Missing Possibilities, a compelling anthology of short stories penned by Jaime Balboa, canvasses an array of genres, each breathing life into its distinctive cast of characters.

Four stories rise above the rest, leaving an indelible mark on me: “Missing Possibilities,” “The Haiku Muse,” “The Gift of Tongues,” and “Lazarus Wept.”

“Missing Possibilities” introduces Emma, a woman on an earnest quest to find someone she has known all her life. Her journey poses an intriguing question: will she reunite with this significant figure from her past?

“The Haiku Muse” unveils the tale of a prodigious young boy, leaving the reader to wonder, will fortune favor his extraordinary abilities?

“The Gift of Tongues” ventures into an unexplored narrative of a unique individual carrying a potent secret. The suspense grows as we question if he will liberate himself from the shadows of his concealed reality.

In “Lazarus Wept,” we are presented with an intriguing conundrum: Lazarus has been resurrected, but does this second life truly bring him joy?

The refreshing diversity within this collection is a testament to Balboa’s ability to keep readers on their toes, as they never quite know what to expect from one story to the next. The fact that some of these stories first garnered acclaim elsewhere before being compiled in this anthology serves to underline Balboa’s recognized writing prowess, which is impressive.

What sets this collection apart is its character-centric narrative, with each story driven by compelling personalities. Emma, from “Missing Possibilities,” embodies determination as she tirelessly searches for a missing loved one. Maximiliano, the protagonist of “The Gift of Tongues,” is written with a rich depth; his humility in the face of extraordinary power adds an intriguing layer to the story. These distinctive characterizations, combined with well-paced narratives and fitting settings, make each story a delightful reading experience.

The uniqueness of the stories, their character-driven narratives, and the oscillation between gritty realism and intense suspense all combine to create an unquenchable thirst for more. Balboa’s Missing Possibilities stands as a vivid testament to the power of compelling short story writing.

Pages: 180 | ISBN : 1639888551