Category: Independent Author

Step into the Moonlit Black Cat Tavern for food, drink, and fun in a magical pub

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It started as a short story. A simple idea for a contest. A tavern situated between two countries that are constantly at war. On a rainy night, the Bradbury Witch wanders into this mysterious watering hole and discovers its secret, which was just the beginning. The short story expanded into several, and now it’s a collection. I put all the stories together into this novella. It was a “passion project” because I loved bringing these stories to life as someone who got his start in fantasy playing Dungeons and Dragons.

Welcome to The Moonlit Black Cat Tavern, where humans, demi-humans, and monsters come together to laugh, drink, eat, sing, and find ways to get along. There’s no fighting, fussing, or killing. Only laughter, love, and companionship between the many races of Kralthorn and Ghelpher. On a stormy night, the Bradbury Witch pays an unexpected visit to the strange tavern and finds more than she bargained for. Follow her adventures within this unique lodging off the beaten path as she discovers more about this strange place.

Take an adventure into a magical place where wizards play chess, goblins make side bets to scrounge drinks, and you’re served by a delightful succubus. It’s a fun romp into the wildest pup you’ll ever walk into. You can pre-order the ebook at Amazon before its release on May 16.

By the way, thanks to Emy Joliaa (@Emyd_Rawz on Instagram) for the Book Trailer video!

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers. The Moonlit Black Cat Tavern is a new collection of short stories available on Amazon.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel, his first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and the epic fantasy The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series from Curious Corvid Publishing. A Dance of Darklings and Demons is coming in 2025 from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Reviews for The Prometheus Engine continue to pour in, and a Firebird Book Award too

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Congratulations to The Prometheus Engine: Book 4 of the Forever Avalon Series on two FIVE STAR reviews and 2ND PLACE in the Firebird Book Awards! I am highly honored by these peer reviews of my epic fantasy novel and the recognition for my publisher and the artists invested in my book.

The Firebird Book Awards are unique in their approach and contribution to indie authors. You are not just an entry but a new friend, and they treat your book submission with the care and attention it deserves. Secondly, every award submission supports the Enchanted Makeovers 501(c)(3) and other shelters for women and children. The awards support the authors who, in turn, support these charities. The Prometheus Engine: Book 4 of the Forever Avalon Series won 2nd Place for Fantasy, 4th Quarter of 2024.

First up is a review from preeminent book reviewer Jennie Rosenblum, who also happens to be a classmate from my hometown of Phillipsburg, NJ. She has supported my work as an indie author by giving honest reviews of my books since I first started writing. Please follow her website and social media, as her reviews cover various genres.

From the very first page, the story grabs hold and doesn’t let go, immersing readers in a world of action, intrigue, and magic. Hunter continues to grow into his leadership role, becoming not just a warrior but a realistic and personable leader who commands respect and loyalty. His development adds depth to the story, making his victories and struggles all the more compelling. Meanwhile, Mordred’s machinations reach new heights as he takes his scheming to another level against the resistance, raising the stakes like never before. Piggott masterfully weaves together tension, drama, and well-crafted characters, keeping readers engaged until the very last page. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this installment delivers an unforgettable ride full of twists and surprises.

Finally, the Literary Titan Book Awards are a mark of distinction, recognizing excellence in innovative and impactful writing. The opportunity to be reviewed under their prestige is a pinnacle in my writing career. You can read the entire review at Literary Titan, but here is an excerpt.

Mark Piggott’s The Prometheus Engine is an epic fantasy filled with magic, war, and alchemical mystery, all wrapped in Arthurian legend. The novel is set in Avalon, where Mordred, the immortal son of King Arthur, rules with an iron fist. At the heart of the story is the Prometheus Engine, a legendary machine capable of harnessing magical elements to create an all-powerful substance called Promethium. The rebellion against Mordred is led by the children of the late Gil-Gamesh, Lord Bryan MoonDrake, as they struggle to prevent the tyrant from using the engine’s destructive power. With high-stakes action, deep lore, and a blend of myth and steampunk-esque technology, the novel spins a fast-paced and immersive tale.

