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The Independents II
When Ben Towers recieves a lucrative publishing contract for his debut novel, it is most definitely a dream come true.
But there's just one problem.
His former best friend Josh takes to social media claiming that the idea for the book was stolen by Ben. Now Josh will publish the true manuscript as an Indie author.
The controversy drives interst in the book through the roof, and although this pleases Ben's publisher, they ask him to confirmabsolutely that the book is indeed his idea as lawyers are now necessary.
When Josh is shut down in all his avenues, the pathway to the release event is clear. Or so Ben thinks...
But there's just one problem.
His former best friend Josh takes to social media claiming that the idea for the book was stolen by Ben. Now Josh will publish the true manuscript as an Indie author.
The controversy drives interst in the book through the roof, and although this pleases Ben's publisher, they ask him to confirmabsolutely that the book is indeed his idea as lawyers are now necessary.
When Josh is shut down in all his avenues, the pathway to the release event is clear. Or so Ben thinks...
25 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2017
2 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Aaron L. Speer
21 books415 followersI love writing adult paranormal fiction. Vampires, werewolves, ghosts... oh my. I've been writing since I was 11 but I've always been a dreamer... often getting caught staring off into space as I created stories in my mind.
One of my stories, Night Walker (Undeadly Secrets Series Book 1), won the 2017 Golden Stake Award at the International Vampire Film and Arts Festival held in Transylvania annually. I'm still quite chuffed about walking away with it after facing some great contenders.
Currently there are 6 books in the Undeadly Secrets Series, 3 books in the Undisputed (MMA Romance) series and 2 Independents short stories plus a brand new series beginning with Owned By The Mafia, released in 2023
I'm so proud of the fact both Undisputed and Unbroken both won the same award a year apart from each other. *TOP 50 INDIE BOOKS OF THE YEAR*
My favourite activities include spending time with family, watching my beloved St George Illawarra Dragons, popping into the movies for the latest blockbusters, going to the gym for my dream body. Or just a body. Anything, really.
Speerzie... book daddy. Baby daddy x 2. Simply irresistible
One of my stories, Night Walker (Undeadly Secrets Series Book 1), won the 2017 Golden Stake Award at the International Vampire Film and Arts Festival held in Transylvania annually. I'm still quite chuffed about walking away with it after facing some great contenders.
Currently there are 6 books in the Undeadly Secrets Series, 3 books in the Undisputed (MMA Romance) series and 2 Independents short stories plus a brand new series beginning with Owned By The Mafia, released in 2023
I'm so proud of the fact both Undisputed and Unbroken both won the same award a year apart from each other. *TOP 50 INDIE BOOKS OF THE YEAR*
My favourite activities include spending time with family, watching my beloved St George Illawarra Dragons, popping into the movies for the latest blockbusters, going to the gym for my dream body. Or just a body. Anything, really.
Speerzie... book daddy. Baby daddy x 2. Simply irresistible
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 7, 2017
5 The Independents II Stars
Why did I wait so long to read these!
Now that I have I NEED more.
The Independents is a group? One person who knows, but they/it is writing a wrong. And let me tell you they/it is scary as heck!
Ben didn’t heed the warnings and he is going to pay a price. Now who knows what that is going to be but I want to know.
I mean we find out a little but near enough to satisfice this curious mind of mine. I have so many questions.
Who? Where? We know the why, but still I am at a loss I want to know more.
The girlfriend, what is to become of her? Will she be safe? Will they /it leave her alone? Oh my mind is working overtime.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
Why did I wait so long to read these!
Now that I have I NEED more.
The Independents is a group? One person who knows, but they/it is writing a wrong. And let me tell you they/it is scary as heck!
Ben didn’t heed the warnings and he is going to pay a price. Now who knows what that is going to be but I want to know.
I mean we find out a little but near enough to satisfice this curious mind of mine. I have so many questions.
Who? Where? We know the why, but still I am at a loss I want to know more.
The girlfriend, what is to become of her? Will she be safe? Will they /it leave her alone? Oh my mind is working overtime.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
July 3, 2017
This is the second short story by Aaron Speer. I liked the story a lot. I have found a lot of "fake" authors out there. When I say "fake" I don't mean the authors who use a pen name for their books, because they need their real life and author life separated. I mean the ones who create a whole fake persona to sell books. It makes me wish their was a group to teach them a lesson. Like the Independents lol. Anywho I love this author. You should really check out the other books by him. I can proudly say this is a 1-click author for me. I will buy everything he writes. Fantastic job.
July 6, 2017
5 punishment Stars
Wow. Just wow. Aaron Speer did it again with The Independents. I am blown away by the detail and the imagery given in such a short story. It's clear, concise, and I want the next installment yesterday.
Ben has submitted his book to a publisher. He swears it's his own creation.
But what happens when the guy who originally penned the novel comes forward and tries to tell the truth?
Is Ben punished? Or is the other guy punished? Who is in the wrong? How do we prove it?
Those questions are asked every day--more so in this indie book community than others, it seems. Those authors who work hard, put their heart and soul into something, only to have that hard work stolen right from under them.
It's happening.
What isn't happening?
The Independents aren't really there to serve justice. They aren't there to protect the innocent. They aren't there to squash the lies.
I'm sending my thanks to Mr. Speer for allowing me into this little world where the truth is more important than anything else.
Wow. Just wow. Aaron Speer did it again with The Independents. I am blown away by the detail and the imagery given in such a short story. It's clear, concise, and I want the next installment yesterday.
Ben has submitted his book to a publisher. He swears it's his own creation.
But what happens when the guy who originally penned the novel comes forward and tries to tell the truth?
Is Ben punished? Or is the other guy punished? Who is in the wrong? How do we prove it?
Those questions are asked every day--more so in this indie book community than others, it seems. Those authors who work hard, put their heart and soul into something, only to have that hard work stolen right from under them.
It's happening.
What isn't happening?
The Independents aren't really there to serve justice. They aren't there to protect the innocent. They aren't there to squash the lies.
I'm sending my thanks to Mr. Speer for allowing me into this little world where the truth is more important than anything else.
July 2, 2017
The Independents II - Aaron L Speer
****4 Stars
Aaron L Speer amps up the intrigue in the second of The Independents short stories.
Another gripping story from beginning to end and a darker and more intense one, with The Independents ramping up their action against unscrupulous authors.
In this Independents story, Ben Towers is delivered the wish he'd been waiting for, a publishing contract.
What Ben neglects to mention to his publisher is that the story was not his own work but that of his ex best mate Josh, who he'd also taken a girlfriend from. His personal life seems to be on track but behind the scenes, things are beginning to unravel at the hands of The Independents.
Another short story of intrigue and a thriller to the very end, but a definite open ended story, leaving me wanting more.
Great fast read and a series I'm getting right into.
****4 Stars
Aaron L Speer amps up the intrigue in the second of The Independents short stories.
Another gripping story from beginning to end and a darker and more intense one, with The Independents ramping up their action against unscrupulous authors.
In this Independents story, Ben Towers is delivered the wish he'd been waiting for, a publishing contract.
What Ben neglects to mention to his publisher is that the story was not his own work but that of his ex best mate Josh, who he'd also taken a girlfriend from. His personal life seems to be on track but behind the scenes, things are beginning to unravel at the hands of The Independents.
Another short story of intrigue and a thriller to the very end, but a definite open ended story, leaving me wanting more.
Great fast read and a series I'm getting right into.
July 4, 2017
This is the perfect story to sit around the campfire and terrify sketchy writers with. Speerzie knows how to build up the suspense and then finish with a huge boom! These short stories have more excitement and plot packed into a small space than many larger works. I can't wait to see what magnificence he comes up with next.
July 4, 2017
Thought provoking!!!
Another great short from Aaron. One that makes you think about your successes and people in your life. Great Job!
Another great short from Aaron. One that makes you think about your successes and people in your life. Great Job!
July 5, 2017
This is the second short story in this series of The Independents. Oh what a wonderfully sick and twisted mind this author has! This short story is just as great as the last one and is a must read.
July 7, 2017
Justice is best served cold.
Being one in the community this book is sadly seen lots. All the scammers from those who are pirates stealing work to sell on sites. To those promising services getting paid and not delivering. Daily occuance. It would be nice if The Independents were real. And able to search out the truth.
Being one in the community this book is sadly seen lots. All the scammers from those who are pirates stealing work to sell on sites. To those promising services getting paid and not delivering. Daily occuance. It would be nice if The Independents were real. And able to search out the truth.
October 18, 2017
New author Ben Towers finally has what he wants most in the world . . . a contract from a publishing house. His dreams are finally coming true, that is until his former best friend Josh claims the book is his and that Ben has stolen it.
Ben insists the book is all his t both his girlfriend (who just happens to be Josh’s ex) and his publishers . . . going as far as to sign legal documentation to the fact and discrediting Josh both legally and socially. With the controversy pushing pre-orders and interest higher and higher, Ben has no time for anything or anyone that is not book or publisher related . . . including his live-in girlfriend . . . who really only wants a Ben to be happy and a few minutes of his time to talk about something other than his book.
