Blog Archives
Taboo: Stories That Can’t Be Told
Taboo is an anthology of personal and raw stories that address topics often shrouded in silence, ranging from cultural expectations and personal identity to societal taboos around wealth, health, and trauma. Compiled by Sierra Melcher and published by Red Thread Publishing, this collection is as much a testimony to human resilience as it is a call to break the silences that confine us. Each chapter tackles a different taboo, such as sexual assault, financial independence, and menopause, offering readers a lens into struggles that are both deeply personal and universally resonant.
One of the book’s strongest suits is its unapologetically honest tone. In Roje Khalique’s chapter, The Power of Not Fitting In, I was moved by her recounting of growing up amidst racial tension and classism in 1980s East London. Her reflections on how societal biases diminished her self-worth are gut-wrenching yet hopeful as she transforms rejection into a source of empowerment. The nuanced way Khalique connects her personal experience to larger systemic issues made me pause and reflect on the pervasive nature of bias and resilience.
Jess Bryan’s Soulful Wealth takes a bold and practical approach to discussing money. Bryan’s honesty about breaking generational money taboos and her own transformative journey of grief struck a chord in me. Her idea of “soulful wealth,” where finances align with personal fulfillment, feels both revolutionary and accessible.
Bianka Kuhn-Thompson’s essay on menopause, Howling at the Moon, deserves special mention. This chapter educates and empowers, reframing menopause as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Her narrative is laced with humor and tenderness as she recounts her wife’s battle with cancer and its unexpected journey through induced menopause. The vulnerability in her storytelling left me feeling connected to the text, and her practical tips on reframing discomfort into empowerment were refreshing.
Taboo is intense, evocative, and deeply emotional. While the rawness is a strength, it can also overwhelm readers who are not prepared for the depth of vulnerability shared. That said, this book is a gift for those seeking connection in shared humanity, especially readers ready to challenge societal norms and explore their own unspoken truths.
pages: 144 | ASIN: B0DP3FQRPG
Adventures are Everywhere: Short Stories for the Explorer at Heart
Adventures Are Everywhere by Elizabeth Horst is a collection of whimsical short stories that invite readers to step into a world where exploration, courage, and curiosity rule the day. With each short story, the book takes readers on journeys that range from daring escapades to introspective adventures. The overarching theme encourages readers to embrace their inner explorer, whether that means seeking physical adventures or discovering new perspectives on life. Each story, with its unique tone and setting, adds to the mosaic of exploration and discovery that defines the book.
One of the highlights of Horst’s writing is her ability to create vivid scenes and compelling characters. For instance, in “Robbery at Doonesville,” the small-town setting comes alive through meticulous descriptions, and characters like the opportunistic Frederick and Oscar inject both humor and tension into the story. Their antics during the church heist made me laugh, especially the moment they brazenly paraded out with the poor box. It was as if I could hear the collective gasp of the congregation. The blend of suspense and comedy in this tale is great, showing Horst’s knack for pacing and tone.
The variety in the collection is another strength, though it does lead to a bit of unevenness. While “The Gold Maps of Adamsville” hooked me with its layered characters and a thrilling treasure hunt, some of the quieter stories, like “The Young Fellow and the Hermit,” felt less engaging by comparison. “The Gold Maps of Adamsville” struck a perfect balance between action and introspection as the two scheming friends, Pete and Robert, unravel their partnership over greed. Their misadventures and betrayals kept me flipping pages, eager to see who would outwit whom.
Horst’s writing shines brightest when she delves into the human condition. “Night Journey to Sanity’s End” was a standout in this regard, as it explores themes of mental resilience and community. The protagonist’s harrowing yet poignant journey struck a chord with me, leaving me reflective. Her knack for balancing emotional depth with storytelling flair elevates this particular story into something memorable.
Adventures Are Everywhere is a delightful read that is perfect for those who love variety and are willing to embrace stories that range from humorous capers to philosophical musings. Elizabeth Horst’s knack for creating immersive worlds and flawed and relatable characters makes this collection worth exploring. I’d especially recommend it to fans of short stories who enjoy themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the unexpected twists of human nature.
Pages: 179 | ASIN: B0D2Q43FNQ
One Musician’s Love Letter
Curse of the Maestro and Other Stories features a collection of stories centered the Stonehaven Symphony Orchestra and its bizarre and enthralling history. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating stories in this book?
I suppose you could think of Curse of the Maestro and Other Stories as one musician’s love letter to the American symphony orchestra. But after decades performing as a violinist and concertmaster for a number of groups around the country in real life myself, let’s just say there were also axes to grind. Certainly, any time you get 50 passionate young artists together on a stage, sparks are bound to fly.
What were some of your inspirations as a writer?
A lot of times, I’m inspired by basically nothing. Things that don’t really even exist – because I like the idea of writing in a way I’ve never read before. That said, for Curse of the Maestro, the various formats and voices we all see every day in mundane letters, texts, even legal documents, they’ve got some pretty funny possibilities too.
What story in this collection did you have the most fun writing?
The first, Curse of the Maestro, kind of cracks me up. Even Gingerbread Man was such a unique challenge… it certainly is for the reader. Really, all of the characters, the different speaking voices, amused me because it felt like I was progressively encountering people I did not know.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Hah! You know, I’m supposed to be a musician. I gotta get back to practicing!
Author Links: Amazon | Website
Fearless readers will embark upon an almost archaeological excavation of these artifacts, searching for clues to uncover answers to questions they did not know they had:
Did Romeo and Juliet really text each other?
How did Lil Skank end up overdosing on stage?
And will the young explorer ever discover a maestro’s secrets?
Trials and Tribulations: A Collection of Flash Fiction Stories Volume III
Trials and Tribulations: A Collection of Flash Fiction Stories Volume III is an intriguing anthology of short stories that weave together themes of human endurance, love, sacrifice, and the unpredictability of life. Each chapter takes readers into a distinct vignette, ranging from historical dramas like “The New World” to contemporary reflections such as “AI Bot Gone Wrong.” The stories explore moments of vulnerability and resilience, making them accessible yet thought-provoking. Despite being compact in nature, the tales resonate with emotional depth and invite readers to ponder life’s trials.
I appreciated the writing’s ability to convey deep emotion in so few words. For instance, the story “The Disabled Veteran” beautifully captures the harrowing aftermath of war. The protagonist, Brandon, struggles with PTSD, and moments like his silent breakdown during a seemingly ordinary picnic are powerfully rendered. You can feel the weight of his memories pressing through the pages. I felt that some descriptions, such as the repetitious mention of explosions, felt slightly redundant and could have been condensed for greater impact.
Another standout story, “Don’t Cross the Road,” blends suspense with an emotional payoff. Agatha’s tense exploration of an eerie house kept me on edge, and the unexpected family reconciliation added a touching dimension. The pacing was mostly solid, but the inclusion of supernatural hints left me wanting either more closure or a deeper exploration of those elements. The premise of a possessive AI was intriguing in “AI Bot Gone Wrong” and was even a little chilling. The humor and absurdity of the situation added charm, and I found myself both amused and disturbed by Jenny’s vengeful antics.
Trials and Tribulations: A Collection of Flash Fiction Stories Volume III is perfect for readers who enjoy brief yet impactful storytelling. Each tale has its unique tone, from historical intrigue to modern cautionary tales, making it a versatile read. I’d recommend it to fans of short fiction who appreciate a mix of drama, suspense, and emotional grit.
Pages: 56 | ASIN: B0DMSW8XDF
Beautiful Relationships
Beautiful Relationships by Milind Kulkarni offers a heartfelt collection of seven short stories, each delving into the complexities and warmth of human connections. These fictional tales don’t depict real people or events but capture the timeless and familiar dynamics we all experience. Kulkarni’s work reads like a love letter to the significant people in our lives, gently reminding us of the power of kindness and the impact of relationships that shape us.
Among the collection, Foster Son stands out as a particularly moving piece. This story resonated with me deeply, portraying the selflessness of a young boy inspired by the compassion of his parents. It paints a vivid and all-too-real picture of a child at school who struggles with hunger due to his family’s financial hardships. Many of us have witnessed such scenarios or felt that pang of empathy for a friend in need. Kulkarni beautifully illustrates how a single act of kindness can blossom into a friendship that changes both lives, encouraging growth and inspiring hope. It’s a reminder of how simple gestures can transform hearts and lead to enduring bonds. Kulkarni’s collection speaks to universal truths. Each story imparts a moral lesson, something that feels increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world. Through his narratives, he emphasizes the shared experiences that connect us all, regardless of background or origin. There’s a sense of nostalgia and gentle wisdom in his writing, as though he’s rekindling values we may have forgotten. His stories remind us that at our core, we’re all shaped by the same joys and struggles that make us profoundly human.
Beautiful Relationships is a quick, comforting read, perfect for anyone seeking warmth and a touch of hope. As the winter cold creeps in, this book feels like a cozy blanket for the soul, a collection that will make you want to reach out to loved ones and share its uplifting messages. You’ll likely find yourself eager to pass it along, sparking conversations and kindness. It’s a read you won’t regret, and its heartfelt themes will linger with you long after you turn the last page.
Pages: 124 | ASIN : B0BWDLPRTB
Sinister Stories and Twisted Tales: The Ultimate Anthology of Sci-Fi & Cosmic Horror
Sinister Stories and Twisted Tales delivers an electrifying collection of cosmic horror and darkly imaginative short stories. Fourteen haunting narratives come to life within these pages, weaving a spell of terror and fascination. From a little boy who encounters a deceptively innocent yet malevolent dog on his birthday to a father driven to desperation in a realm of dark trade and a young girl fighting to escape sacrifice in a dystopian world, the tales plunge deep into the human psyche.
Author Anthony Abraham’s writing has an eerie tone that is skillfully employed, keeping readers enthralled and teetering on the edge of their seats. His storytelling is infused with suspense and dread. The author’s skill lies not only in crafting vivid and terrifying plots but also in his ability to give each story a unique voice while maintaining an interconnected universe that binds the anthology together.
The variety in this collection is remarkable. Abraham seamlessly navigates through genres like sci-fi, cosmic horror, philosophy, and dystopia, ensuring there’s something to unsettle every reader. Yet, the real brilliance is in how each story connects to the next, creating a tapestry of terror that is as cohesive as it is unpredictable.
Characters come alive with depth, from compelling protagonists to memorable side characters. Each conversation is sharp and purposefully written. World-building is intricate but never overwhelming, striking a balance that leaves room for the imagination to fill in the dark corners. A unique feature of this anthology is the inclusion of video links, which elevate the reading experience. These multimedia elements add another layer of immersion, drawing readers even deeper into Abraham’s twisted universe. The result is a sensory experience that is both thrilling and unsettling.
With mind-bending twists and heart-stopping surprises, Sinister Stories and Twisted Tales is a horrifying adventure that challenges boundaries. Abraham succeeds in building fourteen distinct worlds that are well-paced and spellbinding. His anthology stands out as a must-read for horror enthusiasts and those looking for an immersive experience in the dark corners of fiction.
Pages: 222 | ASIN: B0D2S3Y62N
STRAUSS’S SOLILOQUY – a collection of stories
Strauss’s Soliloquy by Aleksa Dukanovic opens with a strangely captivating exploration of what may have happened to the body of famed novelist Nikolai Gogol, drawing readers immediately into a world where history and fiction meld seamlessly. We’re next transported to Franz Kafka’s deathbed, witnessing the profound musings of the iconic Czech writer as he reflects on his life’s end. Later, we uncover unsettling details about Adolf Hitler’s medical history. Though a clear thematic thread may be elusive, the dreamlike tone permeates every story, and journeying through Dukanovic’s mind is an experience akin to exploring uncharted literary territory.
This excellent collection of stories, originally written in Serbian and translated into English, demonstrates a deep literary pedigree. Readers familiar with Camus or Kafka will find echoes of their existential musings here, while Dukanovic’s prose has a Nabokovian wit reminiscent of Pale Fire. Each tale, though brief, bears the weight of immense ideas, immersing readers in a world that feels familiar and strange. The kind of place where philosophical pondering meets surreal landscapes.
While short stories are often considered a lost art in contemporary literature, author Aleksa Đukanović defies this trend with flair. These pieces are eccentric, occasionally offbeat, perhaps in part due to the translation, yet this rendition seems only to intensify the potency of his vision. The translation enhances, rather than diminishes, the charm of these tales. Dukanovic’s unique, fluid, and contemplative voice is felt clearly despite any linguistic barriers.
These stories lack traditional narratives, which might challenge some readers early on. However, for those who persist, treasures await. Midway through, “Nosferatu – A Symphony of Horrors: The Undead Max Shrek” emerges as a haunting highlight, a story as eerie as it is riveting.
Strauss’s Soliloquy offers an extraordinary reading experience that transcends genre and defies easy categorization. But I think these tales aren’t meant to be figured out. They’re best appreciated as spellbinding snapshots of Dukanovic’s surreal and exotic imagination. Readers who delight in unconventional fiction, where meaning unfolds in waves, will relish this collection’s strange magic.
LITERARY TITAN 