Contrivances

by David Balzer

This inaugural story collection, boasting a talk-show host with a chatty appendage, a prisoner-penning women's group, and a nudist poncho crafter, is both distinctive and engaging. Each tale resides in its own dramatic universe, drawing inspiration from classic Hollywood, Gothic literature, art-world whispers, and perhaps a Lifetime flick or two. Balzer's insights cut like Flaubert's, while his characters are intricately crafted, echoing George Saunders' complexity and George Sanders' wit. Adorned with illustrations, 'Contrivances' demonstrates that tragedy can morph into comedy given enough play.

212 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2012