Of course, someone else knows Ben’s darkest secret, and they want him to give credit to Josh. When Ben refuses to heed their warnings and threats, the Independents decide to teach Ben a lesson he won’t soon forget . . . because, if you insult one of them, you insult them all.
Aaron L. Speer has packed quite the punch with his newest short story The Independents II. Aaron’s tongue in cheek commentary of the Indie book community and the drama that can occur is spectacular. In less than 30 pages, Aaron tells a complete story with characters you love to hate as their greed and quest for notoriety always gains them the attention of The Independents, who bring a sense of morality to the book community that is not easily forgotten when you are in the wrong. A fun and thought-provoking horror quickie! 5 stars!
Ben insists the book is all his t both his girlfriend (who just happens to be Josh’s ex) and his publishers . . . going as far as to sign legal documentation to the fact and discrediting Josh both legally and socially. With the controversy pushing pre-orders and interest higher and higher, Ben has no time for anything or anyone that is not book or publisher related . . . including his live-in girlfriend . . . who really only wants a Ben to be happy and a few minutes of his time to talk about something other than his book.
Of course, someone else knows Ben’s darkest secret, and they want him to give credit to Josh. When Ben refuses to heed their warnings and threats, the Independents decide to teach Ben a lesson he won’t soon forget . . . because, if you insult one of them, you insult them all.
Aaron L. Speer has packed quite the punch with his newest short story The Independents II. Aaron’s tongue in cheek commentary of the Indie book community and the drama that can occur is spectacular. In less than 30 pages, Aaron tells a complete story with characters you love to hate as their greed and quest for notoriety always gains them the attention of The Independents, who bring a sense of morality to the book community that is not easily forgotten when you are in the wrong. A fun and thought-provoking horror quickie! 5 stars!
July 5, 2017
Speer does it again! Takes a situation that happens more frequently in book world than anyone wants to think about and poses the questions ....What if you had to pay for your actions? What if you were held accountable? And then he takes you on a thrill ride of who might be the ones making you pay and what that payment might look like. And he does it all in a format you can read on your lunch break. It's a quick bite and taste of what awaits you in Speerverse but it leaves you oh so satisfied!
July 4, 2017
Awesome second book!
Absolutly loved this one!
It shows how the independents have uncoverd yet another author who thinks he can get away with it!!
Im really hoping there will be more short stories like this from Mr Speer because i absolutly love em!
Absolutly loved this one!
It shows how the independents have uncoverd yet another author who thinks he can get away with it!!
Im really hoping there will be more short stories like this from Mr Speer because i absolutly love em!
July 4, 2017
Unbelievable!!!
Wow I have no words for this book. For a short read, the storyline was intense and believable. It's amazes me what people will do for a little fame.
I do hope this series continues!!
Wow I have no words for this book. For a short read, the storyline was intense and believable. It's amazes me what people will do for a little fame.
I do hope this series continues!!
July 5, 2017
They're back!
A spectacular short story! Oh Ben, why oh why?! Aaron gives another captivating glimpse into the book world and believe me when I say you won't be putting this book down until the end credits roll!
"You insult one, you insult them all..."
A spectacular short story! Oh Ben, why oh why?! Aaron gives another captivating glimpse into the book world and believe me when I say you won't be putting this book down until the end credits roll!
"You insult one, you insult them all..."
July 5, 2017
I enjoy these short stories by Author Speer. They are well-written, detailed, and addictive. Definitely, looking forward to Independents III.
December 30, 2017
Great, entertaining short story. Keeps you in suspense. Love this author and everything he writes!
October 7, 2017
Loved it!!! The author has done it again!! Another brilliantly written short story that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat! I have no idea how this author manages to fit so much into such a short story.....you really don't want for anything...well except to see where The Independents strike next!!
October 8, 2017
Write your own story. Do not plagiarize another's work. This story shows how taking from others can turn the tables. Beware The Independents,
March 6, 2021
Amazing short read. This series definitely hooks you and makes you want to be part of the in crown, standing up for what is right even if it means taking the law in your own hands.
Absolutely amazing
Absolutely amazing
September 15, 2017
Wow, this one was more intense then the first one. Real life situations and great writing, the Authors has brought us another edge of the seat read. Ben was a jerk. That's all I'm going to say about him. I highly recommend this story, even if you're not a fan of short stories. 5 stars #2OCCJD
January 3, 2018
Omg !
Omg yes ! Read read read !
Seriously yes wow ok I wanna go watch some saw now after reading this!
Freaking fantastic! Creepy and wow didn't see that ending coming but freaking loved it !!!
