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Road Rash
A guy dies in a violent motorcycle wreck. He goes to Heaven... or does he? They can't serve coleslaw there and still call it that, can they?
Road Rash is a short novella about life, death, and drama teachers.
Road Rash is a short novella about life, death, and drama teachers.
44 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
September 10, 2015
I loved Road Rash! I rate it as 5/5 stars, and recommend it as a quick, fun read for adults. Kudos to Bonnie Bernard for writing this little treasure and being among the handful of authors whose work makes me laugh aloud.
Road Rash is a wonderful, original, off-the-wall sort of book that kicks the mainstream fiction genre right in the face…then dumps a big ole bowl of coleslaw on top of it. The closest I can come to describing Bonnie Bernard’s quirky story is to say it is sort of like a comical hybridization of The Big Lebowski and the The Five People You Meet in Heaven…with an absurd twist. The irreverence of the story works so well, partly because Wayne —who thinks he must have gotten in at the wrong gate because he’s Hell-bound for sure— has a prickly conscience that keeps poking at him. Don’t think the Harley dude’s gone soft, though. Even good guys get fed up sometime…and he is glad to have taken his last bite of that damned coleslaw his passive-aggressive wife, Tammy, slopped on his plate, year after year, every time he disappointed her.
There are so many funny concepts and lines in this story. I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. I probably shouldn’t have read it in bed, though. My husband did not appreciate my giggles, or having me read the funny parts of the book aloud to him at 1:00am…If he doesn’t watch it he’s going to get a big ole bowl of slaw for his 3-squares the next few days. I’ll write Tammy (care of Bonnie Bernard) and get her special recipe. That will fix him!
Disclaimer: I requested this book and was provided it as a gift in exchange for an honest review.
Road Rash is a wonderful, original, off-the-wall sort of book that kicks the mainstream fiction genre right in the face…then dumps a big ole bowl of coleslaw on top of it. The closest I can come to describing Bonnie Bernard’s quirky story is to say it is sort of like a comical hybridization of The Big Lebowski and the The Five People You Meet in Heaven…with an absurd twist. The irreverence of the story works so well, partly because Wayne —who thinks he must have gotten in at the wrong gate because he’s Hell-bound for sure— has a prickly conscience that keeps poking at him. Don’t think the Harley dude’s gone soft, though. Even good guys get fed up sometime…and he is glad to have taken his last bite of that damned coleslaw his passive-aggressive wife, Tammy, slopped on his plate, year after year, every time he disappointed her.
There are so many funny concepts and lines in this story. I couldn’t put it down once I started reading. I probably shouldn’t have read it in bed, though. My husband did not appreciate my giggles, or having me read the funny parts of the book aloud to him at 1:00am…If he doesn’t watch it he’s going to get a big ole bowl of slaw for his 3-squares the next few days. I’ll write Tammy (care of Bonnie Bernard) and get her special recipe. That will fix him!
Disclaimer: I requested this book and was provided it as a gift in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2014
I am not usually a fan of short stories but this one was unbelievably good. The story was as usual with Bonnie, very well written, the book was well edited and the story was unique. I fell in love with the main character, which is hard to achieve for such a short book.
The story has religious undertones but this didn't spoil it for me. The messages throughout the book were fantastic and to some extent inspirational. The twist at the end, superb and the best ending one could have hoped for.
I have read several of Bonnie's books and have never been disappointed. I don't think you will be either. Highly recommend both this book and the author.
The story has religious undertones but this didn't spoil it for me. The messages throughout the book were fantastic and to some extent inspirational. The twist at the end, superb and the best ending one could have hoped for.
I have read several of Bonnie's books and have never been disappointed. I don't think you will be either. Highly recommend both this book and the author.
