The landscape of digital book sales is evolving towards Direct Sales, allowing readers to truly own their books without DRM and support authors directly. This shift benefits readers with better deals and exclusive content while ensuring that authors retain a larger share of their earnings, fostering diverse indie storytelling.

The Observer, the first book in the Spirit Saga, has achieved semi-finalist status in the 2026 Indies Today Awards, which celebrate independent publishing. This recognition highlights the impact of Frank’s spiritual journey. Copies are available in the official shop and through various retailers. Thanks to all supporters of the series!

Stephen is the dark mirror to Frank Hess. Talented, powerful, and utterly consumed by ego, he chose the path of the Demon to prove his superiority. He isn't just an enemy; he is a rival who believes he deserves to be the hero of the story.

In the evolving landscape of indie publishing, community building has taken precedence over traditional marketing. Readers seek connection with authors and fellow fans, transforming reading into an interactive experience. Platforms like Patreon and Discord facilitate this engagement, allowing deeper discussions about themes and story elements, enhancing the overall journey of storytelling.

Explore the depths of The Sigils Mark by S. Heredia, a gripping dark fantasy romance featuring a tactical sigil-based magic system. This indie gem delivers intense vampire lore, high-stakes combat, and heartrending spice. Perfect for fans of gritty world-building and complex immortal dynamics. Read the full spoiler-free review!

The boundaries between science fiction and fantasy are blurring, leading to a rise in "Hard Urban Fantasy," where magic follows strict, scientific laws. Modern readers prefer this genre blending, engaging intellectually with the narrative. Notable works like The Spirit Saga illustrate this trend, combining tactical magic with scientific principles for immersive storytelling.

Dive deep into world-building with The Observer. Grab a 7-chapter sample and explore the intricate time mechanics and "Spirit energy" of the Spirit Saga. This February, our Fantastic Realms promo offers high-concept fantasy and epic lore from a variety of talented independent authors.

Rebekkah is chaos incarnate. An Elder Demon who has survived for millennia, she fuels her power with pain and suffering. But she isn't just a monster—she is a revolutionary. Viewing the Gods as tyrants, Rebekkah will burn the afterlife to the ground to get her revenge.

Ready for a new adventure? Grab a 7-chapter sample of The Observer and discover the unique "Spirit energy" system. This February adventure promo features epic quests, sci-fi journeys, and high-action fantasy. Start your journey into the Spirit Saga today and explore worlds beyond imagination.

The Urban Fantasy genre is evolving from traditional "Alpha" heroes to relatable "Everyman" protagonists facing personal stakes. Readers now prefer characters with everyday struggles, emphasizing emotional vulnerability and psychological depth. This trend enables engaging genre-blending, allowing characters to confront magic through diverse lenses. The focus shifts from grand quests to intimate, meaningful battles.

Explore a gritty world of secrets with a 7-chapter sample of The Observer. This February, dive into our Urban Fantasy promo featuring vampires, witches, and high-stakes supernatural mysteries. Discover your next favorite urban fantasy author and join Frank Hess as he fights to protect his family.

David Corbin's "Confessions of an Indie Author" offers a humorous, relatable account of his journey as an indie author, addressing the challenges faced during the publishing process. The book features a candid tone and frequent humor, aimed at aspiring authors and those curious about independent publishing, despite its extensive use of profanity.

This intriguing slice-of-life vampire story is perfect for readers seeking unique supernatural lore seasoned with dark, absurdist humor. While the romance is light, the protagonist's struggle with bloodlust and his hilarious, tragic obsession with his furniture make for a compelling read. It is a must-try for fans of quirky, vibe-heavy urban fantasy.

The "All or Nothing" exclusivity in publishing has transitioned to a Hybrid model, allowing independent authors to maintain KDP Select status while distributing eBooks to libraries. This "Hybrid-Exclusive" strategy, effective in 2026, enables authors to maximize profits by utilizing library budgets without risking account termination on Amazon.

"Where Nightmares Walk" by Phineas Delgado is a cerebral urban fantasy that blends science and theology into a rich narrative. With excellent world-building, the story follows interconnected characters navigating unexplained phenomena and superpowered transformations. While the slow start requires patience, the intriguing convergence of plots delivers a gripping experience, earning a 4.5/5 rating.

Michael is 4,000 years old, but he’s trapped in the body of a teenager. As the afterlife's most unconventional Spirit Guide, he uses sarcasm and theatrics to mask a tragic past. Tasked with training Frank, Michael must decide if he is loyal to the Gods—or to his best friend.

In 2026, the Urban Fantasy and Romantasy genres are shifting away from the brooding "Shadow Daddy" archetype towards more dynamic characters like "The Wendell," who offers humor and chaos. Trends also include non-romantic soulmates and the rise of supernatural sports romance, highlighting an evolving reader preference for deeper, relatable partnerships.

Seducing the daughter of Adam and Eve was only the beginning. In this dark, high-heat romance spanning eons, Eden becomes the first vampire after falling for the Devil himself. With lyrical prose and unrelenting spice, this bold reimagining of Christian mythology is perfect for readers craving blood, gore, and divine conflict.

Beyond the City Limits: Why "Rural Fantasy" and "Metaphysical Noir" Are the New Noir Beyond the City Limits: Why "Rural Fantasy" and "Metaphysical Noir" Are the New Noir For nearly two decades, the "Urban" in Urban Fantasy (UF) came with a specific dress code: a leather duster, a cynical attitude, and a rain-slicked alleyway in Chicago or New York. The genre was defined by the noir detective model—gritty, nocturnal, and solitary.

In 2026, a new approach to author income has emerged, emphasizing sustainable strategies over the old myths of "starving artists" or "one-hit wonders." Successful authors now resemble small business owners, focusing on building a catalog of 25+ books to achieve steady earnings. Patience and persistence are key to transforming writing into a viable career.

"Broken Between Twin Moons" by C.G. Steele is a remarkable continuation of its predecessor, combining intrigue, loss, and determination. The story follows James as he faces a shadowy conspiracy while adapting to his new life, maintaining a steady momentum despite its slower pace. This 5/5 rated fantasy work appeals to both YA and adult readers seeking rich narrative stakes.

Dive into the world of The Observer with a massive 7-chapter sample! Join Frank Hess in a high-stakes fusion of gritty urban fantasy and sci-fi. Plus, explore a collection of free romance and fantasy books from top authors. Grab your chapters now and start questioning what is truly real.

Frank Hess didn’t ask for power; he just wanted to go home. Waking up in the afterlife as a rare 'Observer,' he discovers a latent energy that terrifies the Gods. Driven by a desperate need to protect his family, Frank becomes the spirit world's most dangerous anomaly—a hero who refuses to follow the rules.

The Spirit Saga invites readers to explore their "spirit type" through an interactive test that transcends standard personality quizzes. It emphasizes instinct and moral reflexes, mapping decisions to four archetypes: The Observer, The Demon, The Trickster, and The Guide. The test offers a unique understanding of one's character in the narrative's complex universe.

A heartwarming, cozy middle-grade portal fantasy that’s perfect for families and younger readers who want a gentle fetch-quest in a wondrous magical world.