I'm really enjoying your book. I love the tone. The first chapter was great in regards to explaining a book to a small child, I had to laugh a bit. Well written, great flow. High stars and on my shelf :) Best Regards, KC

High time for a stable bookshelf ... Now that Authonomy is changing, I decided to look through the 300+ books I've read on this site for my favorite five. 'A Scottish Ferry Tale' made my list. I suggest you give it a look. Frank Calcagno The First Human War

Right from the start, this is a compelling story. Not from what happens in the first chapter as much as from the voice. It is good and really pulls me in. Good luck with it. Backed

The natural beauty of the British Isle's gives Cassie something more to think about, other than college, graduation and splitting up with her boyfriend. More than a generous portion of fish and chips, and a pint of ale is how the story reads, because the words spill out like they were written by a thoroughbred writer. I was completly captivated and will put ' A Scottish Ferry Tale' on my shelve so I can read more. Backed with pleasure. Daniel Manning. No compatibility.

Wow ... and this from a 56-year old*, gray-headed man who writes about spaceships. This story rocks. It sucked me right into the screen and did not let go. Very well written. I had hoped to offer some suggestions but could find no fault... This one should be backed by a thousand of us. * My wife reminded me I am NOT 56 years old yet; hence the gray-haired part...

A beautiful story. Endearing characters depicted with skill and keen observation. Their conversations flow naturally. Succinct narrative. Vivid sense of place. Compelling, thought provoking storyline. Impressive writing. A compulsive read. Backed.

The writing is solid and I like your sensibility. You have a refreshingly honest protagonist, who looks at the world with a sentimental pragmatism. I look forward to reading more. sc

[QUOTE] Hi Nancy I love the pitch. I would buy this book from the pitch alone. I've had a think for sexy Scots on remote islands ever since I saw "I Know Where I'm Going". The execution delivers on the promise of the pitch and I fully expect to see this published somewhere soon. Backed. Nicole Thanks Nicole! Chosen [ENDQUOTE] It is published... through CreateSpace (self-publishing) on Amazon. Not quite the same as being picked up by a major publisher but it works for me right now. ;-) The ebook also is available on Amazon, Smashwords, and should be on B&N and in the iTunes store soon.

Hi Nancy I love the pitch. I would buy this book from the pitch alone. I've had a think for sexy Scots on remote islands ever since I saw "I Know Where I'm Going". The execution delivers on the promise of the pitch and I fully expect to see this published somewhere soon. Backed. Nicole Chosen

Dear Nancy, A Scottish Ferry Tale...charming. What is it that Anthony Blanche says in Brideshead Revisited? “It was charm again, my dear, simple, creamy English charm,” we’ll just make that creamy Scots charm, my dear, creamy Scots charm. By the way, I wouldn’t mind spending the rest of my life on an island off the Scottish coast. Best wishes. GK Stritch

Dear Nancy Volkens, I have a soft spot for Scotland, and after watching “The Monarch of the Glen” recently, the spot has grown. There are so many things I’d like to say to you based on the pitch of A Scottish Ferry Tale. The title sounds so cool and inviting. Unfortunately, I just had a big interruption, so I’m afraid I have to get back to you. Apologies. Meantime, backed and best wishes. Did you mention chocolate? Please see Section 2, paragraph 23, of CBGB Was My High School. Did you mention Shakespeare? Me, too, throughout the manuscript. GK Stritch

I've read and enjoyed the first chapter. Nice narrative tone.

Dear Nancy, sorry this took so long but I have been on holiday and have simply been reading to catch up and not responding. Really enjoyed your book and will read more and comment again very soon. Rusty The Mental Pause

I really enjoyed the few chapters of this book that are available. The dialog was particularly strong even when it was between an adult and a child. And then it would switch back to being between two adults and just seemed natural. For comparison in terms of storyline, I read some of the mega hit Eat, Pray, Love and found it to be rather fake and unbelievable or at least highly embellished. A Scottish Fairy Tale by contrast seems to be made of real people, yet is no less compelling. My hope is that author Nancy Volkers will add more chapters soon. She’s done a great job so far and I backed this book with pleasure.

What a great pitch and a superb cover design. Your story will have great appeal to your target audience and I wish you every success with it. Gordon - The Harpist of Madrid

A SCOTTISH FERRY TALE Please upload more! This is absolutely perfect, and I'm desperate to keep reading Backed with pleasure Gail NEW BEGINNINGS

Dear Nancy -- Your opening is a winner -- we became utterly engrossed in Cassie and Aisling's exchange almost to the point where we forgot what we'd read in the pitch, so it was a nice twist at the end of the chapter to remind us of Cassie's heartbreak. A Scottish Ferry Tale is not an average broken heart repaired story, and we're greatly enjoying Cassie's journey. We can relate to her strength and her feelings of being blind-sided when Jason dumps her (what a -- well, insert an expletive here); your dialogue and dynamics between them are pitch-perfect. And we love that she doesn't cling or whine or beat her breast -- no histrionics for this girl. Through what's posted here, we couldn't find any significant crits; your writing is strong, clear, and compelling. Thanks for supporting The Long Black Veil and bringing us here for an excellent read. BACKED. -- Delhui

I'll not admit how I pronounced Aisling up until now. This starts out kinda sweet, but also with an underlying exasperation on Cassie's part despite how gentle she is with Ash (love the child's dialogue). LOL re all the editing of the fairy story, 'This is not age appropriate'. Oh, there goes my pronunciation, 'Is Ay-sling here?' Cassie has quite an imagination, having got the baby through to degree level in the blink of an eye. My face aches with laughing about the birth video, sorry. On towards Coll, 'No' much there', as an escape from Jason. The newspaperman tipped his hat!!! Great to see Scotland through American eyes, 'The houses looked like something out of a Dr Seuss book'. Then there are other attractions for Cassie, 'Ye, I thought. He actually said ye'. I'm not sure about the chick-lit tag, Nancy, as Cassie isn't the air-headed, accident-prone, designer-clothed, wine-quaffing ditz usually associated with that genre. I really like her. She's feels real, solid, and someone I enjoy the company of in this novel. The humour is mostly understated, based on a wry observation of life, but occasionally laugh-out-loud. And the possibility of a romance with the rugged Scott is sure to have the target audience rapidly turning the pages ... backed. BTW the title is a good un. Possible nits: Early on, this seems to threaten to break into present tense from time to time, 'Yet here I am [was] with my niece'??? I'm not sure, but in places like the following, it jars slightly, 'I sing it to a random tune. Ash didn't seem to mind'.

Dear Nancy, Chick lit at its best, with chocolate and the tragic Scottish coast. What more could a girl want? Love it! BACKED Elizabeth Wolfe Please excuse the following message if I've already sent it to you. Sometimes I get confused! Thanks. Here is your chance to get a double backing. My friend, homewriter, and I have similar taste in writing and trust each other's judgment. Back my book and leave it on your bookshelf. Then do the same for his, "The Harpist of Madrid." Once the backings register, he will give you a return backing guaranteed. Just let him know in an email that you've backed my book as well as his. You might have to be a bit patient as we're 6 time zones apart. But you'll have two backings guaranteed on your excellent book. Of course, comments are always welcome too!

I love your beginning, with the heartwarming connection between Cassie and her niece. You've done something that on paper, seems easy enough but seldom is: in a few short paragraphs, you've introduced a character that is likable. Someone that I actually want to spend time getting to know. A perfect start to a romance/chick lit--floundering single woman, witty but confused, a foreign setting. Love it. You're good with dialogue too, and the pace is just right. ---Mary The Qualities of Wood

a great start. I found this to be a marvellously entertaining read. refreshingly written, nice humour and a romance in the offing. Backed with pleasutre, Barry LITTLE KRISNA AND THE BIHAR BOYS

This is easy reading and everything in it must appeal to your readers of this genre. The scenario is fairly predictable, your well crafted characters and your story telling skills lift in into another sphere. Charming to read and a pleasure to back. Margaret.

I would not normally be your target audience, but I have to say I really enjoyed what I read. It reminds me of a Bill Forsyth film. It's sweet, endearing and very accessibly written. I can't fault it. Carl The Time Hunters

Great dialogue and characters. Loved the bedtime story scen. Good ending to the chapter. How did her heart broken? You had me moving on to the second chapter. Well done! Backed with pleasure. Craig Ellis The Sun and the Saber

Hi Nancy, I enjoyed this. It's reminiscent of women with older sisters who are struggling through their lovelives. The dialogue is crisp and amusing at times - getting at the heart of things about death and birth. The synopsis sounds very enticing and moreso now that I've seen how you handle character and keep on the storyline. Happy to shelve - Katherine (The Swan Bonnet)

I love this. I would buy this book if I saw it in the store (or online, which I believe I see from the comment below, is an option! Sweet!). I like the pacing of this, and the MC is easy to relate to. Well done! Backed with pleasure, Amy Love Match

[QUOTE] This is the kind of book that would get turned into one of those super cute romantic comedies. At least that's how it read to me. I feel that I'm a lot like Cassie, not very romantic when it comes to cliched things like love at first sight, but the setting of Scotland would probably have me thinking differently. I've enjoyed this so much and I found myself wishing it was published already, I want to dive into it while sitting outside with a glass of iced tea. You've done a wonderful job with this! Missy [ENDQUOTE] Thanks Missy! I am considering adapting it as a screenplay... so your feedback is very helpful! :-) It is published already... well, self published anyway. On Amazon and B&N.com.

This is the kind of book that would get turned into one of those super cute romantic comedies. At least that's how it read to me. I feel that I'm a lot like Cassie, not very romantic when it comes to cliched things like love at first sight, but the setting of Scotland would probably have me thinking differently. I've enjoyed this so much and I found myself wishing it was published already, I want to dive into it while sitting outside with a glass of iced tea. You've done a wonderful job with this! Missy

You really open up a lot here, with a potential to go deep in this novel. I finished the second chapter, backed your book and left you a message. Good luck! Benjamin Dancer

I'm thoroughly enjoying this! Have paused at the end of Ch 2 to shelve, will definitely be back for more. Joanna Carter Fossil Farm

A Scottish Ferry Tale starts out with a very cute scene. I love your descriptions of scenery through the narrative. Now I feel like I've been to Scotland. It's an enjoyable read and I hope to see more of it. Backed.

Nancy, This is just the sort of book I like to read, a believable story very well told. The beginning, where Cassie reads and talks to her niece puts us immediately on her side when things go wrong later and I was left wanting to know when she'd finally meet a new man. Well done. Backed, Ann Mynard (Windshadow)

Hi Nancy A really clever beginnning - you do a good job of enabling the reader to get to know Cassie and be able to empathise with her so that we are drawn to read on and find out what happens to her. The first person POV works really well in this case. Best of luck with it. DP Walker Five Dares

I think your opening is fantastic! What I do like is your characterisation; Cassie’s relationship with her niece puts so much groundwork into developing her – Brilliant. Just read up to Tobermory (or Balamory if you watch kids T.V.) and the ferry. You have a great story developing here. Gentle and soooo readable. – Good luck

Hi Nancy, this is a lovely read with rounded characters and a dry wit. I have backed your book because I was hooked by the pitch, loved the introduction and read on. How much more I read depends on time and commitment. Enjoy everything and good luck. Rusty Bernard The Mental Pause

Hi Nancy: I love your title and the first chapter is very well done. Talented writing - hope this goes far! Jayne

Hi Nancy, the more I look into your journey's tale, the more that I like. Just wanted to let you know! blessings, jim

A Fine book backed

A Fine book backed

I enjoyed reading the opening your novel which focuses on a child and childbirth. Most chick lit don't start off this way so reading your first chapter felt refreshing to me. You don't bore your readers with fashion and character descriptions. There's no insecure overweight woman attempting to shrink down to fashion model size, just an educated woman trying to find her place in the world and dealing with heartache. Shelved with pleasure. Patricia

A vibrant story with a strong main character, Cassie. Well written and well done Backed Scorselo-the Communicator

24 July 2010 The obvious, but nevertheless extremely catching pun in the title, drew me in immediately. And the opening to the book held me. There is light-hearted humour, with the wit gently applied at just the right level, to maintain the sense of 'bonhomie' that exudes from this book. I particularly like the narrator's take on life and the things in it, especially her analysis, almost always from a freshly original perspective. ( Cleaning has had a bad rap, Snow White is not age appropriate). This book surprises by the depths of sensitivity it reaches in parts (Read the passage just after Ash goes to sleep for an example of how to put the capacity for compassion and love into the written word.) I find the name 'Chick Lit' demeaning but since it is a recognised category this novel certainly takes pride of place in the genre. BACKED. Robert Davidson. The Tuzla Run.

Hello Nancy, I found your book by accident, being attracted to it by the reference to chocolate cake (well, we all have our weaknesses!). Anyway, I enjoyed reading it. You have a very polished, easy style that draws one in. Indeed, I really don’t have too many comments to make. I thought the ‘no white intro. was nice, and the story progressed well. Perhaps a little too slowly for my liking, but I’m unpublished, so who am I to comment. This is definitely worth backing in my mind. Good luck. Rheagan Greene – Unwelcome Reflections PS If you have time to look at my work, great. But I am into considered comments rather than spontaneous backing thanks.

[QUOTE] Looking forward to the raunchy parts! [ENDQUOTE] You have to buy the book to see those, flyboy. ;-)

SCOTTISH FERRY TALE I opened this to read because I wondered if it was going to be a “ferry tale” or a “fairy tale”. After reading the first three chapters, I’m convinced the name isn’t that important; it’s such a good story. Cassie is a wonderful main character; she’s likable and sympathetic because of the way she’s dumped. The kind of character who’s fun to follow just to see how her mixed up life turns out. I’m adding it to my shelf. If you have a moment, would you look at mine (Grain of Salt)? I’m in 8th place but only holding on by my teeth. Burgio

Looking forward to the raunchy parts!

