James and Cissy are joined by PR expert Isabelle Knight to discuss why authors are not just selling books, they are also building a brand readers can connect with. Isabelle explains how indie authors can identify their own author story, understand what sets them apart, and use that foundation across websites, newsletters, social media, events, and publicity opportunities. The episode also touches on Amazon's AI categorisation issues, Meta ad frustrations, upcoming romance conferences, and why professional author presentation matters more than ever.

Key Talking Points

Why author branding starts with understanding your own story and what readers associate with you.
How to identify what makes your books distinct from others in the same genre.
Why readers connect with the emotional truth behind your books, not just the plot or trope.
How indie authors can use their author story across bios, websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, festivals, and events.
Why marketing should align with both your ideal readers and what you genuinely enjoy doing as an author.

Links & Resources Mentioned

ProWritingAid (Sponsor – code IWC15 for 15% off annual subscriptions): https://prowritingaid.com
Build Your Author Brand / Isabelle Knight: https://buildyourauthorbrand.com
Romance Writers of Australia Conference: https://romanceaustralia.com/pages/events
Romance Writers of New Zealand: https://www.romancewriters.co.nz/event/2026-rwnz-conference-registration/
Self-Publishing Show Live: https://selfpublishingshowlive.com