Inside

by Victoria Watson

Annie reminisces about the building that had an incredible influence on her life while she watches its demolition. How it came to have such an impact on Annie – and the shattering reason for its destruction – will leave readers stunned.

10 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 16, 2011

About the author

Victoria Watson achieved a B.A (Hons) in Media, Communication and Cultural Studies from Newcastle University in 2008. She then graduated with a Masters (with Commendation) in Creative Writing in 2010 from Northumbria University.

Victoria has previously written articles for True Faith (Newcastle United fanzine), Newcastle's Evening Chronicle (NCJ Media), The Journal (NCJ Media) and Closer Magazine (Bauer Media). She has also reviewed books for Waterstones online.

Victoria is a keen blogger and, as well as writing her own blog, is a guest contributor on several other blogs.

Victoria's flash fiction was featured in the 'Home Tomorrow' anthology published by 6th Element Publishing in 2011. Her stories have subsequently been featured in several anthologies.

Victoria loves to read and talk about books, please get in touch if you would like her to participate in any such events. Victoria has been a guest speaker at the Let's Read charity bookshop in Muscat, Oman. She has also been a guest on Metro Radio and the MYOB podcast.

Victoria runs two weekly Creative Writing workshops in Newcastle and North Tyneside. Please get in touch for more information. Members of Victoria's writing groups have been involved in several performances including Blood from the Quill, a Halloween spoken word event at The Cumberland Arms, and the launch of their anthology 'Thrills 'n' Chills at Newcastle's historic Lit and Phil.

Reviews

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

George S. Geisinger

INSIDE
by Victoria Watson

Victoria Watson wrote the short fiction, INSIDE. It's 1st rate. She adds her info about her characters, with just the right ideas to keep up the suspense, then pop! Her writing is calculated and artful, crisp.
One has the impression that Ms. Watson is in total control of her story, giving only the information she wants her reader to know, as the story unfolds. There is a ballet of writing in her craft. Written solely from the viewpoint of her main character, one begins to wonder about the significance of what one is reading, and Ms Watson gives just enough information, building the suspense and expectations.
One begins to suspect something has really happened, that the reader is being told something significant. There is an economy of language in this story. She does not waste words.
Economy of language is what makes INSIDE an outstanding story. One comprehends the tragedy of what happens.
It's five star writing.

[Darren Sant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Victoria Watson has written another reflective and sensitive piece. This I believe is “her thing” what she does the best. Strong characters with deep emotional content that makes a good connection with the reader. A very nostalgic warm tale or so I thought just before the darkness hit me. I’m not going to give away any plot points here just read and enjoy!

Once more Victoria shows her talent for characterisation and strong descriptive writing in a cracking short story that I really enjoyed. It worked on several levels and spoke volumes about the complexity of human nature. Another five star story from Victoria Watson.

[Marilou George · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Inside" is a profoundly moving story about Annie and the tragedy that befalls her. Centered around a grocery store in town that is being demolished, she watches with her mother and revisits her past working in that store and tells us of the events that have culminated into her future. The supporting characters are strong and vibrant and provide a further connection to Annie.

This short story is a very poignant excursion thru the life of a young girl that is altered by a singular event in time. A very profound and well written story that Annie herself is voicing.

I would definitely recommend this short story; it is one you won't soon forget.

[Sam Lang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Watson has a way with characters. Part of the enjoyment of her stories is how the reader develops with the character. She gives it to you in pieces, binding you to the character. "Inside" is a touching story about a woman examing her life. She watches a building being torn down that was an important place to her. Seeing its insides sparks a series of memories that the reader experiences as if for the first time with the character. The way Watson reveals information works so well. Quite emotional and well worth the read.

[Jynnipher Olbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

The glimpse Victoria Watson gives into one moment of time with Annie is amazing. The author takes you on a journey through Annie's past, all within the same building, just from different moments in her past. From the very beginning, you get a well-rounded sense of Annie and by the end; you realize you really didn't know her at all. She artfully gives you a picture of the cast of characters with the voice she uses and I was able to picture every person she described.
This was first experience with a short, suspenseful story and I am looking forward to more. Thumbs way up Ms. Watson!

[Cecilia Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This a story about Annie. The story begins with her in front of a half-demolished building, looking in. As the story progresses, the reader gets to know the reason why this particular building is important to Annie.

As always, Victoria Watson manages to tell an emotional story, wonderfully written and in just about 10 pages, you know everything about the character.

I am a fan, and I look forward to reading more stories from this author.

This copy was provided by the author, in exchange of an honest review.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vic does it again. Another 5 star read with characters that seem so real I feel as if I am there with them. Annie, Jimmy, Andrew, and John Templeton, Mr Carson, the Nixons and the unknown lady are just some of the characters weaved into this short story setting the scene for yet another another gripping tale. This is Vic Watson's 3rd Kindle book and it is as good as the two previous ones, suffice to say that yet again, my eyes leaked.

[Dominic James · Rating 4 out of 5]

As usual, a great story from Victoria Watson. Characters and storyline are excellent, and she packs a lot of plot into a small space. My only problem with this one was the authenticity of the language - it was set in America but for the most part the narrative sounded very English with the occasional "Ma" and "naw" thrown in as an afterthought. It also had UK spelling. That asides, it's another well-observed short from this writer.

[Craig Douglas · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are led into the tragic life of Annie. The story is framed by the destruction of the grocery store, and it seems her past is being destroyed too. This is an entertaining read with with its own surprises later. We suspect that something is terribly wrong later, but I won’t spoil it – you’ll have to read it. A good read with some sombre moments, accentuated by times of violence and tragedy.

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Victoria's writing as ever is multifaceted bringing twists, turns and emotional roller coasters to another excellent short story. As always the title plays as much a part of the story as the final word and as you think back over the story which just unfolded you see different aspects to what just happened on the page! Well done Vic!

[Yasmin Radwan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admire the characterization and the description of places. Annie's attachment to the building makes it impossible to let go of the story. Another compelling story from Victoria Watson.

[Graham Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic piece. Kept me gripped right 'til the end - a must read.