Like I said before read read read ! A must freaking read !
Omg yes ! Read read read !
Seriously yes wow ok I wanna go watch some saw now after reading this!
Freaking fantastic! Creepy and wow didn't see that ending coming but freaking loved it !!!
Like I said before read read read ! A must freaking read !
February 20, 2021
A very short quick read. Intense and mysterious it keeps you turning the pages. I liked the second book better than the first. Would have liked it to be longer to find out what ends up happening to Ben.
June 4, 2018
Another quick intense and darker read!!!
..keeps you on the edge of your seat!
..keeps you on the edge of your seat!
January 4, 2018
I loved this book, however I am giving it 4 stars just because it was not long enough. This author writes well enough that I really look forward to his books and I expect them to be longer so I get to enjoy them even more.
This book is just as good as the first! It really amazes me with the imagination and stories he comes out with.
If you are looking for a book that will keep you wrapped up from beginning to end, then this book is for you!
When Ben gets a publishing contract, It is great! However there is one minor detail he forgot to mention... The work may not be his! Read this great short story and see for yourself what all happens!
This book is just as good as the first! It really amazes me with the imagination and stories he comes out with.
If you are looking for a book that will keep you wrapped up from beginning to end, then this book is for you!
When Ben gets a publishing contract, It is great! However there is one minor detail he forgot to mention... The work may not be his! Read this great short story and see for yourself what all happens!
August 5, 2018
“You have taken the sacred art of writing and turned it...”
*****5 deceitful stars*****
Powerful and interesting short read, that has the reader urning for more with drool worthy cliffhangers!
The Independents are back and seeking retribution and justice for their own! Although it’s still unanswered about what happened to Martina Johnson (aka Damien Kane) from book one, in this second installment we discover the punishment set for Ben Towers deceitfulness to the indie community. I’m ready for more answers to be revealed; my curiosity is definitely peeked! I’m wondering what their “muscle” is! How are these Independents achieving their forms of justice?!
*****5 deceitful stars*****
Powerful and interesting short read, that has the reader urning for more with drool worthy cliffhangers!
The Independents are back and seeking retribution and justice for their own! Although it’s still unanswered about what happened to Martina Johnson (aka Damien Kane) from book one, in this second installment we discover the punishment set for Ben Towers deceitfulness to the indie community. I’m ready for more answers to be revealed; my curiosity is definitely peeked! I’m wondering what their “muscle” is! How are these Independents achieving their forms of justice?!
September 17, 2019
This is another short story by Aaron Speer that packs the punch of a full size novel. The readers are sucked straight into the pages of the story and anxiously zoom through the pages to see what happens next while at the same time never wanting the story to end. It will grab your attention and leave you with a book hangover! Be prepared to instantly want to read this one again as soon as you are finished as it will leave you with your jaw hanging open asking yourself WTF...An amazing read and one that shouldn't be missed!!
July 7, 2018
Another fantastic short by Aaron!
I love the dark side of the indie world portrayed in these short stories. It is intriguing and entertaining.
This 2nd installment was a bit longer than The Independents, but no less entertaining.
Aaron proved that yet again his characters cannot hide from a little thing called karma.
I love the dark side of the indie world portrayed in these short stories. It is intriguing and entertaining.
This 2nd installment was a bit longer than The Independents, but no less entertaining.
Aaron proved that yet again his characters cannot hide from a little thing called karma.
January 28, 2019
This is the second story in the The Independents series and another gripping story from beginning to end. In this story Ben's dreams are finally coming true and he has gotten a contract with a publishing company. Things change when his former friend, Josh, claims Ben has stolen the book and that it is his. That's all I'm going to say other than this story is absolutely spectacular and shows the absolute genius of this author.
January 1, 2018
Yet another short novella from the independents and oh my, you really can believe some of this happening. When Ben decided to take not only his best friends girl and then pass Josh’s work off as his own, things will take a drastic turn unless he admits to what he has done. But will greed and fame win over love and what is the right thing to do? Will Ben make the right decision?
December 4, 2017
Wow
Talk about sticking it to him!!! Thieft of intellectual property is no joke!!! What sad is it's so true how the bright lights of fame can easy lure someone away from what really matters the most.
Talk about sticking it to him!!! Thieft of intellectual property is no joke!!! What sad is it's so true how the bright lights of fame can easy lure someone away from what really matters the most.
September 24, 2020
ust like the first instalment , the author touches on what happens to those who are dishonest in the writing industry. I like how there is always a moral to the story and a lesson to be learned. I liked the dramatic ending and food for thought ...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews