on the book writing experiment I recently tested! We discuss:

  • UPDATE on my book writing experiment that I told you about in Episode 145 of my Indie Author Weekly podcast (writing 4,000 words/day for a full week, and not doing any other business tasks)
  • How I prepped for writing the actual book itself
  • Daily breakdown of how that first week of the experiment went
  • 3 reasons why I decided to go back to the drawing board with my book
  • An important reminder we can all keep in mind when it comes to prioritizing our creative pursuits
  • Navigating mindset drama when allowing ourselves to work on creative projects and outlets
  • Was this experiment a success? Overview of results and what I learned from this experience, plus what I’ll be doing next…

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:


Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode gives you an update on the book writing experiment I recently tested! We discuss:

  • UPDATE on my book writing experiment that I told you about in Episode 145 of my Indie Author Weekly podcast (writing 4,000 words/day for a full week, and not doing any other business tasks)
  • How I prepped for writing the actual book itself
  • Daily breakdown of how that first week of the experiment went
  • 3 reasons why I decided to go back to the drawing board with my book
  • An important reminder we can all keep in mind when it comes to prioritizing our creative pursuits
  • Navigating mindset drama when allowing ourselves to work on creative projects and outlets
  • Was this experiment a success? Overview of results and what I learned from this experience, plus what I’ll be doing next…

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:


Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12845564 Mon, 15 May 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1506 148 full false 146: The importance of being earnest as a writer 146: The importance of being earnest as a writer Let’s talk about the importance of being earnest as a writer and getting comfortable with potentially embarrassing yourself! In this episode, we cover…

  • The self-consciousness → self-compassion spectrum that many of us experience as writers, and the importance of embracing earnest along the way.
  • How I reviewed my high school creative writing assignment where the professor didn’t understand that my “grammatical error” was actually a stylistic choice, not a grammatical error (and how I was very indignant about it!) — and the importance of knowing the rules before you break them.
  • The worries and fears we might have about “Will readers understand my writing style and storytelling choices?” — and why it’s okay if people don’t “get it.”
  • Consequences of being true to ourselves, our messages, and our voices: Who benefits from us NOT being vocal and true to ourselves? What is true for me? If I wasn’t worried about how I’d be perceived, what would I want to say? Or, if I knew that people would really appreciate whatever my truth happens to be, what would I say? 
  • What I LOVE about the work I do nowadays: How I write about characters who are working through this exact type of issue, AND how I get to coach people working through these issues as well.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Let’s talk about the importance of being earnest as a writer and getting comfortable with potentially embarrassing yourself! In this episode, we cover…

  • The self-consciousness → self-compassion spectrum that many of us experience as writers, and the importance of embracing earnest along the way.
  • How I reviewed my high school creative writing assignment where the professor didn’t understand that my “grammatical error” was actually a stylistic choice, not a grammatical error (and how I was very indignant about it!) — and the importance of knowing the rules before you break them.
  • The worries and fears we might have about “Will readers understand my writing style and storytelling choices?” — and why it’s okay if people don’t “get it.”
  • Consequences of being true to ourselves, our messages, and our voices: Who benefits from us NOT being vocal and true to ourselves? What is true for me? If I wasn’t worried about how I’d be perceived, what would I want to say? Or, if I knew that people would really appreciate whatever my truth happens to be, what would I say? 
  • What I LOVE about the work I do nowadays: How I write about characters who are working through this exact type of issue, AND how I get to coach people working through these issues as well.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12738162 Mon, 08 May 2023 22:00:00 -0700 756 147 full false 145: Writing experiment of 4,000 words/day for a full week 145: Writing experiment of 4,000 words/day for a full week All about a new writing experiment I’m testing out to make a lot better progress with my novels! We discuss…

  • Why I’m doing this new experiment, what my schedule will look like, how I plan to make it happen, and my expected results with writing for a larger, dedicated period of time
  • 2 reasons why I’ve been struggling with writing, and the problem that can come up with trying to find time to write novels (including feelings of guilt and concerns that it’s “self-indulgent”)
  • The deep sense of relief and fulfillment I had when I finally got around to writing my book after procrastinating on it all day long (and how this is a really good reminder!)
  • “I should be working on other parts of my business” — how this is a very real problem for business owners, and the way that this actually has a NEGATIVE effect on your business! More on this (including the top 3 questions to ask yourself if this is a struggle for you) in the “How to Balance Passion and Profession” video on my solopreneur tips YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/WH4cAaC0Vq0 
  • Difference between writing for a specific amount of time vs writing a specific amount of words (and how focusing on one vs the other will be more useful in different circumstances)
  • How I had an initial plan to write 2,000 words/day for a week, but having other tasks on my plate completely threw me off — and specifically WHY this was such a problem for me (this is what led me to decide to do the 4,000 words/day book writing challenge for a full week)
  • Why you should ALWAYS pay attention to any stagnation or “stuckness” that arises — keep in mind that just because a strategy used to work for you, doesn’t mean it always will continue working! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat:

Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) at https://saganmorrow.com/question 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> All about a new writing experiment I’m testing out to make a lot better progress with my novels! We discuss…

  • Why I’m doing this new experiment, what my schedule will look like, how I plan to make it happen, and my expected results with writing for a larger, dedicated period of time
  • 2 reasons why I’ve been struggling with writing, and the problem that can come up with trying to find time to write novels (including feelings of guilt and concerns that it’s “self-indulgent”)
  • The deep sense of relief and fulfillment I had when I finally got around to writing my book after procrastinating on it all day long (and how this is a really good reminder!)
  • “I should be working on other parts of my business” — how this is a very real problem for business owners, and the way that this actually has a NEGATIVE effect on your business! More on this (including the top 3 questions to ask yourself if this is a struggle for you) in the “How to Balance Passion and Profession” video on my solopreneur tips YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/WH4cAaC0Vq0 
  • Difference between writing for a specific amount of time vs writing a specific amount of words (and how focusing on one vs the other will be more useful in different circumstances)
  • How I had an initial plan to write 2,000 words/day for a week, but having other tasks on my plate completely threw me off — and specifically WHY this was such a problem for me (this is what led me to decide to do the 4,000 words/day book writing challenge for a full week)
  • Why you should ALWAYS pay attention to any stagnation or “stuckness” that arises — keep in mind that just because a strategy used to work for you, doesn’t mean it always will continue working! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat:

Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) at https://saganmorrow.com/question 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12738056 Mon, 01 May 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1322 146 full false 144: "How do you write your books?" 144: "How do you write your books?" “How do you write your books? By hand, by typewriter?” In this episode, we’re answering THAT question! Get ready for a full recap of the logistics and practical side for how I write my books…

0:00 Intro

0:20 Answering a question from a friend: “How do you write your books? By hand, by typewriter?” — and a few other logistics when it comes to the practical side of how I write books

0:50 When it comes to writing books, here’s why I do NOT use a typewriter, and why I do NOT write by hand 

3:40 My process for writing my novels — outlining my books on paper and a Google doc (plus a quick explanation about what my chapter outline looks like)

5:35 The 3 types of Google docs I always use for writing my novels

9:30 Keeping tabs open vs not, and using external monitors while working on the computer

11:50 A few additional types of Google docs I like using when working on books

12:50 How I usually “write” large portions of my books without actually writing them

16:45 Writing in various environments

17:50 How I use music when writing my books

23:00 Bookmark giveaway!

25:05 Wrap up

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023! All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> “How do you write your books? By hand, by typewriter?” In this episode, we’re answering THAT question! Get ready for a full recap of the logistics and practical side for how I write my books…

0:00 Intro

0:20 Answering a question from a friend: “How do you write your books? By hand, by typewriter?” — and a few other logistics when it comes to the practical side of how I write books

0:50 When it comes to writing books, here’s why I do NOT use a typewriter, and why I do NOT write by hand 

3:40 My process for writing my novels — outlining my books on paper and a Google doc (plus a quick explanation about what my chapter outline looks like)

5:35 The 3 types of Google docs I always use for writing my novels

9:30 Keeping tabs open vs not, and using external monitors while working on the computer

11:50 A few additional types of Google docs I like using when working on books

12:50 How I usually “write” large portions of my books without actually writing them

16:45 Writing in various environments

17:50 How I use music when writing my books

23:00 Bookmark giveaway!

25:05 Wrap up

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023! All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12543972 Mon, 24 Apr 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1542 145 full false 143: Dealing with imposter syndrome and procrastination as an author 143: Dealing with imposter syndrome and procrastination as an author A year ago, I experienced an EXTREME case of imposter syndrome in my author career… which led to a TON of procrastination! In this episode, I’m sharing all about that experience and how I navigated it. 

In this episode, we discuss…

  • How my imposter syndrome came about
  • What I did to work through imposter syndrome (including some of the specific ways I did self-coaching for this, and the type of questions I asked myself to get to the root issues).
  • 3 things I did to actively navigate procrastination (and how you can apply that to your own situation if you’re struggling with procrastination).
  • How imposter syndrome and procrastination affects us all (plus what you need to know about EFFECTIVELY and SUCCESSFULLY managing imposter syndrome, and what we can do together to help YOU work through these issues, too)

Are imposter syndrome and/or procrastination holding you back (in your personal life or your professional life), too? This episode is for you!

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023! All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> A year ago, I experienced an EXTREME case of imposter syndrome in my author career… which led to a TON of procrastination! In this episode, I’m sharing all about that experience and how I navigated it. 

In this episode, we discuss…

  • How my imposter syndrome came about
  • What I did to work through imposter syndrome (including some of the specific ways I did self-coaching for this, and the type of questions I asked myself to get to the root issues).
  • 3 things I did to actively navigate procrastination (and how you can apply that to your own situation if you’re struggling with procrastination).
  • How imposter syndrome and procrastination affects us all (plus what you need to know about EFFECTIVELY and SUCCESSFULLY managing imposter syndrome, and what we can do together to help YOU work through these issues, too)

Are imposter syndrome and/or procrastination holding you back (in your personal life or your professional life), too? This episode is for you!

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023! All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12543720 Mon, 17 Apr 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1468 144 full false 142: “I want to read your books, but I feel like it’s weird because I don’t want to know about your sex life…” 142: “I want to read your books, but I feel like it’s weird because I don’t want to know about your sex life…” I was recently hanging out with a friend, and she said this: “I want to read your books, but I feel like it’s weird because I don’t want to know about your sex life…”

Totally get that! Let’s talk about that today, because I think this is a very common frame of mind for friends and family of romance authors...

IN THIS EPISODE, I share several important things to keep in mind if you're wondering about this, too, plus a few different options for you!

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023!

All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> I was recently hanging out with a friend, and she said this: “I want to read your books, but I feel like it’s weird because I don’t want to know about your sex life…”

Totally get that! Let’s talk about that today, because I think this is a very common frame of mind for friends and family of romance authors...

IN THIS EPISODE, I share several important things to keep in mind if you're wondering about this, too, plus a few different options for you!

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023!

All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12510361 Mon, 10 Apr 2023 22:00:00 -0700 654 143 full false 141: How did you get "brave enough" to talk publicly about being a romance author? 141: How did you get "brave enough" to talk publicly about being a romance author? Today we are answering a listener-submitted question: How did you get "brave enough" to talk publicly about being a romance author? 

This question was posted by Morgan Starling Writes on an Instagram post back in Feb 2022, in which she said, “I'm hesitant to post pictures of my face on here because of my "day job", so to speak. But at the same time, it feels like there's no balance to the interaction with those whose faces I do get to see! How do you, fellow smut writers or readers, go about it? Did you start out anonymously, too? Was there a point at which you decided: 'Now I'm brave enough'? I just started listening to the podcast of Sagan. It's really cool and she has a beautiful voice. Wonder what she'd have to say about this - Sagan?”

In this episode, I share my answer to that question, PLUS some key questions I recommend asking yourself (this is me putting on my Life Coach hat!)

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023!

All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today we are answering a listener-submitted question: How did you get "brave enough" to talk publicly about being a romance author? 

This question was posted by Morgan Starling Writes on an Instagram post back in Feb 2022, in which she said, “I'm hesitant to post pictures of my face on here because of my "day job", so to speak. But at the same time, it feels like there's no balance to the interaction with those whose faces I do get to see! How do you, fellow smut writers or readers, go about it? Did you start out anonymously, too? Was there a point at which you decided: 'Now I'm brave enough'? I just started listening to the podcast of Sagan. It's really cool and she has a beautiful voice. Wonder what she'd have to say about this - Sagan?”

In this episode, I share my answer to that question, PLUS some key questions I recommend asking yourself (this is me putting on my Life Coach hat!)

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023!

All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12510171 Mon, 03 Apr 2023 22:00:00 -0700 896 142 full false 140: Welcome back! Author update and the future of this podcast 140: Welcome back! Author update and the future of this podcast WELCOME BACK to the Indie Author Weekly podcast! We went on hiatus back in December 2021, and we are finally ready to RELAUNCH this podcast! Woohoo!

In this episode, we discuss…

  • More details about WHY we went on hiatus for such a long time (15 months rather than our originally-planned 2 months).
  • Update on what Sagan’s been up to in her author life over the past year — book writing (several books), planning and mapping out 24 book ideas, self-publishing updates, working through imposter syndrome, and joining TikTok for book promotional purposes.
  • The future of Indie Author Weekly (what to expect, both from the content and logistics)

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023!

All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!
 
Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> WELCOME BACK to the Indie Author Weekly podcast! We went on hiatus back in December 2021, and we are finally ready to RELAUNCH this podcast! Woohoo!

In this episode, we discuss…

  • More details about WHY we went on hiatus for such a long time (15 months rather than our originally-planned 2 months).
  • Update on what Sagan’s been up to in her author life over the past year — book writing (several books), planning and mapping out 24 book ideas, self-publishing updates, working through imposter syndrome, and joining TikTok for book promotional purposes.
  • The future of Indie Author Weekly (what to expect, both from the content and logistics)

WIN BOOKMARKS featuring Sagan’s novels when you publish a review of any of her books between now and April 30, 2023!

All you need to do is write and publish a review of any of her books on Amazon, Goodreads, Kobo, etc (any book platforms of your choice), and then email hello[at]saganmorrow[dot]com with the link and your mailing address — and then Sagan will mail you bookmarks!
 
Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let’s chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-12509843 Mon, 27 Mar 2023 22:00:00 -0700 1558 141 full false 139: Doing the uncomfortable thing… (this is not the episode I had planned!) 139: Doing the uncomfortable thing… (this is not the episode I had planned!) Today I am doing an uncomfortable thing... This is not the episode I had planned! When you're feeling the internal struggle, when your energy levels are low, when your capacity and bandwidth aren't quite there... What happens next? We're addressing exactly that in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out about the future of Indie Author Weekly, and 3 reasons why I'm sharing this with you today...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today I am doing an uncomfortable thing... This is not the episode I had planned! When you're feeling the internal struggle, when your energy levels are low, when your capacity and bandwidth aren't quite there... What happens next? We're addressing exactly that in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out about the future of Indie Author Weekly, and 3 reasons why I'm sharing this with you today...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9657830 Fri, 03 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0800 957 140 full false 138: How to finish writing your book (NaNoWriMo tips—midway point!) 138: How to finish writing your book (NaNoWriMo tips—midway point!) Are you in the process of writing a novel this month, for National Novel Writing Month (or, as it’s more commonly known, NaNoWriMo), and are you getting caught in the struggle of it? That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get SIX resources for starting to write your novel this month, during #NaNoWriMo...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Are you in the process of writing a novel this month, for National Novel Writing Month (or, as it’s more commonly known, NaNoWriMo), and are you getting caught in the struggle of it? That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get SIX resources for starting to write your novel this month, during #NaNoWriMo...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9558706 Tue, 16 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0800 635 139 full false 137: Is it time to quit your novel? 137: Is it time to quit your novel? Is it time to quit your novel? Have you ever wondered how authors keep going with a tough book project… or, maybe you’re a writer, and you’re not sure if it’s time to quit a project? When you arrive at that pivotal moment where you wonder if it's time to give up your novel... What happens next?  

That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out what happens next when you realize your book needs way more work than you thought... and how to keep moving forward when you're stuck! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Is it time to quit your novel? Have you ever wondered how authors keep going with a tough book project… or, maybe you’re a writer, and you’re not sure if it’s time to quit a project? When you arrive at that pivotal moment where you wonder if it's time to give up your novel... What happens next?  

That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out what happens next when you realize your book needs way more work than you thought... and how to keep moving forward when you're stuck! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9519131 Tue, 09 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0800 904 138 full false 136: NaNoWriMo tips round-up for starting your novel 136: NaNoWriMo tips round-up for starting your novel Are you gearing up to write a novel this month, for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), and wondering how to go about doing it successfully? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get FIVE resources for starting to write your novel this month, during #NaNoWriMo...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Are you gearing up to write a novel this month, for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), and wondering how to go about doing it successfully? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get FIVE resources for starting to write your novel this month, during #NaNoWriMo...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9472776 Mon, 01 Nov 2021 22:00:00 -0700 682 137 full false 135: How stories change the world (Our Choice: Romance for Roe anthology) 135: How stories change the world (Our Choice: Romance for Roe anthology) Have you ever wondered about how we can use our stories to change the world, or the power of the books we read and write? That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! INTRODUCING... Our Choice: Romance for Roe anthology in aid of Planned Parenthood and NARAL Pro-Choice. 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn about the #RomanceForRoe anthology, and what YOU can do to make a difference in the world with the power of storytelling...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

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]]> Have you ever wondered about how we can use our stories to change the world, or the power of the books we read and write? That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! INTRODUCING... Our Choice: Romance for Roe anthology in aid of Planned Parenthood and NARAL Pro-Choice. 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn about the #RomanceForRoe anthology, and what YOU can do to make a difference in the world with the power of storytelling...  

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9436891 Tue, 26 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0700 626 136 full false 134: Excerpt from "Gaming the System" polyamorous romcom 134: Excerpt from "Gaming the System" polyamorous romcom Do you enjoy getting teasers and sneak peeks of fun romantic comedies? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

Gaming the System  romcom back-of-book blurb:  

What comes after you get to “have it all”?  

Since Emma discovered polyamory several months earlier, she knows she’s getting a unique opportunity to eat her cake and have it, too. And yet, it hasn’t all been fun and games. Sure, she gets to have the two men she loves in her life… but she also needs to handle their insecurities and juggle two intense relationships simultaneously.  

Does she really have what it takes to make polyamory work? Is it time for John and Carlos to finally meet each other? And besides that… is she ever going to be ready to come out as polyamorous to the other people in her life?  

An adventure in romance and polyamory, “Gaming the System” explores the thought processes and relationship strife that can come along with adopting new identities and lifestyles in your late 20s. The struggles and joy in the early stages of a polyamorous lifestyle are both represented in this contemporary new adult romcom.  

***

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to hear an excerpt from "Gaming the System" (AKA Book 2 in the Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series)...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Do you enjoy getting teasers and sneak peeks of fun romantic comedies? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

Gaming the System  romcom back-of-book blurb:  

What comes after you get to “have it all”?  

Since Emma discovered polyamory several months earlier, she knows she’s getting a unique opportunity to eat her cake and have it, too. And yet, it hasn’t all been fun and games. Sure, she gets to have the two men she loves in her life… but she also needs to handle their insecurities and juggle two intense relationships simultaneously.  

Does she really have what it takes to make polyamory work? Is it time for John and Carlos to finally meet each other? And besides that… is she ever going to be ready to come out as polyamorous to the other people in her life?  

An adventure in romance and polyamory, “Gaming the System” explores the thought processes and relationship strife that can come along with adopting new identities and lifestyles in your late 20s. The struggles and joy in the early stages of a polyamorous lifestyle are both represented in this contemporary new adult romcom.  

***

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to hear an excerpt from "Gaming the System" (AKA Book 2 in the Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series)...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9391237 Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:00:00 -0700 800 135 full false 133: 5 tips for writing a book with a busy schedule 133: 5 tips for writing a book with a busy schedule Have you ever wondered about how to write a book when you have a BUSY schedule? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 5 powerful tips for incorporating writing a book into your busy schedule—including real-life example for how your host Sagan Morrow has reworked her schedule...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Have you ever wondered about how to write a book when you have a BUSY schedule? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 5 powerful tips for incorporating writing a book into your busy schedule—including real-life example for how your host Sagan Morrow has reworked her schedule...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9336709 Mon, 11 Oct 2021 22:00:00 -0700 778 134 full false 132: Book writing & life update 132: Book writing & life update Have you ever wondered about the complications of writing a book when navigating big life changes? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out how your host has navigated chaos and adventures, "life administration" of moving to a new city and buying a new condo, and sorting out her author career and the rest of her business as an introvert throughout it all...    

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered about the complications of writing a book when navigating big life changes? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out how your host has navigated chaos and adventures, "life administration" of moving to a new city and buying a new condo, and sorting out her author career and the rest of her business as an introvert throughout it all...    

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9311272 Mon, 04 Oct 2021 22:00:00 -0700 1278 133 full false 131: Leaning into your unique writing style and voice 131: Leaning into your unique writing style and voice Do you ever wish you had a different type of writing voice or style? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

"You'll never be a Pulitzer Prize winner—but your books keep people coming back for more." Find out why this comment about my own stories inspired this podcast episode topic...

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn about the value, the beauty, the freedom, of leaning into your uniquely wonderful writing voice and style, in this motivational pep talk-style podcast episode... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Do you ever wish you had a different type of writing voice or style? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

"You'll never be a Pulitzer Prize winner—but your books keep people coming back for more." Find out why this comment about my own stories inspired this podcast episode topic...

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn about the value, the beauty, the freedom, of leaning into your uniquely wonderful writing voice and style, in this motivational pep talk-style podcast episode... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9177616 Mon, 27 Sep 2021 22:00:00 -0700 670 132 full false 130: Excerpt from "A Choice Between Two" 130: Excerpt from "A Choice Between Two" Do you wish you could attend author book readings again, while the world continues to be in flux? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

A Choice Between Two  romcom back-of-book blurb:

What if you fall for someone, but you’re already in a wonderful relationship with someone else?

Emma has been dating John, an alpha lawyer type, casually for the past six months. When she meets the kind-hearted feminist Carlos, there’s instant attraction… and since she and John haven’t had the exclusivity conversation yet, then why not date both men simultaneously?

After all, she has two best friends! Emma sees no harm in having two boyfriends, too.

Emma didn’t anticipate that both men would want to take their relationship with her to the next level, and now she has to choose between the two men in her life… or does she?

An adventure in romance and polyamory, “A Choice Between Two” explores the thought processes and relationship strife that can come along with adopting new identities and lifestyles in your late 20s. The struggles and joy in the early stages of a polyamorous lifestyle are both represented in this contemporary new adult romcom.

***

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to hear an excerpt from "A Choice Between Two" (AKA Book 1 in the Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series)... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Do you wish you could attend author book readings again, while the world continues to be in flux? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

A Choice Between Two  romcom back-of-book blurb:

What if you fall for someone, but you’re already in a wonderful relationship with someone else?

Emma has been dating John, an alpha lawyer type, casually for the past six months. When she meets the kind-hearted feminist Carlos, there’s instant attraction… and since she and John haven’t had the exclusivity conversation yet, then why not date both men simultaneously?

After all, she has two best friends! Emma sees no harm in having two boyfriends, too.

Emma didn’t anticipate that both men would want to take their relationship with her to the next level, and now she has to choose between the two men in her life… or does she?

An adventure in romance and polyamory, “A Choice Between Two” explores the thought processes and relationship strife that can come along with adopting new identities and lifestyles in your late 20s. The struggles and joy in the early stages of a polyamorous lifestyle are both represented in this contemporary new adult romcom.

***

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to hear an excerpt from "A Choice Between Two" (AKA Book 1 in the Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series)... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9177592 Mon, 20 Sep 2021 22:00:00 -0700 1021 131 full false 129: Show, don't tell—writing tip and example 129: Show, don't tell—writing tip and example You might be familiar with the phrase “show, don’t tell” as a writer… Is it something you struggle with, or are you curious about what a fresh new take on that might look like? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn how to implement the "show, don't tell" writing advice into  your own book project... and to get a real-life example for how your host, Sagan Morrow, recently used this technique in her own upcoming romcom, Small Town Stilettos...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> You might be familiar with the phrase “show, don’t tell” as a writer… Is it something you struggle with, or are you curious about what a fresh new take on that might look like? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn how to implement the "show, don't tell" writing advice into  your own book project... and to get a real-life example for how your host, Sagan Morrow, recently used this technique in her own upcoming romcom, Small Town Stilettos...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9056246 Mon, 13 Sep 2021 22:00:00 -0700 681 130 full false 128: How to balance planning with taking action on your book project 128: How to balance planning with taking action on your book project Have you ever struggled to balance planning your book with taking action and actually writing your book? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 4 tips for how to effectively balancing PLANNING with TAKING ACTION, so that you write—and complete—your book with confidence...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever struggled to balance planning your book with taking action and actually writing your book? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 4 tips for how to effectively balancing PLANNING with TAKING ACTION, so that you write—and complete—your book with confidence...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9056216 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 22:00:00 -0700 672 129 full false 127: Why each new book is both harder AND easier to write than the previous book 127: Why each new book is both harder AND easier to write than the previous book Have you ever wondered whether writing books gets easier or harder over time? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out the top 5 reasons why writing each new book is both harder AND easier to write than the previous book...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered whether writing books gets easier or harder over time? Well, that’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out the top 5 reasons why writing each new book is both harder AND easier to write than the previous book...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9056178 Mon, 30 Aug 2021 22:00:00 -0700 753 128 full false 126: Meditation to get to know your characters better 126: Meditation to get to know your characters better Are you struggling to know what drives your characters? Do you wish you understood your own characters a little better? That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to  get a simple meditation for understanding your character better and getting to know them on a deeper level... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Are you struggling to know what drives your characters? Do you wish you understood your own characters a little better? That’s exactly what we’re addressing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to  get a simple meditation for understanding your character better and getting to know them on a deeper level... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9038500 Mon, 23 Aug 2021 22:00:00 -0700 1004 127 full false 125: The writing struggle is real 125: The writing struggle is real Have you ever felt guilty about writing? The writing struggle is REAL. That's what we're addressing in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn more about how to overcome guilt as a writer...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever felt guilty about writing? The writing struggle is REAL. That's what we're addressing in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn more about how to overcome guilt as a writer...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-9038387 Mon, 16 Aug 2021 22:00:00 -0700 513 126 full false 124: Sex and romance novels 124: Sex and romance novels Have you ever wondered just how much sex “should” be in a romance novel? That's what we're addressing in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn more about sex and romance novels, how much (and what type of) sex should be in romance novels, and more...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered just how much sex “should” be in a romance novel? That's what we're addressing in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to learn more about sex and romance novels, how much (and what type of) sex should be in romance novels, and more...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8912955 Mon, 09 Aug 2021 22:00:00 -0700 882 125 full false 123: 3 pillars of consistency 123: 3 pillars of consistency Have you ever wished you were more consistent with writing a book, starting a podcast, reading books, or something else altogether? Maybe you’ve struggled with being consistent, and you’ve felt like that’s just who you are, and you can’t do anything about it. Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out about the 3 pillars of consistency—and how ANYONE (yes, even you) can become more consistent...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wished you were more consistent with writing a book, starting a podcast, reading books, or something else altogether? Maybe you’ve struggled with being consistent, and you’ve felt like that’s just who you are, and you can’t do anything about it. Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out about the 3 pillars of consistency—and how ANYONE (yes, even you) can become more consistent...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8912801 Mon, 02 Aug 2021 22:00:00 -0700 756 124 full false 122: How to rewrite your novel 122: How to rewrite your novel Have you ever wondered how to rewrite your novel?   

If you've started to write a novel, are you feeling stuck in the rewriting stage? Maybe you’re a little lost about how to go about improving this draft of your novel? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to discover the method I’m using to rewrite my current work-in-progress, a polyamorous romantic comedy novel entitled Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience. —plus how you can apply this concept of how to rewrite your novel to your own manuscript... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:   

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered how to rewrite your novel?   

