What do you think?
Rate this book
Twist's Tales #3
Touch of Beyond
Fifteen stories, many ending with a twist, most endowed with a tiny splash or force that pushes these tales beyond the realm of normal everyday life. These stories will leave you thinking for days.
176 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2012
3 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Michael Twist
9 books35 followersAfter eighteen years of teaching literature Michael Twist decided to try his hand at writing some of his own. Always fascinated by human nature, Michael's stories often focus on the decisions people make and the internal conflicts they experience in doing so.
Michael's short story "Ties That Bind" won the 2011 William Faulkner Riverfest Literary Competition. His short story "Americans Do Love Their Cars" won the 2011 Quid Novi Festival Writing Contest. Also in 2011, Michael placed second in the Writers' Journal, Write to Win Contest with his short story, "Nearly Perfect." In 2012 Michael placed two stories ("Tea in Chesapeake" and "Dear John") in the finals of the Thomas Wolfe Fiction Prize sponsored by the North Carolina Writers' Network as well as making the finals in the Press 53 Open Awards Competition with his short story "Out on a Limb." His micro-fiction has been short-listed numerous times in the Flash 500 competitions.
Michael lives near Sandy Oregon with his wife, two daughters and Labrador.
Michael's short story "Ties That Bind" won the 2011 William Faulkner Riverfest Literary Competition. His short story "Americans Do Love Their Cars" won the 2011 Quid Novi Festival Writing Contest. Also in 2011, Michael placed second in the Writers' Journal, Write to Win Contest with his short story, "Nearly Perfect." In 2012 Michael placed two stories ("Tea in Chesapeake" and "Dear John") in the finals of the Thomas Wolfe Fiction Prize sponsored by the North Carolina Writers' Network as well as making the finals in the Press 53 Open Awards Competition with his short story "Out on a Limb." His micro-fiction has been short-listed numerous times in the Flash 500 competitions.
Michael lives near Sandy Oregon with his wife, two daughters and Labrador.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 20, 2013
A collection of thirteen short stories, each uniquely crafted with a viewpoint that often is left until the closing sentence, this is a delightful read. While I freely admit to being a short story devotee, creating a good short complete and full in imagery, information with a beginning, middle and end is not an easy task. Each one of these stories contained in this book has a distinct flavor, with a voice that best suits the narrative character, and often provides an interesting twist in a very unexpected and clever ending.
I can’t say that there is one that was my favorite: the integration of unique viewpoints and the distinct patois developed in each character’s voice as the story unfolds both fits and highlights the story as it progresses, leaving the reader with the satisfaction of a story well told. There is humor and pathos, some great thoughts and some rather shallow ones contained within, and all create a great short read all at once, or to spread out and sample a story a day for nearly two weeks.
With a style that beautifully lends itself to the short story, and a facility with characterization that is clearly rendered in each short with a distinction and subtlety that is enviable, this is storytelling at the higher levels of the form. Michael Twist has a unique voice and talent for the short story is well represented in this collection, one that I highly recommend.
I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review for I am, Indeed. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.
I can’t say that there is one that was my favorite: the integration of unique viewpoints and the distinct patois developed in each character’s voice as the story unfolds both fits and highlights the story as it progresses, leaving the reader with the satisfaction of a story well told. There is humor and pathos, some great thoughts and some rather shallow ones contained within, and all create a great short read all at once, or to spread out and sample a story a day for nearly two weeks.
With a style that beautifully lends itself to the short story, and a facility with characterization that is clearly rendered in each short with a distinction and subtlety that is enviable, this is storytelling at the higher levels of the form. Michael Twist has a unique voice and talent for the short story is well represented in this collection, one that I highly recommend.
I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review for I am, Indeed. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.
February 24, 2013
I should be upfront with you, it will make my review all the more special for Twist. I'll be honest, I normally do not like short stories. I love writing short stories, because...well...they're short. But reading them? I would so much rather a 'never ending series' type books. I fall in love with characters easily and I would rather read about their entire life then have to learn about another character. That being said, this collection of short stories is rated FOUR stars.
I don't want to give too much away about these, because, well, they are short. Anything I say, would detract from what you'll read. So this will be my most vague review ever. I will definitely recommend this book. Which says a lot considering the fact that I don't generally enjoy short stories. Each story in this book is powerful. There are quite a few that I would love the author to continue, not because they were too short, because they weren't. But because the storyline in them were so amazing and unique and have so much potential for a full length novel. Several of the stories are better short. They used every word wisely and the story would either give you chills, or have a lesson.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was creeped out, saddened, laughing, and thoughtful. The author has a power with words and the descriptions were amazing. Normally I would say that the author used too much description, but in this book, it worked. The only complaint I would have were that some of the sentences ran on forever. They could have been broken into a couple of sentences instead. That being said, it was a minuscule problem that did not detract from the power of these stories. I will be recommending this book to any reader I come across. There is something in this book for everyone. Good job Twist, you wrote a book of short stories that everyone, even people who dislike short stories, is sure to enjoy.
I don't want to give too much away about these, because, well, they are short. Anything I say, would detract from what you'll read. So this will be my most vague review ever. I will definitely recommend this book. Which says a lot considering the fact that I don't generally enjoy short stories. Each story in this book is powerful. There are quite a few that I would love the author to continue, not because they were too short, because they weren't. But because the storyline in them were so amazing and unique and have so much potential for a full length novel. Several of the stories are better short. They used every word wisely and the story would either give you chills, or have a lesson.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was creeped out, saddened, laughing, and thoughtful. The author has a power with words and the descriptions were amazing. Normally I would say that the author used too much description, but in this book, it worked. The only complaint I would have were that some of the sentences ran on forever. They could have been broken into a couple of sentences instead. That being said, it was a minuscule problem that did not detract from the power of these stories. I will be recommending this book to any reader I come across. There is something in this book for everyone. Good job Twist, you wrote a book of short stories that everyone, even people who dislike short stories, is sure to enjoy.
July 5, 2013
The author kindly provided me with a copy of this book in return for a fair and unbiased review. It was a surprise when he offered me the opportunity, and after reading it, I am very grateful that he did so.
What a treat it was to read this collection of short stories. This is so unlike my normal selections of books that as I started the first story I wasn't certain I was going to enjoy it, but by the end of the story I was hooked. Michael Twist writes in a very easy to read, entertaining fashion, and many of the tales end in a "twist", adding to the enjoyment.
The stories are well thought out and very well written. It seems like the author is drawing on his personal experiences and this adds to the intimacy of the writing.
A number of the stories deal with spirituality, and while that's not one of my favorite topics, it is done in an engaging, not overblown fashion. The stories explore the goodness in people and the effects of positive actions, again, not in a saccharine sweet fashion, but in a way that you feeling good.
If you are interested in a book of easy to read, entertaining stories, then this is certainly one collection that you pick up. If this is any indication of the quality of writing in his other books, then you should pick them up as well. I know I will.
What a treat it was to read this collection of short stories. This is so unlike my normal selections of books that as I started the first story I wasn't certain I was going to enjoy it, but by the end of the story I was hooked. Michael Twist writes in a very easy to read, entertaining fashion, and many of the tales end in a "twist", adding to the enjoyment.
The stories are well thought out and very well written. It seems like the author is drawing on his personal experiences and this adds to the intimacy of the writing.
A number of the stories deal with spirituality, and while that's not one of my favorite topics, it is done in an engaging, not overblown fashion. The stories explore the goodness in people and the effects of positive actions, again, not in a saccharine sweet fashion, but in a way that you feeling good.
If you are interested in a book of easy to read, entertaining stories, then this is certainly one collection that you pick up. If this is any indication of the quality of writing in his other books, then you should pick them up as well. I know I will.
July 31, 2013
MICHAEL,
THANKS SO MUCH I TRUELY LIKE THE BOOK , THINGS DO HAPPEN AND WE MAY SEE THINGS APPEAR TO US AND I CANT WAIT TO FINISH THEBOOK... I WILL PASS THIS ON FOR OTHERS TO READ.
I LOVE THE OATMEAL POSTCARDS AND THE "JUST WAIT' CHAPTER STILL READING
HELEN,,SWEET DREAMS DEAR! MR.P IS SUPER
I LOVED THE "WISH OF THE KEPT' THATS A GREAT EXZAMPLE OF WHY FAMILY SHOULDN'T JUST GO OFF THE HANDLE OR (ANYONE FOR THAT MATTER) IF THEY DONT TAKE THE TIME TO FIND OUT WHAT REALLY IS THE PROBLEM,, FAMILY IS STRONG AND LITTLE DID HE KNOW THE POSITIVE POWER HE BROUGHT TO HIS SON AND TO HIM,, HE WAS TOO CONSUMED WITH HIS OWN TROUBLES AND NEV ER ASKED HIS BROTHER HOW HE WAS..JUST ASSUMED HE WAS STILL USING,,, THATS TOO BAD BUT I REALLY LIKED THIS STORY, ONE MAY NEVER KNOW WHAT OTHERS GO THRU.\THE BEST ONE YET IS 'LONG LOST LIST' INCREDIBLE , YOU JUST NEVER KNOW!
WOW, WHAT CAN I SAY I LOVED "THE ONE YOU REMEMBER " ANGELS COME IN MANY FORMS AND THIS WAS A ANGEL IN DISGUISE, THE BOOK OVER ALL IS VERY GOOD AND I LIKE STORIES LIKE THIS , I AM PASSING THE BOOK ON MY CO-WORK REQ'D TO READ NEXT AND ILL HAVE HER KEEP YOU UPDATE!
THANKS AGAIN FOR A GREAT BOOK,,, WELL DONE TEACH!!!
PAM HOVANEC
THANKS SO MUCH I TRUELY LIKE THE BOOK , THINGS DO HAPPEN AND WE MAY SEE THINGS APPEAR TO US AND I CANT WAIT TO FINISH THEBOOK... I WILL PASS THIS ON FOR OTHERS TO READ.
I LOVE THE OATMEAL POSTCARDS AND THE "JUST WAIT' CHAPTER STILL READING
HELEN,,SWEET DREAMS DEAR! MR.P IS SUPER
I LOVED THE "WISH OF THE KEPT' THATS A GREAT EXZAMPLE OF WHY FAMILY SHOULDN'T JUST GO OFF THE HANDLE OR (ANYONE FOR THAT MATTER) IF THEY DONT TAKE THE TIME TO FIND OUT WHAT REALLY IS THE PROBLEM,, FAMILY IS STRONG AND LITTLE DID HE KNOW THE POSITIVE POWER HE BROUGHT TO HIS SON AND TO HIM,, HE WAS TOO CONSUMED WITH HIS OWN TROUBLES AND NEV ER ASKED HIS BROTHER HOW HE WAS..JUST ASSUMED HE WAS STILL USING,,, THATS TOO BAD BUT I REALLY LIKED THIS STORY, ONE MAY NEVER KNOW WHAT OTHERS GO THRU.\THE BEST ONE YET IS 'LONG LOST LIST' INCREDIBLE , YOU JUST NEVER KNOW!
WOW, WHAT CAN I SAY I LOVED "THE ONE YOU REMEMBER " ANGELS COME IN MANY FORMS AND THIS WAS A ANGEL IN DISGUISE, THE BOOK OVER ALL IS VERY GOOD AND I LIKE STORIES LIKE THIS , I AM PASSING THE BOOK ON MY CO-WORK REQ'D TO READ NEXT AND ILL HAVE HER KEEP YOU UPDATE!
THANKS AGAIN FOR A GREAT BOOK,,, WELL DONE TEACH!!!
PAM HOVANEC
July 19, 2013
This book has been on my "to read" list and when the author contacted me asking if I would like a copy, I didn't turn him down. I love to read short stories and I expected that I would enjoy the book. But I did more than enjoy it, I loved these tales.
Touch of Beyond was a truly unique collection of short stories! They definitely had a twist to them here and there to add to my enjoyment. The paranormal/supernatural feel was perfect. Sometimes it didn't hit you until the very end. A couple of stories brought tears to my eyes. They are not you typical read, enjoy and forget stories. These will leave a lasting impression on you.
Before writing this review, I went through trying to decide which was my favorite but it was impossible to do. Instead I ended up reading the book again! It is that kind of book where you might get something different from the story next time you read it. I look forward to reading more from this creative author. He certainly has a way with words!
I highly recommend this book of short tales that will far exceed the typical book of short stories.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Michael!
Touch of Beyond was a truly unique collection of short stories! They definitely had a twist to them here and there to add to my enjoyment. The paranormal/supernatural feel was perfect. Sometimes it didn't hit you until the very end. A couple of stories brought tears to my eyes. They are not you typical read, enjoy and forget stories. These will leave a lasting impression on you.
Before writing this review, I went through trying to decide which was my favorite but it was impossible to do. Instead I ended up reading the book again! It is that kind of book where you might get something different from the story next time you read it. I look forward to reading more from this creative author. He certainly has a way with words!
I highly recommend this book of short tales that will far exceed the typical book of short stories.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Michael!
August 6, 2013
I didn't actually win the giveaway for this book, but the author was nice enough to send me a copy anyway, and I am so glad he did! I love books of short stories when I am pressed for time (like now, since i have been working so much) but this was a book I couldn't put down.
Each story does have a twist, something interesting that was unexpected, and although I can usually predict how a movie will end I didn't see these endings coming. It was refreshing and kept me hooked!
There are stories about school teachers and school kids, people with troubles foibles and strange abilities. Each story was told from a different point of view, but each character had a unique and interesting voice.
I will be loaning this out to friends because I know they will love it too, and I look forward to reading more from Michael Twist!
Each story does have a twist, something interesting that was unexpected, and although I can usually predict how a movie will end I didn't see these endings coming. It was refreshing and kept me hooked!
There are stories about school teachers and school kids, people with troubles foibles and strange abilities. Each story was told from a different point of view, but each character had a unique and interesting voice.
I will be loaning this out to friends because I know they will love it too, and I look forward to reading more from Michael Twist!
March 12, 2014
Michael Twist writes wonderfully vivid, well thought out, detailed short stories on all sorts of subjects. At the end of every story, there is a twist, that makes you stop short and think about the story you just read in a whole new light. Sometimes you are forced to re-read the whole story, just because now you know something that will change the way it's read. His first two books the twists were related to the choices people face every day. This book, the twists are completely different, some are a little more obvious than others. Some will make you cry, some will make you think, but all of them will make you see the stories come to life like no other.
I definitely recommend reading this book, the stories inside are well worth it.
I definitely recommend reading this book, the stories inside are well worth it.
July 29, 2013
Wow. I LOVED this book. I kindly received a copy from the author when I expressed an interest in it.
I really enjoy short stories. The good kind that encompass more than just the few pages it takes to spin the story out. This book is just packed with really, really great stories with a lot of depth. The stories all had a different feel to them, and you never felt like you knew how they were going to end.
Usually I would pick out a few of my favorites, and why I liked them. However, I really enjoyed all these stories and really can't pick a favorite. I just loved it, and you will too. I'd never heard of this author before, but would gladly read anything else he has/will put out.
I really enjoy short stories. The good kind that encompass more than just the few pages it takes to spin the story out. This book is just packed with really, really great stories with a lot of depth. The stories all had a different feel to them, and you never felt like you knew how they were going to end.
Usually I would pick out a few of my favorites, and why I liked them. However, I really enjoyed all these stories and really can't pick a favorite. I just loved it, and you will too. I'd never heard of this author before, but would gladly read anything else he has/will put out.
August 3, 2013
What a treat it was to read these stories. As always, Michael Twist's writing style is so delightful, filled with words strung together so beautifully that it's a joy to read them. These particular stories contained a different dimension to his earlier collections. There was just a touch of something "beyond" everyday life in each of them. Sometimes you realized it immediately and in others you weren't sure until the end. What can I add? The stories are perfectly written, entertaining, thought provoking and thoroughly enjoyable....of course, they are written by Michael Twist! Highly recommended.
January 31, 2013
http://stitchsays.wordpress.com/2013/...
Michael Twist has produced a book of short stories that has great variety and lots of entertainment. One thing all the stories have in common is a twist! With a hint of the supernatural these stories leave get the reader absorbed quickly. Michael’s writing style is easy to read and flows nicely. My favourite stories were: Just wait and Mr P. If you’re looking for a book of short stories that will keep you guessing I recommend you check out Touch of Beyond.
Michael Twist has produced a book of short stories that has great variety and lots of entertainment. One thing all the stories have in common is a twist! With a hint of the supernatural these stories leave get the reader absorbed quickly. Michael’s writing style is easy to read and flows nicely. My favourite stories were: Just wait and Mr P. If you’re looking for a book of short stories that will keep you guessing I recommend you check out Touch of Beyond.
October 30, 2013
I enjoy reading short stories from Michael Twist. This book like Vol. I and II was a book that I enjoyed reading at night as I wound down at night. This author deserves attention for every book he writes. If there was one thing I would change is the titles I would stop using the Vol. I, II, III and just name each
book and say more tales from Michael Twist but that is my opinion. Michael keep writing so I can read more of your books! This last volume made me cry, laugh and be joyous. Micheal you rock!!!!
book and say more tales from Michael Twist but that is my opinion. Michael keep writing so I can read more of your books! This last volume made me cry, laugh and be joyous. Micheal you rock!!!!
July 17, 2013
Both my husband and myself were caught totally by surprise by the delightful and amazing first story in this book. So appropriately named, a touch of beyond -- with unexpected and creative twists. Each story stands alone, and while some spoke to me more than others, all were well written and engaging. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Note: I received an electronic copy because of my interest in a giveaway.
Note: I received an electronic copy because of my interest in a giveaway.
July 6, 2013
I got this book as a gift and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This book consisted of 13 short stories, each one more unique than the next. I honestly could not pick a favorite story out of the book because each story spoke to me on a different level, and I enjoyed that often I would discover an unexpected twist at the end. I highly recommend it for anybody who loves a good story, can't wait to see what else Michael Twist has in store for us.
August 17, 2013
Thank you Michael for providing me with a copy of your book for my honest review.
I really enjoyed reading these short stories. I found them all very interesting. Michael's writing style pulls you into the stories and keeps you reading.
This was the second book of short stories written by Michael Twist that I have read. I look forward to enjoying more in the future!
I really enjoyed reading these short stories. I found them all very interesting. Michael's writing style pulls you into the stories and keeps you reading.
This was the second book of short stories written by Michael Twist that I have read. I look forward to enjoying more in the future!
July 16, 2013
This was a great collection of short stories! I really liked the author's style of writing. Each story had a little twist at the end ( hence the name) which made for a nice little surprise ending. My favorites were Mr.P, Quarterlies and The One You Remember.
July 26, 2014
This book is a collection of 13 short stories. In a way, each story was like reading and episode of The Twilight Zone. I enjoyed all of the stories and the "twist" or "Aha" moments at the end of them. I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a free digital edition.
August 16, 2013
A book that really make you think. I really enjoy reading it, wait for the next book. Thank you I won this book on Goodreads. Thank you
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews