In this episode of Indie Author Showcase, host Chad Robert Morgan dives into a wide-ranging conversation that blends industry insight, personal reflection, and a chilling book spotlight.

We kick things off with updates on upcoming conventions, including last-minute headliner changes, event prep, and what it’s like navigating the unpredictable nature of fandom and live appearances. Chad also shares behind-the-scenes podcast updates, including new audio gear and plans to expand into more on-location interviews as the show continues to grow.

From there, the conversation turns reflective, exploring what it means when a phrase you’ve used for years suddenly shows up in popular culture, and whether writers ever truly own their words once they enter the world. That naturally leads into a thoughtful discussion on separating the art from the artist, touching on controversial creators, public scandals, and how personal actions can reshape how audiences engage with creative work—especially for indie authors trying to build a business.

Finally, we move into this week’s featured showcase: 📖 Dead Friends by Jason R. Davis, an award-winning horror novel about loss, curses, and the terrifying idea that the dead don’t always stay gone. When Lizzie inherits her uncle’s secluded estate, she expects solitude—not murder. As her friends begin dying and returning as haunting apparitions, Lizzie must uncover the dark secrets buried in her family’s past before everyone she loves becomes another dead friend.

The episode offers an honest, spoiler-free critique, praising the novel’s gripping opening, eerie atmosphere, and core mystery, while thoughtfully examining where the story could have been tighter. As always, the discussion comes from a place of respect—because books featured on this podcast are here for one reason: they’re worth your time.