Collisions

by Russell Bittner

A story of minor erotic—but of major romantic—proportions. Published on the Web multiple times and in the author’s collection of short stories titled STORIES IN THE KEY OF C. MINOR., “Collisions” doesn’t pretend to titillate. But it does hope to captivate—maybe even levitate—by its suggestion of what can be, will be, must be in a world better than this one.

25 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 11, 2013

About the author

Russell presently lives and works in Hudson, New York, USA.

Russell has two kiddoes, Chris (M, aged 29) and Alex (F, aged 26). Both are out of the nest -- which, in any case, fell apart long ago. My boy lives in Manhattan, my girl in Brooklyn. The three of us occasionally meet for lunch or dinner or even an entire weekend -- whenever, that is, one party or the other can be convinced to drive north.

Reviews

[Jenny Twist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie is taking the tube on her daily journey to work. It seemed a day like any other – until she bumped into a nice young man. What follows next is a classic tale of love and obsession – except there is a feeling of mounting dread. It feels too good to be true.

I’ve read Russell Bittner’s work before and was expecting to enjoy this story. I loved the feeling of mounting suspense as the plot unfolded. Since I am something of a mystery/thriller buff, I can usually guess the ending but this one took me by surprise. I can’t tell you any more without giving the game away, but I will say one more thing. I am confident that, whatever your favourite genre, you will enjoy this story just for the fluency and accuracy of the language and for the sheer mastery of the short story form.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first story that I have by this author and it will not be the last. Russell Bittner definitely has a way with words and accomplished a really good short story in only 25 pages.

There is both romance and suspense to this story. I grew attached to Maggie in 25 pages. The storyline was different from the usual stories you read. I don't want to spoil anything so will only say the ending was not what I thought was going to happen.

If you like short stories, this is an interesting one!

[Nonnie Augustine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read poems, stories, and two full length books written by Russell Bittner, (a novel, “Trompe-l’oeil,” and “Letters to My Children,”) and he is an enormously talented writer. “Collisions,” a short story, confirms my opinion and I can heartily recommend it. If you appreciate fresh, effortless prose, engaging characters, erotic scenes written well, and unpredictable story lines, you will enjoy reading this story as much as I did.

Nonnie Augustine

[Kate Papas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartbreaking love story, wonderfully written.

Had I not seen the name of the author, I could easily assume that it was a woman's literary creation. Such is the accuracy of the female psychology and feelings.

A fast, soulful read of highest quality.