One of the strongest aspects of The Prometheus Engine is its world-building. Piggott paints a rich, layered Avalon filled with history, political intrigue, and magic-infused technology. The descriptions of places like New Camelot and Alfheimer evoke a grand, war-torn kingdom, and the concept of Promethium as a magical element adds an interesting twist to the traditional fantasy setting. The attention to detail in the engineering of the Prometheus Engine itself is fascinating, it’s not just a MacGuffin but an actual machine with lore tied to ancient alchemists and the fall of Atlantis. That depth makes the stakes feel real, not just another cliché “magical artifact” plot device.

The book masterfully weaves together battle sequences, political intrigue, and moments of introspection, creating a dynamic and multifaceted narrative. The final act, when the Prometheus Engine reaches critical mass, is absolutely gripping, delivering an intense and satisfying payoff. Along the way, the story takes time to explore various subplots, enriching the world and adding depth to the lore. The character development shines brightest with figures like Mordred and the rebellion’s leaders, who bring complexity and emotional weight to the tale. Meanwhile, the supporting characters serve as vital threads in the grand tapestry, helping to drive the action forward and keep the momentum strong.

You can pick up a copy of The Prometheus Engine: Book 4 of the Forever Avalon Series through any online bookseller or Curious Corvid Publishing. Otherwise, come to one of my many book signing Events and get yourself a personalized copy.

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel, his first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and the epic fantasy The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series from Curious Corvid Publishing. A Dance of Darklings and Demons is coming in 2025 from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Kicking off 2025 with Book Signings, Festivals, and Steampunk Events in the near future

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I am kicking off my 2025 book signing tour in February with bookstores, book festivals, and of course, steampunk! With nine books under my belt (and the 10th coming this year), I have a complete collection of books and series available to add to your TBR list.

I am returning to some familiar spots while visiting some new ones. For dates/times, check my social media or Events link. I update my calendar regularly.

Let’s start with a couple of bookstore events, including Fenwick Street Used Books & Music, on Saturday, February 1, from 11am to 3pm in Leonardtown, MD. Fenwick Street Used Books & Music is under new management but continues to provide the local community with books and music. I will have all my fantasy and steampunk books on hand. Then, on Sunday, February 9, I will be back at Barnes and Noble in Fairfax, VA, from 12-3pm. I will sign my latest book, The Prometheus Engine: Book 4 of the Forever Avalon Series, from Curious Corvid Publishing. 

After the bookstores, I’m heading into the first festivals of 2025. I’ll return to the Williamsburg Book Festival on Saturday, February 22, at the Stryker Center in historic Williamsburg, VA. Celebrating its 10th year, the festival strives to bring authors, publishers, and readers together to celebrate the literary arts.

As we head into March, the Suffolk Authors Festival in Suffolk, VA, kicks off on Saturday, March 15, at the Suffolk Conference Center at the ​Hilton Garden Inn, Suffolk Riverfront. This is where writers get a chance to connect with readers on a personal level.

March closes out with the Tell-Tale Steampunk Festival, March 29-30, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Baltimore North—Pikesville, MD. Best described as an alternative history of the Victorian era with an emphasis on creativity, the festival features authors, workshops, and panel discussions in a family-friendly atmosphere. 

Lastly, I’m returning for another year to 2nd Sundays Williamsburg Art & Music Festival, beginning on Sunday, April 13, from 11am to 4pm (new schedule starting in 2025) in historic Williamsburg, VA. This annual street fair of over 180 unique artisans, musicians, street performers, food vendors, and more in six blocks of downtown Williamsburg, Virginia. You’ll know where to find me!

 Click on the links for each event for more information and purchase tickets. Keep an eye on my Events page for updates and new additional dates. Plus, keep an eye out for information on new book releases, audiobook updates, and more.

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel, his first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and the epic fantasy The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series from Curious Corvid Publishing. A Dance of Darklings and Demons is coming in 2025 from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Interview with Author Julia Heart and the Lit Lounge Authors Group

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Visit beekonnected.com to find your connections as both a reader and a writer.

I had the opportunity to interview with author Julia Heart of The Lit Lounge Author Group to discuss my latest release, The Prometheus Engine: Book 4 of the Forever Avalon Series. We talked about many aspects of my book as well as the writing process behind it. I enjoyed talking about being a storyteller and how I bring my characters to life within the story. I hope you enjoy talking to Julia so please check out Julia and her books at www.juliaheart.com.

If you are invested in the Forever Avalon trilogy, I hope you will join me at the saga continues in The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series, now available from Curious Corvid Publishing. You can get a copy online (check out the Buy My Books link) or at the Curious Corvid Shop.

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel, his first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and the epic fantasy The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series from Curious Corvid Publishing. A Dance of Darklings and Demons is coming in 2025 from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Get ready for my next audiobook as The Dark Tides is in production for 2025

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The next novel to get the audiobook treatment is currently in production. The Dark Tides: Book Two of the Forever Avalon Series will soon be available on Audible and iTunes as the story of the MoonDrake families adventures on Avalon continues. Narrator Daryl Gannon (IG @darylgannonart) is using his unique vocal talents to tell the story about the resurrection of Morgana le Fay and her plot to destroy Avalon through her final and most powerful dark spell—The Dark Tides.

The Drake family has known more than its share of tragedy at sea. After the devastating and mysterious loss of their patriarch, Bryan, to a strange storm, his grieving wife and children sail to his last known location to lay a wreath in his honor. They are caught in a storm freakishly similar to the one that took Bryan from them. A funeral becomes a joyous reunion, as they find him alive and well but equally stranded on the mysterious island of Avalon, where the descendants of King Arthur rule a world filled with knights, Elves, Dwarves . . . and magic!

Lord Bryan MoonDrake-as he is now known-has attained the rank of the Gil-Gamesh, protector of the realm. He helps his wife and two of his children build new lives in a medieval society. His daughter Ashley has returned to Avalon with wonderful news. Bryan sees an opportunity to bring his family back together at last, so they plan a grand Avalonian wedding for Ashley and her true love, Andrew.

But all is not well in the kingdom. Dark forces arise to fulfill a prophecy to resurrect Morgana le Fay, the most powerful sorceress in the history of Avalon. If successful, she will unleash the Dark Tides to destroy the line of Pendragon once and for all. To save his family, his new home, and his king, can the Gil-Gamesh overcome incredible odds and powers beyond his comprehension to rid Avalon of Morgana’s evil forever?

Here is a short video clip as a preview of what’s to come in 2025, and make sure you follow Daryl on IG.

@darylgannonart narrating The Dark Tides: Book Two of the Forever Avalon Series on Audible + iTunes.
Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, and the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel, and his first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle from Curious Corvid Publishing. The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series and A Dance of Darklings and Demons are coming soon from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Oh Canada! Congratulations to Gwen Iver on being a Canadian Book Club Award finalist

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Congratulations to Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle on being a finalist in the Canadian Book Club Awards.

I realize now that Ice Hockey, Ryan Reynolds, Celine Dion, Bret “The Hitman” Hart, Sortilege Maple Whiskey, Quebec in Winter, and Alpha Flight are not the only good things to come out of Canada. The Canadian Book Club Awards, Canada’s largest reader’s choice award has announced the list of finalists for the 2024 awards. Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle was one of the top three finalists in Young Adult (YA) books.

This year, the awards received the highest number of submissions, with a notable mix of traditional and self-published works, further cementing the diversity and richness of the Canadian literary landscape. After evaluating the diverse lineup of book submissions, CBCA’s Avid Readers selected their list of finalists in each of the 13 literary categories. Over the next three months, Canadian Verified Readers will read each finalist’s work in their respective categories and submit their votes for this year’s winners.

“This year’s finalists reflect exactly why the Canadian Book Club Awards were created,” says Kristain Oliveira-Barnes, Program Director for the CBCA. “We’re here to celebrate diversity and great storytelling, no matter how a book is published. Readers want captivating stories, and that’s exactly what we received this year—an incredible range of voices and narratives that truly stand out.”

