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Recommend this book:
Last Moments
The Dark Shadows of Protest in Iran
Hirbod Human
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
Last Moments by Hirbod Human is a collection of six short stories based on true accounts of the treatment of dissidents in Iran under an oppressive regime. Human, an Iranian, now lives in the United States and, as an artist, hopes to raise awareness of the cruelty and oppression against those Iranians who have refused to obey. The first story is about a young girl arrested at the airport; we assume she is trying to escape, but we are not told that. The second story is of a young man taken before a firing squad with five others, but is then returned to his cell for further torture. Rojan is heavily pregnant and wants to meet her husband, who is being released from jail, but we then discover he will never return. Hamed is killed in his car, stuck in a traffic jam in broad daylight. We have no idea why. He thinks there may have been another uprising, but he was not involved. We read of his last moments from the point of view of his wife and mother at home as they see Hamed being killed. In a hospital, a doctor tries to save a sixteen-year-old girl named Sanaz who has been blinded by soldiers intent on dragging her away.
Last Moments: The Dark Shadows of Protest in Iran documents tales of oppressed people in Iran, those who oppose the current regime, which brutally puts down any opposition. The author documents the truth for those unaware of the realities and as a historical record for future generations. This is an important anthology as it raises awareness of man’s horrendous inhumanity to man. While ordinary people suffer, so many turn away and pretend nothing is wrong. This is a soul-searing book, and it shakes the reader to the core. Hirbod Human has changed the real names of the victims, but we feel and weep for each one of them. In these stories, the reader is left to fill in the gaps, the crimes the victims are purported to have committed, the reasons for arrest and torture, and the descriptions of the armed soldiers who are so young and so brutal. This is a read to make you think, raise awareness, and remember all those who suffer because they struggled against tyranny and injustice.
Last Moments by Hirbod Human is a collection of six short stories based on true accounts of the treatment of dissidents in Iran under an oppressive regime. Human, an Iranian, now lives in the United States and, as an artist, hopes to raise awareness of the cruelty and oppression against those Iranians who have refused to obey. The first story is about a young girl arrested at the airport; we assume she is trying to escape, but we are not told that. The second story is of a young man taken before a firing squad with five others, but is then returned to his cell for further torture. Rojan is heavily pregnant and wants to meet her husband, who is being released from jail, but we then discover he will never return. Hamed is killed in his car, stuck in a traffic jam in broad daylight. We have no idea why. He thinks there may have been another uprising, but he was not involved. We read of his last moments from the point of view of his wife and mother at home as they see Hamed being killed. In a hospital, a doctor tries to save a sixteen-year-old girl named Sanaz who has been blinded by soldiers intent on dragging her away.
Last Moments: The Dark Shadows of Protest in Iran documents tales of oppressed people in Iran, those who oppose the current regime, which brutally puts down any opposition. The author documents the truth for those unaware of the realities and as a historical record for future generations. This is an important anthology as it raises awareness of man’s horrendous inhumanity to man. While ordinary people suffer, so many turn away and pretend nothing is wrong. This is a soul-searing book, and it shakes the reader to the core. Hirbod Human has changed the real names of the victims, but we feel and weep for each one of them. In these stories, the reader is left to fill in the gaps, the crimes the victims are purported to have committed, the reasons for arrest and torture, and the descriptions of the armed soldiers who are so young and so brutal. This is a read to make you think, raise awareness, and remember all those who suffer because they struggled against tyranny and injustice.
Recommend this book:
I'm Yours
Carolyn Menke
2026 Honorable Mention
98 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
I’m Yours by Carolyn Menke introduces readers to Audrey, a young woman navigating love, ambition, and uncertainty in a world shaped by performance and desire. The story begins with Edward’s restless search for Audrey, who is torn between two paths, one grounded in her relationship with Edward and the other tied to her aspirations in the theater. The narrative shifts between moments of intimacy and scenes filled with music, conversation, and anticipation, offering insight into Audrey’s inner conflict. Her interactions with Stella and Edward reveal different sides of her character, from vulnerability to determination. The unfolding events suggest a story molded by decisions that may alter the course of her future. Through these early developments, Menke establishes a world where relationships, dreams, and identity intersect.
