Celebrate "Indie"Pendence Day!

So, the folks over at Indelible Writers came up with the brilliant idea to celebrate “Independence Day” by paying tribute to our favorite “Indie” authors. 

How fantastic is that?!

Here’s my nomination. It’s a great one for anyone who loves historical fiction, especially with some dark undertones.

Title: First, There is a River
Author: Kathy Steffen
Publisher: Medallion Press

Review:
A few words about Kathy before we get into her book itself. She’s an incredible lady. I met her through my local writing studio, and she was one of the first in that group to have a novel published. I love talking with her because you can tell she absolutely loves what she does! She’s gracious, down-to-earth and truly enjoys sharing insights with other writers. I am so happy for all her success!

Okay, on to the book. What I like best about First, There is a River, is the way Kathy weaves together history, a little thriller and a little romance. The book takes place in the late 1800s, during the height of steamboat travel on America’s rivers. It follows Emma Perkins, who seeks refuge on her uncle’s riverboat to escape her abusive husband...and then hatches a plan of her own.

I enjoyed the characters a lot. They hearken back to the good old Mark Twain days, and yet each of them has a darkness, too. One of the most haunted is Emma’s new love interest, Gage, who is scarred in more ways than one by an old steamboat accident. I liked Emma and Gage’s relationship. It unfolds slowly, and it’s raw, imperfect and real.

Kathy’s voice does a wonderful job painting us back into the time period. (Plus, isn't the cover eerie and gorgeous?) If you have a chance, definitely give it a try!

You can learn more about Kathy, her advice to writers and her other two books at her website.

Happy “Indie"Pendence Day!

And if you haven't already signed up for the Olympic Blog Relay, check out the remaining dates here.