Why am I passionate about this?
Indie authors and presses are sometimes dismissed as “lesser-than” and not carried by bookstores. The stories are labeled as “amateurish” or “boring.” (Some are, but so are some books coming from big publishers!) Size doesn’t really matter in the world of publishing. Being published with a small press showed me a realm beyond the huge, traditional publishing houses—it’s populated with fantastic books written by gifted authors who often write, not for fame or money, but because they love writing. I’ve found many hours of enjoyment in indie books (and lost hours of sleep, as well!) I hope, with this list, you find the same.
J.M.'s book list on portal fantasy by small/independent presses
Why did J.M. love this book?
Keen is about a banshee, Caoine, currently living in the contemporary world, even though the fae realm is closer than many know. I’d never read about a banshee, but I understood Caoine’s feeling of not fitting in, of being weird or different. Caoine is a sympathetic heroine as she tries to learn how to use her ability, even though she’s certain her only purpose is to bring death to those around her.
2 authors picked Keen as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 13, 14, 15, and 16.
You must walk the darkness to find the light.
Half-faerie Caoine has no control over the banshee lament she sings each night, predicting the death of others. A senior in a brand new high school, she expects the same response she’s received at every other school: judgment from fellow students over her unusual eyes and unnaturally white skin and hair. However, when Caoine arrives at West Lincoln High, for the first time in her life she finds friends. Real friends.
But being a teenager is never easy, especially when the star soccer player, Oliver, sets his sights on her. Allowing…