Carolyn Menke blends lyrical passages with dialogue-driven scenes, creating a rhythm that mirrors the characters’ emotional changes. Menke uses sensory details, such as music, lighting, and movement, to create atmosphere, especially in scenes in performance spaces and social gatherings. Dialogue is used effectively to reveal the character dynamics, with conversations often carrying subtext that hints at deeper motivations. The use of alternating perspectives and internal thoughts gives readers a closer look at Audrey’s mindset, highlighting her uncertainty and ambition. Literary elements such as the contrast between stability and risk, along with the symbolic use of performance to reflect identity, enrich the storytelling. Readers who enjoy character-focused narratives and stories centered on relationships and personal choices will find much to appreciate. I’m Yours will appeal to readers who enjoy authors like Taylor Jenkins Reid, particularly in the way personal ambition and emotional connection are woven together.
I’m Yours by Carolyn Menke introduces readers to Audrey, a young woman navigating love, ambition, and uncertainty in a world shaped by performance and desire. The story begins with Edward’s restless search for Audrey, who is torn between two paths, one grounded in her relationship with Edward and the other tied to her aspirations in the theater. The narrative shifts between moments of intimacy and scenes filled with music, conversation, and anticipation, offering insight into Audrey’s inner conflict. Her interactions with Stella and Edward reveal different sides of her character, from vulnerability to determination. The unfolding events suggest a story molded by decisions that may alter the course of her future. Through these early developments, Menke establishes a world where relationships, dreams, and identity intersect.
Carolyn Menke blends lyrical passages with dialogue-driven scenes, creating a rhythm that mirrors the characters’ emotional changes. Menke uses sensory details, such as music, lighting, and movement, to create atmosphere, especially in scenes in performance spaces and social gatherings. Dialogue is used effectively to reveal the character dynamics, with conversations often carrying subtext that hints at deeper motivations. The use of alternating perspectives and internal thoughts gives readers a closer look at Audrey’s mindset, highlighting her uncertainty and ambition. Literary elements such as the contrast between stability and risk, along with the symbolic use of performance to reflect identity, enrich the storytelling. Readers who enjoy character-focused narratives and stories centered on relationships and personal choices will find much to appreciate. I’m Yours will appeal to readers who enjoy authors like Taylor Jenkins Reid, particularly in the way personal ambition and emotional connection are woven together.
Recommend this book:
The Bubble Reputation
Alex Craigie
2026 Bronze Medal
143 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Stephen Christopher for Readers' Favorite
Ursula Bloom is the editor of a gutter rag with flagging sales. Desperate to have a win, she decides to print a fake news story about celebrity children’s author Emmie Hobson. The story starts small: a doctored image of an overweight child who died 30 years ago is linked to an incident that didn’t happen. The newspaper accuses Emmie of fat-shaming the boy. The story goes viral, and people come out of the woodwork to provide more false tales about her. Along the way, she loses her spot on a TV series, almost breaks up with her boyfriend, and her book deal is canceled. Is there any possible way she can escape from these untrue stories and reclaim her life? Find out in Alex Craigie’s The Bubble Reputation.
Social media in the second half of the 2020s has a lot to answer for. The Bubble Reputation is a realistic look at how easy it is to destroy a person’s career with a single false story or comment. There are back-stabbing co-workers, ex-high-school classmates, and even a drug-addicted sister all adding fuel to the fire. The way it spirals out of control is a clear jab at the damage the current use of social media can cause. Emmie’s story isn’t unique, and incidents like these happen every day. While the reader wants this to end amicably, is it ever really possible? I applaud Alex Craigie for writing The Bubble Reputation; if just one gutter journalist or social media troll learns a lesson from this novel, then she’s done her job spectacularly.
Ursula Bloom is the editor of a gutter rag with flagging sales. Desperate to have a win, she decides to print a fake news story about celebrity children’s author Emmie Hobson. The story starts small: a doctored image of an overweight child who died 30 years ago is linked to an incident that didn’t happen. The newspaper accuses Emmie of fat-shaming the boy. The story goes viral, and people come out of the woodwork to provide more false tales about her. Along the way, she loses her spot on a TV series, almost breaks up with her boyfriend, and her book deal is canceled. Is there any possible way she can escape from these untrue stories and reclaim her life? Find out in Alex Craigie’s The Bubble Reputation.
