Fresh voices. How often have you heard that from the publishing establishment? And yet . . .
As you know, I read and review a fair amount of novels. I read more than you find here in reviews. Those I've read that aren't here? I couldn't find more than one good thing to say about them if that. Do you know why that is? Those novels succeeded in getting published with an abundance of clichés, stick-figure characters, a less than interesting story, and a Xerox-ed voice.
I don't blame the biz-makers for desiring fresh voices after publishing carbon copies. However, after reading so many more examples of "the same" kinds of voices, who really believes the clarion call for "fresh"?
I could list 10 unique and exquisite writing voices from CBA authors just off the top of my head. And there's more for sure. But the majority of voices echo each other. Many of them technically perfect according to genre formulas and grammar requirements. Others imperfect but fitting snugly into a niche of commercial fiction, pandering to the typical CBA reader.
So. Do you think it's true? Are they really looking for "fresh voices"?
God, we're all unique in you. Help us to stand apart because of our passion for you. Help that drive to be expressed in words that honor you. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.