Every writer tries to get the right hook for their book or short stories. This author nailed it on the first page. Pages fly as you want to know what happens on the other side. Getting this important part of the puzzle in writing a novel is not easy.
The main character of the story is Annie who is experiencing a post apocalyptic world. Just like the one we read and hear about in books and movies. It starts off with Annie making her way out into the chaos, destruction and ruins of her area while trying to find food for her hungry children. While it is dangerous to be out in the open her kids are starving and will die if food is not found.
The story was a quick read but in it the author managed to give out imagery that we could imagine in our head rather vividly. We felt Annie’s pain, frustration heartache as it fell of the page.
Only one complaint, I wanted to read more about Annie and was not ready for it to end when it did. But in hindsight it did finish at the right spot of the story.
A wonderful woman who I call my friend, Shannon, just released her first book out in print and ebook form. Being rather proud of her I wanted to help her spread the word about her book “ Solitary Skies”. I was honored when she asked me to read her MS and to tell her my views on it. I loved it and honestly can not wait for the sequel.
Early this year I contacted a publisher. I was inquiring about pricing for their editorial services. While I could not afford the fees he and I stayed in touch through email and the like. Last week he contacted me about an upcoming e-book he was putting together. It will be a collection of short stories from various authors. He wanted to include some of my short stories. I maintain the copyrights.
It will be available for free to download. The publisher will be eating the entire cost for the art, editing and formating the book so no profit will be made. I won’t see a dime for this but there are still positive reasons out there. As a new author, who is trying to break out, any free publicity is a good thing. People will get to see my works, have ways to contact me and also see what is on the table as far as WIP. The book will be shared by other publishers and editors. They might see something they like or know someone who could use one of the stories. That is another win. Finally when I write my query letters at least now I can place in the body of it that I have something in print.
One person told me that if I am not getting paid it seems pointless. I am not taking that route. I have to start somewhere. Even if that means one short story at a time.
Sharon C. Williams-Author 