"A successful short story must capture the reader's attention with the opening sentence, develop the theme in an interesting, yet economical way, and end with a twist that is totally unexpected. Because it is of limited length, the choice of words is crucial, as every word must convey the exact sense the author requires. Each story in this collection fulfils these criteria.
The stories vary in mood, setting and pace, and are nicely ordered in that some are contrasted and others linked, which leads you on and invites you to read more. The humour is sparkly and mischievous, applied with a light touch, and the emotions are deep and true. It is easy to see that the author is a poet as the descriptive passages are drawn with a broad sweep but also a sharp eye for the telling detail, whether set in a bleak Yorkshire town, the depth of a forest, a tropical seascape or a Paris boulevard.
The characters are colourful and convincing and full of surprises. The author has no difficulty in entering the world of a curious child, a frustrated husband, a flirtatious girl, a reminiscing grandma, a lonely curate, an enchanted lover. His range is extensive and he writes with authority on his own favourite interests such as vintage cars, photography and classic films. The human dilemmas he deals with are universal ones, experienced at all times, but expressed here in a contemporary and lively manner. The love stores are sensuous, yet also tender and handled with restraint and poignancy. Even the tale of a friendship between a racehorse and a little donkey is heart-warming. An unexpected death shocks but also opens up a long-gone set of circumstances and relationships, to reward the survivors with new insights. There is something here for all tastes and every time you dip into this collection, you will find something to entertain and delight."
OLIVE STADLER |
