Why be an Indie Author? My publishing journey, part two #PoweredByIndie

October is an important month for Indie authors. There was Indie Author Day on 8th October, and Amazon is on the Indie bandwagon with the #PoweredByIndie campaign on its pages and across social media (be sure to check out the Fantasy books). It's timely, therefore, to return to a question I asked back in July... 'Why choose self-publishing?'

Why choose self-publishing? My writing journey, part one

'Why did you choose to become a self-published author?' You may think the answers are obvious, and many of them are, but I've never explored this topic here on my blog. After reading yet another great post from author friend, Danielle K girl, I think it's time.

My writing journey has been a winding path

Self-Published Fiction and the Quest for Quality

Some might suggest it's the elephant in the room over at Amazon, or Smashwords. The self-publishing revolution has liberated thousands of authors from the chains of traditional publishing. But has it also let loose hordes of poor quality books that readers must wade through in order to find the gems? How can authors put quality control measures into their writing-publishing process to ensure that what they offer to the world of readers is truly their best work?

Raining Men and Corpses

If you're in the mood for a fun murder mystery to take to the beach in summer, or curl up on the couch with in winter, then Raining Men and Corpses by Anne R. Tan will fit the bill.

Raina Sun is our sleuth. She's a graduate student who is instantly likable for all the mistakes she's made in her life as much as for anything else. Getting involved with her 'dashing college advisor' and lending him a substantial sum of money is one of many items on Raina's list of 'wish-she-hadn't-dones'. And things don't get any easier for Raina when a professor is murdered and an ex-lover appears. Not to mention the Grandmother, Po Po, who arrives on her doorstep and comes with her own set of troubles. Although, Po Po will no doubt become a favourite character for many readers. Raina's grandmother is a bit loopy but instantly endearing.

What I liked about this story was the build up of more than just the murder mystery. There's a good dollop of mystery in other aspects of Raina's life too - her romantic past and her family are both hiding a good share of skeletons. And things get more mysterious before it all unravels in a satisfying end.

I'd recommend this book to all lovers of fun, light murder mysteries. Romance fans looking for something different might also enjoy it.

You can find out more about Anne R. Tan on her website - annertan.com