My article on the Indies Unlimited website last week discussed theme. My main point was that all books should have a theme. My second point was to let the reader have some input. Don’t tell them the theme over and over again. Show us a person working out the theme and let us make up […]
“A Time of Love and Tartan” by Alexander McCall Smith
People-watching is a fascinating pastime. It seems rather boring because most of one’s subjects do not inspire great interest. It’s sort of like buying lottery tickets: a mug’s game, as everyone knows. However, we are kept entranced by the possibility that any one of our humdrum attempts could suddenly turn out to be a winner. […]
“I Am With You Always” by Kresten Forsman
This book is a Horror novella, about 30 K words, set in modern-day Eastern Europe. The trick in a horror story is to set up a completely normal life, and then gradually slip in hints and feelings that turn the normalcy into terror. This book follows that pattern very successfully, starting out with three women […]
“Serenade” by Heather McKenzie
Every teenage romance should have a side story to keep it interesting — a hobby or sport or activity that gives the tale that added kick. A 24-hour Death Race through the Rockies in Banff National Park ranks up there at the top. Add to this an overprotected young heiress under the control of her […]