Review: KUDOS TO THE INDIE CHICKS
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 12 13, 2011
I'm not entirely sure what I expected when I opened this e-book. Tear-jerker type personal stories of the author's journey towards publication, and excerpts from memoir's and girl-power oriented novels. Neither are exactly my style.I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of uplifting testimonials (barely a tear shed, though I assure you all tears were appropriate) and stories of strength and commitment to the fine art of writing. These women amazed me, not only with their writing journeys, but also with their choice of excerpts.The genre's encompass romance (including paranormal), contemporary fiction, fantasy, historical, mystery, suspense, and YA. I'm not going to tell you I read every excerpt - and I'm not talking a few paragraphs or a chapter for an excerpt; these excerpts are anywhere from three to six chapters). Some of the genre's did not appeal to me as a reader. Not due to the quality of writing; these are all awesome writers who know how to craft a well developed, well written story concept. If you are a consistent reader/writer, then you know that not all stories appeal to all readers, regardless of the Author's writing skills.Several of the excerpts left me "high and dry"; gasping for breath as I turned the page and - there was no more. After a few of those cliffhanger experiences, I had to STOP myself from reading through several of the longer offerings so that I didn't feel I'd already read the novel - regardless of where it ended. (I had to close my eyes sometimes to NOT read on as I thumbed to the next Chick.)I skimmed through many of the actual excerpts to get to the author introductions - getting sidetracked frequently by the engaging published works. I can honestly say I've found myself at least ten new authors to indulge in at my leisure. And, I don't have to put them on a TBR list. They are all right there, in my Kindle, in this handy compilation, waiting for me browse not only the stories and author bio's, but complete with links to the actual novels. Need I say I'm in reader heaven . .This was a marvelous concept. These Indie Chicks are all successful not only in their personal lives, but also with their writing careers. They all put the lie to the myth that inde-pubbed authors are disgruntled writers who have lost faith in the publishing industry. I think they exemplify what the writing dream is all about.And not just for women. I think the personal stories would mimic and appeal to many male authors out there who are struggling with the same issues of day job, family, and publication aspirations.I highly recommend this e-book to anyone who appreciates meeting interesting authors, and getting trial samples of reading material. I will be surprised if you do not find several somethings in this collection to pique you interest.........dhole