Social media in the second half of the 2020s has a lot to answer for. The Bubble Reputation is a realistic look at how easy it is to destroy a person’s career with a single false story or comment. There are back-stabbing co-workers, ex-high-school classmates, and even a drug-addicted sister all adding fuel to the fire. The way it spirals out of control is a clear jab at the damage the current use of social media can cause. Emmie’s story isn’t unique, and incidents like these happen every day. While the reader wants this to end amicably, is it ever really possible? I applaud Alex Craigie for writing The Bubble Reputation; if just one gutter journalist or social media troll learns a lesson from this novel, then she’s done her job spectacularly.
Recommend this book:
The Illuminated
Alexander Semenyuk
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Bryone Peters for Readers' Favorite
The Illuminated by Alexander Semenyuk is about a man born in a post-apocalyptic world and his dog, Toko. They brave a long journey in a world where humans are mostly extinct, and wild, mutated creatures exist. The protagonist’s family all succumbed to diseases or attacks from beasts. After living alone for five years with only his dog for company, the protagonist decides he needs to leave the safety of his shelter and home. He wants to see the ocean hundreds of miles away. Together, he and his dog travel through perilous locations, taking only a compass and a map with them. The ocean is within their reach, but will they make it there alive? Now, precious time is running out. Will they survive the creatures?
The Illuminated by Alexander Semenyuk is a gloomy, chilling, and haunting story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The backstory and the events leading up to the present-day setting were excellent. Alexander builds up the suspension fantastically with subtle action scenes. My heart was pounding the whole way through the protagonist’s journey. The scenes change swiftly from a desert canyon to the cave to the farm, and more. The plot was plausible and sounded like a trip any human might think of doing under those circumstances. The narrative offers a good balance of chilling and calm scenes in a memorable story that will not easily be forgotten. I finished it in one sitting. It was that good.
The Illuminated by Alexander Semenyuk is about a man born in a post-apocalyptic world and his dog, Toko. They brave a long journey in a world where humans are mostly extinct, and wild, mutated creatures exist. The protagonist’s family all succumbed to diseases or attacks from beasts. After living alone for five years with only his dog for company, the protagonist decides he needs to leave the safety of his shelter and home. He wants to see the ocean hundreds of miles away. Together, he and his dog travel through perilous locations, taking only a compass and a map with them. The ocean is within their reach, but will they make it there alive? Now, precious time is running out. Will they survive the creatures?
The Illuminated by Alexander Semenyuk is a gloomy, chilling, and haunting story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The backstory and the events leading up to the present-day setting were excellent. Alexander builds up the suspension fantastically with subtle action scenes. My heart was pounding the whole way through the protagonist’s journey. The scenes change swiftly from a desert canyon to the cave to the farm, and more. The plot was plausible and sounded like a trip any human might think of doing under those circumstances. The narrative offers a good balance of chilling and calm scenes in a memorable story that will not easily be forgotten. I finished it in one sitting. It was that good.
Recommend this book:
Son of Osivirius
Found family, telepathic cats, and a slow-burn anti-colonial hopepunk adventure
Cathryn deVries
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite
Son of Osivirius by Cathryn deVries tells the fascinating story of a new world torn between two human factions living on the recently colonized planet, Osivirius: The Colony, ruled by Commander Tun, and the rebels, a smaller group of agrarian-minded people who have hidden themselves among the Masu, giant winged cats native to Osivirius. Tun offers a reward to find the rebels. Jayden, a young pilot, sees a chance of getting his family out of "Wormsville," the ultimate slum section of Osivirius. But Jayden crashes near the rebels' hideout. Nettle, a staunch opponent of the Colony, and her brother Flint discover Jayden. As Flint works hard to nurse Jayden back to health, Nettle struggles with her feelings for Jayden. Jayden, healing and longing for his family, plots to use the Masu to take him home, but his feelings for Nettle and the rebels as a group lead him to a new plan: instead of "escaping" the rebels, he could bring his family to the rebels.
