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Good Things: A Holiday Short Story
I dreaded this time of the year, the holiday season, it had a way of reminding me how lonely I was, nothing to be cheery and merry about. Little did I know that this year, my life would drastically change, thanks to unexpected events that made me believe in the magic of the holiday season. You know what they say, good things always come in threes…
19 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2023
2 people want to read
About the author
Tlalane Manciya
10 books16 followersTlalane Manciya hails from Cape Town, South Africa. She is a certified life purpose coach, poet, blogger, and author of several romance novels and short stories, in addition to contributing to a local magazine with inspiring articles. Her writing is not limited to romance novels and poetry, but extends beyond the realms of romance and poetry, as evidenced by her published works in eight worldwide anthologies. She is a proud member of the Romance Writers Organisation of South Africa (ROSA).
You may visit her website at www.tlalane.com for more books.
You may visit her website at www.tlalane.com for more books.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 28, 2025
A Story Short in Many Ways
It is not my purpose to discourage any author. I believe anyone with imagination can learn to write well, and this author has imagination. But at this level of expertise, an author should run their work past beta readers or an editor before publishing to avoid some of the pitfalls that I mention below. Also, to develop one’s writing skills, again before publishing, I recommend either professional training, as with a writing course, or self-help, as with joining a writers’ group in which one’s work is critiqued by fellow writers (for example, at scribophile.com).
Good Things: A Holiday Short Story (by Tlalane Manciya) is a very short girl-meets-guy tale that happens to take place at Christmas time and that plot-wise amounts to little more than its young woman protagonist actually meeting the guy. There’s a scene displaying the young woman’s argumentative relationship with her mother and one in which she accidentally (and incredibly) meets up with her long-lost father whom she never knew, but both those subplots quickly vanish with little or no further notice. While elements of the story have plenty of potential for creative and emotional exploration, it just doesn’t happen. The possibility of some girl-on-girl rivalry arises, only — to the frustration of the reader — to be summarily passed by. Even the revelation that the protagonist’s Mr. Right had secretly pined for her in the past doesn’t seem to get its fair due. Lots of possible avenues of plot development present themselves but are not explored. The writing also lacks considerable polish, which should have been remedied by some basic editing, especially in a story of such short length. Punctuation flaws, erroneous word usages, and cliches abound. These kinds of things may not matter to some readers, but others might find them to be as distracting as the story’s smitten lovebirds are said to find each other to be.
It is not my purpose to discourage any author. I believe anyone with imagination can learn to write well, and this author has imagination. But at this level of expertise, an author should run their work past beta readers or an editor before publishing to avoid some of the pitfalls that I mention below. Also, to develop one’s writing skills, again before publishing, I recommend either professional training, as with a writing course, or self-help, as with joining a writers’ group in which one’s work is critiqued by fellow writers (for example, at scribophile.com).
Good Things: A Holiday Short Story (by Tlalane Manciya) is a very short girl-meets-guy tale that happens to take place at Christmas time and that plot-wise amounts to little more than its young woman protagonist actually meeting the guy. There’s a scene displaying the young woman’s argumentative relationship with her mother and one in which she accidentally (and incredibly) meets up with her long-lost father whom she never knew, but both those subplots quickly vanish with little or no further notice. While elements of the story have plenty of potential for creative and emotional exploration, it just doesn’t happen. The possibility of some girl-on-girl rivalry arises, only — to the frustration of the reader — to be summarily passed by. Even the revelation that the protagonist’s Mr. Right had secretly pined for her in the past doesn’t seem to get its fair due. Lots of possible avenues of plot development present themselves but are not explored. The writing also lacks considerable polish, which should have been remedied by some basic editing, especially in a story of such short length. Punctuation flaws, erroneous word usages, and cliches abound. These kinds of things may not matter to some readers, but others might find them to be as distracting as the story’s smitten lovebirds are said to find each other to be.