This is another feather (or maybe a maple leaf instead) in my cap and one for Curious Corvid Publishing too. For a small print press and an independent author to be recognized outside the United States is a big deal. I am truly honored to be one of the three finalists, but it’s not just my storytelling. Besides my wonderful publisher, I want to thank Emily’s World of Design for my beautiful book cover, the art students of my alma mater Phillipsburg High School for my interior art, and Anna Corbeaux for her diligence in editing my book. This was a wonderful collaboration in the truest sense.

Gwen Iver is a fifteen-year-old girl starting her first day of high school. Surrounded by friends and facing off against her rivals, including Morgan Moor and her infamous Dreadmoor Gang, Gwen’s idyllic life is about to be turned upside-down. She begins a journey into a magical world of infinite possibilities when she attempts to unlock PENDRAGON’S PUZZLE.

Discover the secret of Camelot Cove in Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, from Curious Corvid Publishing, 2024 Golden Wizard Children’s Book Prize winner and now a finalist for the Canadian Book Club Awards! Order a book or ebook at Amazon or the Curious Corvid Shop.

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, and the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel, and his first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle from Curious Corvid Publishing. The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series and A Dance of Darklings and Demons are coming soon from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Here’s my bi-annual call for authors not to get political in their social media

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So, I’ll make this short and sweet. It is Election Season, although I honestly hate that term. I remember when elections were just a DAY but now we have an entire season. If you watch the news, you’d think all we have in our every day lives is politics, but I digress. I want to offer a bit of advice out to the other independent authors out there. DO NOT VOICE YOUR POLITICAL OPINIONS ON YOUR AUTHOR SOCIAL MEDIA.

I realize that, for some of you, your political leanings is a part of your identity as an author, and that is all well ‘and good for you personally. However, I believe that readers come from the left and the right, especially fans of science fiction and fantasy novels. In this polarizing political environment we ae in today, saying something politically tinged, liking or commenting on a post using your author social media can lead to negative comments and criticism that have nothing to do with your books. It’s sad that we must silence ourselves, but we don’t make the money of a Stephen King or J.K. Rowling where we can afford to voice our opinion on such matters.

I try to avoid any conflict on social media. I only use it to promote my books, any events I’m attending, and “bookish” things to share with other authors, including book reviews, ARC readers, etc. My advice to you is to let the politicians fight it out and stick to storytelling. It’s in your best interest.

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, and the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel from Curious Corvid Publishing. His first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series are coming soon from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Read the story of an independent author

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Read all about my career, from sailor to author, and the challenges of being an Indie Author, thanks to Another Zero!

“The journey of an independent author is fraught with challenges, especially in a world where traditional publishing houses dominate the market. Piggott’s success story sheds light on the potential of independent authors to bring fresh, innovative stores to readers.”

As an independent author, you are always doing your own PR, marketing, social media, etc. Sometimes you need a little help to lift you up! Thanks to Another Zero for their help. I highly recommend their services!

Fantasy/Steampunk Author Mark Piggott Rises from Navy Veteran to Award-Winning Independent Author

I took a 23-year career in the U.S. Navy to become an award-winning Fantasy/Steampunk author. I can honestly say books are my life. You can find mine at Curious Corvid Publishing or link to Buy My Books!

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, and the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel from Curious Corvid Publishing. His first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series are coming soon from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Read new fantasy stories from inside the Moonlit Black Cat tavern on Kindle Vella

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I originally wrote the Moonlit Black Cat Tavern for a short story contest. It didn’t win or go anywhere, but I really liked the story. I found out how Kindle Vella lets you expand these stories into episodes that you can build on, weekly or monthly. So, I decided to add more stories to the world of Kralthorn and Ghelpher and the mysterious tavern caught between these two different kingdoms.

If you read on Kindle Vella, check out my newly published The Moonlit Black Cat Tavern, now with two episodes published and more on the way. I have about five total coming out once a week to keep you enthralled and entertained, and more on the way. These are fun stories to continue the tale of the unusual and diverse characters found roaming this tavern. You never know who might show up or why they’re stopping by.

Welcome to the Moonlit Black Cat Tavern, a place where humans, demi-humans, and monsters come together to laugh, drink, eat, sing, and find ways to get along. On a stormy night, the Bradbury Witch pays an unexpected visit to the strange tavern and finds more than she bargained for.