Cathryn deVries has written one of the best, if not THE best dystopian sci-fi fantasy novellas I've read in a very long time. Son of Osivirius is world-building done right, with exceptional characterizations of protagonists, antagonists, and the fantastic Masu flying cats. I can't recall if I've ever read a story in which the leading characters provide first-person accounts in alternating chapters, the effect of which is to give exceptional clarity into the characters' thoughts, emotions, conflicts, and decisions. The slow romantic development between Jayden and Nettle, Jayden's struggle to decide whether to escape the rebel community and return to his family, his feelings for Nettle, the rebel community, and his own amazing Masu partner, Shana, are true to life in their depth of emotion and in the associated real-life, everyday experiences that require hard decisions among competitive choices.
Son of Osivirius by Cathryn deVries tells the fascinating story of a new world torn between two human factions living on the recently colonized planet, Osivirius: The Colony, ruled by Commander Tun, and the rebels, a smaller group of agrarian-minded people who have hidden themselves among the Masu, giant winged cats native to Osivirius. Tun offers a reward to find the rebels. Jayden, a young pilot, sees a chance of getting his family out of "Wormsville," the ultimate slum section of Osivirius. But Jayden crashes near the rebels' hideout. Nettle, a staunch opponent of the Colony, and her brother Flint discover Jayden. As Flint works hard to nurse Jayden back to health, Nettle struggles with her feelings for Jayden. Jayden, healing and longing for his family, plots to use the Masu to take him home, but his feelings for Nettle and the rebels as a group lead him to a new plan: instead of "escaping" the rebels, he could bring his family to the rebels.
Cathryn deVries has written one of the best, if not THE best dystopian sci-fi fantasy novellas I've read in a very long time. Son of Osivirius is world-building done right, with exceptional characterizations of protagonists, antagonists, and the fantastic Masu flying cats. I can't recall if I've ever read a story in which the leading characters provide first-person accounts in alternating chapters, the effect of which is to give exceptional clarity into the characters' thoughts, emotions, conflicts, and decisions. The slow romantic development between Jayden and Nettle, Jayden's struggle to decide whether to escape the rebel community and return to his family, his feelings for Nettle, the rebel community, and his own amazing Masu partner, Shana, are true to life in their depth of emotion and in the associated real-life, everyday experiences that require hard decisions among competitive choices.
Recommend this book:
The Lemon Golf Diary
An Adventure of Imagination with a Neurodivergent Heroine
Christine Foster
2025 Finalist
140 Pages
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
The Lemon Golf Diary by Christine Foster introduces readers to Rory, a neurodivergent preteen girl who is just beginning to understand how her mind differs from those around her. Told in Rory’s wonder-filled, observant first-person voice, the story blends traditional narrative with occasional diary entries that serve as snapshots of her inner life. At the heart of the story is her evolving friendship with Paige, a brilliant but domineering new classmate, whose obsession with a made-up spirit named Morgana draws Rory into a risky game of pretending and lying. Along the way, Rory tries to make sense of her father’s absence, her mother’s strained patience, and her own complicated sense of self—right down to discovering that her name isn’t short for the elegant “Aurora,” as she once believed, but simply Rory. The book gently explores themes of identity, isolation, and the yearning to feel seen and understood.
As an educator, I was struck by how well Christine Foster captures the quiet chaos of a child who experiences the world differently. Rory’s thought process—full of tangents, emotional misfires, and flashes of deep insight—feels utterly authentic. There’s a rawness in the way she observes adults, tries to decode friendship, and navigates guilt that hit me in the chest. I didn’t just read about Rory, I worried about her. I ached for her. The book is thoughtful, funny in a bittersweet way, and doesn’t feel the need to tie everything up with a bow. Instead, it offers us a glimpse into a vividly real voice trying to make sense of a world that often doesn’t make space for kids like her. The Lemon Golf Diary is a strong and sensitive work from Christine Foster, one that stays with you long after the final page.
