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2000 Words: A collection of short stories
This is the first collection of short stories by Sonya C. Dodd. Whilst the tales cover a range of genres, they all explore the human character and how it reacts in different situations.
134 pages, ebook
First published September 29, 2013
3 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Sonya C. Dodd
24 books46 followersSonya C. Dodd was born in Norfolk, England and still lives there today with her two sons: Hugo and Branwell.
Although Sonya has been writing for a number of years, she only recently began to publish her writing.
Sonya writes in a number of genres including: romance, supernatural and thriller. Sonya has also written a number of short stories.
Although Sonya has been writing for a number of years, she only recently began to publish her writing.
Sonya writes in a number of genres including: romance, supernatural and thriller. Sonya has also written a number of short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 6, 2016
Every time I read a really great book of short stories my biggest complaint is that it's too short. They're just so good, I race through them to read the next one, then the next one until...it's all over. This is one of those books.
From downright creepy to some quite heartbreaking ones - certainly the first one fits the second description! - there's quite a generous selection in this book.
If I had to pick a favourite, I'd say The Perfect Halo, because that had me in tears early on. Second would have to be The Grass Is Always Greener...as that particular short made me laugh.
In her short stories, just like her novels, Dodd pulls me in with her relatable characters - even the unpleasant Patrick, though I won't tell you what he did to make me dislike him so much. In a few short words, she manages to convey a person who is unique and not a stereotype - so that I'm waiting to see what they'll do next. From Charlotte to Roland to Melody to Hannah, and everyone in between.
I'll definitely be reading this book again.
From downright creepy to some quite heartbreaking ones - certainly the first one fits the second description! - there's quite a generous selection in this book.
If I had to pick a favourite, I'd say The Perfect Halo, because that had me in tears early on. Second would have to be The Grass Is Always Greener...as that particular short made me laugh.
In her short stories, just like her novels, Dodd pulls me in with her relatable characters - even the unpleasant Patrick, though I won't tell you what he did to make me dislike him so much. In a few short words, she manages to convey a person who is unique and not a stereotype - so that I'm waiting to see what they'll do next. From Charlotte to Roland to Melody to Hannah, and everyone in between.
I'll definitely be reading this book again.
October 19, 2013
"2000 Words: A collection of short stories" by Sonya C. Dodd is a deep and thoughtful collection of a broad range of short stories. From walking into the light after death, not standing up in church to stop a marriage, from reflections on human contact in a bus, stories about war, seances, missed chances, unrequited love and mundane moments, Dodd's stories are honest, empathetic and reflective.
Dodd has an awareness of the human psyche, how we interact, what makes us tick and how we feel. Secret thoughts, hopes and dreams all feature in these stories about the human condition. There are many wonderful reading moments in these few words. The stories are very well written and manage to convey their messages and thoughts very well in the limited space, a credit to the author. Some writers need entire novels to achieve half. Very impressive.
Dodd has an awareness of the human psyche, how we interact, what makes us tick and how we feel. Secret thoughts, hopes and dreams all feature in these stories about the human condition. There are many wonderful reading moments in these few words. The stories are very well written and manage to convey their messages and thoughts very well in the limited space, a credit to the author. Some writers need entire novels to achieve half. Very impressive.
January 11, 2014
Very entertaining compilation of stories. Great writing and interesting themes. There were a couple I was quite bummed ended when they did. I wanted more!! I always find it fun as well to read authors from across the pond. The spelling differences and slang never cease to bring a smile to my face. I highly recommend this book for those who read in short spurts, whether on a train or bus into work, or for those who have kids and can't read for hours at a time. You can definitely get your reading fix with a quick story from 2000 words.
January 11, 2014
Short story lover alert. This collection of short stories is one not to be missed. The works take a reader through a series of explorations involving emotional states, poignant epiphanies and moments never forgotten, even life after death. All are written with a clarity that leads me to believe this writer has lived a life with eyes and ears wide open.
May 29, 2014
Imagination and intrigue abound in these delightful short tales. Sonya Dodd sets up interesting scenes with believable characters, but in extraordinary situations. Her plots take the reader on journeys that may seem familiar at first, but usually end in surprise.
I like the range of scenes and situations; we are taken to heaven, under water, back in time and visit different relationships, like marriage, unfaithfulness, youth and old age, the known and the unknown. It’s a rich exploration of different ideas and human traits, many deep and mysterious.
I would have liked a wider variety of styles from story to story, but overall it’s well written with insightful description of places and feelings. We are taken to magic places, like in A Perfect Halo, In an Instant, Witch, Theft on the Reservoir and Anybody There? Some of the personalities are best only met on the page, like in Roland Pickle, Revenge and The Waiting Game. Reading The Waiting Game took me to the world of Edgar Alan Poe with its haunting tempo.
Sonya explores relationships very well, like in No Smoke without Fire and The Script where we see satisfying resolution to deceit. The Script is a monologue taking us inside the speakers torment and its source, slowly as the tragedy is revealed, the reality of the solution becomes apparent, and the climax is chillingly gratifying.
The undesirable path families sometimes head down towards dysfunction is explored in New Beginnings, Family Ties, and Time Machine. My favorite, and the one that brought a tear or two was Strange Meeting, a heart softening tale of youthful rebellion. Wonderful characterisation of people lost in their loss, and the combination of empathy and wisdom that bring an ethereal solution.
As a short story writer, I really enjoyed this collection. It shows a healthy disregard to boundaries and explores many confronting subjects. There are many stories I’ll go back and read again. I’m pleased I bought it.
I like the range of scenes and situations; we are taken to heaven, under water, back in time and visit different relationships, like marriage, unfaithfulness, youth and old age, the known and the unknown. It’s a rich exploration of different ideas and human traits, many deep and mysterious.
I would have liked a wider variety of styles from story to story, but overall it’s well written with insightful description of places and feelings. We are taken to magic places, like in A Perfect Halo, In an Instant, Witch, Theft on the Reservoir and Anybody There? Some of the personalities are best only met on the page, like in Roland Pickle, Revenge and The Waiting Game. Reading The Waiting Game took me to the world of Edgar Alan Poe with its haunting tempo.
Sonya explores relationships very well, like in No Smoke without Fire and The Script where we see satisfying resolution to deceit. The Script is a monologue taking us inside the speakers torment and its source, slowly as the tragedy is revealed, the reality of the solution becomes apparent, and the climax is chillingly gratifying.
The undesirable path families sometimes head down towards dysfunction is explored in New Beginnings, Family Ties, and Time Machine. My favorite, and the one that brought a tear or two was Strange Meeting, a heart softening tale of youthful rebellion. Wonderful characterisation of people lost in their loss, and the combination of empathy and wisdom that bring an ethereal solution.
As a short story writer, I really enjoyed this collection. It shows a healthy disregard to boundaries and explores many confronting subjects. There are many stories I’ll go back and read again. I’m pleased I bought it.
January 11, 2014
This compilation of short stories dips into a number of lives for just a matter of minutes, in order to absorb their personal issues. Some of the stories are resolved and some are not. They are comprised of a whole cross section of different people, across a myriad and diverse spectrum of society. As a social study, it is really quite fascinating, from the man who struggles to cope with changes at work to the woman whose dreams of love are shattered in just seconds by rejection.
I don’t usually read short stories but was drawn to and intrigued by this particular collection. It made an excellent light refrain from heavier books that I had been reading. Most of the stories can be picked up and read during an ad break on TV or while waiting in the car or at the doctors and it was refreshing and undemanding. One of the stories touched me particularly and reduced me to tears as it dealt with something that I had actually gone through. It caused me to remember what it was like saying goodbye to my family at the airport before emigrating to New Zealand and it was surprisingly raw. Another dealt with someone in the throws of depression and was very tender and touching.
I really enjoyed the book. It’s just snapshots of other people’s lives and feels as though we drop in and journey with them through a crisis or a moment in their lives like an acceptable voyeur. Some of the moments are painfully familiar and others are just interesting. It is very well written and there is a sense that the writer has managed to write differently for each character adding to the illusion that each is a different person from the last and demarcating each short story from the next. Truly, I liked it.
I don’t usually read short stories but was drawn to and intrigued by this particular collection. It made an excellent light refrain from heavier books that I had been reading. Most of the stories can be picked up and read during an ad break on TV or while waiting in the car or at the doctors and it was refreshing and undemanding. One of the stories touched me particularly and reduced me to tears as it dealt with something that I had actually gone through. It caused me to remember what it was like saying goodbye to my family at the airport before emigrating to New Zealand and it was surprisingly raw. Another dealt with someone in the throws of depression and was very tender and touching.
I really enjoyed the book. It’s just snapshots of other people’s lives and feels as though we drop in and journey with them through a crisis or a moment in their lives like an acceptable voyeur. Some of the moments are painfully familiar and others are just interesting. It is very well written and there is a sense that the writer has managed to write differently for each character adding to the illusion that each is a different person from the last and demarcating each short story from the next. Truly, I liked it.
December 5, 2013
Entertaining, Exciting, and Psychologically Insightful Stories
What a fantastic variety of stories and themes! There’s something for everybody in this collection. Sonya Dodd writes about family relationships, about white lies that console and give hope, about despair, love, revenge, and revival, and many other issues and emotions that we deal with daily but rarely stop to analyze.
There are a couple of ghost stories involving out-of-body experiences, yet very real encounters. If I had to pick two stories, my favorites in this collection would be “Revenge Isn’t Always Sweet” and “If Only…”
Sonya Dodd’s themes, characters, and plots are varied and unpredictable, just like life itself that “isn’t very good at giving us constants” (Ms. Dodd’s words). The only aspect of Ms.Dodd’s writing that remains a constant throughout the whole book is a wonderfully engaging writing style and interesting insights. Ms. Dodd’s writing is descriptive, emotional, and engaging. She writes with the economy of words but wealth of ideas – and that’s a sign of a very talented writer.
Pick up a copy, enjoy the stories, and you will probably discover something new about yourself. I know I did.
What a fantastic variety of stories and themes! There’s something for everybody in this collection. Sonya Dodd writes about family relationships, about white lies that console and give hope, about despair, love, revenge, and revival, and many other issues and emotions that we deal with daily but rarely stop to analyze.
There are a couple of ghost stories involving out-of-body experiences, yet very real encounters. If I had to pick two stories, my favorites in this collection would be “Revenge Isn’t Always Sweet” and “If Only…”
Sonya Dodd’s themes, characters, and plots are varied and unpredictable, just like life itself that “isn’t very good at giving us constants” (Ms. Dodd’s words). The only aspect of Ms.Dodd’s writing that remains a constant throughout the whole book is a wonderfully engaging writing style and interesting insights. Ms. Dodd’s writing is descriptive, emotional, and engaging. She writes with the economy of words but wealth of ideas – and that’s a sign of a very talented writer.
Pick up a copy, enjoy the stories, and you will probably discover something new about yourself. I know I did.
March 29, 2014
Many of the most talented writers are and have been short story writers. I especially love Edgar Allen Poe, Samuel Langhome Clemens (Mark Twain), and Agatha Christie. And where would we be without William Shakespeare’s most intrepid tales?
This collection of short stories is very entertaining. Each with a different plot and message about life, they are well written. Not all have a happy ending, but most with a sense that life lessons were learned. Using well placed metaphors, the writer narrates through these stories as though using a paintbrush. Obviously, I especially enjoyed this author’s descriptive writing style.
The Waiting Game was probably the spookiest one. On the other hand, Anybody There? was kind of scary too. A Perfect Halo was likely the sweetest. Many of these stories take you into the mind of people’s anguish and despair. In fact, some of these tales reminded me of that show, “Tales from the Dark Side.” Just try to remember where you are while reading.
Since these stories are so varied; I would first prepare a lazy Susan with a variety of munchies that will sustain you through a roller-coaster of emotions. And, don’t forget to open up a good bottle of wine you can savor while reading these regalements and feeding your soul.
This collection of short stories is very entertaining. Each with a different plot and message about life, they are well written. Not all have a happy ending, but most with a sense that life lessons were learned. Using well placed metaphors, the writer narrates through these stories as though using a paintbrush. Obviously, I especially enjoyed this author’s descriptive writing style.
The Waiting Game was probably the spookiest one. On the other hand, Anybody There? was kind of scary too. A Perfect Halo was likely the sweetest. Many of these stories take you into the mind of people’s anguish and despair. In fact, some of these tales reminded me of that show, “Tales from the Dark Side.” Just try to remember where you are while reading.
Since these stories are so varied; I would first prepare a lazy Susan with a variety of munchies that will sustain you through a roller-coaster of emotions. And, don’t forget to open up a good bottle of wine you can savor while reading these regalements and feeding your soul.
January 11, 2014
Thought provoking short stories!
I have to admit, I’m not normally a big “short story” fan. I like investing my time and energy into the same characters and getting attached to them. Initially, I was a bit wary whether I was going to like this book or not.
To be honest, I was pleasantly surprised with the stories. Many stories were filled with irony, sarcasm, or at least some type of message. The stories were thought provoking, and many left me shaking my head in disbelief.
I’m impressed with the author’s creativity and imagination. Each story is different than the next—including the setting, plot, characters, and lessons to be taught.
It was a nice escape, easy read, and like I said, thought provoking. If you’re a fan of short stories, I definitely recommend this book. Even if you’re not normally a short story reader, this book will be worth your time.
I have to admit, I’m not normally a big “short story” fan. I like investing my time and energy into the same characters and getting attached to them. Initially, I was a bit wary whether I was going to like this book or not.
To be honest, I was pleasantly surprised with the stories. Many stories were filled with irony, sarcasm, or at least some type of message. The stories were thought provoking, and many left me shaking my head in disbelief.
I’m impressed with the author’s creativity and imagination. Each story is different than the next—including the setting, plot, characters, and lessons to be taught.
It was a nice escape, easy read, and like I said, thought provoking. If you’re a fan of short stories, I definitely recommend this book. Even if you’re not normally a short story reader, this book will be worth your time.
January 6, 2014
Assortment of well-written tales
The author’s collection of twenty short stories, in various genres, has something for just about everyone.
“If Only” tells the tale of Beth, who waits a little too long to try turning her dream into reality. In “Revenge Isn’t Always So Sweet” Gaby learns that revenge can occur differently than anticipated. “Time Machine” brought back memories for me, and “Witch” evoked thoughts of Salem. Of course, there were some stories I preferred to others. One of my favorites was “Strange Meeting,” which told of a chance encounter that changed more than one life. “Ink Stains and Chewing Gum” is aptly named.
If you enjoy short stories, I’m confident you’ll find several in 2000 words.
The author’s collection of twenty short stories, in various genres, has something for just about everyone.
“If Only” tells the tale of Beth, who waits a little too long to try turning her dream into reality. In “Revenge Isn’t Always So Sweet” Gaby learns that revenge can occur differently than anticipated. “Time Machine” brought back memories for me, and “Witch” evoked thoughts of Salem. Of course, there were some stories I preferred to others. One of my favorites was “Strange Meeting,” which told of a chance encounter that changed more than one life. “Ink Stains and Chewing Gum” is aptly named.
If you enjoy short stories, I’m confident you’ll find several in 2000 words.
January 12, 2014
2000 Words is a collection of short, engaging stories in a variety of themes.
The stories are well-written, and this author is creative. Some of the stories are funny, others can tug at your heart, and a few are spooky. My favorite - In an Instant. All enjoyble. However, each story is written in narrative, which, after reading a few of the shorts can make the reading of the book tedious if done in one sitting. Interspersing dialogue would provide a nice balance to the reader. The short story Script did offer that welcome break with dialogue, and became another favorite.
I would recommend this book.
The stories are well-written, and this author is creative. Some of the stories are funny, others can tug at your heart, and a few are spooky. My favorite - In an Instant. All enjoyble. However, each story is written in narrative, which, after reading a few of the shorts can make the reading of the book tedious if done in one sitting. Interspersing dialogue would provide a nice balance to the reader. The short story Script did offer that welcome break with dialogue, and became another favorite.
I would recommend this book.
January 12, 2014
This is the second book I have read by Sonya Dodd and I wasn't disappointed. I had not read too many short stories in a while so I really enjoyed her collection and getting to run through a whole gamut of issues with her characters. I love Charlotte's story of learning how to be an angel and Sonya's endings will always give you one last punch. Ahhhh!
I look forward to reading much more from Sonya in the future. Definitely wished some of the stories were longer, but that's the point of short stories! If you're looking for great stories to slip away but don't have time to get into a novel, this is a great book for you!
I look forward to reading much more from Sonya in the future. Definitely wished some of the stories were longer, but that's the point of short stories! If you're looking for great stories to slip away but don't have time to get into a novel, this is a great book for you!
February 24, 2014
This is an enjoyably eclectic collection of short stories. Often unpredictable, always written with sensitivity and wit, each is a snapshot of a life taken at a defining moment. My own particular favourites are : In An Instant - I did not see that ending! : Revenge isn't always Sweet, where vengeance stalks a wedding ceremony. : Time Machine, a curious, haunting little tale. : 07:00 where we have a brief glimpse of life in the trenches of WW1.
Like many snapshots the picture is not always complete, deliberately so I suspect, which adds to their appeal.
All in all this is a five star collection which comes strongly recommended.
Like many snapshots the picture is not always complete, deliberately so I suspect, which adds to their appeal.
All in all this is a five star collection which comes strongly recommended.
March 27, 2014
This is a well crafted collection of enjoyable stories. If you enjoy accessible characters working their way through heavy situations, this is a good, quick read. Narration is well used to develop back stories, and the author does a nice job of developing angst and discomfort. In refreshing doses of reality, the girl doesn't always get the guy, the guys turns out to be a jerk, or he's simply not worth her energy. You may get distracted by some of the cliché titles, such as, "The Grass is Always Greener." But, you will develop an understanding of the character's humanity, and by extension, you'll feel your own.
Overall, you really can't go wrong with this one.
Overall, you really can't go wrong with this one.
August 11, 2014
2000 Words: A Collection of Short Stories by Sonya C. Dodd is a magnificent triumph in short story telling. I could not believe how each tale lifted me, gave me goose bumps, made me sigh, smirk, smile the entire range of human emotions blended to perfection.
And there were surprises galore and twists that made me gasp, never saw that one coming, was a thought I often had. Without giving the game away, all I can say is everyone must read this collection of short stories and judge for themselves how great an author Sonya C Dodd is.
There will be nothing stopping me from reading her other books.
A FIVE STAR collection of short stories and very highly recommended.
And there were surprises galore and twists that made me gasp, never saw that one coming, was a thought I often had. Without giving the game away, all I can say is everyone must read this collection of short stories and judge for themselves how great an author Sonya C Dodd is.
There will be nothing stopping me from reading her other books.
A FIVE STAR collection of short stories and very highly recommended.
August 14, 2016
Excellent Use of 2000 Words
In 2000 Words: A Collection of Short Stories, Sonya Dodd explores themes across genres. One recurring theme is New Beginnings. Many of the stories explore unbearable situations, and demonstrate the main character's reactions and behaviors. The collection offers something for everyone, from love stories to military settings, and across timelines, from decades ago through contemporary times.
Ms. Dodd lives up to her reputation as a talented and imaginative writer with her latest offering.
In 2000 Words: A Collection of Short Stories, Sonya Dodd explores themes across genres. One recurring theme is New Beginnings. Many of the stories explore unbearable situations, and demonstrate the main character's reactions and behaviors. The collection offers something for everyone, from love stories to military settings, and across timelines, from decades ago through contemporary times.
Ms. Dodd lives up to her reputation as a talented and imaginative writer with her latest offering.
August 5, 2016
2000 Words is a collection of twenty very short stories that peek into the lives of ordinary people - a man on the bus, an uninvited wedding guest, a teacher. Sonya Dodd poignantly reveals the dramatic moments in her characters’ lives. Some of the stories are sweet while others quite ironic. I liked how events did not always turn out how the characters planned, but for the best.
If you enjoy being able to sit down a read a story from inception to epiphany before your coffee cools, 2000 Words: A Collection of Short Stories is for you.
If you enjoy being able to sit down a read a story from inception to epiphany before your coffee cools, 2000 Words: A Collection of Short Stories is for you.
January 12, 2014
The subject matter of Ms. Dodd's short vignettes varies from ethereal to sensual to commonplace, but the unifying theme is the protagonist's emotional journey. In some stories, it might be an unusual slice of life or new venture. In others, it is the culmination of a real or imagined tryst. In the hands of a skilled author like Ms. Dodd, the reader is absorbed into the scene in only a few, well-chosen words. Inevitably, there is an ironic twist.
February 11, 2014
If you like to read short stories with a twist of a paranormal or troubled nature... This is a great collection.
I found myself drawn back to it, wondering where the next story would go. They are all different takes on a range a themes... Loneliness, war, magic, mystery, neglect.
I enjoyed them and would recommend, especially if you find you want to read something interesting without committing to a novel. The stories reminded me of the like I have read in magazines.
I found myself drawn back to it, wondering where the next story would go. They are all different takes on a range a themes... Loneliness, war, magic, mystery, neglect.
I enjoyed them and would recommend, especially if you find you want to read something interesting without committing to a novel. The stories reminded me of the like I have read in magazines.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews