Today’s book review is on Sarah Brentyn’s – Hinting at Shadows. Admittedly, I don’t write flash fiction myself, but because I enjoy this author’s writing I was tempted to check out her book and I’m glad I did.  I enjoyed it very much because of the subject matter which although fiction, was a compelling read because the messages left from each story were relatable to real life issues.

 

 

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Blurb:

 

No One Escapes Life Unscathed

Delve into the deeper reaches of the human condition and the darkness that lives there.

A girl haunted by her sister’s drowning. A boy desperate for his father’s affection. A woman forced to make a devastating decision. A man trapped by his obsessions.

Experience tales of love, loss, murder, and madness through this collection of flash and micro fiction.

Take a peek behind the smile of a stranger. Get a glimpse inside the heart of a friend. Scratch the surface and discover what is hidden beneath.

These stories will open your mind, tug at your thoughts, and allow you to explore the possibility that, even in the brightest moments, something is Hinting at Shadows.

Each selection is approximately 100 words, with a bonus section of Microbursts in which each story is told in 50 words or less.

 

My 5 Star Review:

 

Sarah Brentyn is a master at micro-fiction. Her stories written in short 100 words or less don’t require more words, but leave us in deep contemplation. The power of words in small micro-bursts have the ability to reveal a whole story open to the reader’s interpretation.

 

All Brentyn’s stories reveal a human element reflecting many emotions from fear, abuse, trust, passion, hope and more.

 

Just a sampling here will demonstrate that although short, this book will give a reader reason to pause and digest these bite-sized chunks of life:

 

‘They said, “if you talk about it, it will set you free.” She told them. They locked her up.‘

“Eventually we learned that his rage was preferable when he lashed out. His silence meant a storm grew within him. And we would pay.”

‘The doctors say insomnia and prescription pills. I say “writer” and pick up a pen.’

 

Hinting at Shadows is a wonderful, thought-provoking, psychological read about the human condition.