The Lemon Golf Diary by Christine Foster introduces readers to Rory, a neurodivergent preteen girl who is just beginning to understand how her mind differs from those around her. Told in Rory’s wonder-filled, observant first-person voice, the story blends traditional narrative with occasional diary entries that serve as snapshots of her inner life. At the heart of the story is her evolving friendship with Paige, a brilliant but domineering new classmate, whose obsession with a made-up spirit named Morgana draws Rory into a risky game of pretending and lying. Along the way, Rory tries to make sense of her father’s absence, her mother’s strained patience, and her own complicated sense of self—right down to discovering that her name isn’t short for the elegant “Aurora,” as she once believed, but simply Rory. The book gently explores themes of identity, isolation, and the yearning to feel seen and understood.
As an educator, I was struck by how well Christine Foster captures the quiet chaos of a child who experiences the world differently. Rory’s thought process—full of tangents, emotional misfires, and flashes of deep insight—feels utterly authentic. There’s a rawness in the way she observes adults, tries to decode friendship, and navigates guilt that hit me in the chest. I didn’t just read about Rory, I worried about her. I ached for her. The book is thoughtful, funny in a bittersweet way, and doesn’t feel the need to tie everything up with a bow. Instead, it offers us a glimpse into a vividly real voice trying to make sense of a world that often doesn’t make space for kids like her. The Lemon Golf Diary is a strong and sensitive work from Christine Foster, one that stays with you long after the final page.
Recommend this book:
Dustoff Down
Blackout Trail
Linda Naughton
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
In Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton, a Black Hawk Medevac helicopter is brought down by an EMP during a rescue mission, crashing into a forest in the Maine wilderness. Julia Song is a flight medic, and it’s up to her to get her crew to safety, but they don’t have any way to call for help, and it doesn’t look like a rescue is an option. Together, they must put their training to good use, but can they reach civilization safely? How widespread is the outage? And will they all make it out alive?
Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton is set in post-apocalyptic America. For a short story, it goes into a lot of detail, allowing readers to experience everything that happens. It has some well-defined characters, all of whom are likable and relatable, and you’ll become invested in them as you read, from the main ones to the side characters. The plot is unique and it offers action all the way, detailing the difficulties of a routine medevac mission during an EMP attack. The plot is well thought out and highly detailed and it is clear that a lot of research has gone into getting the details right. This is an exciting read for action fans. If you like post-apocalyptic thrillers and short stories, you’ll enjoy this book. This is an easy read with a good plot and is written in a compelling way that makes you want more.
In Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton, a Black Hawk Medevac helicopter is brought down by an EMP during a rescue mission, crashing into a forest in the Maine wilderness. Julia Song is a flight medic, and it’s up to her to get her crew to safety, but they don’t have any way to call for help, and it doesn’t look like a rescue is an option. Together, they must put their training to good use, but can they reach civilization safely? How widespread is the outage? And will they all make it out alive?
Dustoff Down: Blackout Trail by Linda Naughton is set in post-apocalyptic America. For a short story, it goes into a lot of detail, allowing readers to experience everything that happens. It has some well-defined characters, all of whom are likable and relatable, and you’ll become invested in them as you read, from the main ones to the side characters. The plot is unique and it offers action all the way, detailing the difficulties of a routine medevac mission during an EMP attack. The plot is well thought out and highly detailed and it is clear that a lot of research has gone into getting the details right. This is an exciting read for action fans. If you like post-apocalyptic thrillers and short stories, you’ll enjoy this book. This is an easy read with a good plot and is written in a compelling way that makes you want more.
Recommend this book:
Lonely Worlds
Joseph Russell
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite
Lonely Worlds by Joseph Russell is a captivating short story that follows Felix Aiden Lewis, a young traveler who journeys alone across different worlds. Having been on his own for a long time, he struggles to understand the purpose of his travels. One day, while traversing a savanna plain, he is attacked but is suddenly rescued by a mysterious figure who turns out to be Hayley, another lone traveler. Deciding to join forces, Felix and Hayley set out for the fire world in response to a call that has been guiding them on their journeys. As they face various trials and leap into different realms, Felix and Hayley grow close. Along the way, they befriend Iain, a centaur, and visit the winter world, where they are pursued by fierce creatures. Ultimately, they reach their destination, discovering the reason behind their travels.