I always loved the idea of neutral territory, a tavern, where all manners of creatures could come together to eat, drink, and be merry without having to kill each other. A place where an understanding between good and evil could be broached without all the fighting. That’s the basis behind The Moonlit Black Cat Tavern.

And for those wondering about the name, yes it does come from an anime. I am a fan of Sword Art Online, and the story of the Moonlit Black Cats guild was tragic and a big part of why I watched this series (in case you missed it, watch Season 1, Episode 3 “Red Nosed Reindeer”). I guess it’s my way of paying tribute to the series and the characters.

I hope you take the time to read The Moonlit Black Cat Tavern on Kindle Vella. It’s a fun little adventure. And VOTE for my story in The Velleys, the Kindle Vella Awards.

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, and the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel from Curious Corvid Publishing. His first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series are coming soon from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.

Social media and the Independent Author

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Follow me on all my social media accounts to get up-to-date information on my books and events!

Social media is the buzzword that will make or break an independent author. I know that sounds like a stretch but follow me here. I don’t have a marketing department. I don’t have a social media intern. I can’t afford them or a PR manager. I do all of it myself. I create the content, post or schedule it, and respond to replies or comments. It adds daily hours to my already busy work schedule of juggling my regular job with my writing.

Social media is not a guarantee of sales or new readers, but for an independent author, its the most manageable. It’s free (mostly) and it is accessible worldwide. You can connect with other authors, publishers, literary agents, and most importantly, readers. You’re creating a brand for yourself in both your books and the way you advertise everything from the books themselves to events you will be attending.

I designed this on Book Brush!

There are a few tricks to this juggling act to help minimize the time spent on social media. First is creating content. I use Book Brush as my content creator. It makes it easy to either auto-generate an image or video or use my own creativity. They have different plans, depending on your price range, but it is easy to use and quite supportive of independent authors.

As for scheduling, I have used a few different FREE services before but they changed from a free service to a PAID service and was way too expensive. I currently use Constant Contact to schedule my social media posts. It allows me to vary my content, depending on the social media site, and stores my artwork in case I want to reuse it. It’s the cheapest of the social media scheduling services I have found.

DON’T try to spread yourself out over every social media site imaginable. You don’t want to overtax your brand and spread yourself thin. Stick to ones you might already have a personal account on and spread out from there, but keep your author account as BUSINESS, and your personal social media separate. You don’t want to let anyone outside your family and friends into that world.

Lastly, a word of advice. DON’T TALK POLITICS, RELIGION OR SPORTS ON YOUR AUTHOR SOCIAL MEDIA. These areas are too divisive in today’s frenzied climate. Readers come from all walks of life, the right and the left, or from many different faiths. You will alienate readers by putting yourself out there like that. I know, you might think that Donald Trump is Hitler or PETA stands for People Eating Tasty Animals or Football is no different from Soccer, but it will get you in trouble. Stop, just stop, and worry about the politics of Mordor above anything else.

This is the hardest part of being an independent author. Self-marketing is putting yourself out there, and you have to put aside the fear. Unless you have access to a top-notch marketing firm, you need to do it yourself, but avoid the email and social scams trying to lure you into promises of sales and followers. Nothing is guaranteed.

Check out Buy My Books to pick out your next binge read!

Mark Piggott is an award-winning independent author of several fantasy/steampunk novels and short stories. A 23-year U.S. Navy veteran, his stories will take you from the shores of eternal Avalon to a dystopian steampunk future and other fantastic worlds as he weaves through a myriad of flights of fancy in his tales.

The Forever Avalon fantasy book series—including Forever Avalon, The Dark Tides, and The Outlander War—are available online at Amazon and other booksellers. His fantasy steampunk novel, The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart, is available through Lulu and other booksellers.

Cross over The River of Souls in a fantasy novella, take flight in the steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates, and the saga continues in The Last Magus: Dragonfire and Steel from Curious Corvid Publishing. His first YA fantasy, Gwen Iver and Pendragon’s Puzzle, and The Prometheus Engine: Book Four of the Forever Avalon Series are coming soon from Curious Corvid. Stay tuned for new fantastic stories from the imagination of Mark Piggott.