- Source: Review Copy
- Pages: 160
- Publisher: Notion Press
- Publication Date: 6 February 2020
- My Rating: 5 stars
A fresh and relevant contemporary short story collection that can be enjoyed by anyone!
First of all, I have to commend the cover designer of this book for creating such a simple and striking cover. When the cover of a book instantly intrigues you and makes you excited to read the book even before you read the synopsis, I think it is worth mentioning.
The first story was a surprise. I was not expecting the author to start with a topic I don’t see often in books —the reality of social media influencers as well as the people who are addicted to watching them.
The story “Murder at Moonlight Cafe” was an engaging and clever story. I was in awe at how the author managed to create a well-thought-out mystery in such a short length. I also liked the angle of the inspector’s wife in it. The author did the mystery element in the book really well and I wouldn’t mind reading a full-length novel of this genre by her in the future. “Mariam’s Tears” was one of the most unique stories I had ever read.
All stories are quite different from each other and very unique. I did not find any of them commonplace. And because of this, I can imagine how much research must have been put in each story as they all had a different setting, plot, narrative and even different genres.
However, in a few stories, a common theme was to show the reality behind all the facades we put up. What you see is never the full story. Also, following your passion may be far from what you dreamed of. People may think you are having the time of your life, but that is far from the truth. The author did an amazing job of showing this.
All these stories were so incredibly real that it made me realize how delusional we all are.
In such a short book, the author manages to encompass in her stories mental illness, childhood trauma and abuse, a murder mystery and many other things. She talks about things that are not talked about often with fascinating stories that are extremely well-written. Dash is a writer who keenly observes things and then creates magic with her words. I cannot wait to read more of her writings in the future.