Lonely Worlds is about adventure, friendship, sacrifice, and personal growth. As Felix journeys through various apocalyptic and fantastical realms that test his resolve and morality, he transforms from a lonely traveler into a confident individual who develops his skills. The narrative draws inspiration from Joseph Russell’s own experience in climbing Kilimanjaro during a trip to Africa, imbuing the story with heartfelt authenticity and a sense of discovery that mirrors the emotional and physical challenges faced during such an endeavor. This personal connection makes Felix’s journey not only an adventure across imaginary worlds but also a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and embracing self-belief. The storytelling is a blend of intense action, emotional depth, Christian elements, and philosophical reflections, creating an engaging and thought-provoking read. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates fantasy adventures that explore themes of resilience, friendship, and growth.
Lonely Worlds by Joseph Russell is a captivating short story that follows Felix Aiden Lewis, a young traveler who journeys alone across different worlds. Having been on his own for a long time, he struggles to understand the purpose of his travels. One day, while traversing a savanna plain, he is attacked but is suddenly rescued by a mysterious figure who turns out to be Hayley, another lone traveler. Deciding to join forces, Felix and Hayley set out for the fire world in response to a call that has been guiding them on their journeys. As they face various trials and leap into different realms, Felix and Hayley grow close. Along the way, they befriend Iain, a centaur, and visit the winter world, where they are pursued by fierce creatures. Ultimately, they reach their destination, discovering the reason behind their travels.
Lonely Worlds is about adventure, friendship, sacrifice, and personal growth. As Felix journeys through various apocalyptic and fantastical realms that test his resolve and morality, he transforms from a lonely traveler into a confident individual who develops his skills. The narrative draws inspiration from Joseph Russell’s own experience in climbing Kilimanjaro during a trip to Africa, imbuing the story with heartfelt authenticity and a sense of discovery that mirrors the emotional and physical challenges faced during such an endeavor. This personal connection makes Felix’s journey not only an adventure across imaginary worlds but also a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and embracing self-belief. The storytelling is a blend of intense action, emotional depth, Christian elements, and philosophical reflections, creating an engaging and thought-provoking read. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates fantasy adventures that explore themes of resilience, friendship, and growth.
Recommend this book:
The Muse
Kurt Petrey
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The Muse by Kurt Petrey is an intriguing short story that follows an aspiring writer named Victor, who is involved in a dangerous love affair with Kim, the wife of successful author Mark Davis. Victor deliberately inserts himself into the couple's life under the pretense of seeking accommodation and mentorship. As he grapples with jealousy and insecurity, he becomes increasingly curious about Mark’s writing process, especially since most of Mark’s works are highly regarded and have been adapted into successful films. As Victor immerses himself in their world, his obsession deepens, not only concerning Kim but also regarding uncovering the secret behind Mark's literary success. Tensions rise when Mark returns from a writing trip and requests a conversation with Victor. During this conversation, Mark reveals that he writes the future through a mystical journal he refers to as his Muse. He tells Victor that each time he writes a story, the journal demands a death.
The Muse is a suspenseful tale that explores themes of obsession, creativity, and destiny. The chilling nature of the story effectively creates an atmosphere of unease, leaving the characters’ fates uncertain. With dark mystical forces seemingly at play, readers are left contemplating death, the price of ambition, and the true nature of inspiration. Can one defy fate, or is everything predetermined? The plot's complex dilemma makes readers view the drama from each character's point of view, making readers sympathize with their struggles while also questioning their morals. Kurt Petrey's writing is engaging, drawing readers into the story from the first page to the last, and his attention to detail makes every interaction feel charged with tension and significance. The Muse is a creative exploration of the fine line between ambition and obsession, and I recommend adding it to your reading list for its compelling and suspenseful narrative.
