In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re pulling back the curtain on how we each found our way into indie publishing, and why that journey looked completely different for both of us.

While we’ve both chosen the independent publishing path, one of us made that decision intentionally, while the other fell into it more organically. We’re not here to compare or debate which is “better.” Instead, we’re sharing what our real publishing journeys looked like. The messy bits, the mindset shifts, and the lessons that shaped who we are as authors today.

If you’re standing at the start of your own publishing path and wondering, Should I go indie? Try trad? Do I need to know yet? This conversation is for you.

We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of releasing our first books, the surprises (good and bad), and how our definition of success has evolved. Plus: the behind-the-scenes on marketing, timelines, creative control, and the business side of being your own publisher.

Timestamps:
00:21 – Intro: Two indie authors, two very different journeys

What we hoped for, feared, and felt before releasing book one

16:22 - The Pros and Cons of Indie and Traditional publishing
27:26 - What we've learnt from Indie Publishing, key takeaways

37:09 – Creative vision vs. business mindset—what shaped our approach

44:28 - How indie publishing shaped our careers and confidence
46:22 - Where we stand now
47:14 - What we wish we’d known and what we’re proud of

48:06 - Mindset shifts

50:25 - Things we wanted to know before we started our publishing journey

51:28 - Outro

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, debut authors, indie publishing, traditional publishing, self-publishing, book launch tips, creative process, publishing journey, women writers

Whether you’re planning your publishing path or still figuring out what your first step looks like, this episode offers a grounded, honest look at how your writing dreams can take shape in unexpected ways. There’s no one right road—just your road.

In this episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re diving into one of the most emotional and transformative parts of the writing process: feedback. Whether it’s coming from a critique partner, beta reader, or editor—feedback can shape your story, sharpen your craft, and sometimes knock your confidence sideways.

We’re sharing our own experiences with feedback—the best advice that changed everything, the poorly worded notes that derailed us, and what we’ve learned about both giving and receiving critique with honesty and care.

We also explore the emotional side of feedback: how to brace yourself before reading a critique, how to tell the difference between constructive and harmful input, and why learning to give feedback is just as powerful for your growth as receiving it.

If you’ve ever sat there blinking at a comment on your manuscript wondering, Is it too late to quit this whole writing thing?—this one’s for you.

Timestamps:
00:18 – Intro: Why feedback matters
01:00 – Part One: When and why to ask for feedback
07:29 – Solicited vs. unsolicited feedback (and how to tell the difference)
11:30 – How giving critique sharpens your own writing
13:43 – The best feedback we’ve ever received—and why it worked
20:55 – Part Two: How to give feedback without panicking
21:06 – A look at Radical Candour and learning to be honest and kind
22:36 – Preparing to give feedback (and not be a jerk)
31:17 – Our best and worst experiences giving critique
33:12 – Part Three: Receiving feedback without spiralling
33:35 – Prepping yourself emotionally
33:58 – What to do with tough or confusing comments
40:00 – Dealing with reviews and protecting your mindset
43:02 – Outro: Why feedback is worth it—and how to grow from it

Keywords: beginner writing, writing advice, feedback for writers, debut authors, critique partners, editing tips, writer mindset, creative process, writing community, giving feedback

We know feedback can be hard—but we also know it can be one of the most powerful tools in your writing toolkit. This episode is full of honest stories, practical tips, and reminders that you’re not alone.

Got a feedback horror story or golden nugget of advice? DM us on Instagram—we might feature it in a future episode!

Affiliate Links:

Kim Scott - Radical Candor

Stephen King - On Writing

In this special episode of Daggers & Daydreams, we’re joined by fantasy author Danielle Lauren—the creative force behind Spiritchild, Earthchild, and the Fates of Aos series. Known for her incredible worldbuilding and stories full of magic, heart, and elemental balance, Danielle has carved out a space in indie fantasy that’s all her own.

We talk to Danielle about her writing journey—from the first story that sparked something real to the moment she left her job to become a full-time author. This episode dives deep into what it’s actually like to build a writing career from the ground up, with all the beauty, uncertainty, and bold decisions that come with it.

Whether you’re drafting your first novel, dreaming of indie publishing, or simply want to hear from someone who's made the leap, this episode is full of honest insights and inspiring takeaways from one debut author turned full-time storyteller.

Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Meet Danielle Lauren3:24 – Part 1: Discovering storytelling and developing a creative process10:16 – Spiritchild’s origin story and writing a duology16:05 – Leaving a day job to pursue writing full-time18:39 – Part 2: Indie publishing decisions and surprises23:59 – What changed between Danielle’s debut and later books31:24 – Lessons in book marketing and building a readership32:46 – Part 3: Character dinners, screen adaptations, and unexpected feedback38:44 – Advice Danielle would give her pre-publication self40:12 – Outro: Final thoughts and where to find Danielle online

Keywords: beginner writing, debut authors, writing advice, indie publishing, full-time writer, fantasy books, author interview, self-publishing tips, writing motivation, books

If you’re looking for inspiration from someone who’s done the scary, brave thing of turning a story into a career, this conversation is for you. And if you’ve got a question you’d love us to ask future authors, send us a DM on Instagram—we’d love to include your voice in this series.