Since hockey season is over (for Nashville) I am spending my summer doing various activities that happens to make the hot weather seem not so bad. One of my favorite things to do is catch up with old friends, and I have been able to do quite a bit of that over the past few weeks. I happen to have an old friend that writes short stories, and I have decided to do a review on one of his pieces. I usually chat with him at least weekly, so he has been able to update me on his newest publications.
First, about the author. Michael Reynolds writes in several genres, and I am currently reviewing a horror short story by the name of The Sweater. I have always known Michael to have many talents. Michael is incredibly musically inclined, has written excellent poetry, and even wrestled in high school. Since I am familiar with previous publications, I would almost recommend this short before even reading it. This, however, would do Michael a great disservice, so my review will be brutally honest. I am going to avoid a summary, and will include my opinions on the piece. As always, my opinions are what they are.
I find favor in this publication because of its genre. Horror stories have sparked my interest from childhood, and I fondly remember forcing myself to watch creepy movies back in the 80's. The story has two main characters, Tom and Anne, who are a young, almost poor couple that seems to be happy to simply be alive and together. They live their lives, work, play, and exist together. To me, they seem to be the type that may not be able to make it on their own. Together, they are much more than complete. Through a series of simple everyday choices that you or I would make without a second thought, terror strikes, and a happy couple is no longer so giddy.
What I enjoyed:
The structure of this short story is very interesting to me. I really enjoyed how the supporting characters were introduced. The flow seemed to be perfect when other people came into play. Supporting roles slowly mesh into the back ground as if they were a slowly changing scene in a live production. The attention is on Tom and Anne, and yet there is a presence that little by little forms another character. I also found favor in a couple of little things in this story that don't stand out quite as much. The length of this story is spot on. More information would have only confused the reader in my opinion. The amount of mystery in the story adds to the entertainment value. While I always enjoy trying to figure out what is going on, in this case I also enjoyed being left with a few questions. Being able to add to the story by using my own imagination ensures good entertainment for me.
What I would change:
Do understand that I am in no form claiming that I could have done a better job. The author is a personal friend and while my comments are not meant to be offensive to him, I believe that he would in fact be offended if I only offered a half rate review. With that said...
I have a slight issue with the first four paragraphs. I do understand their purpose, as they are vital to the story and the characters. The flow in the introduction seems to be interrupted...as if the engine needs to be choked. A couple of sentences appear to be chopped, and it could just...be edited. Notice that I said "slight issue". In paragraph five, the story smooths out and floats right along to the end.
Would I recommend this short story? Yes, I am recommending it, and I'll even clue you all in on where to pick up a copy.
The Sweater can be purchased from Amazon, and is in a Kindle only format. For all of you iPhone users, the Kindle application is free and easy to find. The cost to order the short is a mere $0.99, and can be charged through your existing Amazon account. I am going to include the Amazon link, and also a link to the author's blog. Happy reading!
http://www.amazon.com/The-Sweater-ebook/dp/B0053Y1T9O/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1
http://midreynolds.blogspot.com/
You can also follow Michael on twitter: @m_d_reynolds
Thank you for such a great review. I think you have it spot on.
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