The Muse by Kurt Petrey is an intriguing short story that follows an aspiring writer named Victor, who is involved in a dangerous love affair with Kim, the wife of successful author Mark Davis. Victor deliberately inserts himself into the couple's life under the pretense of seeking accommodation and mentorship. As he grapples with jealousy and insecurity, he becomes increasingly curious about Mark’s writing process, especially since most of Mark’s works are highly regarded and have been adapted into successful films. As Victor immerses himself in their world, his obsession deepens, not only concerning Kim but also regarding uncovering the secret behind Mark's literary success. Tensions rise when Mark returns from a writing trip and requests a conversation with Victor. During this conversation, Mark reveals that he writes the future through a mystical journal he refers to as his Muse. He tells Victor that each time he writes a story, the journal demands a death.
The Muse is a suspenseful tale that explores themes of obsession, creativity, and destiny. The chilling nature of the story effectively creates an atmosphere of unease, leaving the characters’ fates uncertain. With dark mystical forces seemingly at play, readers are left contemplating death, the price of ambition, and the true nature of inspiration. Can one defy fate, or is everything predetermined? The plot's complex dilemma makes readers view the drama from each character's point of view, making readers sympathize with their struggles while also questioning their morals. Kurt Petrey's writing is engaging, drawing readers into the story from the first page to the last, and his attention to detail makes every interaction feel charged with tension and significance. The Muse is a creative exploration of the fine line between ambition and obsession, and I recommend adding it to your reading list for its compelling and suspenseful narrative.
Recommend this book:
Scarlet Birthright
What They Left Behind (The Scarlet Yearnings Collection)
Scarlet Ibis James
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Short Story/Novella
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Scarlet Ibis James brings readers an enthralling coming-of-age tale in Scarlet Birthright: What They Left Behind. The story begins in Port of Spain in 1969. Joromi Enoch is a free-spirited nineteen-year-old DJ, eager to make the most of his life. But when a summer fling with a beautiful woman threatens to derail his plans for the future, he chooses to get married and travels to New York City to start his life anew. Meanwhile, Joromi's infant daughter, Trisha, is adopted by his parents, who raise her to be an independent woman with a heart of gold. However, Trisha has abandonment issues due to her complicated relationship with her estranged father. She finds comfort in her best friend, Rishi, who, unbeknownst to Trisha, has deeper feelings for her. Will Trisha be able to mend her relationship with her father?
Scarlet Birthright follows a young woman's journey of self-discovery, navigating the ups and downs of family, love, and relationships. Scarlet Ibis James pours a lot of heart and charm into an emotionally powerful narrative that plucks at your heartstrings until the end. The author's mesmerizing descriptions of the locales of Trinidad paint a vivid portrait of Caribbean culture and heritage, making the setting feel lived-in. The characters are well-developed, layered, and complex, with realistic flaws and vulnerabilities that make them feel truly human. Trisha's inner monologues and her complex feelings toward her father will resonate with a lot of readers. Among the secondary characters, I loved Cecil and Mary. I found their relationship with their granddaughter very touching. All in all, it's a great book for readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories.
Scarlet Ibis James brings readers an enthralling coming-of-age tale in Scarlet Birthright: What They Left Behind. The story begins in Port of Spain in 1969. Joromi Enoch is a free-spirited nineteen-year-old DJ, eager to make the most of his life. But when a summer fling with a beautiful woman threatens to derail his plans for the future, he chooses to get married and travels to New York City to start his life anew. Meanwhile, Joromi's infant daughter, Trisha, is adopted by his parents, who raise her to be an independent woman with a heart of gold. However, Trisha has abandonment issues due to her complicated relationship with her estranged father. She finds comfort in her best friend, Rishi, who, unbeknownst to Trisha, has deeper feelings for her. Will Trisha be able to mend her relationship with her father?
Scarlet Birthright follows a young woman's journey of self-discovery, navigating the ups and downs of family, love, and relationships. Scarlet Ibis James pours a lot of heart and charm into an emotionally powerful narrative that plucks at your heartstrings until the end. The author's mesmerizing descriptions of the locales of Trinidad paint a vivid portrait of Caribbean culture and heritage, making the setting feel lived-in. The characters are well-developed, layered, and complex, with realistic flaws and vulnerabilities that make them feel truly human. Trisha's inner monologues and her complex feelings toward her father will resonate with a lot of readers. Among the secondary characters, I loved Cecil and Mary. I found their relationship with their granddaughter very touching. All in all, it's a great book for readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories.
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