An End of Troubles : A Review of 4 Short Stories from the 10-Story Anthology book
I just finished reading four short stories from the book ‘An End of Troubles: An Anthology from History Through Fiction'
The titles of the four stories I will be reviewing from the book are: Mrs. Price by Jeanine Boulay, Those Bereaved by Candace Simar, The Blood Stone of Shiva by A.K. McCutcheon, and When Things Collapse by Anna L. Deh. They’re all set in different times and places, each story offers a distinct glimpse into the past, yet their messages remain surprisingly relevant.
Mrs. Price by Jeanine Boulay
This short is set in 1930s New York City, during the Great Depression, and it’s a powerful portrayal of what life was like back then. What really stood out to me was the way the author explored themes of identity, relationships, and resilience through the story of Shirley Price, a young woman navigating the challenges of the Great Depression. Her journey is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to persevere, even in the toughest of times. The characters in this novel are so well-developed and relatable. I appreciated reading about Shirley grow and learn as she navigated the challenges of her life.
My final comment: I’m still thinking about “Mrs. Price” days after finishing it. There’s something about this short story that just stayed with me. I think it’s because the author does such a great job of bringing the past to life, you really feel like you’re experiencing the Great Depression alongside Shirley. If you’re looking for a historical fiction story that will sweep you up and keep you turning the pages, ‘Mrs. Price’ is a great choice.
Those Bereaved by Candace Simar
I just finished reading “Those Bereaved” and I’m still trying to process the emotions that came flooding back. The protagonist Verdie’s story is one of heartbreak and loss, but also of hope and resilience.
What really stood out to me was the way the author explored the complexities of grief. It’s not always easy to read, but it’s real, and that’s what makes Verdie’s journey so powerful. She’s not just a character, she’s a person, with all the flaws and strengths that come with being human
and the supporting characters? They’re just as well-developed and relatable.
My final comment: “Those Bereaved” is a beautiful and emotional short that will resonate deeply with anyone who’s experienced loss or hardship. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you finish reading, and one that will make you think about the people and experiences that shape our lives.
The Blood Stone of Shiva by A.K. McCutcheon
This short is a masterful blend of historical fact and fiction, set against the vibrant backdrop of colonial India and post-World War I England.
I liked how the author made the past feel so real. The characters are so well-developed and nuanced, with complex motivations and conflicts that make them feel utterly real. Regarding the story itself? It’s a thought-provoking exploration of colonialism and cultural appropriation, with no easy answers or simplistic solutions.
The writing in this short is simply beautiful. The author’s descriptions of the landscapes and cultures of colonial India are so evocative, I felt like I was right there with the characters, experiencing the sights and sounds of a bygone era.
My final comment: “The Blood Stone of Shiva” is a truly exceptional story that will appeal to anyone who loves historical fiction, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. What I think really sets this story apart is its ability to balance suspense with deeper questions about identity and morality. It’s a short that will keep you up late at night, turning pages and wondering what happens next. If you’re looking for a great story that will transport you to another time and place, “The Blood Stone of Shiva” is an absolute must-read.
When Things Collapse by Anna L. Deh
I’m still trying to process the experience. This novel is a haunting portrayal of life in a crumbling Soviet Union, told through the eyes of Alona, a young woman navigating the desperate landscape of Moscow.
What struck me most was the way the author explored the complexities of human nature. Alona’s struggles to maintain her sense of self and morality in the face of overwhelming adversity. About the writing? It’s visceral and evocative, with vivid descriptions of the harsh winter landscape and the desperation that grips the city.
One of the things that impressed me most was the way the author balanced the personal and the political. You get a real sense of how the collapse of the Soviet Union affected the lives of ordinary people, particularly the women and children.
My final comment: “When Things Collapse” is a short that will stay with me for a long time. It’s a powerful exploration of the human condition, and it’s not always easy to read, but it’s worth it. If you’re interested in historical fiction, literary fiction, or just great storytelling, I highly recommend checking this one out.
An End of Troubles: An Anthology from History Through Fiction. This exceptional collection of short stories is an absolute must-read. You can purchase the book directly here