If you've started to write a novel, are you feeling stuck in the rewriting stage? Maybe you’re a little lost about how to go about improving this draft of your novel? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to discover the method I’m using to rewrite my current work-in-progress, a polyamorous romantic comedy novel entitled Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience. —plus how you can apply this concept of how to rewrite your novel to your own manuscript... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:   

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8889039 Mon, 26 Jul 2021 22:00:00 -0700 722 123 full false 121: That didn't go as planned... 121: That didn't go as planned... Have you ever worried about what might happen if your book plans get derailed? Or maybe your plans for your author career don’t quite pan out the way you hoped? That's what we're addressing in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to discover what I learned when this year's plan did NOT happen the way I anticipated—and what I'm doing about it...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever worried about what might happen if your book plans get derailed? Or maybe your plans for your author career don’t quite pan out the way you hoped? That's what we're addressing in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to discover what I learned when this year's plan did NOT happen the way I anticipated—and what I'm doing about it...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8888975 Mon, 19 Jul 2021 22:00:00 -0700 660 122 full false 120: Q&A about writing a lengthy book series 120: Q&A about writing a lengthy book series Have you ever wondered what it's like to write a lengthy book series (such as my 9-book Polyamorous Passions romcom series)? In this episode, we're doing a Q&A! Get your answers to 5 big questions about how to write a book series.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to discover what you need to know about writing a book series—dispelling the biggest myth about writing a book series, plus tips on how to ensure continuity across your books, what to think about when including recaps in your books, how to handle character development, and more...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered what it's like to write a lengthy book series (such as my 9-book Polyamorous Passions romcom series)? In this episode, we're doing a Q&A! Get your answers to 5 big questions about how to write a book series.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to discover what you need to know about writing a book series—dispelling the biggest myth about writing a book series, plus tips on how to ensure continuity across your books, what to think about when including recaps in your books, how to handle character development, and more...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8816064 Mon, 12 Jul 2021 22:00:00 -0700 1130 121 full false 119: Tortured artist vs joyful creativity 119: Tortured artist vs joyful creativity Are you the type of write who equates creativity to joy... or do you have more of a tortured, struggling artist thing going on? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to discover why you can be happy AND creative, and why you don't need to rely on your pain in order to be creative—plus get some creativity homework!...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Are you the type of write who equates creativity to joy... or do you have more of a tortured, struggling artist thing going on? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to discover why you can be happy AND creative, and why you don't need to rely on your pain in order to be creative—plus get some creativity homework!...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8764839 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 22:00:00 -0700 586 120 full false 118: Why imposter syndrome isn’t real—plus 7 steps for shifting out of it 118: Why imposter syndrome isn’t real—plus 7 steps for shifting out of it Have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to discover why imposter syndrome is NOT real, plus 7 steps for shifting out of it (you can achieve this in a matter of seconds!)...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

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]]> Have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to discover why imposter syndrome is NOT real, plus 7 steps for shifting out of it (you can achieve this in a matter of seconds!)...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8764781 Mon, 28 Jun 2021 22:00:00 -0700 601 119 full false 117: Polyamorous romcom excerpt (meet cute) 117: Polyamorous romcom excerpt (meet cute) Today, I'm reading an excerpt from Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in my Polyamorous Passions series. Her Bad Idea follows the story of Scarlett, a burlesque dancer, as she tries to save her business… it’s a forced proximity, enemies to lovers romantic comedy, complete with a fake relationship. This is an excerpt from chapter 1, when she meets her love interest!  

Indie Author Weekly is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get the excerpt from this romcom...  

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]]> Today, I'm reading an excerpt from Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in my Polyamorous Passions series. Her Bad Idea follows the story of Scarlett, a burlesque dancer, as she tries to save her business… it’s a forced proximity, enemies to lovers romantic comedy, complete with a fake relationship. This is an excerpt from chapter 1, when she meets her love interest!  

Indie Author Weekly is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get the excerpt from this romcom...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

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Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8650497 Mon, 21 Jun 2021 22:00:00 -0700 1033 118 full false 116: It's okay if you aren't writing—pep talk 116: It's okay if you aren't writing—pep talk Have you ever felt guilty because you feel like you *should* be writing, but you’re not doing it? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to get some encouragement and a writing pep talk if you are feeling guilty or ashamed about not writing...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

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]]> Have you ever felt guilty because you feel like you *should* be writing, but you’re not doing it? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.    

TUNE IN NOW to get some encouragement and a writing pep talk if you are feeling guilty or ashamed about not writing...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

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Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8650473 Mon, 14 Jun 2021 22:00:00 -0700 434 117 full false 115: Co-writing a Xena substack (5 tips for your next co-writing project) 115: Co-writing a Xena substack (5 tips for your next co-writing project) Have you ever thought about co-writing a project with a friend? This episode of Indie Author Weekly features my brand-new project (a Xena: Warrior Princess rewatch substack called the GabStack), plus 5 tips for YOU to consider if you're entering into a co-writing project.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 5 tips for your next co-writing project—and learn all about my new, very silly and delightful, super niche weekly Xena newsletter...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Have you ever thought about co-writing a project with a friend? This episode of Indie Author Weekly features my brand-new project (a Xena: Warrior Princess rewatch substack called the GabStack), plus 5 tips for YOU to consider if you're entering into a co-writing project.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 5 tips for your next co-writing project—and learn all about my new, very silly and delightful, super niche weekly Xena newsletter...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8650435 Mon, 07 Jun 2021 22:00:00 -0700 666 116 full false 114: 7 examples for getting story ideas from everyday life 114: 7 examples for getting story ideas from everyday life Have you ever struggled to think of new story ideas, and wished you could tap into your everyday life for epic creative ideas? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 7 examples for tapping into your creativity and inspiration from everyday life...   

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]]> Have you ever struggled to think of new story ideas, and wished you could tap into your everyday life for epic creative ideas? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get 7 examples for tapping into your creativity and inspiration from everyday life...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8544901 Mon, 31 May 2021 22:00:00 -0700 441 115 full false 113: Productivity tips for multi-passionate creatives 113: Productivity tips for multi-passionate creatives Have you ever wished you could get productivity tips that actually SUPPORT you, as a multi-passionate creative? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get a few tips for 3 big productivity problem areas you're currently experiencing...  

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Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Have you ever wished you could get productivity tips that actually SUPPORT you, as a multi-passionate creative? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to get a few tips for 3 big productivity problem areas you're currently experiencing...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8544857 Mon, 24 May 2021 22:00:00 -0700 533 114 full false 112: Interview with polyamorous author Kitty Chambliss 112: Interview with polyamorous author Kitty Chambliss Today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly is a special episode—our very first interview of another author on the show! We interview Kitty Chambliss of Living Without Boundaries.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

In today's episode, your host Sagan Morrow interviews her fellow polyamorous indie author, Kitty Chambliss, about her experiences with writing "The Jealousy Survival Guide." Questions we explore in this episode include:  

  1. Tell us a little more about yourself with regards to your author journey. What led you to writing the Jealousy Survival Guide? 
  2. What do you feel about jealousy being the opposite of compersion? 
  3. How was your experience with writing the book? 
  4. Where were you at with your work, at the point that you wrote this book and published it? 
  5. You are a #1 best selling author—congratulations! I’m sure our listeners would love to know, do you have any secrets when it comes to marketing and getting onto that bestseller list? 
  6. Your book is available in audio format, which I've always been intrigued by, and also a little intimidated about doing for my own books! Can you tell us a little about how you got to the point of doing that, and what was involved? 
  7. You've also contributed to several other books. What was it like to participate in those projects?  
  8. What was the hardest part of writing your book... and what was the best part? 
  9. Why did you decide to be an indie author, rather than go the traditional publishing route? 
  10. Do you have any other book projects in the works? 
  11. Where can listeners learn more about you?  

TUNE IN NOW to get the inside scoop! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly is a special episode—our very first interview of another author on the show! We interview Kitty Chambliss of Living Without Boundaries.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

In today's episode, your host Sagan Morrow interviews her fellow polyamorous indie author, Kitty Chambliss, about her experiences with writing "The Jealousy Survival Guide." Questions we explore in this episode include:  

  1. Tell us a little more about yourself with regards to your author journey. What led you to writing the Jealousy Survival Guide? 
  2. What do you feel about jealousy being the opposite of compersion? 
  3. How was your experience with writing the book? 
  4. Where were you at with your work, at the point that you wrote this book and published it? 
  5. You are a #1 best selling author—congratulations! I’m sure our listeners would love to know, do you have any secrets when it comes to marketing and getting onto that bestseller list? 
  6. Your book is available in audio format, which I've always been intrigued by, and also a little intimidated about doing for my own books! Can you tell us a little about how you got to the point of doing that, and what was involved? 
  7. You've also contributed to several other books. What was it like to participate in those projects?  
  8. What was the hardest part of writing your book... and what was the best part? 
  9. Why did you decide to be an indie author, rather than go the traditional publishing route? 
  10. Do you have any other book projects in the works? 
  11. Where can listeners learn more about you?  

TUNE IN NOW to get the inside scoop! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8508810 Mon, 17 May 2021 22:00:00 -0700 2253 113 full false 111: A reading from "Out of Control" 111: A reading from "Out of Control" I’m always talking about the writing process here on the podcast—but have you ever wondered what my actual writing style is like, for the books I write? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to hear a reading from Book 6 in the Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series, Out of Control... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> I’m always talking about the writing process here on the podcast—but have you ever wondered what my actual writing style is like, for the books I write? Well, that’s exactly what you’re getting on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to hear a reading from Book 6 in the Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series, Out of Control... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8409563 Mon, 10 May 2021 22:00:00 -0700 763 112 full false 110: How to create a world around your story 110: How to create a world around your story Have you ever wondered how to create a whole world around your story, beyond the novel itself? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out 5 ideas for how to create an entire WORLD around your story (beyond the novel itself)...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Have you ever wondered how to create a whole world around your story, beyond the novel itself? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out 5 ideas for how to create an entire WORLD around your story (beyond the novel itself)...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8409508 Mon, 03 May 2021 22:00:00 -0700 484 111 full false 109: 5 steps for coping with burnout 109: 5 steps for coping with burnout Have you ever wondered how to cope with burnout? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out a 5-step burnout assessment so you can manage—and prevent!—burnout in your own life... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  


Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered how to cope with burnout? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out a 5-step burnout assessment so you can manage—and prevent!—burnout in your own life... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  


Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8409426 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0700 793 110 full false 108: Indie author interview (Read It With Whiskey) 108: Indie author interview (Read It With Whiskey) Are you curious to learn more about how I started writing novels in the first place, what my Polyamorous Passions romcoms are all about, and maybe even my favourite type of whiskey? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access the episode that originally aired on the Read It With Whiskey podcast...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Are you curious to learn more about how I started writing novels in the first place, what my Polyamorous Passions romcoms are all about, and maybe even my favourite type of whiskey? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access the episode that originally aired on the Read It With Whiskey podcast...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8298560 Mon, 19 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0700 2300 109 full false 107: Top 5 episodes from the 2nd year of Indie Author Weekly 107: Top 5 episodes from the 2nd year of Indie Author Weekly Find out about the top 5 most-listened-to episodes from Year 2 of Indie Author Weekly (plus 5 personal favourites from the past year) in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out about the most popular episodes from the 2nd year of the Indie Author Weekly podcast, plus a few favourites...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Find out about the top 5 most-listened-to episodes from Year 2 of Indie Author Weekly (plus 5 personal favourites from the past year) in this episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out about the most popular episodes from the 2nd year of the Indie Author Weekly podcast, plus a few favourites...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8298441 Mon, 12 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0700 846 108 full false 106: Dealing with imposter syndrome 106: Dealing with imposter syndrome Have you ever wondered how to deal with imposter syndrome as a writer… or, whether established authors ever have confidence issues? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out how your host Sagan Morrow got a bad case of imposter syndrome, what that might mean, and the process of overcoming it...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered how to deal with imposter syndrome as a writer… or, whether established authors ever have confidence issues? That’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out how your host Sagan Morrow got a bad case of imposter syndrome, what that might mean, and the process of overcoming it...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8189237 Mon, 05 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0700 487 107 full false 105: When should you press pause on a book project? 105: When should you press pause on a book project? Have you ever wondered about how to prioritize different projects, and whether it’s okay to press “pause” on a project? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access tips and more about pressing pause on a book project, and how to prioritize your various projects... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered about how to prioritize different projects, and whether it’s okay to press “pause” on a project? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access tips and more about pressing pause on a book project, and how to prioritize your various projects... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8189099 Mon, 29 Mar 2021 22:00:00 -0700 835 106 full false 104: On working with beta readers 104: On working with beta readers Have you ever wondered what it's like to work with beta readers for your manuscript... or best practices for working with beta readers... or whether YOU need beta readers? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out why beta readers might be a good idea (or not) for your manuscript, what the process was like for getting beta readers to share their feedback on Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience, and what I’d do differently next time... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered what it's like to work with beta readers for your manuscript... or best practices for working with beta readers... or whether YOU need beta readers? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to find out why beta readers might be a good idea (or not) for your manuscript, what the process was like for getting beta readers to share their feedback on Small Town Stilettos: a modern marriage of convenience, and what I’d do differently next time... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8055782 Mon, 22 Mar 2021 22:00:00 -0700 1286 105 full false 103: The other "messy middle"... and 5 tips for how to deal with it 103: The other "messy middle"... and 5 tips for how to deal with it Have you ever wondered how to get past the OTHER kind of messy middle, with the actual process of writing your book? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access all 5 tips for how to get past the messy middle and deal with it, once and for all... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered how to get past the OTHER kind of messy middle, with the actual process of writing your book? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access all 5 tips for how to get past the messy middle and deal with it, once and for all... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8055669 Mon, 15 Mar 2021 22:00:00 -0700 579 104 full false 102: Which book in a romance series should I read first? (Polyamorous Passions example) 102: Which book in a romance series should I read first? (Polyamorous Passions example) Have you ever wondered which book in the Polyamorous Passions series you should start reading first... or how to decide which book in ANY romance series you should start reading first? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access all 7 questions you should ask yourself to choose the best book in a series to begin reading first...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  


Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered which book in the Polyamorous Passions series you should start reading first... or how to decide which book in ANY romance series you should start reading first? That’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access all 7 questions you should ask yourself to choose the best book in a series to begin reading first...

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  


Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-8055579 Mon, 08 Mar 2021 22:00:00 -0800 873 103 full false 101: What to think about when writing a non-fiction book 101: What to think about when writing a non-fiction book Have you ever wondered where to begin with writing a non-fiction book? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN to get 5 tips for what you need to think about when writing a non-fiction book...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered where to begin with writing a non-fiction book? Well, that’s exactly what we’re discussing on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN to get 5 tips for what you need to think about when writing a non-fiction book...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

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]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7729774 Mon, 01 Mar 2021 22:00:00 -0800 641 102 full false 100: 100 tips for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms 100: 100 tips for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms Have you ever wished you could get all the writing and reading tips you need and inside scoop you want in one place? Well, that’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly, as a special celebration of our 100th episode! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access all 100 writing and reading tips...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wished you could get all the writing and reading tips you need and inside scoop you want in one place? Well, that’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly, as a special celebration of our 100th episode! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

TUNE IN NOW to access all 100 writing and reading tips...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7729633 Mon, 22 Feb 2021 22:00:00 -0800 1509 101 full false 099: Recap of this author's book sales in 2020 099: Recap of this author's book sales in 2020 Are you curious about how much this author spent on book marketing, and how much I made on book sales over the course of an entire year? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

In this episode, get a behind-the-scenes recap of how 2020 went for this author in terms of 5 categories: hours spent writing book, hours spent marketing books, dollars spent promoting books, number of book sales and downloads, and dollars earned from book sales… PLUS the importance of embracing all forms of success and how you can step into your own productive, prolific self! 

TUNE IN to get the inside scoop now... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Are you curious about how much this author spent on book marketing, and how much I made on book sales over the course of an entire year? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.   

In this episode, get a behind-the-scenes recap of how 2020 went for this author in terms of 5 categories: hours spent writing book, hours spent marketing books, dollars spent promoting books, number of book sales and downloads, and dollars earned from book sales… PLUS the importance of embracing all forms of success and how you can step into your own productive, prolific self! 

TUNE IN to get the inside scoop now... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7729015 Mon, 15 Feb 2021 22:00:00 -0800 817 100 full false 098: 5 tips for how to write confidently in a stigmatized genre 098: 5 tips for how to write confidently in a stigmatized genre Have you ever wondered how to write—with confidence!—in a genre that might have some stigma around it? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

Today's episode of Indie Author Weekly shares 5 tips for how to write confidently, even in a stigmatized genre like Sagan's: polyamorous romantic comedies.  

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop and tips...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered how to write—with confidence!—in a genre that might have some stigma around it? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

Today's episode of Indie Author Weekly shares 5 tips for how to write confidently, even in a stigmatized genre like Sagan's: polyamorous romantic comedies.  

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop and tips...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7728655 Mon, 08 Feb 2021 22:00:00 -0800 731 99 full false 097: Unexpected motivation & lessons learned from a short story contest 097: Unexpected motivation & lessons learned from a short story contest Have you ever wondered how to stay motivated when you write a story, especially when you’re participation in a competition and need to stick to a deadline? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares Sagan's experience participating in the first round of the NYC Midnight Short Story Challenge... including how she stayed motivated throughout the contest, plus something unexpected that she learned about herself! (Perhaps you'll be able to relate...)

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered how to stay motivated when you write a story, especially when you’re participation in a competition and need to stick to a deadline? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!   

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares Sagan's experience participating in the first round of the NYC Midnight Short Story Challenge... including how she stayed motivated throughout the contest, plus something unexpected that she learned about herself! (Perhaps you'll be able to relate...)

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7595935 Mon, 01 Feb 2021 22:00:00 -0800 682 98 full false 096: Handling the business side of being an author 096: Handling the business side of being an author Have you ever wondered about what goes into setting up the business side of being an author? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today we have a listener question from Alicia, who asks: “Can you do a podcast episode on the business side of being an author? Do you have an LLC, or some sort of small business that everything funnels under? Or do you just funnel it under your freelance writing?” 

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever wondered about what goes into setting up the business side of being an author? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today we have a listener question from Alicia, who asks: “Can you do a podcast episode on the business side of being an author? Do you have an LLC, or some sort of small business that everything funnels under? Or do you just funnel it under your freelance writing?” 

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7212034 Mon, 25 Jan 2021 22:00:00 -0800 608 97 full false 095: "Who am I to write a book?" 095: "Who am I to write a book?" Have you ever thought that it would be cool to write a book, but it feels presumptuous or weird or self-indulgent to do that? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly. This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

Today's topic is inspired by a conversation I saw on Twitter last month, when someone said something along the lines of, “I like the idea of writing and publishing a book, but it feels presumptuous." There ended up being a thread of other people chiming in who agreed that they wanted to write and publish books, but they haven’t done it yet, because they felt like it would be conceited if they did it.  

This line of thinking is SO COMMON. Honestly, sometimes, yeah, it feels weird to write a book! You might have imposter syndrome. You might think: "Who am I to write this book? Why would anyone care about what I have to say? This is too indulgent. This is narcissistic."  

Does that sound familiar for you? You aren’t alone if you have self-doubts about it.  

TUNE IN to this episode to find out how to deal with this!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Have you ever thought that it would be cool to write a book, but it feels presumptuous or weird or self-indulgent to do that? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly. This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

Today's topic is inspired by a conversation I saw on Twitter last month, when someone said something along the lines of, “I like the idea of writing and publishing a book, but it feels presumptuous." There ended up being a thread of other people chiming in who agreed that they wanted to write and publish books, but they haven’t done it yet, because they felt like it would be conceited if they did it.  

This line of thinking is SO COMMON. Honestly, sometimes, yeah, it feels weird to write a book! You might have imposter syndrome. You might think: "Who am I to write this book? Why would anyone care about what I have to say? This is too indulgent. This is narcissistic."  

Does that sound familiar for you? You aren’t alone if you have self-doubts about it.  

TUNE IN to this episode to find out how to deal with this!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7211932 Mon, 18 Jan 2021 22:00:00 -0800 455 96 full false 094: 7 areas of growth as an author 094: 7 areas of growth as an author Are you curious about the different ways you might grow as a writer, and what might change along your writing journey as you publish more books? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

This is a listener question from Alana, who says: “Looking back on how you've grown as a writer... What areas have you grown? Were they areas you knew you needed to grow or were trying to grow, or was the growth unexpected? Thinking about not only the speed and efficiency of your writing and productivity, but also dialogue, theme, setting, all the stuff... I was thinking about this when listening to Episode 90, where you talk about how you've gotten funnier (which I totally agree with as an assessment from your first novel to your seventh) but I'd be interested to hear your self-assessment on growth in other areas, and also, if it just happened from writing or what precipitated it…”  

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop, and discover 7 areas of author growth!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Are you curious about the different ways you might grow as a writer, and what might change along your writing journey as you publish more books? Well, that’s exactly what we are going to discuss on today’s episode of Indie Author Weekly.  

This is the podcast for indie authors, aspiring authors, and curious bookworms who want the inside scoop, tips and motivation, and behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

This is a listener question from Alana, who says: “Looking back on how you've grown as a writer... What areas have you grown? Were they areas you knew you needed to grow or were trying to grow, or was the growth unexpected? Thinking about not only the speed and efficiency of your writing and productivity, but also dialogue, theme, setting, all the stuff... I was thinking about this when listening to Episode 90, where you talk about how you've gotten funnier (which I totally agree with as an assessment from your first novel to your seventh) but I'd be interested to hear your self-assessment on growth in other areas, and also, if it just happened from writing or what precipitated it…”  

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop, and discover 7 areas of author growth!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-7211809 Mon, 11 Jan 2021 22:00:00 -0800 1472 95 full false 093: Writing meditation 093: Writing meditation This episode of Indie Author Weekly is a little different than usual… it features a little writing meditation. This is an episode you can return to again and again in the future, whenever you need to hear it. This writing meditation is designed to help you get into the right headspace for working on your writing projects, to overcome any overwhelm or writer’s block or demons that are holding you back from writing at this moment. 

If you are listening to this episode while you’re driving in the car or doing chores around the house, that’s no problem—in that case, of course, keep your eyes open! You’ll still get benefits from our writing meditation today, and you can always re-listen to this episode later on when you have time and space to sit quietly and comfortably, without distraction. 

Let’s begin: Sit down somewhere comfortable, perhaps with your notebook and a pen or your computer close by, so you’ll be able to start writing when we’re finished. Quiet all distractions that might interrupt us for this short meditation. Get comfortable, perhaps lying down or sitting down; be restful. You can close your eyes if you wish. 

For our purposes here, choose one writing project to think about. It can be an unfinished project you’ve already started, or one that you’ve been thinking about starting but haven’t gotten around to yet, or something brand new that comes up for you in this moment. This is your journey. Your author adventure. You get to make that choice. 

TUNE IN to this episode to access this writing meditation now....   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly is a little different than usual… it features a little writing meditation. This is an episode you can return to again and again in the future, whenever you need to hear it. This writing meditation is designed to help you get into the right headspace for working on your writing projects, to overcome any overwhelm or writer’s block or demons that are holding you back from writing at this moment. 

If you are listening to this episode while you’re driving in the car or doing chores around the house, that’s no problem—in that case, of course, keep your eyes open! You’ll still get benefits from our writing meditation today, and you can always re-listen to this episode later on when you have time and space to sit quietly and comfortably, without distraction. 

Let’s begin: Sit down somewhere comfortable, perhaps with your notebook and a pen or your computer close by, so you’ll be able to start writing when we’re finished. Quiet all distractions that might interrupt us for this short meditation. Get comfortable, perhaps lying down or sitting down; be restful. You can close your eyes if you wish. 

For our purposes here, choose one writing project to think about. It can be an unfinished project you’ve already started, or one that you’ve been thinking about starting but haven’t gotten around to yet, or something brand new that comes up for you in this moment. This is your journey. Your author adventure. You get to make that choice. 

TUNE IN to this episode to access this writing meditation now....   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6642922 Mon, 04 Jan 2021 22:00:00 -0800 977 94 full false 092: Book plans & writing projects for 2021 092: Book plans & writing projects for 2021 This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares Sagan's author plans and writing projects for 2021, PLUS what you need to think about when you're planning ahead with your own writing projects for the upcoming year! 

In our previous episode of Indie Author Weekly, Episode 91, I shared about how my writing plans changed over the course of 2020… so I thought you might be interested in hearing about my upcoming author and writing plans for the new year! 

As you probably already know, I am very multipassionate. And that means I have a lot of moving pieces to my business. So I need to arrange all of that into my schedule, and it also means that I pivot often to refine my processes and ideas and plans.   

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get the inside scoop... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares Sagan's author plans and writing projects for 2021, PLUS what you need to think about when you're planning ahead with your own writing projects for the upcoming year! 

In our previous episode of Indie Author Weekly, Episode 91, I shared about how my writing plans changed over the course of 2020… so I thought you might be interested in hearing about my upcoming author and writing plans for the new year! 

As you probably already know, I am very multipassionate. And that means I have a lot of moving pieces to my business. So I need to arrange all of that into my schedule, and it also means that I pivot often to refine my processes and ideas and plans.   

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get the inside scoop... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6641176 Mon, 28 Dec 2020 22:00:00 -0800 540 93 full false 091: When book plans change during a pandemic 091: When book plans change during a pandemic This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares how my author and writing plans changed this past year, PLUS how to handle things when YOUR writing plans change... 

After all, we’re heading into a brand new year in just a couple weeks! This is a good time for reflection and assessment of the previous year, and for planning ahead into the upcoming year. 

Back in Episode 41 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast, I shared a 5-step process for how to plan your book projects for the upcoming year. I also shared my own book plans. Of course, 2020 has been a Year, with a capital Y. If anyone’s plans actually stayed the same this year, that is impressive! But regardless, it’s easy to get off track or derailed or to simply change our plans any year, let alone a year like 2020. 

My initial plans for 2020 were to complete my entire Polyamorous Passions series—that is, Books 7 - 9, AKA Scarlett’s trilogy—and also to publish a spinoff poetry book that “Scarlett” writes in the Polyamorous Passions series. At the time of making these plans, I had already mapped out Book 7 and I believe I also had a working draft of the novel. 

Well! I ended up reworking those plans pretty early on, for two main reasons… #1, I wanted to build up the productivity teaching side of my business, so that I could have a strong, healthy financial foundation for working on the author side of my business. And #2, the pandemic meant that I, along with everyone else this year, had way lower energy and creativity levels than normal, which made book writing tricky. The other part of this is that it’s really, really challenging to write a romance novel specifically during a pandemic. 

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop on what to do when writing plans change, plus how author Sagan Morrow changed her book plans during the pandemic...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares how my author and writing plans changed this past year, PLUS how to handle things when YOUR writing plans change... 

After all, we’re heading into a brand new year in just a couple weeks! This is a good time for reflection and assessment of the previous year, and for planning ahead into the upcoming year. 

Back in Episode 41 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast, I shared a 5-step process for how to plan your book projects for the upcoming year. I also shared my own book plans. Of course, 2020 has been a Year, with a capital Y. If anyone’s plans actually stayed the same this year, that is impressive! But regardless, it’s easy to get off track or derailed or to simply change our plans any year, let alone a year like 2020. 

My initial plans for 2020 were to complete my entire Polyamorous Passions series—that is, Books 7 - 9, AKA Scarlett’s trilogy—and also to publish a spinoff poetry book that “Scarlett” writes in the Polyamorous Passions series. At the time of making these plans, I had already mapped out Book 7 and I believe I also had a working draft of the novel. 

Well! I ended up reworking those plans pretty early on, for two main reasons… #1, I wanted to build up the productivity teaching side of my business, so that I could have a strong, healthy financial foundation for working on the author side of my business. And #2, the pandemic meant that I, along with everyone else this year, had way lower energy and creativity levels than normal, which made book writing tricky. The other part of this is that it’s really, really challenging to write a romance novel specifically during a pandemic. 

TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop on what to do when writing plans change, plus how author Sagan Morrow changed her book plans during the pandemic...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6641071 Mon, 21 Dec 2020 22:00:00 -0800 596 92 full false 090: How to find your voice & style as a storyteller & writer 090: How to find your voice & style as a storyteller & writer This episode of Indie Author Weekly addresses how to find your voice or style as a storyteller and writer.  

Finding your voice as a storyteller is something that will take time. The best way to discover it and to cultivate it is to continue writing and telling stories on an ongoing (and, ideally consistent) basis, and to review your work as time passes.  

These tips will help you out:  

  1. Keep writing and telling stories on an ongoing basis, as consistently as possible.
  2. Have fun with it! Play with various genres and perspectives etc.
  3. Expand your comfort zone by starting with what feels easy or natural, and stepping more and more into your strengths as you keep moving forward.
  4. Reread your previously-published work so that you can see your voice and style grow over time, and to observe any patterns.
  5. Pay attention to your storytelling voice and your writing style, and try to ensure that they work together, rather than against one another.

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to learn more about how to find your voice and style as a storyteller and writer...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly addresses how to find your voice or style as a storyteller and writer.  

Finding your voice as a storyteller is something that will take time. The best way to discover it and to cultivate it is to continue writing and telling stories on an ongoing (and, ideally consistent) basis, and to review your work as time passes.  

These tips will help you out:  

  1. Keep writing and telling stories on an ongoing basis, as consistently as possible.
  2. Have fun with it! Play with various genres and perspectives etc.
  3. Expand your comfort zone by starting with what feels easy or natural, and stepping more and more into your strengths as you keep moving forward.
  4. Reread your previously-published work so that you can see your voice and style grow over time, and to observe any patterns.
  5. Pay attention to your storytelling voice and your writing style, and try to ensure that they work together, rather than against one another.

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to learn more about how to find your voice and style as a storyteller and writer...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6551941 Mon, 14 Dec 2020 22:00:00 -0800 529 91 full false 089: Call for beta readers! (Small Town Stilettos) 089: Call for beta readers! (Small Town Stilettos) In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, let's talk about beta readers. In fact, I am officially putting the call out to invite YOU to become a beta reader for my upcoming romcom, Small Town Stilettos! 

Here’s a teaser about the book: 

Big city fashion designer Margaret "Peggy" Malcolm never dreamed that she'd be stuck back in her tiny hometown. But when her aunt dies, Peggy needs to handle everything with her estate... and it turns out to have a rather unusual stipulation: Peggy needs to marry her childhood sweetheart, Logan Finley, in order to access her inheritance. 

Things get even more complicated when another old flame of hers comes strolling into town. 

Small Town Stilettos is a friends to lovers, modern marriage of convenience, second chance romantic comedy—with the only one bed trope. It features a body positive, fat heroine, and it’s snarky and sassy. 

If that sounds like a story you can’t wait to read, then I strongly encourage you to apply to be a beta reader at SaganMorrow.com/beta. 

Now, this is my first time officially getting beta readers for one of my novels. I’m pretty excited about it! I have no idea if my method of going about it will be effective, but I figured I’d share behind the scenes for what I’m going to do with my beta readers. 

My hope is to find three beta readers for Small Town Stilettos. Three beta readers feels like a manageable amount, and I think having three perspectives will be helpful for tightening up the story as needed. The application form doesn’t take long to fill out, but it will be very helpful!

TUNE IN to this episode to learn more about my plan for beta readers... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, let's talk about beta readers. In fact, I am officially putting the call out to invite YOU to become a beta reader for my upcoming romcom, Small Town Stilettos! 

Here’s a teaser about the book: 

Big city fashion designer Margaret "Peggy" Malcolm never dreamed that she'd be stuck back in her tiny hometown. But when her aunt dies, Peggy needs to handle everything with her estate... and it turns out to have a rather unusual stipulation: Peggy needs to marry her childhood sweetheart, Logan Finley, in order to access her inheritance. 

Things get even more complicated when another old flame of hers comes strolling into town. 

Small Town Stilettos is a friends to lovers, modern marriage of convenience, second chance romantic comedy—with the only one bed trope. It features a body positive, fat heroine, and it’s snarky and sassy. 

If that sounds like a story you can’t wait to read, then I strongly encourage you to apply to be a beta reader at SaganMorrow.com/beta. 

Now, this is my first time officially getting beta readers for one of my novels. I’m pretty excited about it! I have no idea if my method of going about it will be effective, but I figured I’d share behind the scenes for what I’m going to do with my beta readers. 

My hope is to find three beta readers for Small Town Stilettos. Three beta readers feels like a manageable amount, and I think having three perspectives will be helpful for tightening up the story as needed. The application form doesn’t take long to fill out, but it will be very helpful!

TUNE IN to this episode to learn more about my plan for beta readers... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6551752 Mon, 07 Dec 2020 22:00:00 -0800 642 90 full false 088: Process for choosing cover image & design 088: Process for choosing cover image & design In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to share about my process for how I have chosen cover images and design for my books in the past. I’ll be doing an illustrated cover for my next romcom, which I’m pretty excited about, so that got me thinking about cover images and design in general. 

This is not something that comes naturally to me. I’m a writer, not a designer! I outsourced my design to Acepub for the Polyamorous Passions, and they’ve been pretty good. I chose them right from the start because they were recommended by Kobo Writing Life. 

I still don’t feel as though I’ve totally nailed the decision-making process of choosing cover images and design, but I’ve definitely learned a lot! So if you feel like you aren’t a design person, don’t worry. I’m right there with you. This episode is for you. 

A caveat here: this process is based on my experience with a) hiring out the cover design to someone else, and b) using stock photos for my covers. I’ll be getting a custom illustrated cover design for my next book, so that process will be a bit different! I’ll share about that experience in a future episode if you like. 

Okay! So, here’s how I’ve chosen cover images and designs for my books. Let’s break it down into an easy step by step process... TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to share about my process for how I have chosen cover images and design for my books in the past. I’ll be doing an illustrated cover for my next romcom, which I’m pretty excited about, so that got me thinking about cover images and design in general. 

This is not something that comes naturally to me. I’m a writer, not a designer! I outsourced my design to Acepub for the Polyamorous Passions, and they’ve been pretty good. I chose them right from the start because they were recommended by Kobo Writing Life. 

I still don’t feel as though I’ve totally nailed the decision-making process of choosing cover images and design, but I’ve definitely learned a lot! So if you feel like you aren’t a design person, don’t worry. I’m right there with you. This episode is for you. 

A caveat here: this process is based on my experience with a) hiring out the cover design to someone else, and b) using stock photos for my covers. I’ll be getting a custom illustrated cover design for my next book, so that process will be a bit different! I’ll share about that experience in a future episode if you like. 

Okay! So, here’s how I’ve chosen cover images and designs for my books. Let’s break it down into an easy step by step process... TUNE IN to this episode to get the inside scoop!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6551419 Mon, 30 Nov 2020 22:00:00 -0800 952 89 full false 087: Why you should write short stories 087: Why you should write short stories In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to share about my recent experience with writing a short story… and why I’ll be doing that on a monthly basis from now on. 

I actually had plans to publish my next romcom, Small Town Stilettos, within the next few weeks. But about a month ago, I realized that I was putting unnecessary pressure on myself to hurry up and edit that book and then publish it. There are other aspects of my business that I also need to focus on, and if I prioritized Small Town Stilettos right now, I’d just be pulled in way too many directions all at once. So I decided that I needed to take a step back and slow down a bit. 

I don’t know about you, but impatience is definitely a weakness of mine. I’ve been able to channel and reframe it into a strength in a lot of ways, because I’m very action-oriented… but I need to remind myself in these situations that it’s not a race, and that I don’t need to hustle every single day to get things done in a rush. So with that in mind, I’ll be working on Small Town Stilettos at a slower pace over the next couple months, and I’ll likely publish it in February or March.  

In the meantime, you can learn more about that book and add it to your To Read list on Goodreads by searching “Small Town Stilettos”... I’ll also drop the link in the show notes of this episode.  

Anyway, when I made that decision, I knew that I still wanted to work on creative writing projects on an ongoing basis. I wanted something smaller that I can complete quickly, without it taking a huge amount of time and energy out of my week, the way that full-length novels do. And that’s where the idea of writing short stories comes in…

TUNE IN to this episode to find out why I'm writing short stories (and why you should, too). 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to share about my recent experience with writing a short story… and why I’ll be doing that on a monthly basis from now on. 

I actually had plans to publish my next romcom, Small Town Stilettos, within the next few weeks. But about a month ago, I realized that I was putting unnecessary pressure on myself to hurry up and edit that book and then publish it. There are other aspects of my business that I also need to focus on, and if I prioritized Small Town Stilettos right now, I’d just be pulled in way too many directions all at once. So I decided that I needed to take a step back and slow down a bit. 

I don’t know about you, but impatience is definitely a weakness of mine. I’ve been able to channel and reframe it into a strength in a lot of ways, because I’m very action-oriented… but I need to remind myself in these situations that it’s not a race, and that I don’t need to hustle every single day to get things done in a rush. So with that in mind, I’ll be working on Small Town Stilettos at a slower pace over the next couple months, and I’ll likely publish it in February or March.  

In the meantime, you can learn more about that book and add it to your To Read list on Goodreads by searching “Small Town Stilettos”... I’ll also drop the link in the show notes of this episode.  

Anyway, when I made that decision, I knew that I still wanted to work on creative writing projects on an ongoing basis. I wanted something smaller that I can complete quickly, without it taking a huge amount of time and energy out of my week, the way that full-length novels do. And that’s where the idea of writing short stories comes in…

TUNE IN to this episode to find out why I'm writing short stories (and why you should, too). 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6349801 Mon, 23 Nov 2020 22:00:00 -0800 733 88 full false 086: 6 ways to deal with FOMO when everyone else is writing a book (and you aren't) 086: 6 ways to deal with FOMO when everyone else is writing a book (and you aren't) In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to provide you with some reassurance, if you feel like everyone else is writing a book, and you aren’t. 

We are currently in November, and every November is National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo. It’s that time of year when people from all across the globe come together virtually to each write a 50,000 word novel in the space of just 30 days. It’s a super cool concept and it can be a very effective way to get that first draft on paper. I love the energy of NaNoWriMo—when you’re participating in it, you get to really be a part of a bigger community, with plenty of writing resources. It’s awesome.  

But… what about if you aren’t participating in National Novel Writing Month? What about those times when it feels like everyone else is writing a book, and you aren’t?  

I’ve taken part in NaNoWriMo probably about a half-dozen times, and every year when I don’t participate, I definitely feel some FOMO about it. That’s totally normal. It makes sense to maybe feel a little guilty that we aren’t writing a novel, when it seems like everyone else is doing it. It’s okay to wonder if maybe you should be doing it, too.  

Here’s the thing, though: sometimes, the timing isn’t quite right. And as important as it is to prioritize book writing, we also can’t necessarily just drop everything to do it. Right? Right.  

TUNE IN to this episode for 6 tips on how to deal with FOMO about (not) writing your book...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to provide you with some reassurance, if you feel like everyone else is writing a book, and you aren’t. 

We are currently in November, and every November is National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo. It’s that time of year when people from all across the globe come together virtually to each write a 50,000 word novel in the space of just 30 days. It’s a super cool concept and it can be a very effective way to get that first draft on paper. I love the energy of NaNoWriMo—when you’re participating in it, you get to really be a part of a bigger community, with plenty of writing resources. It’s awesome.  

But… what about if you aren’t participating in National Novel Writing Month? What about those times when it feels like everyone else is writing a book, and you aren’t?  

I’ve taken part in NaNoWriMo probably about a half-dozen times, and every year when I don’t participate, I definitely feel some FOMO about it. That’s totally normal. It makes sense to maybe feel a little guilty that we aren’t writing a novel, when it seems like everyone else is doing it. It’s okay to wonder if maybe you should be doing it, too.  

Here’s the thing, though: sometimes, the timing isn’t quite right. And as important as it is to prioritize book writing, we also can’t necessarily just drop everything to do it. Right? Right.  

TUNE IN to this episode for 6 tips on how to deal with FOMO about (not) writing your book...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6349624 Mon, 16 Nov 2020 22:00:00 -0800 570 87 full false 085: The importance of "thinking" time as part of the book writing process 085: The importance of "thinking" time as part of the book writing process This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares the vital importance of “thinking” time as part of the book writing process.  

What do I mean when I say “thinking” time?  

Basically, that’s any time you’re thinking about your book but not actively writing it. For me, this often happens when I’m out walking or kayaking, or lying awake at night unable to sleep, or just daydreaming at random. Many people find that any kind of mindless task, such as doing household chores or showering etc, is a good opportunity for this. This doesn’t happen when you are sitting at the computer or writing in your journal.  

“Thinking” time can be passive or active. The passive version is when something just springs to mind, unbidden, when you weren’t thinking about your book at all. The active version is when you are trying to focus your brainpower on your book, and working through ideas and such in your mind. 

Both are equally important! Even if you typically do most of your book’s “thinking” time in a passive fashion, I would still encourage you to deliberately carve out time to do the active version of it. It will enable you to channel your ideas, make decisions around plot, and resolve any issues you might be struggling with in your book.  

We often discount “thinking” time because we can’t quantify it, the way we can with a word count. This is a huge problem. If you are only concerned about getting the words on the page, and you don’t consider the underlying themes and tone and characters of your story, then you won’t be able to tease out the nuances of it, and you’ll have a “flatter” story. We don’t want that. We want our books to have depth, substance, a three-dimensional angle. The more that you understand the story, the better your book will be.  

TUNE IN to this episode to find out why "thinking" time is so important, plus a real-life example and how to make it work as part of your own book writing process...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares the vital importance of “thinking” time as part of the book writing process.  

What do I mean when I say “thinking” time?  

Basically, that’s any time you’re thinking about your book but not actively writing it. For me, this often happens when I’m out walking or kayaking, or lying awake at night unable to sleep, or just daydreaming at random. Many people find that any kind of mindless task, such as doing household chores or showering etc, is a good opportunity for this. This doesn’t happen when you are sitting at the computer or writing in your journal.  

“Thinking” time can be passive or active. The passive version is when something just springs to mind, unbidden, when you weren’t thinking about your book at all. The active version is when you are trying to focus your brainpower on your book, and working through ideas and such in your mind. 

Both are equally important! Even if you typically do most of your book’s “thinking” time in a passive fashion, I would still encourage you to deliberately carve out time to do the active version of it. It will enable you to channel your ideas, make decisions around plot, and resolve any issues you might be struggling with in your book.  

We often discount “thinking” time because we can’t quantify it, the way we can with a word count. This is a huge problem. If you are only concerned about getting the words on the page, and you don’t consider the underlying themes and tone and characters of your story, then you won’t be able to tease out the nuances of it, and you’ll have a “flatter” story. We don’t want that. We want our books to have depth, substance, a three-dimensional angle. The more that you understand the story, the better your book will be.  

TUNE IN to this episode to find out why "thinking" time is so important, plus a real-life example and how to make it work as part of your own book writing process...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6004039 Mon, 09 Nov 2020 22:00:00 -0800 530 86 full false 084: Getting over the fear of success 084: Getting over the fear of success Do you have a fear of success? What about a fear of failure? Is fear in general holding you back from writing your book? We address all of that and more in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! 

Today, we're responding to a listener comment about the fear of success... "When it comes to getting my writing out there, I’m more scared of success than failure."  

If that's you, too, please know that you are not alone! Fear of success is super common—but there are strategies to overcome it. We also address another listener comment in today's episode: "If I wrote as honestly as I fantasize being able to do, I would be afraid of success, too. I’ve thought about writing under a penname. My concern is about being 100% about my thoughts and experiences, and what people would think. I only want to write with brutal honesty or not at all."  

In this combination encouraging pep talk and practical strategies podcast episode, we'll get past your fear of failure, once and for all, so you can finally realize your dreams of becoming an author. TUNE IN to this episode to get that now...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Do you have a fear of success? What about a fear of failure? Is fear in general holding you back from writing your book? We address all of that and more in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! 

Today, we're responding to a listener comment about the fear of success... "When it comes to getting my writing out there, I’m more scared of success than failure."  

If that's you, too, please know that you are not alone! Fear of success is super common—but there are strategies to overcome it. We also address another listener comment in today's episode: "If I wrote as honestly as I fantasize being able to do, I would be afraid of success, too. I’ve thought about writing under a penname. My concern is about being 100% about my thoughts and experiences, and what people would think. I only want to write with brutal honesty or not at all."  

In this combination encouraging pep talk and practical strategies podcast episode, we'll get past your fear of failure, once and for all, so you can finally realize your dreams of becoming an author. TUNE IN to this episode to get that now...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-6003688 Mon, 02 Nov 2020 22:00:00 -0800 954 85 full false 083: Step-by-step guide for how to fit "writing a book" into your schedule 083: Step-by-step guide for how to fit "writing a book" into your schedule This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares a few tips for what you can do to fit writing a book into your busy schedule. I have a step-by-step guide, a 5-step process, for how to do just that. As a productivity strategist, I teach business owners all the time about how to improve time management and productivity… so let’s apply that to your author life.  

First of all, there are 2 key things you need to know about managing your time effectively:  

  1. Good time management is rooted in good energy management. 
  2. Effective time management and awesome productivity skills are not rocket science: anyone can do it! Yes, that includes you. 

I want you to keep these 2 things in mind when you’re trying to fit “writing a book” into your busy schedule.  

Also, remember this: *What* you choose to prioritize isn’t the issue here... it’s *that YOU make the active choice.* It is that you understand that you have the opportunity to prioritize the things that matter to you. If you are serious about writing and publishing a book, it needs to be a priority.  

We all have different backgrounds and things going on in our lives, of course. For myself, I postponed writing novels for YEARS, and I started writing and publishing the Polyamorous Passions series while I was going through a business partnership breakup, going through some of the worst anxiety of my life, and I also have chronic insomnia and nightmare disorder.  

We all have different things in life and business to deal with—it’s not as though you can necessarily drop everything to work on your book, but it does need to be a priority. No matter your background or personal circumstances, I want you to have hope and confidence that you, too, *can* fit a book into your schedule.  

TUNE IN to this episode for a step-by-step process for how to fit “writing a book” into your schedule...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares a few tips for what you can do to fit writing a book into your busy schedule. I have a step-by-step guide, a 5-step process, for how to do just that. As a productivity strategist, I teach business owners all the time about how to improve time management and productivity… so let’s apply that to your author life.  

First of all, there are 2 key things you need to know about managing your time effectively:  

  1. Good time management is rooted in good energy management. 
  2. Effective time management and awesome productivity skills are not rocket science: anyone can do it! Yes, that includes you. 

I want you to keep these 2 things in mind when you’re trying to fit “writing a book” into your busy schedule.  

Also, remember this: *What* you choose to prioritize isn’t the issue here... it’s *that YOU make the active choice.* It is that you understand that you have the opportunity to prioritize the things that matter to you. If you are serious about writing and publishing a book, it needs to be a priority.  

We all have different backgrounds and things going on in our lives, of course. For myself, I postponed writing novels for YEARS, and I started writing and publishing the Polyamorous Passions series while I was going through a business partnership breakup, going through some of the worst anxiety of my life, and I also have chronic insomnia and nightmare disorder.  

We all have different things in life and business to deal with—it’s not as though you can necessarily drop everything to work on your book, but it does need to be a priority. No matter your background or personal circumstances, I want you to have hope and confidence that you, too, *can* fit a book into your schedule.  

TUNE IN to this episode for a step-by-step process for how to fit “writing a book” into your schedule...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5927215 Mon, 26 Oct 2020 22:00:00 -0700 926 84 full false 082: The truth about creativity that every writer needs to hear 082: The truth about creativity that every writer needs to hear This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares the TRUTH about creativity that every writer needs to hear... are you ready for this? 

Consider this your book writing pep talk of the week! Tune into this episode to hear it now... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares the TRUTH about creativity that every writer needs to hear... are you ready for this? 

Consider this your book writing pep talk of the week! Tune into this episode to hear it now... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5926660 Mon, 19 Oct 2020 22:00:00 -0700 431 83 full false 081: 3 tips for how to FINISH writing your book 081: 3 tips for how to FINISH writing your book Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romantic comedies, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Back in Episode 79, I shared a few tips and writing prompts for how to start writing your novel… so with that in mind, today I want to share 3 tips for how to finish your book. 

TUNE IN to this episode to get practical tips for how to finally finish your novel... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romantic comedies, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Back in Episode 79, I shared a few tips and writing prompts for how to start writing your novel… so with that in mind, today I want to share 3 tips for how to finish your book. 

TUNE IN to this episode to get practical tips for how to finally finish your novel... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5641627 Mon, 12 Oct 2020 22:00:00 -0700 716 82 full false 080: 5 reasons why you're struggling with writing (and how to fix it) 080: 5 reasons why you're struggling with writing (and how to fix it) Today's episode of Indie Author Weekly shares 5 possible reasons for why you’re struggling with writing… plus how to fix each of those problems! As we go through these, we’ll see that many of them interconnect together, so you might find that a few of these resonate with you...  

TUNE IN to this episode to find out how to solve the problems and reasons for why you're struggling to write your novel. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today's episode of Indie Author Weekly shares 5 possible reasons for why you’re struggling with writing… plus how to fix each of those problems! As we go through these, we’ll see that many of them interconnect together, so you might find that a few of these resonate with you...  

TUNE IN to this episode to find out how to solve the problems and reasons for why you're struggling to write your novel. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5641279 Mon, 05 Oct 2020 22:00:00 -0700 744 81 full false 079: Tips & writing prompts for the opening scene of your novel 079: Tips & writing prompts for the opening scene of your novel Today's episode of Indie Author Weekly shares 3 tips, plus a list of ideas and writing prompts, for how to start writing your novel. After all, sometimes one of the hardest things about writing your novel is actually starting it! After you write “Chapter 1”... what comes next? 

I encourage you to do 3 things when you’re writing the first scene in the first chapter of your book… TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get the tips, PLUS 10 writing prompts for writing the opening scene of your novel!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today's episode of Indie Author Weekly shares 3 tips, plus a list of ideas and writing prompts, for how to start writing your novel. After all, sometimes one of the hardest things about writing your novel is actually starting it! After you write “Chapter 1”... what comes next? 

I encourage you to do 3 things when you’re writing the first scene in the first chapter of your book… TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get the tips, PLUS 10 writing prompts for writing the opening scene of your novel!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5490613 Mon, 28 Sep 2020 22:00:00 -0700 653 80 full false 078: Book launch recap, part 2: paid ads & book sales results 078: Book launch recap, part 2: paid ads & book sales results Today on Indie Author Weekly, I want to continue with our book launch recap of Her Bad Idea. Last week, I shared with you about the organic book marketing that I did for the book launch, and my experience with the book blogging community and the advance readers who helped me promote this book. You can tune into Episode 77 to get the inside scoop on all of that. 

Okay! So today, we’re on to Part 2 of the book launch recap for Her Bad Idea. The release day was August 25, so I consider the book launch to be a two-week period. In this episode, I want to share with you the money side of things with this book launch: which paid promotions were worth it, and which weren’t, plus how many book sales I actually made, and how much money I made from my romcoms during the two-week book launch period for Her Bad Idea.

I wanted to experiment with different combinations of promos… I figured that doing a blitz of multiple different promotional methods would give that extra boost and that punch you need to hit the bestseller list. It’s a multipronged approach! So that was my mindset behind buying a bunch of promos.

If you want to learn more about strategically planning ahead, then check out my signature program, Productivity Powerhouse, to get my best tips for doing just that. Visit SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse. 

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to learn all about paid advertisements for book marketing and my book launch results... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today on Indie Author Weekly, I want to continue with our book launch recap of Her Bad Idea. Last week, I shared with you about the organic book marketing that I did for the book launch, and my experience with the book blogging community and the advance readers who helped me promote this book. You can tune into Episode 77 to get the inside scoop on all of that. 

Okay! So today, we’re on to Part 2 of the book launch recap for Her Bad Idea. The release day was August 25, so I consider the book launch to be a two-week period. In this episode, I want to share with you the money side of things with this book launch: which paid promotions were worth it, and which weren’t, plus how many book sales I actually made, and how much money I made from my romcoms during the two-week book launch period for Her Bad Idea.

I wanted to experiment with different combinations of promos… I figured that doing a blitz of multiple different promotional methods would give that extra boost and that punch you need to hit the bestseller list. It’s a multipronged approach! So that was my mindset behind buying a bunch of promos.

If you want to learn more about strategically planning ahead, then check out my signature program, Productivity Powerhouse, to get my best tips for doing just that. Visit SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse. 

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to learn all about paid advertisements for book marketing and my book launch results... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5489476 Mon, 21 Sep 2020 22:00:00 -0700 2202 79 full false 077: Book launch recap, part 1: organic marketing 077: Book launch recap, part 1: organic marketing This episode of Indie Author Weekly is a book launch recap of how things went with my book launch last month, for my latest romcom, Her Bad Idea. This is a 2-part series because I have a LOT of behind-the-scenes info to share with you! This episode is all about the organic marketing and book community side of things, and next week, I’ll talk about paid promotions and ads.

Quick overview of the book: Her Bad Idea tells the story of Scarlett, a burlesque dancer with a failing business, who has the opportunity to win a huge cash prize by participating in a dance competition. The only catch is that she needs to have a dance partner in order to join the competition… and she’s stuck with her extremely attractive and super annoying nemesis, Pete Fraser.

Her Bad Idea is a slow burn, enemies to lovers, fake relationship romantic comedy. It’s the 7th book in my Polyamorous Passions series, and it can be read as a standalone. It has received rave reviews from readers, and you can grab your copy on Kindle, Kobo, Nook, or anywhere else you read books.

Topics for this book launch recap: 

  1. Book community and advance readers (book bloggers, bookstagrammers, and a book launch team) 
  2. Paid advertisements & book publicity and marketing in email lists
  3. Book sales and income earned from this book launch

This episode is all about the book community and organic marketing. TUNE IN to get the inside scoop... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly is a book launch recap of how things went with my book launch last month, for my latest romcom, Her Bad Idea. This is a 2-part series because I have a LOT of behind-the-scenes info to share with you! This episode is all about the organic marketing and book community side of things, and next week, I’ll talk about paid promotions and ads.

Quick overview of the book: Her Bad Idea tells the story of Scarlett, a burlesque dancer with a failing business, who has the opportunity to win a huge cash prize by participating in a dance competition. The only catch is that she needs to have a dance partner in order to join the competition… and she’s stuck with her extremely attractive and super annoying nemesis, Pete Fraser.

Her Bad Idea is a slow burn, enemies to lovers, fake relationship romantic comedy. It’s the 7th book in my Polyamorous Passions series, and it can be read as a standalone. It has received rave reviews from readers, and you can grab your copy on Kindle, Kobo, Nook, or anywhere else you read books.

Topics for this book launch recap: 

  1. Book community and advance readers (book bloggers, bookstagrammers, and a book launch team) 
  2. Paid advertisements & book publicity and marketing in email lists
  3. Book sales and income earned from this book launch

This episode is all about the book community and organic marketing. TUNE IN to get the inside scoop... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5400808 Mon, 14 Sep 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1944 78 full false 076: The trouble with writing romcoms (plus 3 tips for writing humour) 076: The trouble with writing romcoms (plus 3 tips for writing humour) For today's episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to talk about the trouble with writing romcoms, and also 3 things you can do if you’re writing humour; I’ve got 3 tips for you when it comes to writing humour into your stories.

When I first started writing romance novels a couple years ago, I didn’t really know what the subgenre was. I referred to them as “contemporary romances” and “new adult romance.” Sometimes it takes a while to hone in on our niche. I didn’t even know that “romantic comedy” was a genre of novels, in fact! About a year ago, I happened to be reading a book by an indie author who calls her stories “romantic comedies,” and I realized that my style could totally be considered romantic comedy.

At the same time, I also wasn’t sure if I was funny enough to write romcoms. I mean, I certainly amuse myself, but it’s tricky to know whether your sense of humour is going to be well-received by readers.

And that’s what leads to today’s episode topic: the trouble with writing romcoms. Because the most challenging part that I’ve found with writing this particular genre is that there’s a delicate balance between writing jokes that are obvious enough that your reader will understand the humour, and also subtle enough that you’re not over-the-top with them. At least, assuming that you’re going for witty humour, rather than slap-sticky humour.

This gets even more difficult to assess, the more rewrites and edits you do on your own book: you KNOW the joke, since you wrote it... so, trying to take a step back and figure out how it will “land” for your reader is a lot trickier.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> For today's episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to talk about the trouble with writing romcoms, and also 3 things you can do if you’re writing humour; I’ve got 3 tips for you when it comes to writing humour into your stories.

When I first started writing romance novels a couple years ago, I didn’t really know what the subgenre was. I referred to them as “contemporary romances” and “new adult romance.” Sometimes it takes a while to hone in on our niche. I didn’t even know that “romantic comedy” was a genre of novels, in fact! About a year ago, I happened to be reading a book by an indie author who calls her stories “romantic comedies,” and I realized that my style could totally be considered romantic comedy.

At the same time, I also wasn’t sure if I was funny enough to write romcoms. I mean, I certainly amuse myself, but it’s tricky to know whether your sense of humour is going to be well-received by readers.

And that’s what leads to today’s episode topic: the trouble with writing romcoms. Because the most challenging part that I’ve found with writing this particular genre is that there’s a delicate balance between writing jokes that are obvious enough that your reader will understand the humour, and also subtle enough that you’re not over-the-top with them. At least, assuming that you’re going for witty humour, rather than slap-sticky humour.

This gets even more difficult to assess, the more rewrites and edits you do on your own book: you KNOW the joke, since you wrote it... so, trying to take a step back and figure out how it will “land” for your reader is a lot trickier.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5265940 Mon, 07 Sep 2020 22:00:00 -0700 963 77 full false 075: #1 thing you can do to make writing easier 075: #1 thing you can do to make writing easier Today on Indie Author Weekly, I want to share with you the #1 thing YOU can do, today, to make writing easier on yourself.  

Because I know how hard it can be to write a novel. To start a novel, to write consistently, to get through the messy middle, to finish your novel, and then to keep working on it… to do rewrites and edits and polish it until you’re ready to publish it. That's a lot of work!  

With that in mind, the more that we can do to make writing easier, the better. And what I’ve discovered, after writing several business books and seven romance novels, is there’s actually one thing that can drastically make writing so much easier on yourself. It might come as a surprise to you...  

You want to know what the #1 thing is, to make writing easier? TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to find out!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today on Indie Author Weekly, I want to share with you the #1 thing YOU can do, today, to make writing easier on yourself.  

Because I know how hard it can be to write a novel. To start a novel, to write consistently, to get through the messy middle, to finish your novel, and then to keep working on it… to do rewrites and edits and polish it until you’re ready to publish it. That's a lot of work!  

With that in mind, the more that we can do to make writing easier, the better. And what I’ve discovered, after writing several business books and seven romance novels, is there’s actually one thing that can drastically make writing so much easier on yourself. It might come as a surprise to you...  

You want to know what the #1 thing is, to make writing easier? TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to find out!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5192401 Mon, 31 Aug 2020 22:00:00 -0700 694 76 full false 074: Celebrating release day for a new book (Her Bad Idea) 074: Celebrating release day for a new book (Her Bad Idea) Today is BOOK RELEASE DAY for Her Bad Idea! I’m so excited to share this story with the world! For this episode, I want to celebrate the book by sharing why it matters so much, and why you’ll want to read it… 

First things first: grab your copy of Her Bad Idea right now on Amazon or Kobo!

Her Bad Idea follows the story of Scarlett, a burlesque dancer with financial struggles. Scarlett’s only chance to save her failing burlesque business is to become dance partners with her enemy—who just happens to be outrageously sexy. Things get complicated when she unexpectedly finds herself in an accidental fake relationship with him to garner media ratings… There’s a thin line between love and hate in this dance competition romcom! 

Her Bad Idea is an enemies to lovers, fake relationship, forced proximity, slow burn romantic comedy. Visit SaganMorrow.com/books to grab your copy! 

I’ll wait while you do that :) 

...Have you bought the book? Awesome! Let’s continue with this episode. 

This is the seventh book in the Polyamorous Passions series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. Polyamorous Passions will be a nine-book series, and it’s really made up of three “trilogies,” with Books 1 - 3 following Emma’s story, Books 4 - 6 following Helen’s story, and Books 7 - 9 following Scarlett’s story. That means this book, Her Bad Idea, is the beginning of Scarlett’s story… and therefore it’s a great book to start reading, even if you haven’t read the rest of the series yet! You’ll get a peek at the backstory of Emma and Helen in this one, too. Advance readers are already saying that this book is their favourite in the series so far.

TUNE IN NOW to find out why this story matters so much...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today is BOOK RELEASE DAY for Her Bad Idea! I’m so excited to share this story with the world! For this episode, I want to celebrate the book by sharing why it matters so much, and why you’ll want to read it… 

First things first: grab your copy of Her Bad Idea right now on Amazon or Kobo!

Her Bad Idea follows the story of Scarlett, a burlesque dancer with financial struggles. Scarlett’s only chance to save her failing burlesque business is to become dance partners with her enemy—who just happens to be outrageously sexy. Things get complicated when she unexpectedly finds herself in an accidental fake relationship with him to garner media ratings… There’s a thin line between love and hate in this dance competition romcom! 

Her Bad Idea is an enemies to lovers, fake relationship, forced proximity, slow burn romantic comedy. Visit SaganMorrow.com/books to grab your copy! 

I’ll wait while you do that :) 

...Have you bought the book? Awesome! Let’s continue with this episode. 

This is the seventh book in the Polyamorous Passions series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. Polyamorous Passions will be a nine-book series, and it’s really made up of three “trilogies,” with Books 1 - 3 following Emma’s story, Books 4 - 6 following Helen’s story, and Books 7 - 9 following Scarlett’s story. That means this book, Her Bad Idea, is the beginning of Scarlett’s story… and therefore it’s a great book to start reading, even if you haven’t read the rest of the series yet! You’ll get a peek at the backstory of Emma and Helen in this one, too. Advance readers are already saying that this book is their favourite in the series so far.

TUNE IN NOW to find out why this story matters so much...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-5079146 Mon, 24 Aug 2020 22:00:00 -0700 981 75 full false 073: Writing and editing process for Her Bad Idea 073: Writing and editing process for Her Bad Idea Today, I want to share about my most recent writing and editing process, and the general experience I had with writing my upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea. Release day is just ONE WEEK from today! You can pre-order this slow burn, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, fake relationship romcom at your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books. 

I actually started outlining and writing it back in November. You can learn more about the planning process for Her Bad Idea in Episode 52 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast. 

I worked on writing the book here and there pretty much every month of this year, but wrote the majority of it in May, and then did a ton of rewrites and edits in July. It took me about 85 hours in total to write and edit this novel, which is the most I’ve spent on any book project to date. 

Let me tell you, writing a romance novel during a pandemic is hard. Like, really hard! I was living by myself up until July, and I haven’t been dating anyone since the pandemic. I’m quite certain that there would be some very different scenes in Her Bad Idea if it weren’t for the pandemic, to be honest! 

Anyway, that’s a big part of why it took me such a long time to write it. I was also very focused on building up other parts of my business—particularly teaching about productivity to solopreneurs—earlier this year, in order to create a stronger financial foundation for developing the authorpreneur side of my business. I’m happy to share more about that in a future episode if you’re interested; just let me know by reaching out on Twitter or Instagram, @Saganlives. 

TUNE IN to this episode to learn about my experience writing and editing each draft of Her Bad Idea... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today, I want to share about my most recent writing and editing process, and the general experience I had with writing my upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea. Release day is just ONE WEEK from today! You can pre-order this slow burn, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, fake relationship romcom at your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books. 

I actually started outlining and writing it back in November. You can learn more about the planning process for Her Bad Idea in Episode 52 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast. 

I worked on writing the book here and there pretty much every month of this year, but wrote the majority of it in May, and then did a ton of rewrites and edits in July. It took me about 85 hours in total to write and edit this novel, which is the most I’ve spent on any book project to date. 

Let me tell you, writing a romance novel during a pandemic is hard. Like, really hard! I was living by myself up until July, and I haven’t been dating anyone since the pandemic. I’m quite certain that there would be some very different scenes in Her Bad Idea if it weren’t for the pandemic, to be honest! 

Anyway, that’s a big part of why it took me such a long time to write it. I was also very focused on building up other parts of my business—particularly teaching about productivity to solopreneurs—earlier this year, in order to create a stronger financial foundation for developing the authorpreneur side of my business. I’m happy to share more about that in a future episode if you’re interested; just let me know by reaching out on Twitter or Instagram, @Saganlives. 

TUNE IN to this episode to learn about my experience writing and editing each draft of Her Bad Idea... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4999043 Mon, 17 Aug 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1369 74 full false 072: Excerpt from Her Bad Idea (Polyamorous Passions, Book 7) 072: Excerpt from Her Bad Idea (Polyamorous Passions, Book 7) Today, I want to share a reading from my upcoming enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea! This is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series, but it can be read as a standalone. 

Release day is Tuesday, August 25, but you can pre-order it today on Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble, or by visiting SaganMorrow.com/books. 

Before we get to the excerpt of the book, I want to share the back-of-book blurb with you. Here it is:

Focus on the dance competition. The business opportunity. The prize money, for goodness sake. Anything except…

That smarmy attitude.

Those mocking eyes.

That chiseled jawline. 

Staying focused on the task at hand might be harder than Scarlett Mitchell thought, when she’s stuck with sexy, arrogant Pete Fraser as her dance partner for the next six weeks. But she has no choice—he’s her only hope to win the big dance competition. Scarlett needs to win that prize money if she wants to save her burlesque business from bankruptcy. 

...And it’s all the more complicated when she unexpectedly finds herself in a fake relationship with Pete, as an attempt to make her unrequited crush, Westley Prince, jealous… 

Her Bad Idea is a forced proximity, slow burn enemies to lovers romantic comedy, can be read as a standalone, and is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series. There's a thin line between love and hate in this dance competition romance! 

There you have it! That’s the blurb for Her Bad Idea. You can pre-order your copy right now on your favourite book platform, including Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. I’ll share the links in the show notes, or you can grab a copy of the book when you visit SaganMorrow.com/books. 

Now, let’s get into the excerpt for Her Bad Idea…  TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to access it now!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today, I want to share a reading from my upcoming enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea! This is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series, but it can be read as a standalone. 

Release day is Tuesday, August 25, but you can pre-order it today on Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble, or by visiting SaganMorrow.com/books. 

Before we get to the excerpt of the book, I want to share the back-of-book blurb with you. Here it is:

Focus on the dance competition. The business opportunity. The prize money, for goodness sake. Anything except…

That smarmy attitude.

Those mocking eyes.

That chiseled jawline. 

Staying focused on the task at hand might be harder than Scarlett Mitchell thought, when she’s stuck with sexy, arrogant Pete Fraser as her dance partner for the next six weeks. But she has no choice—he’s her only hope to win the big dance competition. Scarlett needs to win that prize money if she wants to save her burlesque business from bankruptcy. 

...And it’s all the more complicated when she unexpectedly finds herself in a fake relationship with Pete, as an attempt to make her unrequited crush, Westley Prince, jealous… 

Her Bad Idea is a forced proximity, slow burn enemies to lovers romantic comedy, can be read as a standalone, and is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series. There's a thin line between love and hate in this dance competition romance! 

There you have it! That’s the blurb for Her Bad Idea. You can pre-order your copy right now on your favourite book platform, including Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. I’ll share the links in the show notes, or you can grab a copy of the book when you visit SaganMorrow.com/books. 

Now, let’s get into the excerpt for Her Bad Idea…  TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to access it now!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4899827 Mon, 10 Aug 2020 22:00:00 -0700 509 73 full false 071: Book Review A Day Challenge 071: Book Review A Day Challenge Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life.  

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share about something I’m doing for the month of August: it’s the Book Review A Day Challenge!  
The idea behind this little challenge is to spread the word about awesome authors and books I love, especially other indie authors and romance novelists.  

Let’s be clear: Book reviews are for readers. The more that we review books, the more that other readers can decide whether a particular book will be a great fit for them. Frankly, it’s a time commitment to read a book! We’re helping each other out by reviewing books honestly, so that people know right away whether they should read one book or another. Thoughtful book reviews are so important.  

Plus, reviews are also incredibly helpful for authors: the more reviews a book has, the more that bookstore algorithms will boost a book, and the more that we are in essence supporting those authors in their livelihood...  

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to learn more about the Book Review A Day Challenge!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life.  

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share about something I’m doing for the month of August: it’s the Book Review A Day Challenge!  
The idea behind this little challenge is to spread the word about awesome authors and books I love, especially other indie authors and romance novelists.  

Let’s be clear: Book reviews are for readers. The more that we review books, the more that other readers can decide whether a particular book will be a great fit for them. Frankly, it’s a time commitment to read a book! We’re helping each other out by reviewing books honestly, so that people know right away whether they should read one book or another. Thoughtful book reviews are so important.  

Plus, reviews are also incredibly helpful for authors: the more reviews a book has, the more that bookstore algorithms will boost a book, and the more that we are in essence supporting those authors in their livelihood...  

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to learn more about the Book Review A Day Challenge!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4785578 Mon, 03 Aug 2020 22:00:00 -0700 389 72 full false 070: Book launch plan breakdown for Her Bad Idea 070: Book launch plan breakdown for Her Bad Idea Today, I have some exciting news: I’ve finished writing Her Bad Idea, Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series! I’m so excited. This is an enemies-to-lovers, forced-proximity romantic comedy chick lit novel, featuring a fake relationship, age gap romance, and dance competition. 

This book will be available on Tuesday August 25, but you can pre-order the book today when you visit SaganMorrow.com/books, or search Polyamorous Passions on your favourite e-bookstore. 

I have a BIG goal for Her Bad Idea: I want to get on the Romantic Comedy bestseller list on Amazon, during the week of this book release. 

This isn’t something I’ve planned for or attempted to do with any of my past romance novels, and quite honestly I have no idea if my particular book marketing plans are going to get me there, but that’s my goal. So I thought it might be helpful for you to learn about the breakdown of my book launch plan, which is what today’s episode is all about. In September, a few weeks after the book launch, I’ll do another podcast episode to share my results! 

There are 6 strategies I'm using as part of my book launch plan for Her Bad Idea... TUNE IN to this episode for the details and to get the full book launch plan breakdown! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today, I have some exciting news: I’ve finished writing Her Bad Idea, Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series! I’m so excited. This is an enemies-to-lovers, forced-proximity romantic comedy chick lit novel, featuring a fake relationship, age gap romance, and dance competition. 

This book will be available on Tuesday August 25, but you can pre-order the book today when you visit SaganMorrow.com/books, or search Polyamorous Passions on your favourite e-bookstore. 

I have a BIG goal for Her Bad Idea: I want to get on the Romantic Comedy bestseller list on Amazon, during the week of this book release. 

This isn’t something I’ve planned for or attempted to do with any of my past romance novels, and quite honestly I have no idea if my particular book marketing plans are going to get me there, but that’s my goal. So I thought it might be helpful for you to learn about the breakdown of my book launch plan, which is what today’s episode is all about. In September, a few weeks after the book launch, I’ll do another podcast episode to share my results! 

There are 6 strategies I'm using as part of my book launch plan for Her Bad Idea... TUNE IN to this episode for the details and to get the full book launch plan breakdown! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4704113 Mon, 27 Jul 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1189 71 full false 069: 3 mistakes I made with the print versions of my books 069: 3 mistakes I made with the print versions of my books Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share 3 mistakes I made with the print versions of my books. It’s really easy to make some silly mistakes, so I hope that by me sharing them with you now, you know not to make the same mistakes with your own books! 

Luckily, you can correct those mistakes and upload the new file of the printed version to Amazon, for example, if you use Amazon as your book printing service. If you want to grab paperback copies of my books, you can do that by searching Polyamorous Passions in the Amazon bookstore, or you can visit SaganMorrow.com/books.  

Okay. Here are 3 mistakes I’ve made with the print versions of my books… TUNE IN to this episode to get the scoop!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share 3 mistakes I made with the print versions of my books. It’s really easy to make some silly mistakes, so I hope that by me sharing them with you now, you know not to make the same mistakes with your own books! 

Luckily, you can correct those mistakes and upload the new file of the printed version to Amazon, for example, if you use Amazon as your book printing service. If you want to grab paperback copies of my books, you can do that by searching Polyamorous Passions in the Amazon bookstore, or you can visit SaganMorrow.com/books.  

Okay. Here are 3 mistakes I’ve made with the print versions of my books… TUNE IN to this episode to get the scoop!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4288820 Mon, 20 Jul 2020 22:00:00 -0700 648 70 full false 068: 5 things every author thinks when friends read our books 068: 5 things every author thinks when friends read our books Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, we’re going to have a little fun—I want to share with you the 5 things that go through every author’s head when a friend says, “I’m reading your book!” 

This is legit what I happens every time I find out that someone I know in real life is reading one of my Polyamorous Passions romance novels. By the way, if you’d like to learn more about those books and read them for yourself, you can search Polyamorous Passions on your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books.  

Okay! Here we go. These are the thoughts that run through my head when a friend tells me they’re reading my books (and I think this will sound very familiar to every other author out there, too)... TUNE IN to this episode to find out!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, we’re going to have a little fun—I want to share with you the 5 things that go through every author’s head when a friend says, “I’m reading your book!” 

This is legit what I happens every time I find out that someone I know in real life is reading one of my Polyamorous Passions romance novels. By the way, if you’d like to learn more about those books and read them for yourself, you can search Polyamorous Passions on your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books.  

Okay! Here we go. These are the thoughts that run through my head when a friend tells me they’re reading my books (and I think this will sound very familiar to every other author out there, too)... TUNE IN to this episode to find out!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4288559 Mon, 13 Jul 2020 22:00:00 -0700 480 69 full false 067: 9 ideas for how to practice writing 067: 9 ideas for how to practice writing Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share a few ideas for how to practice writing. 

Writing is a skill we can all, always, get better at. The best way to improve is to keep practicing! If it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert in the field, the way Malcolm Gladwell explains in his excellent book Outliers, then it stands to reason that the more writing we can do, the better we’ll get.  

With that in mind, here are a few ideas for how to practice writing to improve your skills at it… TUNE IN to this episode to get all 9 ideas!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share a few ideas for how to practice writing. 

Writing is a skill we can all, always, get better at. The best way to improve is to keep practicing! If it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert in the field, the way Malcolm Gladwell explains in his excellent book Outliers, then it stands to reason that the more writing we can do, the better we’ll get.  

With that in mind, here are a few ideas for how to practice writing to improve your skills at it… TUNE IN to this episode to get all 9 ideas!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4228667 Mon, 06 Jul 2020 22:00:00 -0700 645 68 full false 066: Favourite polyamory books & relationship books 066: Favourite polyamory books & relationship books This episode of Indie Author Weekly features some of my personal favourite books about polyamory and relationships. 

As you may already know, my chick lit, new adult, contemporary romance series is called Polyamorous Passions, so basically, I write all about polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, and relationships in general as a fiction author. You can get more info on those books and read them at SaganMorrow.com/books, or by searching “Polyamorous Passions” at your favourite e-bookstore. 

Now, polyamory is something a lot of my readers have many questions about, so that’s why I thought for today it would be great to recommend to you a few books that feature polyamory, so you can learn more about the topic! 

By the way, I shared several of my favourite books for improving your writing in a previous episode of this Indie Author Weekly, so if that’s something you want to learn, you can tune into Episode 59. 

Okay, I have 6 polyamory and relationships books to share with you today… TUNE IN to this episode to hear all about it! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly features some of my personal favourite books about polyamory and relationships. 

As you may already know, my chick lit, new adult, contemporary romance series is called Polyamorous Passions, so basically, I write all about polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, and relationships in general as a fiction author. You can get more info on those books and read them at SaganMorrow.com/books, or by searching “Polyamorous Passions” at your favourite e-bookstore. 

Now, polyamory is something a lot of my readers have many questions about, so that’s why I thought for today it would be great to recommend to you a few books that feature polyamory, so you can learn more about the topic! 

By the way, I shared several of my favourite books for improving your writing in a previous episode of this Indie Author Weekly, so if that’s something you want to learn, you can tune into Episode 59. 

Okay, I have 6 polyamory and relationships books to share with you today… TUNE IN to this episode to hear all about it! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Let's chat about this episode: 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4227995 Mon, 29 Jun 2020 22:00:00 -0700 550 67 full false 065: 10 tips for how to beat writer’s block 065: 10 tips for how to beat writer’s block Today, I want to share about writer’s block… and specifically, 10 tips for how to beat writer’s block.  

Let’s be honest: we all tend to struggle to get the words on the page at some point or another. There’s no doubt that it can be difficult to figure out how to overcome writer’s block when it crops up.  

But luckily, it’s not the end of the world! There are a variety of ways you can overcome writer’s block, regardless of the type of writing that you do.  

I’ve had multiple conversations over the years with various people—friends, other freelancers, clients—who have a misconception that because I write for a living (and because I’ve been doing this for the past decade), I personally don’t really have to ever deal with creative blocks.  

This couldn’t be further from the truth! I’ve hit walls with clients projects and with pretty much every book in my Polyamorous Passions series, at one point or another. I have those tough writer moments too, just the same as you. But it’s what we do when it happens that matters.  

I shared more about this topic in Episode 13 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast, so I recommend you tune into that episode for ways to deal with writer’s block, too.  

Writer’s block isn’t the end of the world. It’s all a matter of addressing it when it happens… and then taking action and DOING something about it. Even the most experienced and prolific writers get stuck from time to time. What sets those writers apart from the rest is that they’re willing to plough forward and get over it.  

And you can do that, too! You have it within you to overcome writer’s block when it strikes. I believe in you, and you need to start believing in yourself, too… and taking strategic, intentional action to do something about it.  

Okay let’s dive in. Here are 10 tips for how to beat writer’s block when it inevitably comes up…  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Today, I want to share about writer’s block… and specifically, 10 tips for how to beat writer’s block.  

Let’s be honest: we all tend to struggle to get the words on the page at some point or another. There’s no doubt that it can be difficult to figure out how to overcome writer’s block when it crops up.  

But luckily, it’s not the end of the world! There are a variety of ways you can overcome writer’s block, regardless of the type of writing that you do.  

I’ve had multiple conversations over the years with various people—friends, other freelancers, clients—who have a misconception that because I write for a living (and because I’ve been doing this for the past decade), I personally don’t really have to ever deal with creative blocks.  

This couldn’t be further from the truth! I’ve hit walls with clients projects and with pretty much every book in my Polyamorous Passions series, at one point or another. I have those tough writer moments too, just the same as you. But it’s what we do when it happens that matters.  

I shared more about this topic in Episode 13 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast, so I recommend you tune into that episode for ways to deal with writer’s block, too.  

Writer’s block isn’t the end of the world. It’s all a matter of addressing it when it happens… and then taking action and DOING something about it. Even the most experienced and prolific writers get stuck from time to time. What sets those writers apart from the rest is that they’re willing to plough forward and get over it.  

And you can do that, too! You have it within you to overcome writer’s block when it strikes. I believe in you, and you need to start believing in yourself, too… and taking strategic, intentional action to do something about it.  

Okay let’s dive in. Here are 10 tips for how to beat writer’s block when it inevitably comes up…  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4136120 Mon, 22 Jun 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1020 66 full false 064: Fun and simple exercise to enhance creativity 064: Fun and simple exercise to enhance creativity Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share about a handy, simple exercise you can use to expand your creative abilities. It’s going to help you tap into your inner creativity, make great use of your imagination, and make it easier for you to sit down and work on creative projects at any time. Pretty cool, right? 

This is an exercise I use all the time, and it’s something that comes fairly naturally to me. It’s how my brain works, frankly. I think in terms of stories. I live in my imagination a lot. I like playing with ideas and exploring concepts and going down the rabbit hole.  

That being said, you can use this as an exercise to actively work to enhance creativity. It’s a neat way to get more inspiration from everyday life. TUNE IN to this episode for the fun and simple exercise to improve your creative abilities, plus real-life examples of how I've used it! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share about a handy, simple exercise you can use to expand your creative abilities. It’s going to help you tap into your inner creativity, make great use of your imagination, and make it easier for you to sit down and work on creative projects at any time. Pretty cool, right? 

This is an exercise I use all the time, and it’s something that comes fairly naturally to me. It’s how my brain works, frankly. I think in terms of stories. I live in my imagination a lot. I like playing with ideas and exploring concepts and going down the rabbit hole.  

That being said, you can use this as an exercise to actively work to enhance creativity. It’s a neat way to get more inspiration from everyday life. TUNE IN to this episode for the fun and simple exercise to improve your creative abilities, plus real-life examples of how I've used it! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4031741 Mon, 15 Jun 2020 22:00:00 -0700 804 65 full false 063: 3 tips for writing your first draft (and working on rewrites) 063: 3 tips for writing your first draft (and working on rewrites) Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. I’m currently working on rewrites and edits for my upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series. You can learn all about that series and read those books on your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books. 

While I was reviewing Her Bad Idea and starting to do the rewrites, some thoughts came to mind that I wanted to share with you. Consider this a little writing pep talk! These are a few good reminders to think about when you are writing your first draft of a book, and then starting to work on the rewrites. 

There are 3 points I want to make today… TUNE IN to this episode for 3 tips for writing your first draft (and working on rewrites). 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. I’m currently working on rewrites and edits for my upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series. You can learn all about that series and read those books on your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books. 

While I was reviewing Her Bad Idea and starting to do the rewrites, some thoughts came to mind that I wanted to share with you. Consider this a little writing pep talk! These are a few good reminders to think about when you are writing your first draft of a book, and then starting to work on the rewrites. 

There are 3 points I want to make today… TUNE IN to this episode for 3 tips for writing your first draft (and working on rewrites). 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-4029998 Mon, 08 Jun 2020 22:00:00 -0700 829 64 full false 062: Author commentary of Polyamorous Passions (Part 2: Books 4 - 6) 062: Author commentary of Polyamorous Passions (Part 2: Books 4 - 6) Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. Today, we’re continuing with the author commentary from last week! As I mentioned last week, I always reread previously-published books in my Polyamorous Passions series when I’m writing a new novel in the series, to ensure everything is consistent with characters and plot etc. And since I’m currently writing Book 7, I figured it’d be fun to share with you my internal thoughts while I was recently rereading the first 6 books in the series. 

Tune into Episode 61 to get my author commentary of the first 3 books in my Polyamorous Passions series. That episode features Emma’s trilogy. So for this episode, we’re doing a commentary of Helen’s trilogy, Books 4 - 6. This trilogy is dedicated to my spouse, Mr Science. 

By the way—if you want to learn more about the background to this series, I answered some FAQs in Episode 51 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast. 

Now, there may be a few minor spoilers here and there during this episode. I’m trying to make sure that the commentary provides you with an overview and a few teasers as we go through it chapter by chapter—I don’t want to give away spoilers! But just a head’s up that if you hate spoilers of any kind, then you might want to pause this episode, and listen to it in sections after you read each book. These novellas are all quick reads, so you could finish all three of the books in a single day if you like. 

Grab your copies of these books at your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books. I even have a virtual boxset at SaganMorrow.com/books which will give you access to all future books in the series, as well as the complete series to date. 

Okay, let’s get right into today’s author commentary, starting with Book 4: She Wants More... TUNE IN to this episode to get the author commentary! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. Today, we’re continuing with the author commentary from last week! As I mentioned last week, I always reread previously-published books in my Polyamorous Passions series when I’m writing a new novel in the series, to ensure everything is consistent with characters and plot etc. And since I’m currently writing Book 7, I figured it’d be fun to share with you my internal thoughts while I was recently rereading the first 6 books in the series. 

Tune into Episode 61 to get my author commentary of the first 3 books in my Polyamorous Passions series. That episode features Emma’s trilogy. So for this episode, we’re doing a commentary of Helen’s trilogy, Books 4 - 6. This trilogy is dedicated to my spouse, Mr Science. 

By the way—if you want to learn more about the background to this series, I answered some FAQs in Episode 51 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast. 

Now, there may be a few minor spoilers here and there during this episode. I’m trying to make sure that the commentary provides you with an overview and a few teasers as we go through it chapter by chapter—I don’t want to give away spoilers! But just a head’s up that if you hate spoilers of any kind, then you might want to pause this episode, and listen to it in sections after you read each book. These novellas are all quick reads, so you could finish all three of the books in a single day if you like. 

Grab your copies of these books at your favourite e-bookstore, or visit SaganMorrow.com/books. I even have a virtual boxset at SaganMorrow.com/books which will give you access to all future books in the series, as well as the complete series to date. 

Okay, let’s get right into today’s author commentary, starting with Book 4: She Wants More... TUNE IN to this episode to get the author commentary! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3846308 Mon, 01 Jun 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1152 63 full false 061: Author commentary of Polyamorous Passions (Part 1: Books 1 - 3) 061: Author commentary of Polyamorous Passions (Part 1: Books 1 - 3) Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. Today we're doing something a little different than usual… I want to share author commentary while rereading my Polyamorous Passions series that I wrote. 

I typically reread my previously published works at least twice all the way through, every single time I write a new novel in the series: I skim over the books before I begin writing the new book in the series, so I can have a general gist of the idea of the storyline and characters, and then I do a more thorough reread after writing the first full draft of the latest novel. I usually like to do another skim through each previously-published book before publishing the new book, just to do a final double check. This is a good practice to do if you write a series of connected books, so there's consistency in the plot, characters and storyline from one book to the next. 

Given that this Indie Author Weekly podcast is all about the behind-the-scenes sneak peek of the author life, I thought it'd be fun to share with you my internal commentary on my books, during my most recent reread of them! 

For context, I'm currently writing Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series, Her Bad Idea. If you haven’t read these stories yet, the first one in the series is free, AND you can get the entire boxset of current books which will also include ALL future books in the series for a steal of a deal, at SaganMorrow.com/books. 

This episode features the first 3 books in the series. The series is divided into 3 trilogies: Books 1 - 3 follow Emma’s story, Books 4 - 6 follow Helen’s story, and Books 7 - 9 will follow Scarlett’s story. 

Author commentary of the Polyamorous Passions series… starting with Emma’s story in Book 1: A Choice Between Two. This book is about figuring out that polyamory exists & starting the discussion about it in general. TUNE IN for the author commentary! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. Today we're doing something a little different than usual… I want to share author commentary while rereading my Polyamorous Passions series that I wrote. 

I typically reread my previously published works at least twice all the way through, every single time I write a new novel in the series: I skim over the books before I begin writing the new book in the series, so I can have a general gist of the idea of the storyline and characters, and then I do a more thorough reread after writing the first full draft of the latest novel. I usually like to do another skim through each previously-published book before publishing the new book, just to do a final double check. This is a good practice to do if you write a series of connected books, so there's consistency in the plot, characters and storyline from one book to the next. 

Given that this Indie Author Weekly podcast is all about the behind-the-scenes sneak peek of the author life, I thought it'd be fun to share with you my internal commentary on my books, during my most recent reread of them! 

For context, I'm currently writing Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series, Her Bad Idea. If you haven’t read these stories yet, the first one in the series is free, AND you can get the entire boxset of current books which will also include ALL future books in the series for a steal of a deal, at SaganMorrow.com/books. 

This episode features the first 3 books in the series. The series is divided into 3 trilogies: Books 1 - 3 follow Emma’s story, Books 4 - 6 follow Helen’s story, and Books 7 - 9 will follow Scarlett’s story. 

Author commentary of the Polyamorous Passions series… starting with Emma’s story in Book 1: A Choice Between Two. This book is about figuring out that polyamory exists & starting the discussion about it in general. TUNE IN for the author commentary! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3845252 Mon, 25 May 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1351 62 full false 060: How to find time for marketing your books (5 tips) 060: How to find time for marketing your books (5 tips) This episode of Indie Author Weekly features 5 practical tips for how you can find the time to market your books. 

After all, writing your books is one thing… but it’s not enough to just publish it. There’s a whole other side to being an indie author, and that is marketing. 

Frankly, this is something I’ve noticed come up again and again in my business journey. People often talk about the joy of the craft, but what they don’t tell you is that in the beginning especially, you have to put in a huge proportion of your time and energy into marketing, whether your business relies on services or physical products or digital products. 

But you love the craft of it, right? You don’t want to spend all your time marketing your books. You started writing books because you enjoy it. Marketing seems like a scary prospect, or maybe you even think of “selling” as a dirty word. 

It doesn’t need to be! In fact, last year, I went through a complete attitude adjustment around marketing in general for my business. Nowadays, I actually look at “marketing” as “just another form of content creation.” And that makes me happy! This simple act of reframing my approach to marketing has made it a much more enjoyable experience, and I’d also argue that I’ve gotten better at marketing as a result. 

Does it still take time? Yes, absolutely. But because I enjoy it now, it doesn’t exhaust me the same way it used to. And that is extremely powerful, because it means that I can do more effective marketing in less time, while still having the creative capacity and bandwidth leftover to do other things—such as writing books. 

If you’re curious to learn more about this entire concept and how to apply it to your own situation, then I recommend you check out my signature program, Productivity Powerhouse, which teaches you exactly how to do all of that. You can learn more at SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse. I’ll drop the link in the show notes.  

TUNE IN to this episode for 5 actionable ways you can find the time to market your books! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly features 5 practical tips for how you can find the time to market your books. 

After all, writing your books is one thing… but it’s not enough to just publish it. There’s a whole other side to being an indie author, and that is marketing. 

Frankly, this is something I’ve noticed come up again and again in my business journey. People often talk about the joy of the craft, but what they don’t tell you is that in the beginning especially, you have to put in a huge proportion of your time and energy into marketing, whether your business relies on services or physical products or digital products. 

But you love the craft of it, right? You don’t want to spend all your time marketing your books. You started writing books because you enjoy it. Marketing seems like a scary prospect, or maybe you even think of “selling” as a dirty word. 

It doesn’t need to be! In fact, last year, I went through a complete attitude adjustment around marketing in general for my business. Nowadays, I actually look at “marketing” as “just another form of content creation.” And that makes me happy! This simple act of reframing my approach to marketing has made it a much more enjoyable experience, and I’d also argue that I’ve gotten better at marketing as a result. 

Does it still take time? Yes, absolutely. But because I enjoy it now, it doesn’t exhaust me the same way it used to. And that is extremely powerful, because it means that I can do more effective marketing in less time, while still having the creative capacity and bandwidth leftover to do other things—such as writing books. 

If you’re curious to learn more about this entire concept and how to apply it to your own situation, then I recommend you check out my signature program, Productivity Powerhouse, which teaches you exactly how to do all of that. You can learn more at SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse. I’ll drop the link in the show notes.  

TUNE IN to this episode for 5 actionable ways you can find the time to market your books! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3661129 Mon, 18 May 2020 22:00:00 -0700 958 61 full false 059: Favourite books to improve your writing & editing skills 059: Favourite books to improve your writing & editing skills Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share just a few of my favourite books that have helped me improve my writing skills over the years. These are great resources if you want to get a deeper understanding of language and how to use it effectively, and also if you want to improve your editing skills. 

By the way, we have a whole episode here on Indie Author Weekly featuring 10 practical tips for editing your own work—you can check that out in Episode 15. 

Okay, so here are six of my favourite books… I have four main resources (reference texts), plus two honourable mentions (memoirs about the craft of writing) that I want to share with you today... TUNE IN to this episode to find out what these resources are, and why they're so valuable! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share just a few of my favourite books that have helped me improve my writing skills over the years. These are great resources if you want to get a deeper understanding of language and how to use it effectively, and also if you want to improve your editing skills. 

By the way, we have a whole episode here on Indie Author Weekly featuring 10 practical tips for editing your own work—you can check that out in Episode 15. 

Okay, so here are six of my favourite books… I have four main resources (reference texts), plus two honourable mentions (memoirs about the craft of writing) that I want to share with you today... TUNE IN to this episode to find out what these resources are, and why they're so valuable! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3660430 Mon, 11 May 2020 22:00:00 -0700 571 60 full false 058: How to structure your non-fiction book (4 tips) 058: How to structure your non-fiction book (4 tips) Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share a few tips for how to organize the structure of a non-fiction book. I tend to focus much more on the fiction side of things in this podcast, but fun fact, the first book I ever published was a non-fiction book. It’s called The Business of Writing & Editing: Practical Tips & Templates for New Freelancers. It’s available at your favourite e-bookstore, or you can grab your copy at SaganMorrow.com/books. I’ll drop the link in the show notes. 

I thought this was a really important topic to share about because there are so many different ways that you can organize the structure for a non-fiction book. Storytelling isn’t just for fiction. In fact, I would argue that storytelling is extremely important in non-fiction, too. 

Writing non-fiction can be an art, just as much as writing fiction. There are many factors to consider when you are writing your non-fiction book, and depending on how you structure it, you will either make it more accessible and empowering to your reader… or it will fall flat. Structure matters! How you organize information and relay it to your reader can be the difference between them getting a ton of value from your book, or leaving them confused and dissatisfied. 

With that in mind, here are a few of the things you’ll want to consider when you’re organizing the structure of a non-fiction book—I have 4 tips for you today... TUNE IN to this week's episode to get the tips!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books. 

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life. 

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share a few tips for how to organize the structure of a non-fiction book. I tend to focus much more on the fiction side of things in this podcast, but fun fact, the first book I ever published was a non-fiction book. It’s called The Business of Writing & Editing: Practical Tips & Templates for New Freelancers. It’s available at your favourite e-bookstore, or you can grab your copy at SaganMorrow.com/books. I’ll drop the link in the show notes. 

I thought this was a really important topic to share about because there are so many different ways that you can organize the structure for a non-fiction book. Storytelling isn’t just for fiction. In fact, I would argue that storytelling is extremely important in non-fiction, too. 

Writing non-fiction can be an art, just as much as writing fiction. There are many factors to consider when you are writing your non-fiction book, and depending on how you structure it, you will either make it more accessible and empowering to your reader… or it will fall flat. Structure matters! How you organize information and relay it to your reader can be the difference between them getting a ton of value from your book, or leaving them confused and dissatisfied. 

With that in mind, here are a few of the things you’ll want to consider when you’re organizing the structure of a non-fiction book—I have 4 tips for you today... TUNE IN to this week's episode to get the tips!

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3618991 Mon, 04 May 2020 22:00:00 -0700 617 59 full false 057: 5 things that happen when you become an indie author 057: 5 things that happen when you become an indie author Hello friends! Sagan here. Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life.  

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share 5 things that happen when you become an indie author. If you’re an indie author yourself, then I bet you can relate… and if you’ve been thinking about writing a book, then consider this your head’s up for what to expect!  

Tune into this episode to find out the 5 things that happen when you become an indie author...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Hello friends! Sagan here. Welcome back to Indie Author Weekly, where I share my behind-the-scenes journey of writing and self-publishing books.  

If you’re new to this podcast, I am a productivity strategist for multi-passionate creatives at SaganMorrow.com: I help people manage their time and energy effectively, through customized, actionable strategies that work for your unique life and business. When I’m not teaching about productivity to solopreneurs, I spend my time writing romance novels, and occasionally, business books. And that is what this podcast is all about: the adventures of the author life.  

Now let’s get into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Today, I want to share 5 things that happen when you become an indie author. If you’re an indie author yourself, then I bet you can relate… and if you’ve been thinking about writing a book, then consider this your head’s up for what to expect!  

Tune into this episode to find out the 5 things that happen when you become an indie author...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3525988 Mon, 27 Apr 2020 22:00:00 -0700 626 58 full false 056: Why go wide instead of deep as an indie author 056: Why go wide instead of deep as an indie author This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast explores going wide, vs going deep, as an indie author... and why go wide instead of deep! 

First of all, what exactly does it mean to “go wide” or “go deep” with your book sales? 

The concept is that “going wide” means you’re making your book available on multiple different platforms (Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, etc). “Going deep,” on the other hand, means you’re focusing exclusively on one particular platform. For example, if you want to be part of Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited program, you have to sign an exclusivity contract with them—which means you can’t provide your book for sale on any other platforms. 

There’s a  great breakdown of the pros and cons between the two options on The Creative Penn podcast, which I’ll link in the show notes. 

To me, choosing between going deep and going wide with my Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series really came down to two crucial factors: first and foremost, when our books are available on multiple platforms, we are making them more accessible to more people. 

Accessibility matters so much. It’s why I offer complete written transcripts of each of these podcast episodes on the secret version of the podcast at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast, for example.  And the problem is that if we limit our books to only being available on Amazon, then we are losing out on connecting with so many other readers who prefer a different platform, and who would absolutely love to read our books. 

Whenever I’m choosing whether or not to do something in my business, I always like to take into account what I would want if I were the customer. This helps ensure that all of my business decisions always feel really good for my unique business. I strongly encourage you to tap into the same if you sometimes struggle with business decisions, yourself! This is an important part of building a business that you love, which I talk a lot about in my Productivity Powerhouse e-course—you can learn more about that at SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse.  

So: Accessibility was a major factor in my decision to go wide rather than deep with my own books. Tune into this episode to find out the 2nd major factor!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast explores going wide, vs going deep, as an indie author... and why go wide instead of deep! 

First of all, what exactly does it mean to “go wide” or “go deep” with your book sales? 

The concept is that “going wide” means you’re making your book available on multiple different platforms (Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, etc). “Going deep,” on the other hand, means you’re focusing exclusively on one particular platform. For example, if you want to be part of Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited program, you have to sign an exclusivity contract with them—which means you can’t provide your book for sale on any other platforms. 

There’s a  great breakdown of the pros and cons between the two options on The Creative Penn podcast, which I’ll link in the show notes. 

To me, choosing between going deep and going wide with my Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series really came down to two crucial factors: first and foremost, when our books are available on multiple platforms, we are making them more accessible to more people. 

Accessibility matters so much. It’s why I offer complete written transcripts of each of these podcast episodes on the secret version of the podcast at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast, for example.  And the problem is that if we limit our books to only being available on Amazon, then we are losing out on connecting with so many other readers who prefer a different platform, and who would absolutely love to read our books. 

Whenever I’m choosing whether or not to do something in my business, I always like to take into account what I would want if I were the customer. This helps ensure that all of my business decisions always feel really good for my unique business. I strongly encourage you to tap into the same if you sometimes struggle with business decisions, yourself! This is an important part of building a business that you love, which I talk a lot about in my Productivity Powerhouse e-course—you can learn more about that at SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse.  

So: Accessibility was a major factor in my decision to go wide rather than deep with my own books. Tune into this episode to find out the 2nd major factor!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3434587 Mon, 20 Apr 2020 22:00:00 -0700 605 57 full false 055: Creativity as a grounding practice during challenging times 055: Creativity as a grounding practice during challenging times For today's episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to talk about using creativity and creative outlets as a grounding practice and as a coping mechanism.  

The reason why I want to share about this today is because I’m doing a brand-new livestream show with my friend Jennifer of Roam Howl Creative. For the next three days, April 14 - 16 2020, we will be teaching the topic of Creative Marketing for Non-Creatives. I’m hosting it on Instagram Live at 4pm CT, so I hope to see you there! Follow me on Instagram, @Saganlives, to check it out.  

Over the course of our Creative Marketing for Non-Creatives livestream show, we’ll be covering the following: 

  1. How to ground yourself through creativity during challenging times 
  2. Creative self-expression and ideas for what to create . 
  3. Advanced strategies for connecting deeply through creativity  

Now, that first point, about using creative outlets as grounding practice, is something that I have found to be incredibly powerful in my own life and business. So I want to dive into that here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast, because it is directly relates to my work as an author. 

We are collectively going through a challenging time right now, given the global pandemic situation. And there are many streams of thought out there as to what we should or shouldn’t be doing with ourselves while we’re all staying safe at home. 

One of the things that’s been making the rounds across the Internet are people who say we should be “making good use of this time by creating something.” 

I disagree. Instead, my way of looking at it is that *being creative can actually help us to cope during this challenging time.* 

It’s not about forcing ourselves to be creative. That’s not what it’s about, at all! Instead, it’s about using creativity as a tool to help support us. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> For today's episode of Indie Author Weekly, I want to talk about using creativity and creative outlets as a grounding practice and as a coping mechanism.  

The reason why I want to share about this today is because I’m doing a brand-new livestream show with my friend Jennifer of Roam Howl Creative. For the next three days, April 14 - 16 2020, we will be teaching the topic of Creative Marketing for Non-Creatives. I’m hosting it on Instagram Live at 4pm CT, so I hope to see you there! Follow me on Instagram, @Saganlives, to check it out.  

Over the course of our Creative Marketing for Non-Creatives livestream show, we’ll be covering the following: 

  1. How to ground yourself through creativity during challenging times 
  2. Creative self-expression and ideas for what to create . 
  3. Advanced strategies for connecting deeply through creativity  

Now, that first point, about using creative outlets as grounding practice, is something that I have found to be incredibly powerful in my own life and business. So I want to dive into that here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast, because it is directly relates to my work as an author. 

We are collectively going through a challenging time right now, given the global pandemic situation. And there are many streams of thought out there as to what we should or shouldn’t be doing with ourselves while we’re all staying safe at home. 

One of the things that’s been making the rounds across the Internet are people who say we should be “making good use of this time by creating something.” 

I disagree. Instead, my way of looking at it is that *being creative can actually help us to cope during this challenging time.* 

It’s not about forcing ourselves to be creative. That’s not what it’s about, at all! Instead, it’s about using creativity as a tool to help support us. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3345541 Mon, 13 Apr 2020 22:00:00 -0700 617 56 full false 054: 7 tips for task-switching between writing fiction and doing other things in life & business 054: 7 tips for task-switching between writing fiction and doing other things in life & business This episode of Indie Author Weekly answers a listener-submitted question from Alana, who asks: 

“How do you task-switch between writing fiction and doing other things? For example, I can’t switch from fiction to work emails and back. I can only write fiction with a giant long uninterrupted block… which is why I haven’t written anything longer than a short story in a long time, because there’s no way I can put aside a long enough uninterrupted or even mildly interrupted block to work on a novel.” 

Great question! This is definitely something that I think we can all relate to. I find it really challenging to write novels if I don’t have a large chunk of time blocked off for it, which is a big part of the reason for why I write novellas instead of novels. 

But there are some ways that we can make task-switching a little more manageable, and improve our focus and productivity with it all. And since I’m both a productivity strategist and an author, this question is exactly the kind of thing I love! 

Tune into this episode to get 7 tips for how to handle this problem around task-switching… 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly answers a listener-submitted question from Alana, who asks: 

“How do you task-switch between writing fiction and doing other things? For example, I can’t switch from fiction to work emails and back. I can only write fiction with a giant long uninterrupted block… which is why I haven’t written anything longer than a short story in a long time, because there’s no way I can put aside a long enough uninterrupted or even mildly interrupted block to work on a novel.” 

Great question! This is definitely something that I think we can all relate to. I find it really challenging to write novels if I don’t have a large chunk of time blocked off for it, which is a big part of the reason for why I write novellas instead of novels. 

But there are some ways that we can make task-switching a little more manageable, and improve our focus and productivity with it all. And since I’m both a productivity strategist and an author, this question is exactly the kind of thing I love! 

Tune into this episode to get 7 tips for how to handle this problem around task-switching… 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3258493 Mon, 06 Apr 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1267 55 full false 053: Top 5 episodes from the first year of podcasting on Indie Author Weekly 053: Top 5 episodes from the first year of podcasting on Indie Author Weekly Indie Author Weekly podcast is 1 year old! This episodes shares backstory to how I started this podcast, plus the top 5 most popular episodes—as well as my personal favourite 5 episodes from over the past year. 

Since I’m in a celebratory mood, I also want to spread the love. Here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to gift you the e-version of one of my books—either one of my romance novels or one of my business books—for the first five people who leave a review on Apple Podcasts of at least 50 words. After you publish your review of this podcast, take a screenshot of it and email me, hello@saganmorrow.com so I know who you are! At that point you can let me know which book of mine you want to receive a gift of and I’ll send it to you. 

There’s no time limit to this, it’s just the first five people. So get to it! I can’t wait to read your review of this Indie Author Weekly podcast on Apple Podcasts, and to then email you the book of your choice as a thank-you gift. Visit SaganMorrow.com/books to choose which book you want to receive. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

  • Learn more about all of Sagan's books at SaganMorrow.com/books 
  • Episode 6 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How do you advertise books when you self-publish? 
  • Learn how to do relationship-based marketing in online courses at SaganMorrow.com/school 
  • Pitching Clients 101: SaganMorrow.com/pitch 
  • Keep Your Clients: SaganMorrow.com/keep 
  • Episode 1 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: Why I chose to self-publish books 
  • Episode 15 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: 10 tips for how to edit your own work 
  • Episode 47 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How 4 different authors outline their books 
  • Episode 3 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How to get started with outlining & writing a new book 
  • Episode 52 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: Step-by-step guide for how I'm planning & writing my upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea 
  • Episode 51 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: FAQ about the background to my Polyamorous Passions series 
  • Episode 14 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: Understanding your strengths & weaknesses as an author 
  • Productivity Powerhouse: SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse  
  • Episode 44 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How to use mindmapping to write your book 
  • Episode 50 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: What made me start writing Polyamorous Passions (my polyamory background) 
  • Episode 34 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How to practice self-discipline as a writer 
  • Tune into Indie Author Weekly on your favourite podcast platform at SaganMorrow.com/podcast 
  • Rate & review this podcast on iTunes 

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Indie Author Weekly podcast is 1 year old! This episodes shares backstory to how I started this podcast, plus the top 5 most popular episodes—as well as my personal favourite 5 episodes from over the past year. 

Since I’m in a celebratory mood, I also want to spread the love. Here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to gift you the e-version of one of my books—either one of my romance novels or one of my business books—for the first five people who leave a review on Apple Podcasts of at least 50 words. After you publish your review of this podcast, take a screenshot of it and email me, hello@saganmorrow.com so I know who you are! At that point you can let me know which book of mine you want to receive a gift of and I’ll send it to you. 

There’s no time limit to this, it’s just the first five people. So get to it! I can’t wait to read your review of this Indie Author Weekly podcast on Apple Podcasts, and to then email you the book of your choice as a thank-you gift. Visit SaganMorrow.com/books to choose which book you want to receive. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

  • Learn more about all of Sagan's books at SaganMorrow.com/books 
  • Episode 6 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How do you advertise books when you self-publish? 
  • Learn how to do relationship-based marketing in online courses at SaganMorrow.com/school 
  • Pitching Clients 101: SaganMorrow.com/pitch 
  • Keep Your Clients: SaganMorrow.com/keep 
  • Episode 1 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: Why I chose to self-publish books 
  • Episode 15 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: 10 tips for how to edit your own work 
  • Episode 47 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How 4 different authors outline their books 
  • Episode 3 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How to get started with outlining & writing a new book 
  • Episode 52 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: Step-by-step guide for how I'm planning & writing my upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea 
  • Episode 51 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: FAQ about the background to my Polyamorous Passions series 
  • Episode 14 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: Understanding your strengths & weaknesses as an author 
  • Productivity Powerhouse: SaganMorrow.com/powerhouse  
  • Episode 44 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How to use mindmapping to write your book 
  • Episode 50 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: What made me start writing Polyamorous Passions (my polyamory background) 
  • Episode 34 of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: How to practice self-discipline as a writer 
  • Tune into Indie Author Weekly on your favourite podcast platform at SaganMorrow.com/podcast 
  • Rate & review this podcast on iTunes 

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3175405 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1309 54 full false 052: Step-by-step guide for planning & writing "Her Bad Idea" (Polyamorous Passions, Book 7) 052: Step-by-step guide for planning & writing "Her Bad Idea" (Polyamorous Passions, Book 7) Learn my current writing and planning process for the book I’m working on right now, Her Bad Idea. It’s an enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, fake relationship romantic comedy, and it’s Book 7 in my Polyamorous Passions series. 

I have been dying to write this book for so long! It’s the first in Scarlett’s trilogy, and it’s about how she needs to enter a dance competition in order to make money to save her failing burlesque business. It’s a lot of fun! 

I’ve been working on this novella on and off since November. Other things in my business have taken priority, so this is something I’ve been a bit less focused on. As a result, it’s been put on the backburner several times. I currently have it slated for publication in June 2020. I’m about one-third of the way through writing the book so far. 

Since I’ve recently picked up the book again and started to work more on it, I wanted to share with you my process for planning the book, and how I’m writing it. 

And by the way—if you want the backstory on the Polyamorous Passions series, then you should definitely read the previous 6 books in the series! You can grab them at your favourite e-bookstore by searching for “Polyamorous Passions,” or access all of them on my website at SaganMorrow.com/books. 

Okay, so: how am I going about planning Her Bad Idea, the seventh book in my Polyamorous Passions series?  

Tune into this episode for what I’m doing, broken down into 5 crucial steps you can apply to your own book planning and book writing process… 

Know someone else who would enjoy this episode? Click here to Tweet about it.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn my current writing and planning process for the book I’m working on right now, Her Bad Idea. It’s an enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, fake relationship romantic comedy, and it’s Book 7 in my Polyamorous Passions series. 

I have been dying to write this book for so long! It’s the first in Scarlett’s trilogy, and it’s about how she needs to enter a dance competition in order to make money to save her failing burlesque business. It’s a lot of fun! 

I’ve been working on this novella on and off since November. Other things in my business have taken priority, so this is something I’ve been a bit less focused on. As a result, it’s been put on the backburner several times. I currently have it slated for publication in June 2020. I’m about one-third of the way through writing the book so far. 

Since I’ve recently picked up the book again and started to work more on it, I wanted to share with you my process for planning the book, and how I’m writing it. 

And by the way—if you want the backstory on the Polyamorous Passions series, then you should definitely read the previous 6 books in the series! You can grab them at your favourite e-bookstore by searching for “Polyamorous Passions,” or access all of them on my website at SaganMorrow.com/books. 

Okay, so: how am I going about planning Her Bad Idea, the seventh book in my Polyamorous Passions series?  

Tune into this episode for what I’m doing, broken down into 5 crucial steps you can apply to your own book planning and book writing process… 

Know someone else who would enjoy this episode? Click here to Tweet about it.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3096514 Mon, 23 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1005 53 full false 051: FAQ about the background to my Polyamorous Passions series 051: FAQ about the background to my Polyamorous Passions series This episode of Indie Author Weekly follows up on Episode 50, where I shared my polyamorous background. Today, you'll get more details about my novels: Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series. 

FAQ:  

  1. What is Polyamorous Passions? 
  2. Why did you decide to write Polyamorous Passions? 
  3. Why write these stories as books (instead of a screenplay, for example)?
  4. Why did you choose this genre of contemporary romantic comedy?
  5. Why novellas instead of full-length novels? 
  6. Where did the idea for Polyamorous Passions come from?
  7. These books are different than any other story that I've read before! (A few things that set this series apart from other romantic comedies and chick lit...) 

Polyamorous Passions follows 3 best friends as they each embark on their own journeys into consensual non-monogamy. Books 1—3 focus on Emma, Books 4—6 focus on Helen, and Books 7—9 will focus on Scarlett (Book 7 is slated for publication in summer 2020). 

This contemporary new adult series is suitable for anyone interested in real-life polyamory & open relationships, positive female friendships, alternatives to monogamy, and explorations of sexuality. Each story can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, but readers often say they get the most from it by reading all the books in the series. 

Polyamorous Passions uncovers the struggles (and benefits) of ethical non-monogamy and illustrates what polyamorous relationships can look like. These stories reduce stigma & provide new perspectives about different relationship styles, while entertaining the reader through fiction. 

Polyamorous Passions follows Emma (easygoing recruitment manager with no issue dating multiple men simultaneously—even if they do), Helen (ambitious career woman in a 10-year relationship with her soon-to-be husband, who falls head over heels for her wedding photographer), and Scarlett (burlesque dancer with a long-standing unrequited crush, whose only hope to save her failing business is an irritating Humphrey Bogart-esque dance partner she’s forced to work with) as they navigate the next phase of their lives in the transitionary period of their late 20s to early 30s. 

In the vein of Sex and the City & Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Polyamorous Passions uses humour & everyday conversations to share relatable real-life issues & complex life experiences in a compelling, entertaining format.   

READ THE SERIES: SaganMorrow.com/books, or search “Polyamorous Passions” on your favourite e-bookstore platform.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly follows up on Episode 50, where I shared my polyamorous background. Today, you'll get more details about my novels: Polyamorous Passions romantic comedy series. 

FAQ:  

  1. What is Polyamorous Passions? 
  2. Why did you decide to write Polyamorous Passions? 
  3. Why write these stories as books (instead of a screenplay, for example)?
  4. Why did you choose this genre of contemporary romantic comedy?
  5. Why novellas instead of full-length novels? 
  6. Where did the idea for Polyamorous Passions come from?
  7. These books are different than any other story that I've read before! (A few things that set this series apart from other romantic comedies and chick lit...) 

Polyamorous Passions follows 3 best friends as they each embark on their own journeys into consensual non-monogamy. Books 1—3 focus on Emma, Books 4—6 focus on Helen, and Books 7—9 will focus on Scarlett (Book 7 is slated for publication in summer 2020). 

This contemporary new adult series is suitable for anyone interested in real-life polyamory & open relationships, positive female friendships, alternatives to monogamy, and explorations of sexuality. Each story can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, but readers often say they get the most from it by reading all the books in the series. 

Polyamorous Passions uncovers the struggles (and benefits) of ethical non-monogamy and illustrates what polyamorous relationships can look like. These stories reduce stigma & provide new perspectives about different relationship styles, while entertaining the reader through fiction. 

Polyamorous Passions follows Emma (easygoing recruitment manager with no issue dating multiple men simultaneously—even if they do), Helen (ambitious career woman in a 10-year relationship with her soon-to-be husband, who falls head over heels for her wedding photographer), and Scarlett (burlesque dancer with a long-standing unrequited crush, whose only hope to save her failing business is an irritating Humphrey Bogart-esque dance partner she’s forced to work with) as they navigate the next phase of their lives in the transitionary period of their late 20s to early 30s. 

In the vein of Sex and the City & Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Polyamorous Passions uses humour & everyday conversations to share relatable real-life issues & complex life experiences in a compelling, entertaining format.   

READ THE SERIES: SaganMorrow.com/books, or search “Polyamorous Passions” on your favourite e-bookstore platform.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-3015199 Mon, 16 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1531 52 full false 050: What made me start writing the Polyamorous Passions series (my polyamory background) 050: What made me start writing the Polyamorous Passions series (my polyamory background) Find out what made your host Sagan Morrow start writing her Polyamorous Passions series in the first place, and a peek behind the curtain of her polyamory lifestyle, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly. 

Today is Episode 50! I’m so happy to be releasing this milestone episode, and it seems like the perfect episode to answer a question I get all the time from different people, when they start reading my books. 

The question they ask again and again is, “why did you start writing this Polyamorous Passions series?” 

Variations of this question include inquiries about whether I also have a polyamorous lifestyle, where the idea for this series came from, and what made me want to tell these stories. 

I don’t typically talk much about that here on Indie Author Weekly, so again, it feels like Episode 50 is a great milestone to provide some background on it! 

This is actually going to be a two-part series: today, I want to share more about the background of polyamory and what led to me writing the books, and in our next episode, I’ll talk more about the stories themselves. 

Questions addressed in this episode of Indie Author Weekly include...  

  1. Are you polyamorous?  
  2. What is polyamory, anyway?  
  3. How does polyamory affect your relationships, with your spouse and with the people in your life and with your business?  
  4. What made you want to write fictional stories about polyamory?  

This episode also features...  

  • What makes non-monogamy ethical vs non-ethical.  
  • The difference between polyamory and other types of non-monogamy.  
  • My polyamory manifesto (the guiding principles of my polyamorous lifestyle).  
  • What my spouse and I do for ensuring our polyamorous relationship is very loving and supportive.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Find out what made your host Sagan Morrow start writing her Polyamorous Passions series in the first place, and a peek behind the curtain of her polyamory lifestyle, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly. 

Today is Episode 50! I’m so happy to be releasing this milestone episode, and it seems like the perfect episode to answer a question I get all the time from different people, when they start reading my books. 

The question they ask again and again is, “why did you start writing this Polyamorous Passions series?” 

Variations of this question include inquiries about whether I also have a polyamorous lifestyle, where the idea for this series came from, and what made me want to tell these stories. 

I don’t typically talk much about that here on Indie Author Weekly, so again, it feels like Episode 50 is a great milestone to provide some background on it! 

This is actually going to be a two-part series: today, I want to share more about the background of polyamory and what led to me writing the books, and in our next episode, I’ll talk more about the stories themselves. 

Questions addressed in this episode of Indie Author Weekly include...  

  1. Are you polyamorous?  
  2. What is polyamory, anyway?  
  3. How does polyamory affect your relationships, with your spouse and with the people in your life and with your business?  
  4. What made you want to write fictional stories about polyamory?  

This episode also features...  

  • What makes non-monogamy ethical vs non-ethical.  
  • The difference between polyamory and other types of non-monogamy.  
  • My polyamory manifesto (the guiding principles of my polyamorous lifestyle).  
  • What my spouse and I do for ensuring our polyamorous relationship is very loving and supportive.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2949481 Mon, 09 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0700 1463 51 full false 049: What I do to get in the right mood to write various scenes 049: What I do to get in the right mood to write various scenes Learn a few of the things your host, Sagan, has been doing lately to get into the right mood to write scenes of her upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series... and how you can apply these ideas to your own writing! 

My ability to focus has been a little bit compromised over the past few weeks, because I’ve had a flare-up of anxiety. It’s been months since I last had to actively deal with my anxiety, so it’s been testing me a bit! As a result, I’ve been prioritizing self-care and doing the most urgent, important tasks in my business, while pushing other things back a bit. 

Creative writing is a good outlet for me when I’m experiencing things with my mental health, but even so, the focus part has still been a challenge. I’ve been a bit more scattered than usual. As a result, I’ve been making the most of getting myself into the right mood to write various scenes of this book. This makes it easier for the story to flow through me and get on the page. Having the right mindset can do wonders! 

Here are a few of the ways I’ve been getting into the right mood for writing various scenes in Her Bad Idea….  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn a few of the things your host, Sagan, has been doing lately to get into the right mood to write scenes of her upcoming romantic comedy, Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series... and how you can apply these ideas to your own writing! 

My ability to focus has been a little bit compromised over the past few weeks, because I’ve had a flare-up of anxiety. It’s been months since I last had to actively deal with my anxiety, so it’s been testing me a bit! As a result, I’ve been prioritizing self-care and doing the most urgent, important tasks in my business, while pushing other things back a bit. 

Creative writing is a good outlet for me when I’m experiencing things with my mental health, but even so, the focus part has still been a challenge. I’ve been a bit more scattered than usual. As a result, I’ve been making the most of getting myself into the right mood to write various scenes of this book. This makes it easier for the story to flow through me and get on the page. Having the right mindset can do wonders! 

Here are a few of the ways I’ve been getting into the right mood for writing various scenes in Her Bad Idea….  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2820088 Mon, 02 Mar 2020 22:00:00 -0800 598 50 full false 048: 3 tips for writing books at the END of a series 048: 3 tips for writing books at the END of a series Learn 3 tips for how to write books when you are getting to the end of a series in this episode of Indie Author Weekly.  

... Because that is where I’m at right now! My Polyamorous Passions series will have 9 books in total, and each of the three trilogies within this series follows a different main character. In other words, this means that every three books, I begin a new story arc. Books 1 - 3 followed Emma’s story, Books 4 - 6 followed Helen’s story, and I’m currently writing the first draft of Book 7, which will follow Scarlett’s story until the end of this Polyamorous Passions series.  

Sidebar: If you’re curious about learning more about those books, you can visit SaganMorrow.com/books for full information on all of them.  

Also, another sidebar: I shared 8 tips for how to keep track of everything when you’re writing a book series in a previous episode here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Tune into Episode 16 for details on that.  

Okay, now, when you get toward the end of the series, it can feel a little daunting. Basically, you don’t want to mess things up! More than one reader has told me that their favourite character is Scarlett, which makes me so happy, because I love her too… but it’s kind of funny, because I think I’ve been putting a bit of unnecessary pressure on myself.  

Frankly, it was much easier to write Helen, I think for two reasons: first of all, she’s very different from me, so it was really easy to separate myself from her. And second, she’s not a particularly likeable character in the first few books of the series! So it was fascinating to explore things from her perspective and get to know her, and see how she develops into this really likeable, very strong-willed character. Readers love Helen once they get to her books in the series.  

Besides the characters, it can also be nerve-wracking to try to tie up loose ends, or make sure that everything comes together perfectly, or ensure that you don’t forget about something.  

So that’s possibly one of the biggest obstacles that can arise when you get to the end of the series: it can feel rather daunting because you don’t want to mess stuff up—and that often means that we get stuck and start avoiding the writing process.  

With that in mind, I have 3 tips that have helped me get past that stage, and I hope it will help you, too…

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 3 tips for how to write books when you are getting to the end of a series in this episode of Indie Author Weekly.  

... Because that is where I’m at right now! My Polyamorous Passions series will have 9 books in total, and each of the three trilogies within this series follows a different main character. In other words, this means that every three books, I begin a new story arc. Books 1 - 3 followed Emma’s story, Books 4 - 6 followed Helen’s story, and I’m currently writing the first draft of Book 7, which will follow Scarlett’s story until the end of this Polyamorous Passions series.  

Sidebar: If you’re curious about learning more about those books, you can visit SaganMorrow.com/books for full information on all of them.  

Also, another sidebar: I shared 8 tips for how to keep track of everything when you’re writing a book series in a previous episode here on the Indie Author Weekly podcast. Tune into Episode 16 for details on that.  

Okay, now, when you get toward the end of the series, it can feel a little daunting. Basically, you don’t want to mess things up! More than one reader has told me that their favourite character is Scarlett, which makes me so happy, because I love her too… but it’s kind of funny, because I think I’ve been putting a bit of unnecessary pressure on myself.  

Frankly, it was much easier to write Helen, I think for two reasons: first of all, she’s very different from me, so it was really easy to separate myself from her. And second, she’s not a particularly likeable character in the first few books of the series! So it was fascinating to explore things from her perspective and get to know her, and see how she develops into this really likeable, very strong-willed character. Readers love Helen once they get to her books in the series.  

Besides the characters, it can also be nerve-wracking to try to tie up loose ends, or make sure that everything comes together perfectly, or ensure that you don’t forget about something.  

So that’s possibly one of the biggest obstacles that can arise when you get to the end of the series: it can feel rather daunting because you don’t want to mess stuff up—and that often means that we get stuck and start avoiding the writing process.  

With that in mind, I have 3 tips that have helped me get past that stage, and I hope it will help you, too…

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2818102 Mon, 24 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0800 796 49 full false 047: How 4 different authors outline their books 047: How 4 different authors outline their books Learn how 4 different authors outline their books and get started with writing a new story on this episode of Indie Author Weekly... 

Today we have a slightly different take on our usual format! One of the most popular episodes here on Indie Author Weekly is an episode I did way back, all about my process for how to outline a book. If you want to hear about that, you can tune into Episode 3. 

Since so many listeners are interested in that topic, I thought it would be fun to get a variety of different writers’ processes for how they go about outlining and starting to write a new book. 

With that in mind, I reached out to some writer friends and asked if they’d be willing to share a little bit about their unique processes. They very kindly wrote in their answers, so today I’m going to read their incredible insights with you! We have four different writers sharing their processes with us today. 

Plus, after each author shares their methods for how to outline and start writing a story, I've distilled their processes into 3 key takeaways each so that you can apply it in practical ways to your own writing. 

Hit play on today's episode to get the book writing tips and find out real-life methods that WORK for these authors to outline their own stories... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn how 4 different authors outline their books and get started with writing a new story on this episode of Indie Author Weekly... 

Today we have a slightly different take on our usual format! One of the most popular episodes here on Indie Author Weekly is an episode I did way back, all about my process for how to outline a book. If you want to hear about that, you can tune into Episode 3. 

Since so many listeners are interested in that topic, I thought it would be fun to get a variety of different writers’ processes for how they go about outlining and starting to write a new book. 

With that in mind, I reached out to some writer friends and asked if they’d be willing to share a little bit about their unique processes. They very kindly wrote in their answers, so today I’m going to read their incredible insights with you! We have four different writers sharing their processes with us today. 

Plus, after each author shares their methods for how to outline and start writing a story, I've distilled their processes into 3 key takeaways each so that you can apply it in practical ways to your own writing. 

Hit play on today's episode to get the book writing tips and find out real-life methods that WORK for these authors to outline their own stories... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2758702 Mon, 17 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0800 1879 48 full false 046: A handy trick for boosting your word count 046: A handy trick for boosting your word count Learn a handy—and very simple—trick for boosting your word count in this episode of Indie Author Weekly...  

I’m curious to know if this is something you struggle with! I find it really interesting, as a writer of novellas, because my stories are all quite short. Less than 30,000 words. And I feel very strongly that in some ways, word count doesn’t really matter: it doesn’t really matter how long a book is because the important thing is to tell your story in however many words you need to do your story justice. That’s all it really comes down to.  

That being said, sometimes, we get stuck in a particular part of a book, or the idea of meeting a particular word count goal can feel overwhelming, or we’re just really struggling to put pen to paper. If you are nodding your head right now and you are in this boat, then I encourage you to tune into Episode 45 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast to find out 3 tips for how to deal with it when you’re struggling to get any writing done.  

And by the way, if you are a writer and you haven’t experienced this struggle or overwhelm from time to time in your own work, then please, tell us your secrets, because you, my friend, are a magical human being!  

One more thing, before we get to our writing tip in this episode: I have a word count tracker spreadsheet that I use to set word count goals and keep track of the number of words written every single day, and you can now access the exact spreadsheet I use, totally for free! It’s one of the bonus resources you get on the “secret” version of this podcast, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. So definitely check that out if you want a proven template for tracking your own word count.  

Okay. So, here we are, trying, struggling, to increase our word counts. It can feel overwhelming and exhausting and a complete uphill battle.  

The good news with all of this, is that we can kind of “trick” ourselves into boosting our word counts. It’s a little sneaky, but it’s effective!  

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for my super useful and very simple trick for boosting your word count...    

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn a handy—and very simple—trick for boosting your word count in this episode of Indie Author Weekly...  

I’m curious to know if this is something you struggle with! I find it really interesting, as a writer of novellas, because my stories are all quite short. Less than 30,000 words. And I feel very strongly that in some ways, word count doesn’t really matter: it doesn’t really matter how long a book is because the important thing is to tell your story in however many words you need to do your story justice. That’s all it really comes down to.  

That being said, sometimes, we get stuck in a particular part of a book, or the idea of meeting a particular word count goal can feel overwhelming, or we’re just really struggling to put pen to paper. If you are nodding your head right now and you are in this boat, then I encourage you to tune into Episode 45 of this Indie Author Weekly podcast to find out 3 tips for how to deal with it when you’re struggling to get any writing done.  

And by the way, if you are a writer and you haven’t experienced this struggle or overwhelm from time to time in your own work, then please, tell us your secrets, because you, my friend, are a magical human being!  

One more thing, before we get to our writing tip in this episode: I have a word count tracker spreadsheet that I use to set word count goals and keep track of the number of words written every single day, and you can now access the exact spreadsheet I use, totally for free! It’s one of the bonus resources you get on the “secret” version of this podcast, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. So definitely check that out if you want a proven template for tracking your own word count.  

Okay. So, here we are, trying, struggling, to increase our word counts. It can feel overwhelming and exhausting and a complete uphill battle.  

The good news with all of this, is that we can kind of “trick” ourselves into boosting our word counts. It’s a little sneaky, but it’s effective!  

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for my super useful and very simple trick for boosting your word count...    

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2682919 Mon, 10 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0800 908 word count goal, word count tracker, writing tips, novel writing tips, how to write, book editing tips, indie author tips, indie authors, book writers 47 full false 045: 3 tips if you are struggling to get any writing done... 045: 3 tips if you are struggling to get any writing done... Learn 3 practical tips for dealing with the situation if you are struggling to get any writing done when you tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly...   

For today’s episode, I want to talk about that ever-present issue that we all face: struggling to get any writing done.  

I’ve addressed this topic here on the podcast before and I’m sure I’ll address it again from other angles many more times in the future, because honestly, this is one of the biggest problems that any author, whether you’re an aspiring author or an active author, faces. Writing can be such a wonderful experience, and sometimes it flows freely… and other times, it’s just a struggle. So today’s episode is a little pep talk on the subject.  

A lot about “sitting down and getting the writing done” is all in your head. We struggle with writing because we’re afraid of failure or success, we’re putting pressure on ourselves to get it perfect, we’re uncomfortable about being vulnerable and baring our soul, and so on.  

The good news about that is that when we reframe the writing process and retrain our brain, writing is less of a struggle!  

However… if your office isn’t conducive to your writing style, or if you don’t know anything about your characters, or if you have no idea how to put a story together, then it doesn’t matter how much you’re “in the writing zone”—you’re probably still going to experience some struggles with the process along the way.  

In other words...  

Writing is a mindset, but only after you have all the pieces in place.   

Learn 3 practical tips for dealing with the situation if you are struggling to get any writing done when you tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 3 practical tips for dealing with the situation if you are struggling to get any writing done when you tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly...   

For today’s episode, I want to talk about that ever-present issue that we all face: struggling to get any writing done.  

I’ve addressed this topic here on the podcast before and I’m sure I’ll address it again from other angles many more times in the future, because honestly, this is one of the biggest problems that any author, whether you’re an aspiring author or an active author, faces. Writing can be such a wonderful experience, and sometimes it flows freely… and other times, it’s just a struggle. So today’s episode is a little pep talk on the subject.  

A lot about “sitting down and getting the writing done” is all in your head. We struggle with writing because we’re afraid of failure or success, we’re putting pressure on ourselves to get it perfect, we’re uncomfortable about being vulnerable and baring our soul, and so on.  

The good news about that is that when we reframe the writing process and retrain our brain, writing is less of a struggle!  

However… if your office isn’t conducive to your writing style, or if you don’t know anything about your characters, or if you have no idea how to put a story together, then it doesn’t matter how much you’re “in the writing zone”—you’re probably still going to experience some struggles with the process along the way.  

In other words...  

Writing is a mindset, but only after you have all the pieces in place.   

Learn 3 practical tips for dealing with the situation if you are struggling to get any writing done when you tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2581909 Mon, 03 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0800 469 how to save time, time management tips, how to write, write a book, mind mapping to write a book, productivity for authors, writing pep talk, writing motivation 46 full false 044: How to use mind mapping to write a book 044: How to use mind mapping to write a book Learn how to use mind mapping to write a book in this episode, featuring a real-life example to make it easier for you to visualize and tips for creating your own mind map. Use these mind mapping tips for authors and make it easy and fun to write your book!

When your host Sagan Morrow isn't writing romance novels and hosting this podcast, my day job involves teaching productivity tips and action-oriented strategic planning to multi-passionate creatives. 

I recently published an article about how to use mind mapping in your business on the SaganMorrow.com blog, and in that article, I talk about how mind mapping is a handy—and fun—tool for saving time, getting clarity, improving focus, and working more efficiently on your projects. And I’ve included a step-by-step guide in that blog post for how to use mind mapping in your business. If you’re interested in checking that out, visit SaganMorrow.com/mindmap. 

Right now, I’m slowly getting started with writing Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in my Polyamorous Passions series, and I decided to take my own advice… and use mind mapping as a tool to write the book! 

I thought it would be fun for this episode of Indie Author Weekly to share a bit about that process for mind mapping as an author. 

Mind mapping is a very straightforward practice. Basically, it’s a sort of organized brain dump and brainstorm of ideas. You’re getting a whole bunch of thoughts and ideas all in one space, and mapping them out to connect the dots between your ideas. 

It’s one thing to have all of your ideas for a book in your head or even in a Google doc, but it’s a whole other things to have them laid out visually and in a single space. With that in mind, I decided to use mind mapping to write Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series. I took out a large piece of poster paper, which is propped up on a handy stand, and I grabbed a handful of colour-coded markers and went to it. 

Okay, I’m now going to explain to you what this particular mind map looks like, but if you want to see an actual photo of it as a work in progress, then you can get that on the “secret” version of this podcast at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. So, go check that out if you want to see the real-life visual of it as I’m explaining it here.   

All right, we have our poster paper and our colour-coded markers... 

Tune into this episode to learn about mind mapping for creative writing!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn how to use mind mapping to write a book in this episode, featuring a real-life example to make it easier for you to visualize and tips for creating your own mind map. Use these mind mapping tips for authors and make it easy and fun to write your book!

When your host Sagan Morrow isn't writing romance novels and hosting this podcast, my day job involves teaching productivity tips and action-oriented strategic planning to multi-passionate creatives. 

I recently published an article about how to use mind mapping in your business on the SaganMorrow.com blog, and in that article, I talk about how mind mapping is a handy—and fun—tool for saving time, getting clarity, improving focus, and working more efficiently on your projects. And I’ve included a step-by-step guide in that blog post for how to use mind mapping in your business. If you’re interested in checking that out, visit SaganMorrow.com/mindmap. 

Right now, I’m slowly getting started with writing Her Bad Idea, which is Book 7 in my Polyamorous Passions series, and I decided to take my own advice… and use mind mapping as a tool to write the book! 

I thought it would be fun for this episode of Indie Author Weekly to share a bit about that process for mind mapping as an author. 

Mind mapping is a very straightforward practice. Basically, it’s a sort of organized brain dump and brainstorm of ideas. You’re getting a whole bunch of thoughts and ideas all in one space, and mapping them out to connect the dots between your ideas. 

It’s one thing to have all of your ideas for a book in your head or even in a Google doc, but it’s a whole other things to have them laid out visually and in a single space. With that in mind, I decided to use mind mapping to write Book 7 in the Polyamorous Passions series. I took out a large piece of poster paper, which is propped up on a handy stand, and I grabbed a handful of colour-coded markers and went to it. 

Okay, I’m now going to explain to you what this particular mind map looks like, but if you want to see an actual photo of it as a work in progress, then you can get that on the “secret” version of this podcast at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. So, go check that out if you want to see the real-life visual of it as I’m explaining it here.   

All right, we have our poster paper and our colour-coded markers... 

Tune into this episode to learn about mind mapping for creative writing!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2581192 Mon, 27 Jan 2020 22:00:00 -0800 723 mind mapping for authors, mind map tips, mind mapping tips, mind mapping for creative writing, how to mind map, book writing tips, productivity tips, how to use mind mapping to write a book, how to write a book, 45 full false 043: What do you want to get from writing a book? 043: What do you want to get from writing a book? Do you know what you want to get from writing a book? Understanding WHAT you want to get from the experience is so important, because it will help you identify the best approach you should take for your unique book project: in other words, you need to know what you want to get out of writing a book in order to figure out HOW to go about writing it.  

There are so many different reasons for why we might want to write a book. Depending on what you want to get from the experience, you may want to approach it from one angle or another, or you might need to adjust where it fits into your priorities, and so on.  

For example, if you are writing a book because you have a cool story idea in your head that you think would be a lot of fun to write, and you want to write for the pure joy of it without sharing it with the world, then you will likely take a very different approach to it than if you are writing a book because you want to become a full-time author.   

Likewise, if your goal with writing a book is to win a prestigious award, that could also have an entirely different approach than if your goal is to make a lot of money from it.   

That’s why it’s really important to sit down and examine what is it that you want from your book writing experience, so you can ensure you’re going about it the right way. This will help you determine things like…   

  • If you want to write a book on your own or if you want a co-writer.   
  • If you want to self-publish your book or if you want to go the traditional publication route.  
  • What genre, voice, and style you want to use.  
  • Timeframes and deadlines for your book project.  
  • Whether you want to explore mentorship, writer groups, and training.  
  • How a book fits into your lifestyle and professional life, and what level of priority it gets.  
  • Whether you want to tell people that you’re writing a book or not.  
  • ...and so on.  

There’s no doubt about it: having a clear understanding of what you want to get from your book writing experience really does matter!   

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get a real-life example of the unexpected benefits you can get from writing a book, why understanding what you want to get from it matters so much, and more...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Do you know what you want to get from writing a book? Understanding WHAT you want to get from the experience is so important, because it will help you identify the best approach you should take for your unique book project: in other words, you need to know what you want to get out of writing a book in order to figure out HOW to go about writing it.  

There are so many different reasons for why we might want to write a book. Depending on what you want to get from the experience, you may want to approach it from one angle or another, or you might need to adjust where it fits into your priorities, and so on.  

For example, if you are writing a book because you have a cool story idea in your head that you think would be a lot of fun to write, and you want to write for the pure joy of it without sharing it with the world, then you will likely take a very different approach to it than if you are writing a book because you want to become a full-time author.   

Likewise, if your goal with writing a book is to win a prestigious award, that could also have an entirely different approach than if your goal is to make a lot of money from it.   

That’s why it’s really important to sit down and examine what is it that you want from your book writing experience, so you can ensure you’re going about it the right way. This will help you determine things like…   

  • If you want to write a book on your own or if you want a co-writer.   
  • If you want to self-publish your book or if you want to go the traditional publication route.  
  • What genre, voice, and style you want to use.  
  • Timeframes and deadlines for your book project.  
  • Whether you want to explore mentorship, writer groups, and training.  
  • How a book fits into your lifestyle and professional life, and what level of priority it gets.  
  • Whether you want to tell people that you’re writing a book or not.  
  • ...and so on.  

There’s no doubt about it: having a clear understanding of what you want to get from your book writing experience really does matter!   

TUNE IN to this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get a real-life example of the unexpected benefits you can get from writing a book, why understanding what you want to get from it matters so much, and more...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2466044 Mon, 20 Jan 2020 22:00:00 -0800 1395 book writing, writing a book, book writing tips, writer tips, indie author, polyamorous passions, polyamory, polyamorous 44 full false 042: The value of vulnerability (plus 9 examples for authors) 042: The value of vulnerability (plus 9 examples for authors) Learn why vulnerability matters so much, 9 examples for how you can embrace vulnerability in your own author career, and why every writer needs to get comfortable with the discomfort of being "bad" at their work in the beginning...

Any time that we create content, we are uncovering a piece of ourselves. We are sharing something of ourselves through that creative process. And so, when we then share that creative work with the world, we are essentially allowing other people to have a peek into our psyche and innermost thoughts.  

This is especially true for writing fiction. That’s not to say that we agree with everything our characters say or do, for example, because let’s remember that they are their own people with their own individual wants and needs—but even so, everything we write contains some element of ourselves by the very nature of the creative process.  

... and that can be a very vulnerable thing!  

The difference between fiction and non-fiction also gets interesting because when we are writing non-fiction, we are “telling it like it is,” through our perspective. We are creating through our own lens, but it is grounded in reality. Fiction, on the other hand, shares a much deeper part of ourselves because it is rooted in the imagination.  

Basically, there’s a lot of newness and a big learning curve anytime we start something that we haven’t really explored before! A lot of vulnerability. At the end of the day, I think we can all agree that any type of creation or trying something new has the potential to be an act of vulnerability.  

Is that a bad thing? Not at all.  

In fact, now that it’s the new year, and you might be thinking about goals you want to accomplish or resolutions you want to stick to, this is a great time to embrace vulnerability as a content creator.  

TUNE IN to this week's episode of Indie Author Weekly to find out why vulnerability matters, 9 examples for how to embrace vulnerability as an author, and why it's (more than!) okay to be bad at something in the beginning of a new project...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn why vulnerability matters so much, 9 examples for how you can embrace vulnerability in your own author career, and why every writer needs to get comfortable with the discomfort of being "bad" at their work in the beginning...

Any time that we create content, we are uncovering a piece of ourselves. We are sharing something of ourselves through that creative process. And so, when we then share that creative work with the world, we are essentially allowing other people to have a peek into our psyche and innermost thoughts.  

This is especially true for writing fiction. That’s not to say that we agree with everything our characters say or do, for example, because let’s remember that they are their own people with their own individual wants and needs—but even so, everything we write contains some element of ourselves by the very nature of the creative process.  

... and that can be a very vulnerable thing!  

The difference between fiction and non-fiction also gets interesting because when we are writing non-fiction, we are “telling it like it is,” through our perspective. We are creating through our own lens, but it is grounded in reality. Fiction, on the other hand, shares a much deeper part of ourselves because it is rooted in the imagination.  

Basically, there’s a lot of newness and a big learning curve anytime we start something that we haven’t really explored before! A lot of vulnerability. At the end of the day, I think we can all agree that any type of creation or trying something new has the potential to be an act of vulnerability.  

Is that a bad thing? Not at all.  

In fact, now that it’s the new year, and you might be thinking about goals you want to accomplish or resolutions you want to stick to, this is a great time to embrace vulnerability as a content creator.  

TUNE IN to this week's episode of Indie Author Weekly to find out why vulnerability matters, 9 examples for how to embrace vulnerability as an author, and why it's (more than!) okay to be bad at something in the beginning of a new project...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2464922 Mon, 13 Jan 2020 22:00:00 -0800 809 vulnerability, author tips, writing tips, new author, indie author, aspiring author, growth mindset 43 full false 041: 5 steps to plan your book projects for the next year 041: 5 steps to plan your book projects for the next year In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, learn how to plan out your book projects for the next year in a simple, straightforward 5-step process.  

You might be struggling to figure out how your book projects fit into your plans over the upcoming year, because you don’t see how they can bring in much of an income. But just because your books don’t bring in a huge income now, it doesn’t mean that it’s any reason to give up.  

Here are just a few of the incredible benefits of writing and publishing books, which might not seem so tangible at this early stage of the process…  

  1. It’s a great practice to improve writing style, character development, storytelling ability, and so on.  
  2. It’s a platform to begin being known for a particular genre or for your unique voice as an author.  
  3. It can open the doors for potential collaborations and publication opportunities. 
  4. It begins building your readership base.  
  5. It positions you with legitimacy and credibility for your messages and writing.  

Now, obviously, having an income is important! Authors work really hard, and they deserve to be compensated fairly. Absolutely. I just want to stress here that sometimes that income aspect of it is part a longer-time plan, and we shouldn’t discount the stage we’re at along the way, if we happen to not be making much income at this point. Sometimes these other benefits lead to bringing in an income further on down the line. 

So, when you’re planning out your book projects for the year, having that balance in mind is important. You want to make sure that you are allocating energy to keep at it with writing books, but you also don’t want those book projects to get priority over other things all the time if they aren’t bringing in much of an income, for example. This is particularly true if you’re a solopreneur like me, in which case we need to ensure other aspects of our business are getting the attention they deserve, so we can make a living. 

It is a balancing act.   

All right. Here are a few ways you can figure out where your book projects fit into your life and business… tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get the simple 5-step process! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, learn how to plan out your book projects for the next year in a simple, straightforward 5-step process.  

You might be struggling to figure out how your book projects fit into your plans over the upcoming year, because you don’t see how they can bring in much of an income. But just because your books don’t bring in a huge income now, it doesn’t mean that it’s any reason to give up.  

Here are just a few of the incredible benefits of writing and publishing books, which might not seem so tangible at this early stage of the process…  

  1. It’s a great practice to improve writing style, character development, storytelling ability, and so on.  
  2. It’s a platform to begin being known for a particular genre or for your unique voice as an author.  
  3. It can open the doors for potential collaborations and publication opportunities. 
  4. It begins building your readership base.  
  5. It positions you with legitimacy and credibility for your messages and writing.  

Now, obviously, having an income is important! Authors work really hard, and they deserve to be compensated fairly. Absolutely. I just want to stress here that sometimes that income aspect of it is part a longer-time plan, and we shouldn’t discount the stage we’re at along the way, if we happen to not be making much income at this point. Sometimes these other benefits lead to bringing in an income further on down the line. 

So, when you’re planning out your book projects for the year, having that balance in mind is important. You want to make sure that you are allocating energy to keep at it with writing books, but you also don’t want those book projects to get priority over other things all the time if they aren’t bringing in much of an income, for example. This is particularly true if you’re a solopreneur like me, in which case we need to ensure other aspects of our business are getting the attention they deserve, so we can make a living. 

It is a balancing act.   

All right. Here are a few ways you can figure out where your book projects fit into your life and business… tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly to get the simple 5-step process! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2414693 Mon, 06 Jan 2020 22:00:00 -0800 1132 indie author weekly, indie author life, indie author tips, book writing tips, time management tips, writing a book, how to write a book, plan a book, project management 42 full false 040: Applying your 2020 "word of the year" to your author life 040: Applying your 2020 "word of the year" to your author life In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, learn how to embody your "word of the year" in your writing life as an author!   

Your host, Sagan, shares how themes from her previous "words of the year" (2017 - 2019) were reflected in various aspects of her life and business. Find out Sagan's 2020 word of the year, what it means to her, and how she'll be applying it to her author life.  

Click the play button to get the inside scoop...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

  • @Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram .
  • Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly .
  • Email hello@saganmorrow.com .
  • Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) in this survey .

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode of Indie Author Weekly, learn how to embody your "word of the year" in your writing life as an author!   

Your host, Sagan, shares how themes from her previous "words of the year" (2017 - 2019) were reflected in various aspects of her life and business. Find out Sagan's 2020 word of the year, what it means to her, and how she'll be applying it to her author life.  

Click the play button to get the inside scoop...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:  

  • @Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram .
  • Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly .
  • Email hello@saganmorrow.com .
  • Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) in this survey .

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2297276 Mon, 30 Dec 2019 22:00:00 -0800 607 word of the year, word for the year, author life, indie author, productivity powerhouse, writing podcast, Polyamorous Passions, polyamory, polyamory book, polyamorous 41 full false 039: “I have a book in my head… I just need to write it” 039: “I have a book in my head… I just need to write it” This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares practical tips and ideas for how to get your book out of your head and onto paper. If you’ve ever said “I have a book in my head… I just need to write it,” or if you’ve ever found that you can write the first chapter but then find it difficult to get past that and keep writing the story to actually finish your book, then this podcast episode is for you!  

When we continue to postpone things, we need to figure out the real root issue of what’s happening, so we can deal with it accordingly—which is absolutely necessary to making progress with our goals.   

These 6 tips are just what you need to get FINALLY get that book of yours out of head and onto paper! Tune into this indie author podcast episode to get the tips now…  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

  • @Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram
  • Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly
  • Email hello@saganmorrow.com
  • Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) in this survey

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares practical tips and ideas for how to get your book out of your head and onto paper. If you’ve ever said “I have a book in my head… I just need to write it,” or if you’ve ever found that you can write the first chapter but then find it difficult to get past that and keep writing the story to actually finish your book, then this podcast episode is for you!  

When we continue to postpone things, we need to figure out the real root issue of what’s happening, so we can deal with it accordingly—which is absolutely necessary to making progress with our goals.   

These 6 tips are just what you need to get FINALLY get that book of yours out of head and onto paper! Tune into this indie author podcast episode to get the tips now…  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Let's chat about this episode:

  • @Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram
  • Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly
  • Email hello@saganmorrow.com
  • Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) in this survey

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2295494 Mon, 23 Dec 2019 22:00:00 -0800 1010 indie author tips, how to write, book writing tips, new author, write a book, book writing, writing inspiration, writing encouragement, productivity tips, time management tips, how to be productive, time saving tips, how to save time 40 full false 038: How to apply your learning style to writing books 038: How to apply your learning style to writing books This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares tips and ideas for how to apply your personal learning style to writing your next book. Whether you are a visual learner, auditory learner, verbal learner, kinesthetic (physical) learner, logical (mathematical) learner, social learner, or solitary learner, you'll get a few ideas for best practices in using that learning style to more effectively write a book. 

The ideas outlined in this author tips podcast are just to give you a starting point, but they’re definitely worth a shot depending on what your learning style is! 

If something seems out of sync in your business or life, it could be that the way you’re going about it simply isn’t conducive to your learning style—so that’s something you might wish to explore further, to see if there are ways you can adapt to your methods and therefore get more out of any experience. That goes for writing a book or doing pretty much anything else in life or in business. 

Use the 7 learning styles to write your book now! Tune into this episode to get a few tips and ideas on adapting the book writing process to best suit your learning style... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares tips and ideas for how to apply your personal learning style to writing your next book. Whether you are a visual learner, auditory learner, verbal learner, kinesthetic (physical) learner, logical (mathematical) learner, social learner, or solitary learner, you'll get a few ideas for best practices in using that learning style to more effectively write a book. 

The ideas outlined in this author tips podcast are just to give you a starting point, but they’re definitely worth a shot depending on what your learning style is! 

If something seems out of sync in your business or life, it could be that the way you’re going about it simply isn’t conducive to your learning style—so that’s something you might wish to explore further, to see if there are ways you can adapt to your methods and therefore get more out of any experience. That goes for writing a book or doing pretty much anything else in life or in business. 

Use the 7 learning styles to write your book now! Tune into this episode to get a few tips and ideas on adapting the book writing process to best suit your learning style... 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2242070 Mon, 16 Dec 2019 22:00:00 -0800 519 learning style, book writing, writing tips, author tips, indie author, indie author tips, how to write 39 full false 037: How to write a back-of-book blurb in 5 easy steps 037: How to write a back-of-book blurb in 5 easy steps This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares an easy (and fun!) step-by-step guide for how to write a back-of-book blurb… 

Book blurbs MATTER. They are the foundation of your book marketing and sales pitches, after all: one of the biggest things that can make all the difference for potential readers to actually purchase and read your book is to have a great book blurb. 

The problem is that we, as authors, assume it’s a complicated and frustrating and annoying process to write a blurb for the back of your book… the good news? It doesn’t have to be that way at all! 

Steal my method for writing an intriguing back-of-book blurb that gets results (yes, real readers interested in your book), in a fun and painless step-by-step process—tune into this episode of the author tips podcast to get the inside scoop now. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

  • @Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram . 
  • Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly . 
  • Email hello@saganmorrow.com . 
  • Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) at SaganMorrow.com/question . 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares an easy (and fun!) step-by-step guide for how to write a back-of-book blurb… 

Book blurbs MATTER. They are the foundation of your book marketing and sales pitches, after all: one of the biggest things that can make all the difference for potential readers to actually purchase and read your book is to have a great book blurb. 

The problem is that we, as authors, assume it’s a complicated and frustrating and annoying process to write a blurb for the back of your book… the good news? It doesn’t have to be that way at all! 

Steal my method for writing an intriguing back-of-book blurb that gets results (yes, real readers interested in your book), in a fun and painless step-by-step process—tune into this episode of the author tips podcast to get the inside scoop now. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:

Let's chat about this episode:

  • @Saganlives on Twitter and Instagram . 
  • Hashtag: #IndieAuthorWeekly . 
  • Email hello@saganmorrow.com . 
  • Share your thoughts (or submit requests for future episode topics) at SaganMorrow.com/question . 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-2236337 Mon, 09 Dec 2019 22:00:00 -0800 1303 indie author, author tips, writing tips, book writing, book writing tip, book blurb, how to write, book research 38 full false 036: What to do after writing a first draft of your manuscript (step-by-step guide) 036: What to do after writing a first draft of your manuscript (step-by-step guide) This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares a step-by-step guide for what to do AFTER writing a first draft of your manuscript...   

So, you wrote a book. Congratulations! That's a huge accomplishment and something to feel really proud about.   

...But, this is also just the beginning of your author journey. If you want to become a published author, then there are a few more steps you need to take. And that’s what I want to talk about in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: what to do after you write the first draft of your book.   

Because it’s not enough to write a first draft. If you leave it here, then you’re going to continue to be an aspiring author, rather than an actual author. If you want to be published, then there’s a lot more to do after you write that first draft.  

You can totally do this. It’s about committing to the process and following through. The world wants to read your work.  

But you might be at a point where you really don’t know what you should do next. You might be sitting there, thinking “okay… now what? How do I continue moving forward and ensure my book sees the light of day?”   

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for a step-by-step guide for making that happen… the actions you need to take after you write that first draft of your novel. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly shares a step-by-step guide for what to do AFTER writing a first draft of your manuscript...   

So, you wrote a book. Congratulations! That's a huge accomplishment and something to feel really proud about.   

...But, this is also just the beginning of your author journey. If you want to become a published author, then there are a few more steps you need to take. And that’s what I want to talk about in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast: what to do after you write the first draft of your book.   

Because it’s not enough to write a first draft. If you leave it here, then you’re going to continue to be an aspiring author, rather than an actual author. If you want to be published, then there’s a lot more to do after you write that first draft.  

You can totally do this. It’s about committing to the process and following through. The world wants to read your work.  

But you might be at a point where you really don’t know what you should do next. You might be sitting there, thinking “okay… now what? How do I continue moving forward and ensure my book sees the light of day?”   

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for a step-by-step guide for making that happen… the actions you need to take after you write that first draft of your novel. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1999177 Mon, 02 Dec 2019 22:00:00 -0800 817 writing tips, rewriting a book, NaNoWriMo tips, National Novel Writing Month, indie author tips, indie author life, indie authors, book editing, be an author 37 full false 035: Excerpt from "Out of Control" (Book 6 in Polyamorous Passions) 035: Excerpt from "Out of Control" (Book 6 in Polyamorous Passions) This episode of Indie Author Weekly features a reading from Sagan's upcoming release, "Out of Control" (Book 6 in the Polyamorous Passions series). 

Polyamorous Passions will include 9 books in total. Basically, there are three “trilogies” within the entire series, and each trilogy follows a different main character, all of whom are best friends: Emma is the main character in Books 1 - 3, Helen is the main event in Books 4 - 6, and Scarlett will be featured in Books 7 - 9. 

Each of the books in Polyamorous Passions can be enjoyed as stand-alones, but you’ll get much more out of it if you read all of the stories in the series, since the characters show up again and again across the books and the storylines continue from one to the next. In this book, Book 6, you also get a glimpse of what’s going to happen for Scarlett’s story—so for those of you who are fans of Scarlett, you’re really going to like that.   

Some background on Helen's story: Book 4 shares the story of how Helen is planning her wedding with her fiance, Ben… but when she finds herself falling for their wedding photographer, she starts to wonder if maybe monogamy isn’t something she wants for her life, after all. Book 5 features the wedding and honeymoon between Helen and Ben, and their experience in trying out a non-monogamous lifestyle for the first time.   

Book 6, Out of Control, which will be released on December 10, is all about what happens next. As Helen’s career takes off and as she and Ben begin practicing an ethically non-monogamous lifestyle, we get to see some of the pitfalls that they run into, and whether Helen can can handle it when she lets someone else take control of a situation for a while.

As with the other books in the Polyamorous Passions series, Out of Control is a contemporary new adult romantic comedy. It includes plenty of sexual tension in the workplace, a cute homage to When Harry Met Sally, and a pretty funny conversation on the proper etiquette of sexting.   

Learn more at SaganMorrow.com/books, or visit Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, or your favourite e-bookstore. 

With that background on the book out of the way, let’s get into the excerpt. The excerpt today is from Chapter 4. Helen is at the workplace after hours with her boss, Jack, as they prepare for her new job. Unbeknownst to Jack, Helen is secretly sexting with her boyfriend, Grant, in between working. What could possibly go wrong?   

Tune into this episode to find out what happens! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode of Indie Author Weekly features a reading from Sagan's upcoming release, "Out of Control" (Book 6 in the Polyamorous Passions series). 

Polyamorous Passions will include 9 books in total. Basically, there are three “trilogies” within the entire series, and each trilogy follows a different main character, all of whom are best friends: Emma is the main character in Books 1 - 3, Helen is the main event in Books 4 - 6, and Scarlett will be featured in Books 7 - 9. 

Each of the books in Polyamorous Passions can be enjoyed as stand-alones, but you’ll get much more out of it if you read all of the stories in the series, since the characters show up again and again across the books and the storylines continue from one to the next. In this book, Book 6, you also get a glimpse of what’s going to happen for Scarlett’s story—so for those of you who are fans of Scarlett, you’re really going to like that.   

Some background on Helen's story: Book 4 shares the story of how Helen is planning her wedding with her fiance, Ben… but when she finds herself falling for their wedding photographer, she starts to wonder if maybe monogamy isn’t something she wants for her life, after all. Book 5 features the wedding and honeymoon between Helen and Ben, and their experience in trying out a non-monogamous lifestyle for the first time.   

Book 6, Out of Control, which will be released on December 10, is all about what happens next. As Helen’s career takes off and as she and Ben begin practicing an ethically non-monogamous lifestyle, we get to see some of the pitfalls that they run into, and whether Helen can can handle it when she lets someone else take control of a situation for a while.

As with the other books in the Polyamorous Passions series, Out of Control is a contemporary new adult romantic comedy. It includes plenty of sexual tension in the workplace, a cute homage to When Harry Met Sally, and a pretty funny conversation on the proper etiquette of sexting.   

Learn more at SaganMorrow.com/books, or visit Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, or your favourite e-bookstore. 

With that background on the book out of the way, let’s get into the excerpt. The excerpt today is from Chapter 4. Helen is at the workplace after hours with her boss, Jack, as they prepare for her new job. Unbeknownst to Jack, Helen is secretly sexting with her boyfriend, Grant, in between working. What could possibly go wrong?   

Tune into this episode to find out what happens! 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1998889 Mon, 25 Nov 2019 22:00:00 -0800 595 polyamorous passions, book teaser, polyamory novel, polyamorous book, romantic comedy excerpt, polyamory book, romance book reading 36 full false 034: How to practice self-discipline as a writer (10 tips) 034: How to practice self-discipline as a writer (10 tips) In this episode, I want to answer a question that I’ve seen come up a few times over the past month from aspiring authors: how do you practice self-discipline as a writer, and how do you force yourself to write when you’re not in the mood for it? 

The timing of this question is rather interesting since I have recently been working on a brand-new e-course for the side of my business where I teach solopreneurs about productivity. In fact, the new program is called Productivity Powerhouse, and it is all about how to manage your time and energy effectively. So to see this question crop up on social media lately from new authors is really timely! 

And since authors are a type of solopreneur, if this is something that you struggle with, then you might want to check out Productivity Powerhouse. Visit SaganMorrow.com/productivity-powerhouse to learn more. 

But for today’s episode, let’s address that question about how to manage self-discipline as a writer. 

Self-discipline is absolutely crucial to your ability to start and finish a project. This is especially true for indie authors: with a traditional publishing house, you’ll have deadlines to meet based on your contract with that publishing house. 

But as an indie author, you’re really working with your own deadlines. You are the boss of you. You get to decide when your book gets published. And that can be a great thing—after all, it gives you a lot of freedom and flexibility… but if you struggle with managing your time and energy effectively, then it can be problematic. You might never get around to actually finishing that book of yours! 

The other side of the coin, when it comes to self-discipline as a writer, is that sometimes, you might not want to write. You might not be in the mood for it.  

Tune into the episode for 10 practical tips for how to handle it when you are struggling with self-discipline as a writer!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, I want to answer a question that I’ve seen come up a few times over the past month from aspiring authors: how do you practice self-discipline as a writer, and how do you force yourself to write when you’re not in the mood for it? 

The timing of this question is rather interesting since I have recently been working on a brand-new e-course for the side of my business where I teach solopreneurs about productivity. In fact, the new program is called Productivity Powerhouse, and it is all about how to manage your time and energy effectively. So to see this question crop up on social media lately from new authors is really timely! 

And since authors are a type of solopreneur, if this is something that you struggle with, then you might want to check out Productivity Powerhouse. Visit SaganMorrow.com/productivity-powerhouse to learn more. 

But for today’s episode, let’s address that question about how to manage self-discipline as a writer. 

Self-discipline is absolutely crucial to your ability to start and finish a project. This is especially true for indie authors: with a traditional publishing house, you’ll have deadlines to meet based on your contract with that publishing house. 

But as an indie author, you’re really working with your own deadlines. You are the boss of you. You get to decide when your book gets published. And that can be a great thing—after all, it gives you a lot of freedom and flexibility… but if you struggle with managing your time and energy effectively, then it can be problematic. You might never get around to actually finishing that book of yours! 

The other side of the coin, when it comes to self-discipline as a writer, is that sometimes, you might not want to write. You might not be in the mood for it.  

Tune into the episode for 10 practical tips for how to handle it when you are struggling with self-discipline as a writer!  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1961533 Mon, 18 Nov 2019 22:00:00 -0800 850 writing tips, self-discipline, indie author tips, author life, writing life, book writing tip, time management, energy management, productivity tips, solopreneur life, solopreneurship, solopreneur tips 35 full false 033: Why write novellas instead of full-length novels? 7 reasons... 033: Why write novellas instead of full-length novels? 7 reasons... Learn 7 reasons why you might want to write a novella instead of a full-length novel for your next book... 

If you’ve been following along on this book writing adventure for a while, then you’ll know that in the past year and a bit, I’ve written and published 5 novellas—with my next one in the Polyamorous Passions series coming out in a month! 

So, today I want to talk about why I bother writing novellas in the first place, and some of the benefits around writing novellas instead of full-length novels. 

First of all, what is a novella? A novella is a short novel. It’s about 20,000—40,000 words long, whereas a typical novel could easily be closer to 100,000 words. So, a good example of a novella is The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, which clocks in at 37,000 words. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, on the other hand, is 111,000 words. So far, my own novellas are all 23,000 to 30,000 words each.   

So hopefully that just gives you some context, moving forward for this episode.   

Okay, so why write novellas instead of full-length novels? What’s the point? Why could it be a good idea for you to do this? Find out in this episode—7 reasons why you might want to write a novella, too, instead of a full-length novel...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 7 reasons why you might want to write a novella instead of a full-length novel for your next book... 

If you’ve been following along on this book writing adventure for a while, then you’ll know that in the past year and a bit, I’ve written and published 5 novellas—with my next one in the Polyamorous Passions series coming out in a month! 

So, today I want to talk about why I bother writing novellas in the first place, and some of the benefits around writing novellas instead of full-length novels. 

First of all, what is a novella? A novella is a short novel. It’s about 20,000—40,000 words long, whereas a typical novel could easily be closer to 100,000 words. So, a good example of a novella is The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, which clocks in at 37,000 words. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, on the other hand, is 111,000 words. So far, my own novellas are all 23,000 to 30,000 words each.   

So hopefully that just gives you some context, moving forward for this episode.   

Okay, so why write novellas instead of full-length novels? What’s the point? Why could it be a good idea for you to do this? Find out in this episode—7 reasons why you might want to write a novella, too, instead of a full-length novel...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1939178 Mon, 11 Nov 2019 22:00:00 -0800 741 writing tips, book writing tips, indie author tips, novella vs novel, what is a novella, word count goals 34 full false 032: Writing prompts for NaNoWriMo (20 ideas) 032: Writing prompts for NaNoWriMo (20 ideas) Stuck with what to write for National Novel Writing Month this year? Struggling to get your creative juices flowing? Need to meet your daily word count goal, but not sure how to get there? Never fear—these writing prompts are here to help!   

With 20 different writing prompt ideas to use during NaNoWriMo, you'll have no problem reaching your word count goals! Put pen to paper, explore your creativity, and stretch your writing muscles when you use these writing prompt ideas.  

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for the 20 NaNoWriMo writing prompt ideas...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Stuck with what to write for National Novel Writing Month this year? Struggling to get your creative juices flowing? Need to meet your daily word count goal, but not sure how to get there? Never fear—these writing prompts are here to help!   

With 20 different writing prompt ideas to use during NaNoWriMo, you'll have no problem reaching your word count goals! Put pen to paper, explore your creativity, and stretch your writing muscles when you use these writing prompt ideas.  

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for the 20 NaNoWriMo writing prompt ideas...  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1939088 Mon, 04 Nov 2019 22:00:00 -0800 506 NaNoWriMo, National Novel Writing Month, Camp NaNoWriMo, NaNoWriMo tips, writing prompts, writing prompt ideas, writing tips, story ideas, NaNoWriMo writing prompt 33 full false 031: 5 tips for how to get through the messy middle 031: 5 tips for how to get through the messy middle Learn how to get through the messy middle with these 5 tips! These actionable strategies will empower you to keep ploughing through, even when you’re feeling bogged down. (Plus, you’ll get an additional 5 questions you need to ask yourself when you’re analyzing the issue of your personal experience of going through the messy middle.)  

The “messy middle” is a common occurrence for probably just about every single author out there—it’s that experience of starting off strong with your book, and then partway through, you might feel kind of stuck. The plot fizzles out or your characters don’t do what you want them to do or you forget how to string a sentence together.   

So, how do you keep ploughing through when that happens? Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for 5 tips to help you out with that exact issue...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn how to get through the messy middle with these 5 tips! These actionable strategies will empower you to keep ploughing through, even when you’re feeling bogged down. (Plus, you’ll get an additional 5 questions you need to ask yourself when you’re analyzing the issue of your personal experience of going through the messy middle.)  

The “messy middle” is a common occurrence for probably just about every single author out there—it’s that experience of starting off strong with your book, and then partway through, you might feel kind of stuck. The plot fizzles out or your characters don’t do what you want them to do or you forget how to string a sentence together.   

So, how do you keep ploughing through when that happens? Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly for 5 tips to help you out with that exact issue...   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1858861 Mon, 28 Oct 2019 22:00:00 -0700 811 indie author, book writing, writing tips, writer tips, messy middle, novel writing, writing a novel, book tips, author tips, writing prompts, book analysis 32 full false 030: How to write setting for your books, plus 4 important questions to ask yourself 030: How to write setting for your books, plus 4 important questions to ask yourself Learn why setting is so important for your book, and 4 important questions to ask yourself when you are making the decision around the setting and backdrop for your book, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly.   

Today’s episode topic is another listener-submitted question from Alana, who wants to know, “How do you do setting? Do you see setting as an additional character, or does it not matter? Is it important for you to represent certain places with your setting?”   

Before we can get into answering these questions about setting, we first need to look at what exactly setting is. Setting is about the time, place, and society in which a story is told.   

You want to make sure that the setting you’ve chosen is one which highlights the main themes of your story, and really showcases them. If you choose a setting that detracts from the themes of your story, then that can really take away from the emotional effect. A setting that bolsters your story’s themes will resonate more strongly with your readers, so that whatever messages you might be trying to convey are really driven home.   

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly now to get the inside scoop and behind-the-scenes peek at how your host Sagan Morrow writes setting into her books, plus why setting matters so much and how you can apply these tips to your own writing…   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn why setting is so important for your book, and 4 important questions to ask yourself when you are making the decision around the setting and backdrop for your book, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly.   

Today’s episode topic is another listener-submitted question from Alana, who wants to know, “How do you do setting? Do you see setting as an additional character, or does it not matter? Is it important for you to represent certain places with your setting?”   

Before we can get into answering these questions about setting, we first need to look at what exactly setting is. Setting is about the time, place, and society in which a story is told.   

You want to make sure that the setting you’ve chosen is one which highlights the main themes of your story, and really showcases them. If you choose a setting that detracts from the themes of your story, then that can really take away from the emotional effect. A setting that bolsters your story’s themes will resonate more strongly with your readers, so that whatever messages you might be trying to convey are really driven home.   

Tune into this episode of Indie Author Weekly now to get the inside scoop and behind-the-scenes peek at how your host Sagan Morrow writes setting into her books, plus why setting matters so much and how you can apply these tips to your own writing…   

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1818736 Mon, 21 Oct 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1249 indie author, book author, book writing, writing tips, writing setting, how to write, how to write setting, writing characters, author tips 31 full false 029: How to support your author friends (5 ideas) 029: How to support your author friends (5 ideas) Learn how to support your author friends—besides buying and reading their books—with these 5 tips! Plus, a special announcement... today is book release day for Being Good (Book 5 in the Polyamorous Passions series!).   

Being an author takes a huge amount of time and energy. But let’s take it a step further, to break it down and consider the numbers...   

For indie authors, when you take into account that a typical e-book retails at $2.99, but that there could easily be upwards of 40 hours of work put into the book (not to mention at least a couple hundred dollars per book for cover design, book editing, etc.—which doesn’t even take into account marketing efforts), and when you consider that all e-book platforms take 30—70% royalties of each book sold, then you’ll see that it takes a whole lot of book sales in order to get close to breaking even, let alone earn a liveable wage.   

That’s why every copy an author can sell truly does matter to them! If an author wants to make a living from their books, then they’re really committed to it for the long haul. 

One of the beautiful things about how easy self-publishing can be, is that anyone can do it. Of course, this also makes it challenging to cut through the noise and for an author to make a name for themselves, and get noticed.   

As a result, anything that you can do to support your author friends means the absolute world to them. When you do any of the tips in this episode, you are supporting your friend’s dream. You are showing them that you care about their dreams, and that you want them to succeed.   

And the best part is that each of these ideas will only take you a few minutes or a couple of bucks. Yes, that’s right: you can support your author friend’s dream for the grand cost to you of $3 or 3 minutes. 

So, with that in mind… what can you do to support your author friends? 

First and foremost, buying their books is awesome! Buy—and, ideally also read—their books, whether those consist of e-versions or paperbacks. 

But besides that, what are other ways you can support your author friends? Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast to get 5 suggestions for how to support your author friends...   

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to c

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn how to support your author friends—besides buying and reading their books—with these 5 tips! Plus, a special announcement... today is book release day for Being Good (Book 5 in the Polyamorous Passions series!).   

Being an author takes a huge amount of time and energy. But let’s take it a step further, to break it down and consider the numbers...   

For indie authors, when you take into account that a typical e-book retails at $2.99, but that there could easily be upwards of 40 hours of work put into the book (not to mention at least a couple hundred dollars per book for cover design, book editing, etc.—which doesn’t even take into account marketing efforts), and when you consider that all e-book platforms take 30—70% royalties of each book sold, then you’ll see that it takes a whole lot of book sales in order to get close to breaking even, let alone earn a liveable wage.   

That’s why every copy an author can sell truly does matter to them! If an author wants to make a living from their books, then they’re really committed to it for the long haul. 

One of the beautiful things about how easy self-publishing can be, is that anyone can do it. Of course, this also makes it challenging to cut through the noise and for an author to make a name for themselves, and get noticed.   

As a result, anything that you can do to support your author friends means the absolute world to them. When you do any of the tips in this episode, you are supporting your friend’s dream. You are showing them that you care about their dreams, and that you want them to succeed.   

And the best part is that each of these ideas will only take you a few minutes or a couple of bucks. Yes, that’s right: you can support your author friend’s dream for the grand cost to you of $3 or 3 minutes. 

So, with that in mind… what can you do to support your author friends? 

First and foremost, buying their books is awesome! Buy—and, ideally also read—their books, whether those consist of e-versions or paperbacks. 

But besides that, what are other ways you can support your author friends? Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast to get 5 suggestions for how to support your author friends...   

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to c

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1818427 Mon, 14 Oct 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1090 indie author, author tips, support authors, book merch, podcast merch, polyamorous passions, polyamory book, book reviews 30 full false 028: NaNoWriMo prep tips (10 ways to prepare in advance for writing your next book) 028: NaNoWriMo prep tips (10 ways to prepare in advance for writing your next book) Learn the top 10 tips for how to prepare for National Novel Writing Month in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! These NaNoWriMo prep tips are a great resource for preparing in advance for writing your next book, regardless of whether you plan to participate in National Novel Writing Month this November, or if you are writing a book at any time of the year.   

National Novel Writing Month takes place every November, and the idea behind it is to challenge yourself to write a 50,000-word novel during those 30 days. It’s a fantastic organization with lots of great writing resources and an easy way to track and graph your book. Your podcast host Sagan Morrow has participated quite a few times over the years!  

The best trick to succeed with NaNoWriMo is to prepare in advance for your month of book writing. How much strategic prep work you do ahead of time can directly correlate to your success with actually completing the 50,000-word goal by the end of the month. So that’s why this podcast episode is a must-listen to help really set you up for success if you are planning to participate in National Novel Writing Month this year.   

(Keep in mind that you can really apply these tips any time you’re gearing up to begin a new writing project. So whether or not you choose to participate in NaNoWriMo, you can absolutely still benefit from these strategies for how to prepare to write your next book!)  

Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast to get your writing prep tips now...   

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn the top 10 tips for how to prepare for National Novel Writing Month in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! These NaNoWriMo prep tips are a great resource for preparing in advance for writing your next book, regardless of whether you plan to participate in National Novel Writing Month this November, or if you are writing a book at any time of the year.   

National Novel Writing Month takes place every November, and the idea behind it is to challenge yourself to write a 50,000-word novel during those 30 days. It’s a fantastic organization with lots of great writing resources and an easy way to track and graph your book. Your podcast host Sagan Morrow has participated quite a few times over the years!  

The best trick to succeed with NaNoWriMo is to prepare in advance for your month of book writing. How much strategic prep work you do ahead of time can directly correlate to your success with actually completing the 50,000-word goal by the end of the month. So that’s why this podcast episode is a must-listen to help really set you up for success if you are planning to participate in National Novel Writing Month this year.   

(Keep in mind that you can really apply these tips any time you’re gearing up to begin a new writing project. So whether or not you choose to participate in NaNoWriMo, you can absolutely still benefit from these strategies for how to prepare to write your next book!)  

Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast to get your writing prep tips now...   

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1747573 Mon, 07 Oct 2019 22:00:00 -0700 858 NaNoWriMo, National Novel Writing Month, Camp NaNoWriMo, writing prep, writing prep tips, writing tips, indie author, book writing tips, author tips, writing challenge 29 full false 027: Top 10 tips for how to build a story for your book 027: Top 10 tips for how to build a story for your book Learn the top 10 tips for how to build a story for your book, whether you write fiction or non-fiction content, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

In this episode, you'll find out practical strategies for crafting a story from the beginning of your initial idea to the end of your work. This episode includes examples of both fiction and non-fiction, so regardless of the type of content you write as an author, you'll be able to apply these tips to your own work. 

A great story includes some kind of an angle, or approach, that resonates with readers. Your job as an author is to give your readers a reason to pick up the book and start reading... and then keep them engaged throughout the book right until the end (and hopefully afterward, so that they keep reading your work every time you publish a new book!). 

What are you doing to give your reader a reason to care? How are you capturing their attention throughout the story? This episode of Indie Author Weekly delves into these topics and more to ensure you build an awesome story for your book. Tune in to get the details now... 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn the top 10 tips for how to build a story for your book, whether you write fiction or non-fiction content, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly! 

In this episode, you'll find out practical strategies for crafting a story from the beginning of your initial idea to the end of your work. This episode includes examples of both fiction and non-fiction, so regardless of the type of content you write as an author, you'll be able to apply these tips to your own work. 

A great story includes some kind of an angle, or approach, that resonates with readers. Your job as an author is to give your readers a reason to pick up the book and start reading... and then keep them engaged throughout the book right until the end (and hopefully afterward, so that they keep reading your work every time you publish a new book!). 

What are you doing to give your reader a reason to care? How are you capturing their attention throughout the story? This episode of Indie Author Weekly delves into these topics and more to ensure you build an awesome story for your book. Tune in to get the details now... 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1744594 Mon, 30 Sep 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1084 writing tips, writer tips, indie author, author tips, author life, how to build a story, storytelling tips, how to write a book, how to write a story, how to tell a story, writing fiction, writing non-fiction, writing prompts 28 full false 026: 5 questions to ask yourself when your writing plans change 026: 5 questions to ask yourself when your writing plans change Learn what do when you decide to change your original book writing and publishing plans in this episode of Indie Author Weekly. You'll find out the top 5 questions you MUST ask yourself if you're changing your plans (and yes, your writing plans will inevitably change at some point!), plus get some insight into your host Sagan Morrow's experience with changing her writing and publishing plans this year.

Plus, this episode features a special cover reveal of Sagan's upcoming book release, Being Good (Book 5 in the Polyamorous Passions series), and you can access a sample chapter of the book at the "secret" version of this podcast!  

Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast now to get the scoop... 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn what do when you decide to change your original book writing and publishing plans in this episode of Indie Author Weekly. You'll find out the top 5 questions you MUST ask yourself if you're changing your plans (and yes, your writing plans will inevitably change at some point!), plus get some insight into your host Sagan Morrow's experience with changing her writing and publishing plans this year.

Plus, this episode features a special cover reveal of Sagan's upcoming book release, Being Good (Book 5 in the Polyamorous Passions series), and you can access a sample chapter of the book at the "secret" version of this podcast!  

Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast now to get the scoop... 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1715923 Mon, 23 Sep 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1175 book writing, writing tips, book writer, indie author, self-publishing, polyamory, polyamorous, romance novels, book merch, National Novel Writing Month, book release, book cover reveal 27 full false 025: How to get back into book writing after taking a break (step-by-step guide) 025: How to get back into book writing after taking a break (step-by-step guide) Learn 4 tips for how to get back into book writing after taking a break. This step-by-step guide will help you out if you've taken a break from writing and are ready to return to a book project!  

After all, who hasn't taken a break from writing their book? Whether you took a week, a month, or a year—or longer!—away from your book project, the tips shared in this author podcast will give you the tips and tools you need to get back into the swing of things with confidence.  

You'll learn why you shouldn't put a lot of pressure on yourself, how getting back into a book writing project is like dating a new person, why you should reread and review your previous work before you write a single new word, what your host Sagan Morrow does to create goals and set concrete, realistic timeframes for her own books, and more.  

Plus, you can get access—for free!—to the word count tracker spreadsheet and the character writing prompts mentioned in this episode over at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast now to get the scoop...  

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 4 tips for how to get back into book writing after taking a break. This step-by-step guide will help you out if you've taken a break from writing and are ready to return to a book project!  

After all, who hasn't taken a break from writing their book? Whether you took a week, a month, or a year—or longer!—away from your book project, the tips shared in this author podcast will give you the tips and tools you need to get back into the swing of things with confidence.  

You'll learn why you shouldn't put a lot of pressure on yourself, how getting back into a book writing project is like dating a new person, why you should reread and review your previous work before you write a single new word, what your host Sagan Morrow does to create goals and set concrete, realistic timeframes for her own books, and more.  

Plus, you can get access—for free!—to the word count tracker spreadsheet and the character writing prompts mentioned in this episode over at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Tune into this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast now to get the scoop...  

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1710535 Mon, 16 Sep 2019 22:00:00 -0700 710 book writing tips, book writer tips, book writing project, writing project tips, writing tips, author tips, indie author, how to write a book, time management tips, author life, writing life, goal setting 26 full false 024: Excerpt from "Being Good" (Polyamorous Passions, Book 5) 024: Excerpt from "Being Good" (Polyamorous Passions, Book 5) Get a sneak peek of the next installment in the Polyamorous Passions series, "Being Good" (Book 5), in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! This teaser is from Chapter 3: Helen and her fiance Ben, together with Emma and one of her boyfriends Carlos, just arrived at a bar. They are all here tonight because Scarlett is performing a burlesque show at this bar, so right now they are waiting for the show to begin. 

...And they are just about to be interrupted by Grant, who Helen is secretly crushing on, and who also happens to be the photographer that she and Ben hired for their upcoming wedding. Drama!  

Tune in to this episode to get the full excerpt and find out what happens next...   

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Get a sneak peek of the next installment in the Polyamorous Passions series, "Being Good" (Book 5), in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! This teaser is from Chapter 3: Helen and her fiance Ben, together with Emma and one of her boyfriends Carlos, just arrived at a bar. They are all here tonight because Scarlett is performing a burlesque show at this bar, so right now they are waiting for the show to begin. 

...And they are just about to be interrupted by Grant, who Helen is secretly crushing on, and who also happens to be the photographer that she and Ben hired for their upcoming wedding. Drama!  

Tune in to this episode to get the full excerpt and find out what happens next...   

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1595590 Mon, 09 Sep 2019 22:00:00 -0700 605 polyamorous passions, book teaser, polyamory novel, polyamorous book, non-monogamy, ethical nonmonogamy, romantic comedy, romance novel excerpt, indie author 25 full false 023: How to create a playlist for your book 023: How to create a playlist for your book Learn a step-by-step method for how to create a playlist for the next book you write in this episode of the indie author podcast. Although creating playlists can be time-consuming, it’s also a straightforward process that everyone (author and readers alike) can benefit from! 

Plus, find out a few of the songs your host Sagan Morrow chose to feature as the “soundtrack” for her books, and why you might want to choose more emotional songs vs. high-energy songs based on the character and mood and scenes in the books. Explore tension between characters through music when you have special book-specific playlists. 

This episode also shares why you need to think about how quickly the average reader goes through a book, so that your song choices match up with the chapters inside your book. 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn a step-by-step method for how to create a playlist for the next book you write in this episode of the indie author podcast. Although creating playlists can be time-consuming, it’s also a straightforward process that everyone (author and readers alike) can benefit from! 

Plus, find out a few of the songs your host Sagan Morrow chose to feature as the “soundtrack” for her books, and why you might want to choose more emotional songs vs. high-energy songs based on the character and mood and scenes in the books. Explore tension between characters through music when you have special book-specific playlists. 

This episode also shares why you need to think about how quickly the average reader goes through a book, so that your song choices match up with the chapters inside your book. 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1582735 Mon, 02 Sep 2019 22:00:00 -0700 523 book playlist, book soundtrack, playlist tips, create a playlist, polyamory book, polyamory romance, author tips, indie author 24 full false 022: Navigating real or perceived pressures as an author 022: Navigating real or perceived pressures as an author Learn what it’s like to navigate real or perceived pressures as an author, and how your host Sagan Morrow has handled that. Polyamory is a niche topic to write as a romance author—and that means there can be a lot of pressures around it! 

How do you as an author ensure you are best representing the community? And what can you do to deal with situations when readers want you to write one thing or another? Should authors ever be dictated what to write about… and how can that be balanced with the importance of encouraging authors to use their platform in meaningful ways? 

We explore these questions and more in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn what it’s like to navigate real or perceived pressures as an author, and how your host Sagan Morrow has handled that. Polyamory is a niche topic to write as a romance author—and that means there can be a lot of pressures around it! 

How do you as an author ensure you are best representing the community? And what can you do to deal with situations when readers want you to write one thing or another? Should authors ever be dictated what to write about… and how can that be balanced with the importance of encouraging authors to use their platform in meaningful ways? 

We explore these questions and more in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1582453 Mon, 26 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1015 indie author, author tips, writing tips, author problems, romance writer, romance author, polyamory, polyamory book 23 full false 021: Which book should you write first? (step-by-step process to figuring it out) 021: Which book should you write first? (step-by-step process to figuring it out) Learn a 4-step process for how to figure out which book you should write first. Newbie authors, this podcast episode is for you! Plus, find out why you need to write the book you're excited about, regardless of whether or not you think you're "good enough" to write it yet.

This episode shares some tough love, writing motivation, writing encouragement, and practical tips for choosing which book you should start with for your writing career. If you have a lot of ideas for your next book and you're already a published author, you will definitely also benefit from learning about the different methods outlined in this episode for how to choose which story idea to write next. 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn a 4-step process for how to figure out which book you should write first. Newbie authors, this podcast episode is for you! Plus, find out why you need to write the book you're excited about, regardless of whether or not you think you're "good enough" to write it yet.

This episode shares some tough love, writing motivation, writing encouragement, and practical tips for choosing which book you should start with for your writing career. If you have a lot of ideas for your next book and you're already a published author, you will definitely also benefit from learning about the different methods outlined in this episode for how to choose which story idea to write next. 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1546555 Mon, 19 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0700 837 motivation tips, aspiring author, new author, writing motivation, polyamory books, writing encouragement 22 full false 020: 3 ways to keep accountable with writer friends 020: 3 ways to keep accountable with writer friends Learn about 3 ways to keep accountable with your writer friends in this episode of the indie author podcast! You'll find out the benefits of writing in virtual groups, doing one-on-one writing session hangouts, and participating in global writer challenges. 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn about 3 ways to keep accountable with your writer friends in this episode of the indie author podcast! You'll find out the benefits of writing in virtual groups, doing one-on-one writing session hangouts, and participating in global writer challenges. 

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1517962 Mon, 12 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0700 750 writing tips, indie author tips, accountability tips, writing accountability, writer groups, NaNoWriMo, National Novel Writing Months, word count goals, writer's block 21 full false 019: 6 tips for how to improve your writing skills 019: 6 tips for how to improve your writing skills Learn 6 tips for how to improve your writing skills as an author in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast!

You'll find out why rereading your work matters so much, how even 15 minutes/day can make all the difference for improving writing skills, why you should "read between the lines" with what readers say about your work, and more. This episode of the indie author podcast also includes an important reminder about external validation, writing progress, and self-worth.

Plus, your host Sagan Morrow has some exciting news to share about her upcoming book... tune in now to find out the great news!

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 6 tips for how to improve your writing skills as an author in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast!

You'll find out why rereading your work matters so much, how even 15 minutes/day can make all the difference for improving writing skills, why you should "read between the lines" with what readers say about your work, and more. This episode of the indie author podcast also includes an important reminder about external validation, writing progress, and self-worth.

Plus, your host Sagan Morrow has some exciting news to share about her upcoming book... tune in now to find out the great news!

Access sample chapters of Sagan's novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1502116 Mon, 05 Aug 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1093 writing tips, writing improvement, writing skills, how to be a better writer, writer tips, self-improvement 20 full false 018: How real life and writing affect one another as an author 018: How real life and writing affect one another as an author Learn how an author's writing is affected by her real life (and vice versa!) in this episode of Indie Author Weekly. This episode shares a behind-the-scenes peek at author Sagan Morrow's personal life and the integration between books and real-life situations.

This episode answers 3 listener-submitted questions: 

  1. For many authors, real life informs their work. Do you incorporate elements or inspiration from real life into your characters or plot? 
  2. How has writing about polyamory affected your real-life relationships? 
  3. How has focusing on novels for almost a year now changed your life? 

Find out the answers to all of these questions when you tune into this episode of the indie author podcast! 

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn how an author's writing is affected by her real life (and vice versa!) in this episode of Indie Author Weekly. This episode shares a behind-the-scenes peek at author Sagan Morrow's personal life and the integration between books and real-life situations.

This episode answers 3 listener-submitted questions: 

  1. For many authors, real life informs their work. Do you incorporate elements or inspiration from real life into your characters or plot? 
  2. How has writing about polyamory affected your real-life relationships? 
  3. How has focusing on novels for almost a year now changed your life? 

Find out the answers to all of these questions when you tune into this episode of the indie author podcast! 

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1442032 Mon, 29 Jul 2019 22:00:00 -0700 826 writing realism, indie author, new author, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, writing novels, author life 19 full false 017: An exercise to improve character development 017: An exercise to improve character development Learn a simple exercise you can use in your novels to improve character development in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast!

This technique, Situationals, will enable you to get to know your characters better, so whether you want to create a more complex character or whether you need to get past writer's block, you'll find this exercise helpful.

Don't forget to grab the freebie! You can access a worksheet featuring writing prompts to help you learn more about your characters at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. 

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  


Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn a simple exercise you can use in your novels to improve character development in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast!

This technique, Situationals, will enable you to get to know your characters better, so whether you want to create a more complex character or whether you need to get past writer's block, you'll find this exercise helpful.

Don't forget to grab the freebie! You can access a worksheet featuring writing prompts to help you learn more about your characters at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. 

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/secretpodcast. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  


Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1434766 Mon, 22 Jul 2019 22:00:00 -0700 582 writing prompts, character development, character backstory, improve writing, writing tips, indie author 18 full false 016: How to keep track of everything when you’re writing a book series 016: How to keep track of everything when you’re writing a book series Learn a simple 3-step system for how to keep track of everything when you're writing a book series in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! Plus, get 5 tips for how to write a book series so that everything stays consistent and cohesive from one book to the next.

You'll find out how your podcast host, Sagan Morrow, has organized her 9-book series (4 published to date, with the next one currently in the editing process), what's worked for her and what hasn't, and how you can apply the lessons she's learned to your own book writing experience.

The tips shared in this indie author podcast episode are relevant to any author considering writing a book series, or any author who writes novels that feature cross-over characters or exist in the same world.

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn a simple 3-step system for how to keep track of everything when you're writing a book series in this episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast! Plus, get 5 tips for how to write a book series so that everything stays consistent and cohesive from one book to the next.

You'll find out how your podcast host, Sagan Morrow, has organized her 9-book series (4 published to date, with the next one currently in the editing process), what's worked for her and what hasn't, and how you can apply the lessons she's learned to your own book writing experience.

The tips shared in this indie author podcast episode are relevant to any author considering writing a book series, or any author who writes novels that feature cross-over characters or exist in the same world.

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1406845 Mon, 15 Jul 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1012 writing tips, book series, writing a book series, book organization tips, book editing, author tips, how to write 17 full false 015: 10 tips for editing your own work 015: 10 tips for editing your own work Learn 10 tips for editing your own work, plus the editing process your host Sagan Morrow (a professional editor) uses when self-editing her own books, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly.

You'll learn about the importance of having a personal style guide and character bible for your books, different types of edits and ways to review your work, and more. This episode provides you with practical tips for editing books regardless of whether you hire an editor as part of your indie author journey.

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 10 tips for editing your own work, plus the editing process your host Sagan Morrow (a professional editor) uses when self-editing her own books, in this episode of Indie Author Weekly.

You'll learn about the importance of having a personal style guide and character bible for your books, different types of edits and ways to review your work, and more. This episode provides you with practical tips for editing books regardless of whether you hire an editor as part of your indie author journey.

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode.  

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1346530 Mon, 08 Jul 2019 22:00:00 -0700 723 self-published, self publishing, indie author, indie author journey, editing tips, book editing, self-editing, writing tip, style guide, writing novels 16 full false 014: How to understand your strengths & weaknesses as an author (plus how to navigate them) 014: How to understand your strengths & weaknesses as an author (plus how to navigate them) 7 questions to ask yourself, plus actionable ways for how to understand your unique strengths and weaknesses as a writer—so you can improve your writing skills and become a better author.

It can feel scary to analyze our work and figure out our unique strengths and weaknesses, but there is power in it. The more that you know this about yourself, the more you can do something about it. You will be able to create more opportunities for yourself. You will be a better writer, and your readers will enjoy your work that much more. So isn’t facing the fear of it worth it, for all that you can get in return?

Understanding our strengths and weaknesses, and identifying whether or not something is a strength vs. a weakness, often comes down to perspective and how we want to approach it. You will be able to find weaknesses in every strength—which means you can always make your strengths even stronger. And you will be able to find strengths in every weakness—which means you always have it in you to improve upon those areas. And that is powerful. 

Tune into this episode to learn more! 

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> 7 questions to ask yourself, plus actionable ways for how to understand your unique strengths and weaknesses as a writer—so you can improve your writing skills and become a better author.

It can feel scary to analyze our work and figure out our unique strengths and weaknesses, but there is power in it. The more that you know this about yourself, the more you can do something about it. You will be able to create more opportunities for yourself. You will be a better writer, and your readers will enjoy your work that much more. So isn’t facing the fear of it worth it, for all that you can get in return?

Understanding our strengths and weaknesses, and identifying whether or not something is a strength vs. a weakness, often comes down to perspective and how we want to approach it. You will be able to find weaknesses in every strength—which means you can always make your strengths even stronger. And you will be able to find strengths in every weakness—which means you always have it in you to improve upon those areas. And that is powerful. 

Tune into this episode to learn more! 

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1346320 Mon, 01 Jul 2019 22:00:00 -0700 1179 writing tips, indie author, strengths and weaknesses, personal insight, self-awareness, self-improvement, personal improvement 15 full false 013: How to deal with writer's block (5 techniques) 013: How to deal with writer's block (5 techniques) Learn 5 tips for how to deal with writer's block (or creative blocks) so that you can get past the slump and keep making progress with writing your awesome story.

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 5 tips for how to deal with writer's block (or creative blocks) so that you can get past the slump and keep making progress with writing your awesome story.

Access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode:  

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312852 Tue, 25 Jun 2019 00:00:00 -0700 698 writer's block, book writing, writing tips, creative writing, writing fiction, how to write a book, indie author 14 full false 012: Why book reviews matter... and how to write them 012: Why book reviews matter... and how to write them Learn why book reviews are so important for both readers and authors, the difference between book ratings & reviews, an easy strategy for writing 2-minute book reviews, plus book review prompt ideas to get you started, in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn why book reviews are so important for both readers and authors, the difference between book ratings & reviews, an easy strategy for writing 2-minute book reviews, plus book review prompt ideas to get you started, in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312468 Tue, 18 Jun 2019 08:00:00 -0700 961 book review, writing book review, book review prompts, book rating, reader tips, author tips, indie author 13 full false 011: Oral storytelling & a reading from "She Wants More" 011: Oral storytelling & a reading from "She Wants More" Learn why oral storytelling is so cool, plus listen to a complete reading of Chapter 2 from your host's latest novel, She Wants More (Book 4 in the Polyamorous Passions series).

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn why oral storytelling is so cool, plus listen to a complete reading of Chapter 2 from your host's latest novel, She Wants More (Book 4 in the Polyamorous Passions series).

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312444 Tue, 11 Jun 2019 08:00:00 -0700 1106 oral storytelling, romance novel, new adult romance, book reading 12 full false 010: How to find ideas & inspiration for writing books 010: How to find ideas & inspiration for writing books Learn how to play the "what if" game (your host's favourite strategy for coming up with new ideas), why you shouldn't always force ideas when you're writing a book, and the benefits of getting inspiration from your current/past interests, in this episode. These writing inspiration tips and ideas will help you make progress with your next novel.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn how to play the "what if" game (your host's favourite strategy for coming up with new ideas), why you shouldn't always force ideas when you're writing a book, and the benefits of getting inspiration from your current/past interests, in this episode. These writing inspiration tips and ideas will help you make progress with your next novel.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312411 Tue, 04 Jun 2019 08:00:00 -0700 558 writing ideas, writing tips, writing books, indie author, self-publishing, writing inspiration, story ideas 11 full false 009: Book release day for She Wants More (Book 4 in the Polyamorous Passions series) 009: Book release day for She Wants More (Book 4 in the Polyamorous Passions series) This episode celebrates the book release of She Wants More, Book 4 in the Polyamorous Passions series! Learn about some of the fears around book launching, how female friendship plays a huge role in this romance novel, the challenge authors face around trying not being too subtle—or too overt—with themes, and tips for choosing how to categorize the genre of a novel, in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> This episode celebrates the book release of She Wants More, Book 4 in the Polyamorous Passions series! Learn about some of the fears around book launching, how female friendship plays a huge role in this romance novel, the challenge authors face around trying not being too subtle—or too overt—with themes, and tips for choosing how to categorize the genre of a novel, in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312381 Tue, 28 May 2019 08:00:00 -0700 730 romance novel, writing romance, indie author, book launch, self-publishing 10 full false 008: How many hours go into writing & publishing a book? 008: How many hours go into writing & publishing a book? Learn the best (free!) time-tracking software, why the amount of time spent on a project does NOT necessarily equate to a higher-quality product, how many hours it's taken your host to write & market each of her books to date, and 4 tips for managing time as an indie author, in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn the best (free!) time-tracking software, why the amount of time spent on a project does NOT necessarily equate to a higher-quality product, how many hours it's taken your host to write & market each of her books to date, and 4 tips for managing time as an indie author, in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312354 Tue, 21 May 2019 08:00:00 -0700 799 time management tips, time tracking, writing a book, book writing, indie author journey, writer life 9 full false 007: Whether to use a pen name & dealing with the "awkwardness" of writing romance 007: Whether to use a pen name & dealing with the "awkwardness" of writing romance Learn 4 reasons why your host chose not to use a pen name for her novels, the problem with NOT using a pen name as an author, and a few ways to navigate the awkwardness of writing about romance and sex, in this episode. Note: this episode discusses being sex-positive.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 4 reasons why your host chose not to use a pen name for her novels, the problem with NOT using a pen name as an author, and a few ways to navigate the awkwardness of writing about romance and sex, in this episode. Note: this episode discusses being sex-positive.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312324 Tue, 14 May 2019 08:00:00 -0700 660 romance novelist, romance writer, author tips, writing romance 8 full false 006: How do you advertise books when you self-publish? 006: How do you advertise books when you self-publish? Learn 8 ways to advertise your books as a self-published author (plus your host's experience with those strategies), 4 other book marketing ideas to try, how to decide whether to invest money in your books, plus a few resources for advertising books in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

*aff 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 8 ways to advertise your books as a self-published author (plus your host's experience with those strategies), 4 other book marketing ideas to try, how to decide whether to invest money in your books, plus a few resources for advertising books in this episode.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

*aff 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312300 Tue, 07 May 2019 08:00:00 -0700 1249 advertising tips, book marketing, self-publishing tips, indie author 7 full false 005: Writing a book in 10 days with Camp NaNoWriMo 005: Writing a book in 10 days with Camp NaNoWriMo Learn how your host Sagan Morrow wrote the first draft of a book within the space of 10 days during Camp NaNoWriMo, problems she faced during the novel-writing challenge, and what to do if you're having trouble focusing on your book project.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn how your host Sagan Morrow wrote the first draft of a book within the space of 10 days during Camp NaNoWriMo, problems she faced during the novel-writing challenge, and what to do if you're having trouble focusing on your book project.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312258 Tue, 30 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0700 997 NaNoWriMo, writing a book, book writing, writing challenge, indie author 6 full false 004: How to stay disciplined to write & publish books 004: How to stay disciplined to write & publish books Learn 5 ways you can stay disciplined with writing & publishing books, plus get a pep talk on prioritizing projects you care about in your life and business, in this episode. You'll also find out a handy method for tracking your daily word count and your word count goals. 

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 5 ways you can stay disciplined with writing & publishing books, plus get a pep talk on prioritizing projects you care about in your life and business, in this episode. You'll also find out a handy method for tracking your daily word count and your word count goals. 

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312201 Tue, 23 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0700 590 writing tips, staying disciplined, managing priorities, word count goal, book writing, indie author 5 full false 003: How to get started with outlining & writing a new book 003: How to get started with outlining & writing a new book Learn what your host Sagan Morrow did to outline an entire 9-book series, plus a simple way to outline your book before you even start writing the first chapter of it. This episode also shares the benefit of writing shorter novellas instead of full-length novels, and tips for getting past the intimidation factor of writing that first sentence of Chapter 1.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn what your host Sagan Morrow did to outline an entire 9-book series, plus a simple way to outline your book before you even start writing the first chapter of it. This episode also shares the benefit of writing shorter novellas instead of full-length novels, and tips for getting past the intimidation factor of writing that first sentence of Chapter 1.

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312162 Tue, 16 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0700 728 writing a book, book outline, chapter outline, writing novellas, indie author, writing tips 4 full false 002: How to improve confidence & manage perfectionism as an author 002: How to improve confidence & manage perfectionism as an author Learn 4 ways to deal with insecurities and increase confidence as an author, plus why you can't let perfectionism hold you back from writing your awesome book, in this episode. You'll also find out how to figure out when a project reaches the "good enough" threshold (rather than "perfect"), as well as a mistake your host Sagan Morrow made when she wrote and published her first novella... and what you can do to avoid making that same mistake. 

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn 4 ways to deal with insecurities and increase confidence as an author, plus why you can't let perfectionism hold you back from writing your awesome book, in this episode. You'll also find out how to figure out when a project reaches the "good enough" threshold (rather than "perfect"), as well as a mistake your host Sagan Morrow made when she wrote and published her first novella... and what you can do to avoid making that same mistake. 

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.  

Resources & links mentioned in this episode: 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312129 Tue, 09 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0700 582 indie author, writing life, writer life, self-publishing, perfectionism, improve confidence 3 full false 001: Why self-publish books? 001: Why self-publish books? Learn why self-publishing might be right for you, your host Sagan Morrow's experience attempting to go the traditional publishing route, 3 reasons why she started writing her 9-book romance novel series, and a few of the advantages of being an indie author. 

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Learn why self-publishing might be right for you, your host Sagan Morrow's experience attempting to go the traditional publishing route, 3 reasons why she started writing her 9-book romance novel series, and a few of the advantages of being an indie author. 

This episode of the Indie Author Weekly podcast originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio. 

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. Feel free to use the hashtag #IndieAuthorWeekly to chat about this episode. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312111 Tue, 02 Apr 2019 07:00:00 -0700 468 indie author, writing life, writer life, self-publishing journey, self-published, romance novelist 2 full false 000: Introduction to the Indie Author Weekly podcast 000: Introduction to the Indie Author Weekly podcast Welcome to the Indie Author Weekly podcast! In this introductory episode, you'll learn about why your host (Sagan Morrow) decided to start this podcast in the first place, what you can expect to get in future episodes of this podcast, and who Sagan is and what her book writing and publishing plan looks like for the foreseeable future. 

This episode originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Welcome to the Indie Author Weekly podcast! In this introductory episode, you'll learn about why your host (Sagan Morrow) decided to start this podcast in the first place, what you can expect to get in future episodes of this podcast, and who Sagan is and what her book writing and publishing plan looks like for the foreseeable future. 

This episode originally appeared on the “secret” version of this podcast, which you can learn more about at SaganMorrow.com/audio. You can also access sample chapters of my novels, transcripts of each episode, cheatsheets and spreadsheets relevant to the episode topics, and additional resources, at SaganMorrow.com/audio.

Connect with Sagan (@Saganlives) on Twitter and Instagram. 

Send fan mail! Click HERE to leave Sagan a voicemail & share your thoughts about this episode.

Support the show

]]> Sagan Morrow Buzzsprout-1312066 Tue, 02 Apr 2019 02:00:00 -0700 665 indie author, writing life, writer life, self-publishing journey 1 full false