I am sorry I don't have more time to read all of this but find chapter one engaging. The bond between aunt and niece is well drawn and I assume it will develop in the story. Otherwise why put it up front? Too good to lose. Editors and agents are impressed by careful formatting so you may want to tidy up and be consistent. I wish you well with the book. I'll back it. T. L. Bartush Bleak House Bleak Shed.

Dear Nancy, since you invited me to take a look at A Scottish Ferry Tale, I came across and love what I have read so far. Whilst currently I'm swamped with reading commitments, I wanted to back your book. I find you have elegant pros, strong characters, and a story that's bound to attract lovers of Romance. I will return to read further chapters as time permits, so please be patient. It is my intention to give this one my complete attention. Backed with utmost pleasure Best of luck Helen The Last Dream

Dear Nancy Really like the book cover, and your pitch was the thing that grabbed me. Your book is very well crafted, love the way you have taken me to Scotland, well sort of, you have depicted your characters so well i feel i have been the invisible observer. WELL DONE. I am so glad you wrote this book BACKED BY ME FOR SURE I do hope you will review my book, comment and most of all BACK it. but either way the BEST of luck with yours Denise The Letter

Entertainingly written with a hint of humour that is not first obvious, especially from your pitch. You are able to draw attention away from description whilst successfully ensuring that the background and physical ascriptions are hugely real. BACKED

Hey, Nancy! Fun stuff! You captured my attention at the first line of your synopsis, and owned me by the second. I'm a screenwriter jumping into the novel world for the first time, so not much of a critic, however I can spot great dialogue and story, and yours is terrific. I'm very proud of my Celtic heritage, and I'm developing a Celtic fairy tale screenplay. All of that to say - I love the genre, and will love reading your book. Many happy blessings your way, Jim jack & charmian london

Nancy, Great Story interesting with a bit of fun especially for females looking back at their similar situations. Well written great characterization. Enjoyable. I love the Snow White issue at the beginning. Good Luck! Backing! Sammy Sutton King Solomon's '13'

So far this is extremely engaing and very humourous! I love you easy writing style and your spot on dialogue! backed 100% Liz The Cheech Room

Dear Nancy, I love that your story is set in Scotland - I never been in Europe, but it sounds wonderful - what a choice your heroine has to make - delightful read. :) Your pitch is excellent, so set the hook for me to read your book. :) When you use short paragraphs & lots of dialogue, it makes me want to keep reading to find out what's going to happen next. I'm backing your book. :) Could you please take a moment to back my TWO memoir books? Thanks. :) Love, Susie :) This is information from authonomy (so beware of any other untrue information you may receive that is spam & not quotes of authonomy): "When you back a book, it only improves the ranking of that book, not yours. However, the author whose book you are backing may decide to back your book also, in which case yes, your ranking would be improved" "Every time you place a book on your bookshelf, your recommendation pushes the book up the rankings. And while that book sits on your bookshelf, your reputation as a talent spotter increases depending on how well that book performs."

I'd like to hug Aisling till she pops as well - the best expression I've heard for along time. It's got the perfect cosy, intimate tone for chick lit with an all-girls-together feel. The narrative is best for that in the first person, as here. It's amusing, a bit self-effacing, which is attractive, and promises some gorgeous scenery. What's not to back? lynn

Oh this is just right, have read only ch 1 (sneakily while the boss is not looking) but I know it's going to deliver! Good luck with this, Maggie P.

Nancy: I read the first chapter. You have mastered this genre as you have mastered the pacing. This is very important for Chic Lit. Think you can get far with this offering as it delivers. BACKED! I can use your comments on my book when you get the chance. Cheers! JC The Obergemau Key

Great concept. I love the way you begin the story with the MC reading "Snow White." It sets the stage for what's to come very well. My kind of novel, so I'm happy to put it on my bookshelf. El Reckless Scarlett

Happy to back A Scottish Ferry Tale - an unusual story with depth, an intelligent plot, character development, and good writing. The title is catchy - caught my attention. Good choice. Best Jennifer

Hi, this is really wonderful! A great read. You have such alive characters in a vivid story. I will be back to read more! Just my kind of storytelling. Backed. Best, January

Read chapter 1 to 3. This is an entertaining story and I love the beginning with Aisling and the fairy story. You get the childish nuances just right. :) Setting, description are both well done and dialogue is certainly a strength. Jim Darcy the Firelord's Crown