January 1, 2024
"Good Things" by Tlalane Manciya is a heartwarming holiday tale that beautifully captures the essence of hope, unexpected joy, and the magic of the festive season. Despite its brevity, this short story manages to pack a punch with its well-crafted narrative and endearing characters.
The protagonist's initial sense of loneliness during the holiday season is relatable, drawing readers into their emotional journey. However, Manciya skillfully weaves a tale of serendipitous events that bring about a delightful transformation in the protagonist's life. The story's concise yet evocative prose immerses readers in the holiday spirit, evoking feelings of warmth and optimism.
At just 32 pages and approximately 6000 words, "Good Things" is a quick read that can be enjoyed in one sitting, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a heartening story during the busy holiday season. Manciya's writing style is engaging, effortlessly conveying the message that good things indeed come when least expected, leaving readers with a sense of joy and belief in the magic of life's surprises.
Overall, "Good Things" is a delightful and uplifting holiday read that radiates positivity, delivering a powerful message about the transformative power of unexpected events and the beauty of embracing the holiday spirit. Tlalane Manciya's storytelling prowess shines through, leaving a lasting impression and a warm feeling that lingers long after the story concludes.
The protagonist's initial sense of loneliness during the holiday season is relatable, drawing readers into their emotional journey. However, Manciya skillfully weaves a tale of serendipitous events that bring about a delightful transformation in the protagonist's life. The story's concise yet evocative prose immerses readers in the holiday spirit, evoking feelings of warmth and optimism.
At just 32 pages and approximately 6000 words, "Good Things" is a quick read that can be enjoyed in one sitting, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a heartening story during the busy holiday season. Manciya's writing style is engaging, effortlessly conveying the message that good things indeed come when least expected, leaving readers with a sense of joy and belief in the magic of life's surprises.
Overall, "Good Things" is a delightful and uplifting holiday read that radiates positivity, delivering a powerful message about the transformative power of unexpected events and the beauty of embracing the holiday spirit. Tlalane Manciya's storytelling prowess shines through, leaving a lasting impression and a warm feeling that lingers long after the story concludes.
December 5, 2023
Good Things: A Holiday Short Story by Tlalane Manciya is indeed short. Readers get just a small taste of who the characters are and what they’re up to before seeing the words “The End” much too soon, followed by a sample of a novella by the author.
By far the most intriguing portion of the story was the very beginning, when the 18-year-old narrator, Destiny, laments her usual boring (but fight-filled) Christmas day spent with her mother, whom she’s growing tired of: “No best friend, no boyfriend, no other family members to spend time with or even talk to,” Manciya plaintively writes. I was intrigued by the utter hopelessness of this straightforward prose. And even though I suspected this tale would be modeled after a Hallmark-like story (and it is), I was curious how things would shake out for Destiny, who longs to be a famous singer (seems like that’s a popular goal among young people these days, but maybe I just watch too much of “The Voice” with my wife).
Destiny's issues aren’t wrapped up in a neat and tidy Christmas bow at the sudden end, but a few of her major life issues come to life rather suddenly and without nearly enough passage of time and narrative depth. I sense a Good Things sequel in the making—and there’s nothing wrong with that—but this tale, even though it was designed to be ultra-short, lacks development and needs more dramatic spark.
By far the most intriguing portion of the story was the very beginning, when the 18-year-old narrator, Destiny, laments her usual boring (but fight-filled) Christmas day spent with her mother, whom she’s growing tired of: “No best friend, no boyfriend, no other family members to spend time with or even talk to,” Manciya plaintively writes. I was intrigued by the utter hopelessness of this straightforward prose. And even though I suspected this tale would be modeled after a Hallmark-like story (and it is), I was curious how things would shake out for Destiny, who longs to be a famous singer (seems like that’s a popular goal among young people these days, but maybe I just watch too much of “The Voice” with my wife).
Destiny's issues aren’t wrapped up in a neat and tidy Christmas bow at the sudden end, but a few of her major life issues come to life rather suddenly and without nearly enough passage of time and narrative depth. I sense a Good Things sequel in the making—and there’s nothing wrong with that—but this tale, even though it was designed to be ultra-short, lacks development and needs more dramatic spark.
December 14, 2023
"Good Things" by Tlalane Manciya is a gem of a holiday short story that enchants readers with its delightful narrative and heartfelt themes. Set against the backdrop of the festive season, Manciya paints a vivid picture of warmth, kindness, and the beauty of human connections. The story unfolds with a captivating blend of emotions, offering a glimpse into the lives of characters who find themselves entwined in a series of serendipitous events during the holidays.
Manciya's storytelling prowess shines through as the narrative gracefully navigates through moments of joy, hope, and the intrinsic goodness of people. The characters are beautifully crafted, each possessing a depth that resonates with the readers, fostering empathy and understanding.
What truly sets "Good Things" apart is its ability to capture the essence of the holiday spirit—emphasizing the significance of compassion, generosity, and the magic of togetherness. The story's conclusion leaves a lingering sense of warmth, carrying a poignant message about the profound impact of small acts of kindness. "Good Things" is a touching, heartwarming narrative that embodies the true essence of the holiday season, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a dose of festive cheer and heartfelt storytelling.
Manciya's storytelling prowess shines through as the narrative gracefully navigates through moments of joy, hope, and the intrinsic goodness of people. The characters are beautifully crafted, each possessing a depth that resonates with the readers, fostering empathy and understanding.
What truly sets "Good Things" apart is its ability to capture the essence of the holiday spirit—emphasizing the significance of compassion, generosity, and the magic of togetherness. The story's conclusion leaves a lingering sense of warmth, carrying a poignant message about the profound impact of small acts of kindness. "Good Things" is a touching, heartwarming narrative that embodies the true essence of the holiday season, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a dose of festive cheer and heartfelt storytelling.
December 17, 2023
2 Different Short Heartfelt Stories!
Our first short story finds Destiny dealing with a whirlwind of emotional situations in her life. Her mother doesn't support her choice of career which causes them to fight a lot but another reason is because Destiny wants to know more about her father, but no matter how hard she tries her mother will give her no information other than his name. With a belief and love for singing she chooses to leave home at 18 to pursue it and happens to find her father and answers along the way. Not only did her music lead her back to her father but she also finds hope of a love she had run across years prior but gave no attention to. Short, sweet an to the point but most of all if covers things we as people often face : going against our parents wishes, finding ones self, finding answers, pursuing dreams and finding love.
Our second story leads with Dineo who happens across a young girl named Zara on her front step one day after work. With her twin sister help they notify the father, Bongani, learning things are never as they seem. While reuniting a father and daughter Dineo might have found her forever family without realizing this path would take her somewhere full of something we all pray for.
Our first short story finds Destiny dealing with a whirlwind of emotional situations in her life. Her mother doesn't support her choice of career which causes them to fight a lot but another reason is because Destiny wants to know more about her father, but no matter how hard she tries her mother will give her no information other than his name. With a belief and love for singing she chooses to leave home at 18 to pursue it and happens to find her father and answers along the way. Not only did her music lead her back to her father but she also finds hope of a love she had run across years prior but gave no attention to. Short, sweet an to the point but most of all if covers things we as people often face : going against our parents wishes, finding ones self, finding answers, pursuing dreams and finding love.
Our second story leads with Dineo who happens across a young girl named Zara on her front step one day after work. With her twin sister help they notify the father, Bongani, learning things are never as they seem. While reuniting a father and daughter Dineo might have found her forever family without realizing this path would take her somewhere full of something we all pray for.
January 27, 2025
a delightful tale
"Good Things: A Holiday Short Story" by Tlalane Manciya is a delightful tale that follows the journey of 18-year-old Destiny. Defying her mother’s ultimatum, Destiny pursues her dream of becoming a singer, a decision that leads her on an unexpected path of self-discovery. In her quest, she not only seeks to fulfill her passion for music but also to meet her father, someone she has never known. This quest for connection adds layers of emotional depth to the story.
Throughout her journey, Destiny encounters a boy from a previous meeting, reigniting memories and feelings that challenge her understanding of love and relationships. Despite the book's brevity, it is rich in substance, offering readers a heartfelt narrative that explores themes of ambition, identity, and the importance of family ties. Manciya's writing captures the essence of youthful determination and the complexities of familial relationships, making it a poignant holiday read. Readers will find themselves immersed in Destiny's world, cheering for her as she navigates the challenges and joys of pursuing her dreams while uncovering the truths of her past. This story reminds us that good things often come from taking risks.
"Good Things: A Holiday Short Story" by Tlalane Manciya is a delightful tale that follows the journey of 18-year-old Destiny. Defying her mother’s ultimatum, Destiny pursues her dream of becoming a singer, a decision that leads her on an unexpected path of self-discovery. In her quest, she not only seeks to fulfill her passion for music but also to meet her father, someone she has never known. This quest for connection adds layers of emotional depth to the story.
Throughout her journey, Destiny encounters a boy from a previous meeting, reigniting memories and feelings that challenge her understanding of love and relationships. Despite the book's brevity, it is rich in substance, offering readers a heartfelt narrative that explores themes of ambition, identity, and the importance of family ties. Manciya's writing captures the essence of youthful determination and the complexities of familial relationships, making it a poignant holiday read. Readers will find themselves immersed in Destiny's world, cheering for her as she navigates the challenges and joys of pursuing her dreams while uncovering the truths of her past. This story reminds us that good things often come from taking risks.
December 7, 2023
Good Things (A Holiday Short Story) by Tlalane Manciya takes place during the Christmas holiday. The main character, Destiny, is lonely and feels she has nothing but deficits in her life. She wants a best friend. She’s hungry for information about her missing dad. And she’s a singer hoping for that elusive big break. When she finds out she’s made it to the finals of The Christmas Carol Contest, she hopes this might be it.
I don’t want to spoil the ending, but I will say that the author addresses many of her desires in surprising ways. Destiny was very likeable, and I would have loved to have spent more time getting to know her. Especially, I wanted to find out more about the conflicts with her mother. Destiny’s interactions with the new people in her life also found me yearning to see the relationships progress.
I wish the author had expanded the short story into a novelette or novella and I wonder if she plans to later. I also read an excerpt from her novella, State of the Heart, which I enjoyed. Manciya is a gifted writer and I think she could go far if she slows down and savors each scene instead of rushing or cutting them off short.
I don’t want to spoil the ending, but I will say that the author addresses many of her desires in surprising ways. Destiny was very likeable, and I would have loved to have spent more time getting to know her. Especially, I wanted to find out more about the conflicts with her mother. Destiny’s interactions with the new people in her life also found me yearning to see the relationships progress.
I wish the author had expanded the short story into a novelette or novella and I wonder if she plans to later. I also read an excerpt from her novella, State of the Heart, which I enjoyed. Manciya is a gifted writer and I think she could go far if she slows down and savors each scene instead of rushing or cutting them off short.
January 15, 2024
More please
A heartwarming collection of short stories that effortlessly blends engaging concepts with the spirit of Christmas. The tales follow relatable characters, notably Destiny, an aspiring singer, and Dineo, who discovers a surprising connection with her neighbor. The stories capture the essence of the holiday season, adding a touch of warmth and joy to the narratives.
Manciya's writing introduces cute and realistic elements, like Destiny's encounter with Andre, which beautifully balances sweetness and authenticity. The desire for more detail arises, particularly in Destiny's journey to reconnect with her long-lost father. While the stories are heartwarming, the wish for additional depth in certain aspects is palpable. Despite this, the book remains a delightful read, offering readers short yet captivating narratives filled with hope, relatability, and the magic of Christmas. If author could delve a bit deeper into the characters' lives, providing a more thorough exploration of their emotional landscapes, "Good Things" would undoubtedly become an even more enchanting experience for its readers.
A heartwarming collection of short stories that effortlessly blends engaging concepts with the spirit of Christmas. The tales follow relatable characters, notably Destiny, an aspiring singer, and Dineo, who discovers a surprising connection with her neighbor. The stories capture the essence of the holiday season, adding a touch of warmth and joy to the narratives.
Manciya's writing introduces cute and realistic elements, like Destiny's encounter with Andre, which beautifully balances sweetness and authenticity. The desire for more detail arises, particularly in Destiny's journey to reconnect with her long-lost father. While the stories are heartwarming, the wish for additional depth in certain aspects is palpable. Despite this, the book remains a delightful read, offering readers short yet captivating narratives filled with hope, relatability, and the magic of Christmas. If author could delve a bit deeper into the characters' lives, providing a more thorough exploration of their emotional landscapes, "Good Things" would undoubtedly become an even more enchanting experience for its readers.
December 4, 2023
Short and sweet
Eighteen-year-old Destiny is lonely, she longs to be a singer, but her mother isn’t supportive of her dream, and she wants to know more about her father.
In this very short read – it took me about twenty minutes – Destiny gets all three wishes. It’s a very sweet story, but it felt a bit rushed. I would have loved it to be a little more developed. For example, Destiny bumps into her father, literally, chats with him briefly to work out who he is, and then we’re told they build their relationship; it would’ve been great to see that development.
Destiny is very likeable; the other characters were peripheral, which is to be expected given the length of the book.
I’m not a huge fan of love at first sight, but I think it worked with Andre and Destiny, given it was just a short encounter. I would love to know what happens when Andre returns from his missionary work.
Overall, I enjoyed it, but would’ve loved it to be longer! Recommend for those looking for a short, sweet story.
Eighteen-year-old Destiny is lonely, she longs to be a singer, but her mother isn’t supportive of her dream, and she wants to know more about her father.
In this very short read – it took me about twenty minutes – Destiny gets all three wishes. It’s a very sweet story, but it felt a bit rushed. I would have loved it to be a little more developed. For example, Destiny bumps into her father, literally, chats with him briefly to work out who he is, and then we’re told they build their relationship; it would’ve been great to see that development.
Destiny is very likeable; the other characters were peripheral, which is to be expected given the length of the book.
I’m not a huge fan of love at first sight, but I think it worked with Andre and Destiny, given it was just a short encounter. I would love to know what happens when Andre returns from his missionary work.
Overall, I enjoyed it, but would’ve loved it to be longer! Recommend for those looking for a short, sweet story.
December 18, 2023
“Good things” is a sweet and touching short story about a girl only just turning into an adult and taking life into her own hands. She dares to leave her dreary home life with her mother and pursue her dream of being a singer, and, as she takes the leap of faith, good things begin happening to her. A beautiful and inspiring concept for which the author deserves proper credit.
On the other side, the story could have been a bit more developed as it had such a powerful backbone - this young woman’s aspirations for love, family, and a successful but decent career. I would like to have read more about Destiny’s newfound dad and how their relationship came together. The romance part was significantly more well-built and I very much liked the fact that it left us with the hope of a relationship and not an actual one – it felt very real and also hopeful.
Overall, I enjoyed the read and recognized the author’s potential for some great, genuine, and inspiring writing. I will be looking forward to seeing more.
On the other side, the story could have been a bit more developed as it had such a powerful backbone - this young woman’s aspirations for love, family, and a successful but decent career. I would like to have read more about Destiny’s newfound dad and how their relationship came together. The romance part was significantly more well-built and I very much liked the fact that it left us with the hope of a relationship and not an actual one – it felt very real and also hopeful.
Overall, I enjoyed the read and recognized the author’s potential for some great, genuine, and inspiring writing. I will be looking forward to seeing more.
December 30, 2023
Good Things, by Tlalane Manciya is actually two completely different short stories. Both are heartwarming tales with likable characters.
The first story is about a young girl named Destiny. She doesn't have a great home life with her mother, has never met her father and wants to become a singer. The name Destiny is no coincidence as she rolls the dice by entering a singing contest and quickly meets her intended destiny. This story has elements of despair but quickly turns into a hallmark type story with love and success.
The second story felt a bit quick. We follow Dinio who finds a neighbor girl on her front steps. This story too is a hallmark type story with romance and a happy ending, but I found it too rushed. I would have like for the story to have been more flushed out.
Overall, I enjoyed these fast reads. If you like a short story with a happy ending you will enjoy this book.
The first story is about a young girl named Destiny. She doesn't have a great home life with her mother, has never met her father and wants to become a singer. The name Destiny is no coincidence as she rolls the dice by entering a singing contest and quickly meets her intended destiny. This story has elements of despair but quickly turns into a hallmark type story with love and success.
The second story felt a bit quick. We follow Dinio who finds a neighbor girl on her front steps. This story too is a hallmark type story with romance and a happy ending, but I found it too rushed. I would have like for the story to have been more flushed out.
Overall, I enjoyed these fast reads. If you like a short story with a happy ending you will enjoy this book.
January 14, 2024
First, it needs to be noted that Good Things: A Holiday Short Story is correctly offered as a short story, not a book. Still, I was expecting something a bit fuller. Even as a short story, I felt it probably would be better used as chapters within a much longer work. It is well written and sets an interesting context, especially through the character development. But again, there were things going on with the main characters that suggested much more to them and I was left wondering about these possibilities. I didn’t really think the story came to a complete conclusion, though it did find an end consistent with its title. I was left asking myself whether the characters would find their way together again, and what might intervene in their lives before they meet again, and how that story might end. All to say that this work was good, but left me wanting a lot more. Perhaps that is coming? Keep at it- this was a very good start that would benefit from more.
December 6, 2023
After reading a few different books I was looking for a palette cleanser and came across and found a new author to me Tlalane Manciya and the book Good Things a short novella. Though I didn’t expect it to be as short as it was and it ended very abruptly. I have to admit I’m not sure if I will read more by this author as the book appeared rushed and underdeveloped. We only get to see a tiny snippet of the character's lives, Destiny, her dad and Andre. I do wish the author had written a little bit more on Destiny getting to know her father especially as she hasn’t seen him for nearly 18 years and although the meeting with Andre was sweet I had to wonder what happens next, does she rebuild her relationship with her Father? Does Andre meet her again after his missionary work? Does she become a famous singer? Overall all the story had me wanting more.
December 9, 2023
The short story “Good Things” is a sweet and compelling story! I enjoyed the budding romance between Andre and Destiney. I thought it was cute that Andre, after their teenage encounter still prayed and waited to meet Destiney again. It’s one of those stories that’s makes you think about the world we live in now and how rare it is to find a good partner that genuinely wants to get to know you first. I also loved the part when Destiney got to meet her father for the first time. This encounter cleared up a lot of holes and questions she has had her whole life. I don’t really understand why her mom never told her about her father, but I get why the mother and relationship was fragile. I do wish there was more on that relationship in the story, and hopefully the author can make a Good Thing part 2 so we can see more of Destiney and Andre romance blossom. Great story!
February 3, 2025
Good Things by Tlalane Manciya is a delightful tale of loneliness, holidays and the redeeming power of love. It has all the trademarks of a Jane Austin classic but bound up in two short and easy-to-read stories.
Our protagonist is Destiny, and she has her hands full arguing with her mother who doesn’t support her career choice and who won’t tell her anything about her father. However, Destiny has the power of music to save her and propel her on a whirlwind adventure where she finds her father and falls in love.
The second story, Dineo helps a young girl reunite with her father and finds herself encountering all manner of intriguing ideas. And again, the reader finds him or herself being drawn into a cozy and satisfying story.
If you are a fan of cozy romances, then this is a must for you. You’ll no doubt be swept up with interesting narrative and fun characters.
Our protagonist is Destiny, and she has her hands full arguing with her mother who doesn’t support her career choice and who won’t tell her anything about her father. However, Destiny has the power of music to save her and propel her on a whirlwind adventure where she finds her father and falls in love.
The second story, Dineo helps a young girl reunite with her father and finds herself encountering all manner of intriguing ideas. And again, the reader finds him or herself being drawn into a cozy and satisfying story.
If you are a fan of cozy romances, then this is a must for you. You’ll no doubt be swept up with interesting narrative and fun characters.
February 3, 2025
This romantic holiday story does what it says on the tin - warms the heart. But for me, it doesn't tick enough boxes, having too little character development, plot and drama. Destiny and her father being the most obvious area needing work, the reader expects and wants to hear more about their relationship, to give depth to this part of the story.
The use of the cliché 'tall dark and handsome’ made me tut. Also, the author tends to switch between past and present tense, for instance: ‘the person who had sent me the email had said it's a big event for the church, they invite children from an orphanage they support, and they offered to pay me’.
That said, I enjoyed 'Good Things'. I think Ms Manciya has potential, her writing in general is competent and pleasant to read, and with character development this could be a great romantic story, but as it is, unfortunately fell short for me.
The use of the cliché 'tall dark and handsome’ made me tut. Also, the author tends to switch between past and present tense, for instance: ‘the person who had sent me the email had said it's a big event for the church, they invite children from an orphanage they support, and they offered to pay me’.
That said, I enjoyed 'Good Things'. I think Ms Manciya has potential, her writing in general is competent and pleasant to read, and with character development this could be a great romantic story, but as it is, unfortunately fell short for me.
December 6, 2023
A true spirit of Christmas-type story. I'm kind of a sucker for good Christmas stories. So many are just sickeningly sweet and/or badly written and/or total cliche. This one isn't. It's well-written, has characters you can relate to (especially Destiny) and enough of a plot to give it substance. This was an enjoyable read short enough to read in one sitting. If you ever are in the mood for a quick holiday read, you will like it.
December 15, 2023
The perfect little read to enjoy while cozying up with a warm cup of hot chocolate for the holiday season. In fact, skip the hot chocolate, because Destiny’s story — a story that delivers its title’s namesake: good things — will warm your heart.
When the reader meets Destiny, she is young, alone, and dependent on her mother, whom she clashes with. But, embarking on a singing competition, which her mother disapproves of, soon proved to be fateful for Destiny, in more ways than one.
When the reader meets Destiny, she is young, alone, and dependent on her mother, whom she clashes with. But, embarking on a singing competition, which her mother disapproves of, soon proved to be fateful for Destiny, in more ways than one.
December 1, 2023
Good Things: A Holiday Short Story by Tlalane Manciya is a short, easy read. It’s only around thirty pages and took me less than an hour over a cup of tea. So, it is ideal when you haven’t much time and want something to read.
It’s a delightful wee story about Destiny, a young woman who wants only three things in life – a singing career, a boyfriend and to get to know her absent, unknown father. Not necessarily in that order.
I would have loved Destiny’s three wishes, or ambitions, to have been more developed as they come true rather quickly because the author only gives the reader a snippet of each. Like meeting her father. This could have taken place over several chapters as they got to know one another. The same with her blossoming career, and meeting Andre – a man she feels an instant attraction to.
This is a sweet, delightful little story and I could easily see it being made into a full-sized novel.
It’s a delightful wee story about Destiny, a young woman who wants only three things in life – a singing career, a boyfriend and to get to know her absent, unknown father. Not necessarily in that order.
I would have loved Destiny’s three wishes, or ambitions, to have been more developed as they come true rather quickly because the author only gives the reader a snippet of each. Like meeting her father. This could have taken place over several chapters as they got to know one another. The same with her blossoming career, and meeting Andre – a man she feels an instant attraction to.
This is a sweet, delightful little story and I could easily see it being made into a full-sized novel.
November 23, 2023
I loved this book I do wish it was longer though only because It is soo good that I wanted to keep reading.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews