Traditionally Self-Published with Mica Merrill Rice

Mica Merrill Rice
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Traditionally Self-Published is the podcast tailored for indie authors who want to learn how to self-publish using the strategies, tips, and tricks like traditionally published authors. Hosted by author Mica Merrill Rice, each episode features real talk with industry professionals (editors, cover artists, narrators, etc.) and actual indie authors who are flipping the script and publishing on their own terms. Whether you are plotting your first or publishing your fifth, here you will learn how to write smart, publish like a pro, and keep your readers turning those pages. 

  1. Elevating Your Prose: The Craft Shift from Commercial to Literary Fiction

    4D AGO

    Elevating Your Prose: The Craft Shift from Commercial to Literary Fiction

    How do you elevate your prose without rewriting your entire story? In this craft-focused discussion, I’m joined by editors, AJ Volante and Margie Libling from The Wednesday Refinery to talk about sentence-level revision, literary voice, and the difference between commercial and literary fiction. If you’re revising a manuscript, preparing a query package, or trying to refine your prose, this episode breaks down what actually strengthens fiction at the line level. After a chance class on prose refinement with them, I saw a shift in my own thriller, not in the plot, but in the sentences. In this conversation, we explore how elevated prose comes from precision, restraint, and voice rather than adding more description or complexity. We dive into:  What elevated prose really meansThe difference between correct writing and compelling writingSentence-level habits that weaken fictionHow to strengthen voice during line editingLine edits vs. developmental editingHow prose quality affects your query package and first pagesRefining description without listing or over-explainingProtecting your voice during the revision processThis episode is for fiction writers working on revision, literary fiction, thrillers, or preparing to query. If you’re trying to move from commercial structure toward a stronger literary voice, this conversation will help you understand how prose refinement shapes a manuscript. About The Wednesday Refinery Run by AJ Volante and Margie Libling, The Wednesday Refinery offers manuscript editing and query guidance.  About AJ:  AJ first started writing and editing for museum exhibits and gaming companies before realizing she wanted to help writers with their manuscripts. When she's not working or writing dark speculative fiction, she enjoys restoring her 1924 craftsman home and taking her cats for walks. About Margie: Margie is a former social worker who now writes and edits full-time. She is the author of two adult fiction novels and is currently working on a third. When not at her desk, Margie spends time with her husband, two daughters, and rescue dogs. You can learn more about them here: Website: https://www.thewednesdayrefinery.com/Instagram: @thewednesdayrefineryHave a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    32 min
  2. Writing a Killer Psychological Thriller with Nicole Annbury

    FEB 10

    Writing a Killer Psychological Thriller with Nicole Annbury

    In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend and thriller author Nicole Annbury to talk about what it really takes to write a psychological thriller that kills. (all puns intended!) We take a deep dive into the craft behind her newest novel, The Signature Line, and explore why the psychology is the story. This is a must-listen for writers interested in psychological thriller writing, and character-driven storytelling, as well as readers who love dark, emotionally layered thrillers. We also discuss: Her latest release, The Signature Line (out February 13th, 2026)How to build psychological tension through characterPlotting vs. pantsing (and plantsing!) Crafting endings that stay with the readerWriting through hard seasons and pacing creativityThe power of writing community and supportAbout the book: The Signature Line  is a psychological thriller about Dr. Carmella Carey, a feminist therapist who runs a controversial program called "Year of Self" while hiding dark secrets. When she promotes the program on TV, it angers Dylan Foster, a men's rights advocate seeking his ex-girlfriend who joined Dr. Carey's program. As Dylan's threats escalate and a serial killer begins targeting the women in the program, both characters find themselves on a collision course. This page-turning thriller examines the ultimate price of control and the dangerous consequences when ideology turns deadly. About Nicole:  Nicole Annbury is a writer of dark fiction in the thriller, psychological suspense, and mystery genres. She currently lives in Indiana with her husband and three cats. When she's not writing, she enjoys nature walks, true crime documentaries, reality TV viewing and going on drives with her husband.  For more information about upcoming releases, go to her website: nicoleannbury.com Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    38 min
  3. The Voice Behind the Bestsellers: A Conversation with Robb Moreira

    JAN 20

    The Voice Behind the Bestsellers: A Conversation with Robb Moreira

    In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, we sit down with professional audiobook narrator Robb Moreira to talk about what it really takes to bring stories to life in audio—and what authors and aspiring narrators need to know before stepping behind the mic. Robb has recorded for authors like Rebecca Yarros, James Patterson, Megan Lally, Frieda McFadden, Mica Merrill Rice, and so many more! Robb shares how he got started in audiobook narration, the project that helped define his career, and why audiobook narration is about far more than having a good voice. We also dive into the realities of audiobook production, self-narration, and how AI is impacting the voice narration space.  We Discuss: How Robb got started in audiobook narrationThe book that helped put him on the mapWhat makes a manuscript work (or struggle) in audioWhy audiobook narration is performance, not just readingWhen authors should, and shouldn't, narrate their own booksThe realities of production, stamina, and consistencyAI narration: limitations and listener trustWe conclude with the INK STARTER LIGHTNING ROUND and Robb’s 5 Best Tips for Authors and Aspiring Narrators. About Robb:  Robb Moreira is a Bilingual Voice Actor and audiobook narrator with over a decade of experience behind the microphone. With 7 years of Conservatory Acting training and over 10 years of stage experience, Robb was looking for something different. A chance conversation with a fellow actor changed his theater trajectory to one of voiceover and Robb never looked back.  With over 200 audiobook credits and several voice award nominations (and wins!), Robb continues to venture further into the audiobook world and sees a very busy future in the genre. Keep an eye out for future titles! Where to find Robb:  Socials: @robbmorieravo Website: https://www.robbmoreiravo.com/ You can also catch his voice on audiobooks via most major retailers! Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    1h 4m
  4. Creating the Rules with Ania Ray: Why Women Writers Thrive in Community

    JAN 6

    Creating the Rules with Ania Ray: Why Women Writers Thrive in Community

    In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, we discuss Creating the Rules, a women's fiction novel by Ania Ray, and explore why women writers thrive when they choose community over isolation. Ania shares the inspiration behind the book, her journey as an indie author, and how building intentional writing spaces changes the creative process. We Discuss: Her latest release, Creating the Rules, the 3rd and final book in the Cromwell Rules seriesHer process for writing the craftThe Quill and Cup Writing group and the importance of community in this industryWe conclude with the INK STARTER LIGHTNING ROUND and Ania’s 5 Best Tips for Authors!About Ania:  Ania Ray is a mama, author, and CEO of Quill & Cup, a fiercely supportive community of women who are committed to prioritizing progress on their novel and making rest a non-negotiable. When she’s not curating curriculum, hosting events, or teaching research-backed mindset tools to empower women, she’s hanging out with her family. To fill her cup, catch her hiking, planning her next trip, or enjoying a delicious meal with loved ones. The Cromwell Rules is her debut women’s fiction trilogy, where each woman must face the worst of herself before she becomes the hero of her story.  Where to find Ania Ray:  Instagram: @theaniassey Books: https://www.thecromwellrules.com  Writing group, Quill & Cup: www.quillandcup.com  Ania's podcast : Her Life, Her Rules Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    55 min
  5. Writing Historical Fiction with Truth and Tradition: A Conversation with Catherine Astl

    12/16/2025

    Writing Historical Fiction with Truth and Tradition: A Conversation with Catherine Astl

    In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, I sit down with historical fiction author and English Literature teacher Catherine Astl to talk about her novel Christmas Serenades—a deeply rooted Smoky Mountain Christmas story filled with truth, tradition, and meticulously researched history. Catherine shares how her lifelong connection to the Great Smoky Mountains shaped her storytelling, why she stays fiercely committed to historical accuracy, and how she weaves real events and family stories into engaging fiction. We discuss the simple but meaningful holiday traditions of Cades Cove, the importance of preserving the truth even when it’s uncomfortable, and the delicate balance between factual research and narrative imagination. We Discuss: How Christmas Serenades brings Smoky Mountain history to lifeThe simple holiday traditions of Cades Cove and why they matterCatherine’s extensive research process using family stories and university archivesWhy historical fiction should never “correct” or soften difficult truthsHow she balances teaching full-time with a consistent writing practiceThe power of small details, authentic dialogue, and writing with passionCatherine’s “Five Best Tips” for authors of any genreWhere to find Catherine and her book: Christmas Serenades: A NovelInstagram: @catherineastlCatherine on FacebookAbout Catherine:  Catherine Astl, a Florida-based English Literature teacher, holds a Master’s in English-Literature and Curriculum from Southern New Hampshire University, a Bachelor’s in English-American Literature from the University of South Florida, and is a graduate of the International Summer Schools Shakespeare and Literature program at the University of Cambridge. She also has an Associate of Science in Legal Assisting and spent 27 years as a civil litigation trial paralegal before transitioning to education. Catherine has published a trade magazine column, two non-fiction books, and six Smoky Mountain Historical Fiction novels. Deeply connected to the Great Smoky Mountains—where her North Carolina roots lie—she devotes her work to preserving the stories of the people who once lived there. Inspired by childhood visits and personal ties to the region, Catherine is passionate about bringing the area's history to life, honoring the resilience and spirit of those who built communities in the park's now-preserved landscapes. Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    35 min
  6. Mallary Tenore Tarpley on SLIP: How to Write Memoir with Truth, Empathy, and Vulnerability

    12/02/2025

    Mallary Tenore Tarpley on SLIP: How to Write Memoir with Truth, Empathy, and Vulnerability

    In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, I sit down with memoirist and journalist Mallary Tenore Tarpley to talk about her new book, SLIP: Life in the Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery, and the craft of writing memoir with honesty and care. We discussed: What inspired SLIP and what it means to write from the “middle place” of recoveryHow to tell the truth with empathy — especially when writing about loved onesWhy contradictions belong in memoir and how Mallary holds multiple truthsHer winding journey to a Big Five publishing deal Practical tips for memoirists who want to write about trauma, healing, or lived experienceAnd we finish with the Ink Starter Lightning Round and her 5 best tips for authorsAbout our guest:  Mallary Tenore Tarpley is a journalism and writing professor at the University of Texas at Austin’s Moody College of Communication and McCombs School of Business. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and The Dallas Morning News, among other publications. She is the recipient of a prestigious Alfred P. Sloan Foundation grant, which helped support her research and writing. Mallary graduated from Providence College and has a master’s of fine arts in nonfiction writing from Goucher College. She lives outside of Austin, Texas, with her husband and two children. Slip is her first book. Where to find Mallary and her book:  Substack: Write at the Edge Her book: SLIP: Life in the Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    1h 1m
  7. What Authors Must Know About Indie Bookstores with Tombolo Books’ Alsace Walentine

    11/18/2025

    What Authors Must Know About Indie Bookstores with Tombolo Books’ Alsace Walentine

    “Independent bookstores are the heart of the industry. We move books through real conversations, not algorithms. That grassroots passion is irreplaceable.” - Alsace Walentine In this episode, I chat with Alsace Walentine, co-owner of Tombolo Books, about how indie bookstores choose what goes on their shelves and what makes an author stand out. Alsace shares what really sells, the production mistakes that get books rejected, how to approach a bookseller the right way, and why community matters more than ever. In this conversation, we dive into: How indie bookstores decide which books to stockWhat makes a book sell—from cover design to endorsementsHow indie authors can get discovered by bookstoresThe best (and worst) ways to pitch your bookHow consignment worksAlsace’s five best tips for authorsPerfect for indie authors, book lovers, and anyone curious about the world behind the bookstore counter. About our guest: Alsace Walentine is the founder and co-owner of Tombolo Books in St. Petersburg, Florida. Tombolo Books is an independent bookstore dedicated to promoting the value and pleasure of reading throughout St. Petersburg by offering thoughtful inventory curation, extensive literary knowledge, and excellent customer service. Links for Tombolo Books:  TomboloBooks.com   @tombolobooks: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    42 min
  8. Blurring the Lines: Crafting Truth Through Fiction

    11/04/2025

    Blurring the Lines: Crafting Truth Through Fiction

    “Every single word has to earn its place.” - Jayne Marshall In this episode, literary fiction author and developmental editor Jayne Marshall joins me again to talk about crafting literary fiction and how to blend fact with fiction in an engaging way.  In this conversation, we dive into: Her latest release, A Line Drawn or Printed: Six Routes Through Madrid, a literary fiction.How she crafts a story blending fact and fiction without losing her authorial voiceHer advice for making sure every word and every character count.Her best tips for authors on writing literary fictionAbout Jayne: Jayne Marshall is an author and a developmental editor at Modern Odyssey Books. Her latest book, A Line Drawn or Printed: Six Routes Through Madrid, can be found at all fine retailers. She currently resides in Spain. You can also follow her by visiting one of her sites below: Website: jaynemarshall.comSubscribe to her Substack here: whoiaminspanish.substack.comHave a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter Website: micamerrillrice.com Instagram: @micamriceauthor Facebook: @micamriceauthor TikTok: @micamriceauthor "Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

    38 min
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About

Traditionally Self-Published is the podcast tailored for indie authors who want to learn how to self-publish using the strategies, tips, and tricks like traditionally published authors. Hosted by author Mica Merrill Rice, each episode features real talk with industry professionals (editors, cover artists, narrators, etc.) and actual indie authors who are flipping the script and publishing on their own terms. Whether you are plotting your first or publishing your fifth, here you will learn how to write smart, publish like a pro, and keep your readers turning those pages. 

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