January 29, 2014
I haven't read a short story in eons, but Road Rash made me remember why I adore them. Unlike novels, authors must make every word count to entice readers into caring about characters and whatever dilemma they are encountering in only a few pages. Ms. Bernard has the knack, and this 48 page story is a LOL hilarious depiction of the afterlife that'll have you saying "Ain't that the sh**!" when you turn off your Kindle with a smile. I am impressed by the quick development of Wayne Wright, the recently departed, whose personality will make you smile or cringe, but will keep you so intrigued you'll want to find out where he'll spend eternity. Ms. Bernard's unique writing style is enhanced with her assortment of quirky and nicely developed characters who keep the grins coming.
I never read reviews prior to writing my own, yet when I came to post, saw many reviewers had offered details about the storyline. Therefore, I'll list only one of many reasons I thoroughly enjoyed this short story. I am impressed by the author's humorous assessment of various religions, which for me hit a deeper chord, reminding me my spiritual sense wasn't derived from inside a building where people tend to bifurcate the world into ideologies, colors, and categories while failing to appreciate transcendence. Ours is a complicated, 15 billion year old Universe, so it's doubtful any religion can have an objective understanding of how IT all came about or how IT will end. Maybe I'm over thinking the author's intention for this story, but that's the great thing about the written word. No two people ever read the same book and form identical conclusions.
Judge not, lest ye be judged! There were a couple of typos/errors, but nothing that hinders the hilarious, fast moving story for readers who are "dying" to know Wayne Wright's final fate. I loved it from beginning to its fabulous twist ending, and rate Road Rage an enthusiastic four and a half stars. Buy it and get your giggle on. Recommend to friends!
I never read reviews prior to writing my own, yet when I came to post, saw many reviewers had offered details about the storyline. Therefore, I'll list only one of many reasons I thoroughly enjoyed this short story. I am impressed by the author's humorous assessment of various religions, which for me hit a deeper chord, reminding me my spiritual sense wasn't derived from inside a building where people tend to bifurcate the world into ideologies, colors, and categories while failing to appreciate transcendence. Ours is a complicated, 15 billion year old Universe, so it's doubtful any religion can have an objective understanding of how IT all came about or how IT will end. Maybe I'm over thinking the author's intention for this story, but that's the great thing about the written word. No two people ever read the same book and form identical conclusions.
Judge not, lest ye be judged! There were a couple of typos/errors, but nothing that hinders the hilarious, fast moving story for readers who are "dying" to know Wayne Wright's final fate. I loved it from beginning to its fabulous twist ending, and rate Road Rage an enthusiastic four and a half stars. Buy it and get your giggle on. Recommend to friends!
January 19, 2014
You know, I really want a peek inside Bernard's brain, but I'm not sure I can handle all those curve balls coming at me at the same moment. I mean, really, where the heck does she come up with these stories? I'm sitting here shaking my head at this latest gem of hers and smiling. There isn't much I can say about the story without saying too much. How about, 'so it goes in the beginning, so it goes in the end'? The middle is just as confusing to me as the poor guys who lost his head in a motorcycle accident. It works though. The guy wakes up not knowing where he is, just happy his sense of humor is still intact. (So is Bernard's, fair warning.) Weird, huh?
Wayne Wright, comes out of that tunnel of light without a stitch on. Things just go crazy, funny, weird (pick one) from there. Everyone has a job and Wayne needs to learn his, so he better pay attention. If this is heaven, it's not exactly as he imagined it would be. I have to stop now before I just spill everything. Bernard must have been laughing when she wrote the last line, because I can't even think it with a straight face.
I love long stories. They give me a chance to get to know the characters, learn to love some and hate others. Anticipation builds, releases to rebuild again. Bernard has taught me there is something worthwhile to be found in short stories. I'm glad too. I would have missed out on a few reflexive smiles and some laughing had I not read not just this book, but her other short stories. I'm seriously doubting she could write a bad story even if she tried.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wayne Wright, comes out of that tunnel of light without a stitch on. Things just go crazy, funny, weird (pick one) from there. Everyone has a job and Wayne needs to learn his, so he better pay attention. If this is heaven, it's not exactly as he imagined it would be. I have to stop now before I just spill everything. Bernard must have been laughing when she wrote the last line, because I can't even think it with a straight face.
I love long stories. They give me a chance to get to know the characters, learn to love some and hate others. Anticipation builds, releases to rebuild again. Bernard has taught me there is something worthwhile to be found in short stories. I'm glad too. I would have missed out on a few reflexive smiles and some laughing had I not read not just this book, but her other short stories. I'm seriously doubting she could write a bad story even if she tried.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2014
Wayne Wright is dead, head removed from his shoulders, what a way to go. We meet Wayne as he travels through the light to the next plain, which of course will not run smooth.
As a short story I really didn’t know what to expect from this book. It questions different belief’s, incorporates some and laughs at others, all in a very easy going manner. We see everything fresh from his eyes, everything confusing, unanswered.
I like the concept of this story, how the transition to the hereafter is strange and complicated. I have to say that I found it hard to read. After the characters favourite line of ‘are you s**ting me’ was mentioned for the tenth time in as many lines, I wanted to put it away. It’s purely a personal gripe for me, I don’t mind swearing, but if it doesn’t feel natural I find it hard to get into the story.
The idea of separating mind, body and soul was an interesting one and the tests they had to complete. All I can say is I hope they don’t test me like that; I can see the lightning bolt already. When you read short stories you only get a snap shot of the characters, so it is hard to develop them. There is a good effort made here to change Wayne as he goes through his trial. The pace is good, moving us along nicely. The writing didn’t quite flow but again that may have something to do with trying to complete the story in so few words.
It’s always interesting to read a new take on the afterlife and this is new and usual.
As a short story I really didn’t know what to expect from this book. It questions different belief’s, incorporates some and laughs at others, all in a very easy going manner. We see everything fresh from his eyes, everything confusing, unanswered.
I like the concept of this story, how the transition to the hereafter is strange and complicated. I have to say that I found it hard to read. After the characters favourite line of ‘are you s**ting me’ was mentioned for the tenth time in as many lines, I wanted to put it away. It’s purely a personal gripe for me, I don’t mind swearing, but if it doesn’t feel natural I find it hard to get into the story.
The idea of separating mind, body and soul was an interesting one and the tests they had to complete. All I can say is I hope they don’t test me like that; I can see the lightning bolt already. When you read short stories you only get a snap shot of the characters, so it is hard to develop them. There is a good effort made here to change Wayne as he goes through his trial. The pace is good, moving us along nicely. The writing didn’t quite flow but again that may have something to do with trying to complete the story in so few words.
It’s always interesting to read a new take on the afterlife and this is new and usual.
February 13, 2014
Road Rash
A novelette about Heaven, Hell and Coleslaw
By Authors Bonnie Bernard and Doug Skinner
Laugh Out Loud Funny!!!!
From the very first sentence my mind was piqued if the title had not already captured my curiosity. I was truly looking forward to what was coming next. I loved their take on the afterlife process. With every step through the afterlife journey authors Bonnie Bernard and Doug Skinner puts a hilarious comedic spin on it. You will find yourself laughing out loud!!! And Yes, I have to say it “Ain’t it the Shit”!!! I don’t care who you are, what your religion is, or even if you question if it truly is a Heaven and Hell? You will love this short read. I will be reading this one again and again….. Very well written and one of the funniest read I have read in a while. A definite 5 Stars!!!! One for the ages!!! (WaAr) read on 10 de Febrero/February 2014.
Read and Reviewed By: De Ann “Native” Townes Jr. Author of (Peer Inside My Soul and See Me) and (A King Among Prince)
A novelette about Heaven, Hell and Coleslaw
By Authors Bonnie Bernard and Doug Skinner
Laugh Out Loud Funny!!!!
From the very first sentence my mind was piqued if the title had not already captured my curiosity. I was truly looking forward to what was coming next. I loved their take on the afterlife process. With every step through the afterlife journey authors Bonnie Bernard and Doug Skinner puts a hilarious comedic spin on it. You will find yourself laughing out loud!!! And Yes, I have to say it “Ain’t it the Shit”!!! I don’t care who you are, what your religion is, or even if you question if it truly is a Heaven and Hell? You will love this short read. I will be reading this one again and again….. Very well written and one of the funniest read I have read in a while. A definite 5 Stars!!!! One for the ages!!! (WaAr) read on 10 de Febrero/February 2014.
Read and Reviewed By: De Ann “Native” Townes Jr. Author of (Peer Inside My Soul and See Me) and (A King Among Prince)
January 4, 2014
I thought I would have a problem with this book when I started reading after the accident about how Heaven was so called perceived. But as I kept reading I realized it wasn't about Heaven and Hell it was about being judged or at least that is how I took it. Everyone is judged but not just thrown in front of someone and judged but you had to answer on how you died, and that pretty much determined where you went to. It was an interesting twist when Wayne got to become part of the judging and when the ending came it was for sure a OH WOW what will be Wayne's answer to where this person goes. There is humor within the story and plenty of puns. I love this author's wicked mind and the stories she can come up with. I am eager to read more by this author.
March 5, 2014
I purchased a Smashwords copy of this book in return for an honest review. This author has yet again made me smile, laugh and just plain enjoy reading her spontaneous and fun loving style of writing. I am completely blown away by this awesomely well written short story that literally gets me wondering about what and who I will meet when I cross to the other side. This is a RECOMMENDED MUST READ that you will find very entertaining and so intriguing that you will find yourself wanting to re-read this wickedly amazing story. This is one story that I will add to my top 10 favorite books of 2013!! Thank you, Bonnie Bernard, for sharing with us another look into your mind and the torturous world of coleslaw!!
January 5, 2014
This review is from: Road Rash (Kindle Edition)
Most authors have difficulty to give voice to one of their main protagonist in a full length novel!
Never have I come across such a strong voiced character as Wayne in a short story. The theme of the story is how do we judge. The plot is one that challenges convention with a hee-ha kind of robust fun and a wickedly twisted end.
A really fun read! One
I am sure this book will be a hit with readers.
WaAr
January 7, 2014
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
Although a short story I really enjoyed it!
It gives a very unique twist on what happens once you have died and must face your judgement day!
Wayne was a great character and I loved his dialogue.
This book was well written and the characters were great!
I love Bonnie and can't to read more of her work
Although a short story I really enjoyed it!
It gives a very unique twist on what happens once you have died and must face your judgement day!
Wayne was a great character and I loved his dialogue.
This book was well written and the characters were great!
I love Bonnie and can't to read more of her work
January 7, 2014
Road Rash was funny, thought-provoking and quite unexpected. It is the author’s views and expectations of life after death, and Bernard put her main character, Wright, through the paces to prove her point. An interesting, contemplative take, on multicultural and multi-denominational look at heaven and hell as it relates to judgment day.
February 8, 2014
Road Rash by Bonnie Bernard and Doug Skinner is a very short novella about what happens once we die. It is actually very good and gives insight into what may or may not happen in the after life. I found it funny and a very light and quick read. I think this is yet another good story from these authors and would love to read more by them both.
January 7, 2014
This was a very enjoyable read that also happens to be a fairly short book. I cracked up throughout, there's a lot of funny stuff. The way the afterlife is laid out is more akin to Buddhist belief than Christian, at least that's what I felt. I will say that was one aspect I really did like a lot.
July 20, 2016
This book had my chuckling as I read it. It's a short story about a guy who dies. He meets an old lady who looks like Yoda and proceeds to have a wacky experience in the afterlife. The author did a good job of building the character in such a short amount of time.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews