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Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire
In Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire, Scarlet Ibis James explores the raw truths of love through twelve unforgettable short stories featuring Black women and people of multi-ethnic origins. From the bittersweet nostalgia of first encounters to the heartbreak of missed connections, these tales capture love’s triumphs, sacrifices, and messy realities. Will you relate to the girl longing for her father in The First Time She Met Her Father, or find your own struggles echoed in I Love My Husband But…? Perhaps the surreal digital romance in Love in Cosmic Times will take you somewhere unexpected. Each story reflects yearning, belonging, and identity, painted across urban streets, intimate homes, and even otherworldly realms. Are you ready to uncover the beauty, complexity, and resilience of the human heart? Buy Scarlet Yearnings today and discover where your story intertwines.
111 pages, ebook
First published October 14, 2024
8 people are currently reading
792 people want to read
About the author
Scarlet Ibis James
10 books47 followersHi everyone! I’m Scarlet Ibis James, an award-winning author and storyteller based in New York City. My roots are Trinbagonian, and that Caribbean rhythm runs through everything I write—the language, the humor, the pulse of community, and the quiet courage of love.
My stories explore the many faces of love—romantic, familial, and self-love—through imperfect, unapologetic characters navigating truth, longing, and second chances. I like to keep things real and tender, with sparks of unexpected humor and the occasional touch of magic.
I write for readers who believe that love, in all its versions, still matters. 🌺
✨ Beta Readers Wanted!
If you’d like to get an early look at my upcoming short story collection, Scarlet Yearnings: Love at Second Glance, and share your candid feedback, I’d love to have you join my beta reader circle. As a thank-you, you’ll receive a free ebook copy of my award-winning collection, Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire.
👉🏽 Join the Beta Reader Program
Recent Honors:
Fall 2025 NYC Big Book Award Winner: Multicultural Fiction
International Firebird Book Awards – First Place (African American Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Best for Provoking Philosophical Discussions)
Literary Titan Gold Book Award – Fiction
International Impact Book Award – Short Story Collection
American Legacy Book Awards – Finalist (Multicultural Fiction)
Readers’ Favorite Book Awards – Three 5-Star Reviews
My stories explore the many faces of love—romantic, familial, and self-love—through imperfect, unapologetic characters navigating truth, longing, and second chances. I like to keep things real and tender, with sparks of unexpected humor and the occasional touch of magic.
I write for readers who believe that love, in all its versions, still matters. 🌺
✨ Beta Readers Wanted!
If you’d like to get an early look at my upcoming short story collection, Scarlet Yearnings: Love at Second Glance, and share your candid feedback, I’d love to have you join my beta reader circle. As a thank-you, you’ll receive a free ebook copy of my award-winning collection, Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire.
👉🏽 Join the Beta Reader Program
Recent Honors:
Fall 2025 NYC Big Book Award Winner: Multicultural Fiction
International Firebird Book Awards – First Place (African American Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Best for Provoking Philosophical Discussions)
Literary Titan Gold Book Award – Fiction
International Impact Book Award – Short Story Collection
American Legacy Book Awards – Finalist (Multicultural Fiction)
Readers’ Favorite Book Awards – Three 5-Star Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 27, 2025
Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire is a treasure trove of touching tales exploring the nature of love in all its forms. Each story details the journey of a soul searching for love, whether from a parent, a significant other, or themselves. It delves into the thrilling beginnings, bitter endings, and potent emotions of relationships. With a range of unique voices, this anthology allows glimpses into a multitude of relationships developing anywhere from in the city to in space.
In one story, a woman allows her love for herself to push her toward a new path. In another, two people who never had the opportunity to explore their connection are given a second chance. Other stories describe the torture of ‘what ifs’, tangible connections with virtual strangers, and the otherworldly experience of fusing with your soulmate.
The anthology also addresses the subtle craving we feel for acceptance and care, how a lack of it shapes us, and how we’re driven to protect it when we encounter it. Cleverly utilizing tender prose and striking imagery to evoke the deep longings we usually keep hidden, Scarlet Yearnings is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the multifaceted complexity of love.
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Simply put: this book is a great read. Each story explores a different facet of what it means to love and be loved, conveying the layered intricacies of individual relationships. Yet some things carry over from person to person. For example, how life experiences, particularly parenting, influences a person’s understanding of love, especially expectations of partners and the concept of self-love. In several stories, James highlights how individuals seek familiar patterns, which affects how they form relationships.
Additionally, James emphasizes what practices contribute most to a healthy relationship. By juxtaposing two struggling marriages with the relationship between an unmarried, long-distance couple, James underscores how honest communication and a willingness to adjust for your partner are necessary components for a relationship to thrive.
In general, the stories spotlight a central idea: we’re all searching for love. But the love we search for, and the love we find, is dependent on many factors. One of those factors is how we perceive love. Whether it’s viewed as a refuge, a distraction, or a deliberate choice. Whether we see it as an excuse to harm others, or a precious resource that requires careful nurturing in order to flourish.
In one story, a woman allows her love for herself to push her toward a new path. In another, two people who never had the opportunity to explore their connection are given a second chance. Other stories describe the torture of ‘what ifs’, tangible connections with virtual strangers, and the otherworldly experience of fusing with your soulmate.
The anthology also addresses the subtle craving we feel for acceptance and care, how a lack of it shapes us, and how we’re driven to protect it when we encounter it. Cleverly utilizing tender prose and striking imagery to evoke the deep longings we usually keep hidden, Scarlet Yearnings is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the multifaceted complexity of love.
-
Simply put: this book is a great read. Each story explores a different facet of what it means to love and be loved, conveying the layered intricacies of individual relationships. Yet some things carry over from person to person. For example, how life experiences, particularly parenting, influences a person’s understanding of love, especially expectations of partners and the concept of self-love. In several stories, James highlights how individuals seek familiar patterns, which affects how they form relationships.
Additionally, James emphasizes what practices contribute most to a healthy relationship. By juxtaposing two struggling marriages with the relationship between an unmarried, long-distance couple, James underscores how honest communication and a willingness to adjust for your partner are necessary components for a relationship to thrive.
In general, the stories spotlight a central idea: we’re all searching for love. But the love we search for, and the love we find, is dependent on many factors. One of those factors is how we perceive love. Whether it’s viewed as a refuge, a distraction, or a deliberate choice. Whether we see it as an excuse to harm others, or a precious resource that requires careful nurturing in order to flourish.
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November 10, 2024I've recently discovered 'short short stories' as a pleasant way to pass a train journey and Scarlet Yearnings played that role for me yesterday. I had more than enough time to complete the collection over five hours of train and bus rides. I'm also in the process of editing a short story collection of my own, so engaging with this versatile art form is right up my street.
The collection is aptly named, as the stories are truly united by the feeling of 'yearnings' and Scarlet has explored the many ways we 'yearn' - for the love and attention of a parent; to be free of the taboos of our parents; the limits of the worlds we've grown up in; yearnings for escape from an unhappy relationship; yearnings for what might have been and much more, including the completely irrational yearning of lust for a stranger.
The story which engaged me most was the last one, where the main character has to let go of her mother's fears before she can live her own destiny, taking a big risk, making a decision which will demand that she gives up everything she knows. I was a bit uncomfortable with the aggressiveness of the man who pursued and pressured her, though I wondered if the main character herself was an unreliable narrator - seeing the 'man' through the eyes of her mother and wary of his own truly out-of-this-world promises. Of all the stories, it's the one that will stay with me, perhaps because courage is a quality I admire - and worry I don't have enough of, but perhaps also because I have had to make decisions like that for the sake of my own integrity, and I know how hard they are and yet so essential for really moving forward.
Congrats to Scarlet on her first collection!
The collection is aptly named, as the stories are truly united by the feeling of 'yearnings' and Scarlet has explored the many ways we 'yearn' - for the love and attention of a parent; to be free of the taboos of our parents; the limits of the worlds we've grown up in; yearnings for escape from an unhappy relationship; yearnings for what might have been and much more, including the completely irrational yearning of lust for a stranger.
The story which engaged me most was the last one, where the main character has to let go of her mother's fears before she can live her own destiny, taking a big risk, making a decision which will demand that she gives up everything she knows. I was a bit uncomfortable with the aggressiveness of the man who pursued and pressured her, though I wondered if the main character herself was an unreliable narrator - seeing the 'man' through the eyes of her mother and wary of his own truly out-of-this-world promises. Of all the stories, it's the one that will stay with me, perhaps because courage is a quality I admire - and worry I don't have enough of, but perhaps also because I have had to make decisions like that for the sake of my own integrity, and I know how hard they are and yet so essential for really moving forward.
Congrats to Scarlet on her first collection!
December 19, 2024
You Don’t Need No Other Body
my favorite argument in favor of the great song “Essence” by Wizkid & Tems is that it’s neither a “love” song nor a “sex” song. instead, it’s a song about desire, that least celebrated state we find ourselves in probably increasingly rarely due to our demand for instant gratification and, failing that, our rush towards sour grapes. few things are consummated in these tales. everything is wanted. PERFECT.
my favorite argument in favor of the great song “Essence” by Wizkid & Tems is that it’s neither a “love” song nor a “sex” song. instead, it’s a song about desire, that least celebrated state we find ourselves in probably increasingly rarely due to our demand for instant gratification and, failing that, our rush towards sour grapes. few things are consummated in these tales. everything is wanted. PERFECT.
October 13, 2024
A fantastic read! Passionate and provocative. This collection of love stories weaves a beautiful and imaginative tapestry decorated with knowledge, culture, heart pounding lust and fantasy. The stories will cause you to examine your life and lovers, and dare you to love again!
December 17, 2024
Scarlet Yearnings
I enjoyed the short stories, but some of them were kind of had you thinking what people be thinking about. You have to put on your thinking cap and figure out the point of the story
I enjoyed the short stories, but some of them were kind of had you thinking what people be thinking about. You have to put on your thinking cap and figure out the point of the story
December 19, 2024
enjoyed!!
Loved how each story captured genuine emotions. Really enjoyed these short stories, my first read by this author and would love to check out more.
Loved how each story captured genuine emotions. Really enjoyed these short stories, my first read by this author and would love to check out more.
March 6, 2025
Intriguing
2.5-3 stars overall. There was a wide range of stories and several of them hit close to home. A lot of the stories have a great foundation of a story but I was jostled around a bit by holes in the plot. Well-written word flow. I would definitely be interested in fleshing out the final story of the collection.
2.5-3 stars overall. There was a wide range of stories and several of them hit close to home. A lot of the stories have a great foundation of a story but I was jostled around a bit by holes in the plot. Well-written word flow. I would definitely be interested in fleshing out the final story of the collection.
October 20, 2024
So good, so good!
A slender book - less than a hundred pages in paperback - and I looked into it as a quick read. Cutesy love stories; how easy is this?
Wow. Each story is a gem. There's more in them than you might imagine, sparkling with fresh light at each page as new insights open up.
All too soon, I had finished, and I was left empty and dark. Oh, no! It had ended too early!
Easy solution. Turn back to page one and read each story to pick up what I had missed the first time around.
These stories - twelve in all - are surprisingly varied. Some reach into science fiction and fantasy. Some are first-person narratives, some third-person, and one is a complex tale told from multiple viewpoints and genders.
Honestly, you never know what is going to open up. These stories are fresh and brilliant. If we are talking yearning, I yearn to see what Scarlet comes up with next.
Love and desire link these tales. Honest, open, hungry and not always satisfied, Deep, surprising, rich, they are delights to savour and return to.
As Scarlet suggests, read one over coffee. And then think about the characters and the emotions.
There is love here but not a box to be checked. It is love that lies in the heart and links us all, shown in the yearning to be closer to another human being, to open up and be one.
Everyone can feel that love. These stories - diverse, and just a touch of the exotic - pique our interest, and our desire to go deeper.
Read them once, read them again. There are depths here. Depths worth exploring and savouring.
Scarlet, I expect great things from you. You are a writer that makes me happy.
I want more of that!
A slender book - less than a hundred pages in paperback - and I looked into it as a quick read. Cutesy love stories; how easy is this?
Wow. Each story is a gem. There's more in them than you might imagine, sparkling with fresh light at each page as new insights open up.
All too soon, I had finished, and I was left empty and dark. Oh, no! It had ended too early!
Easy solution. Turn back to page one and read each story to pick up what I had missed the first time around.
These stories - twelve in all - are surprisingly varied. Some reach into science fiction and fantasy. Some are first-person narratives, some third-person, and one is a complex tale told from multiple viewpoints and genders.
Honestly, you never know what is going to open up. These stories are fresh and brilliant. If we are talking yearning, I yearn to see what Scarlet comes up with next.
Love and desire link these tales. Honest, open, hungry and not always satisfied, Deep, surprising, rich, they are delights to savour and return to.
As Scarlet suggests, read one over coffee. And then think about the characters and the emotions.
There is love here but not a box to be checked. It is love that lies in the heart and links us all, shown in the yearning to be closer to another human being, to open up and be one.
Everyone can feel that love. These stories - diverse, and just a touch of the exotic - pique our interest, and our desire to go deeper.
Read them once, read them again. There are depths here. Depths worth exploring and savouring.
Scarlet, I expect great things from you. You are a writer that makes me happy.
I want more of that!
October 30, 2024
Short stories are delightful, and a well-curated collection immerses you in the essence of life. Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire by Scarlet Ibis James is one such collection. One of the narrators poses a fundamental question: “Life does happen, doesn’t it?” Scarlet dedicates herself to answering this query in each story, exploring what makes life meaningful, what we might miss, and the fleeting moments that pass us by too quickly.
While these stories focus on love and desire, they also carry an undercurrent of sadness and sudden awakenings, making you realize that you’re not so different from the characters depicted. In “I Love My Husband, but…,” a woman appears to be doing well, yet as she sneaks glances at her husband, she can’t shake off the old advice from her teacher. Her story is so relatable that readers can see a modern woman in her shoes. Another story introduces a young woman at a crossroads, torn between following her grandmother’s wishes and choosing her path. Additionally, one story explores the intrigues of marriage, where little ignored issues accumulate, eventually creating rifts so wide that the once-loving couple may end up signing divorce papers. Scarlet delves into relationships with clarity, making the narratives relatable, painful, unforgettable, and illuminating.
As a reader, I thoroughly enjoyed these stories, finding them a true reflection of the human experience. Although each story stands alone, they feel intricately interconnected, as if each mirrors a different stage in the author’s life. The stories that particularly resonated with me include “Love Me, Daddy,” “I Love My Husband, but…,” “Seven was the Symbol of Their Love,” and “Love of My Mother’s Mother.”
It would be remiss of me not to mention another aspect that makes this collection stand out: from the very beginning, Scarlet’s prose captivates with its beauty. The sentences are concise, and the vocabulary is simple yet rhythmic.
Overall, this collection is a must-read for fans of short stories and anyone who appreciates narratives that blur the lines between fiction and nonfiction.
*****
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
While these stories focus on love and desire, they also carry an undercurrent of sadness and sudden awakenings, making you realize that you’re not so different from the characters depicted. In “I Love My Husband, but…,” a woman appears to be doing well, yet as she sneaks glances at her husband, she can’t shake off the old advice from her teacher. Her story is so relatable that readers can see a modern woman in her shoes. Another story introduces a young woman at a crossroads, torn between following her grandmother’s wishes and choosing her path. Additionally, one story explores the intrigues of marriage, where little ignored issues accumulate, eventually creating rifts so wide that the once-loving couple may end up signing divorce papers. Scarlet delves into relationships with clarity, making the narratives relatable, painful, unforgettable, and illuminating.
As a reader, I thoroughly enjoyed these stories, finding them a true reflection of the human experience. Although each story stands alone, they feel intricately interconnected, as if each mirrors a different stage in the author’s life. The stories that particularly resonated with me include “Love Me, Daddy,” “I Love My Husband, but…,” “Seven was the Symbol of Their Love,” and “Love of My Mother’s Mother.”
It would be remiss of me not to mention another aspect that makes this collection stand out: from the very beginning, Scarlet’s prose captivates with its beauty. The sentences are concise, and the vocabulary is simple yet rhythmic.
Overall, this collection is a must-read for fans of short stories and anyone who appreciates narratives that blur the lines between fiction and nonfiction.
*****
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2025
Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire (The Scarlet Yearnings Collection Book 1) by Scarlet Ibis James touches readers with its touching narrative and its beautiful writing style. Through simple language, the author presents every narrative in a way that brings readers close to feeling what their characters experience.
All the stories maintained a smooth transition between one another without causing any confusion.
Each scene flowed harmoniously from one to the next at a pace that let readers experience all the emotions of the characters. The book contains gentle, humorous moments that align perfectly with its overall mood.
The emotional impact of this collection delivers powerful effects in the most touching manner. The experience of meeting a distant father combined with yearning for lost love and space-based connections between individuals creates a mix of sadness and hopeful emotions and a small amount of happiness. The essential lesson I gained from this experience shows that love creates invisible scars, which we conceal while we continue to pursue meaningful connections.
The author uses a warm style that provides detailed information that readers can easily follow. The story maintains a regular pace throughout, which neither speeds up nor slows down.
The book appeals to adult readers interested in emotional stories about authentic, complicated emotions. The readers who prefer books that develop characters through relationships and personal development will comprehend the emotional value of this collection. I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.
All the stories maintained a smooth transition between one another without causing any confusion.
Each scene flowed harmoniously from one to the next at a pace that let readers experience all the emotions of the characters. The book contains gentle, humorous moments that align perfectly with its overall mood.
The emotional impact of this collection delivers powerful effects in the most touching manner. The experience of meeting a distant father combined with yearning for lost love and space-based connections between individuals creates a mix of sadness and hopeful emotions and a small amount of happiness. The essential lesson I gained from this experience shows that love creates invisible scars, which we conceal while we continue to pursue meaningful connections.
The author uses a warm style that provides detailed information that readers can easily follow. The story maintains a regular pace throughout, which neither speeds up nor slows down.
The book appeals to adult readers interested in emotional stories about authentic, complicated emotions. The readers who prefer books that develop characters through relationships and personal development will comprehend the emotional value of this collection. I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.
August 14, 2025
Scarlet Yearnings is a beautifully crafted short story collection that captures the many shades of love, desire, and heartbreak through the lens of Black women’s experiences. Each of the twelve stories offers its own emotional punch, some tender, some bittersweet, and some that linger long after the last line.
I especially appreciated how the characters felt so real, like women you might sit across from in a café, sharing their deepest truths. The mix of literary, speculative, and even humorous tones kept things fresh and unexpected, and the “just right” length of each piece made this perfect for dipping into during a break or before bed.
I listened to the audiobook, and Jasmin Kirkwood’s soothing narration pulled me into every single story, making the emotions hit even harder. While a couple of stories felt a little too short to fully explore their potential, the collection as a whole is poignant, relatable, and worthy of its award.
A thoughtful, engaging read for anyone who’s ever wrestled with the complexities of love and longing.
I especially appreciated how the characters felt so real, like women you might sit across from in a café, sharing their deepest truths. The mix of literary, speculative, and even humorous tones kept things fresh and unexpected, and the “just right” length of each piece made this perfect for dipping into during a break or before bed.
I listened to the audiobook, and Jasmin Kirkwood’s soothing narration pulled me into every single story, making the emotions hit even harder. While a couple of stories felt a little too short to fully explore their potential, the collection as a whole is poignant, relatable, and worthy of its award.
A thoughtful, engaging read for anyone who’s ever wrestled with the complexities of love and longing.
October 15, 2024
This collection of short stories dives deep into the world of Black love. From interracial relationships to forbidden desires, there's something for everyone. The author doesn't shy away from the messy, complicated side of love, and it's refreshing.
I especially loved the way the stories explore the power dynamics and emotional complexities of relationships. It's like a peek into the minds of people who are trying to figure it all out. The author does a great job of showing both the beauty and the pain of love.
And let's not forget the steamy scenes. They're hot, but not gratuitous. They feel natural and add to the overall story.
If you're looking for a book that will make you think, feel, and maybe even sweat a little, "Scarlet Yearnings" is your jam. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates a good love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I especially loved the way the stories explore the power dynamics and emotional complexities of relationships. It's like a peek into the minds of people who are trying to figure it all out. The author does a great job of showing both the beauty and the pain of love.
And let's not forget the steamy scenes. They're hot, but not gratuitous. They feel natural and add to the overall story.
If you're looking for a book that will make you think, feel, and maybe even sweat a little, "Scarlet Yearnings" is your jam. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates a good love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2025
I picked up "Scarlet Yearnings" not knowing what to expect, and I'm so glad I did.
What I appreciated most is how real these characters feel. They're not perfect people having perfect love stories. They're flawed, uncertain, sometimes making questionable choices, and that's why they resonated with me. There's no melodrama here, no easy answers. Just genuine explorations of what it means to want connection, to risk vulnerability, to manage the complicated terrain between what we desire and what we actually have.
I found myself thinking about these stories long after I finished reading. "Love, Lift Me Up" made me laugh. "The First Time She Met Her Father" gutted me. And the piece about mystical, destined love had me reconsidering some of my own past relationships.
If you're looking for something authentic and emotionally resonant, give this a read.
James has a real gift for making you feel things.
What I appreciated most is how real these characters feel. They're not perfect people having perfect love stories. They're flawed, uncertain, sometimes making questionable choices, and that's why they resonated with me. There's no melodrama here, no easy answers. Just genuine explorations of what it means to want connection, to risk vulnerability, to manage the complicated terrain between what we desire and what we actually have.
I found myself thinking about these stories long after I finished reading. "Love, Lift Me Up" made me laugh. "The First Time She Met Her Father" gutted me. And the piece about mystical, destined love had me reconsidering some of my own past relationships.
If you're looking for something authentic and emotionally resonant, give this a read.
James has a real gift for making you feel things.
January 30, 2025
From the first story I knew it was a book I would not get enough of, one that you do not want to finish because it is so good.
The writer has the skills of making music with words that draws the reader into the picture of the complexity of love in all shades.
After each story I would ponder and smile in thought of how I truly comprehend the subject matter, how I could relate to almost some of the stories, the characters, the feelings, the moment.
I loved the concept of the collection of short stories. I can't say which is my favorite because each story is real to me but the one that made me say wow is the story on page 27. Numbers are consciously and unconsciously markers for all of us, even in love.
Scarlet truly provided some great escapes in her portraits of just stuff we women live shyly or boldly.
A likkle bit of something for everyone book.
The writer has the skills of making music with words that draws the reader into the picture of the complexity of love in all shades.
After each story I would ponder and smile in thought of how I truly comprehend the subject matter, how I could relate to almost some of the stories, the characters, the feelings, the moment.
I loved the concept of the collection of short stories. I can't say which is my favorite because each story is real to me but the one that made me say wow is the story on page 27. Numbers are consciously and unconsciously markers for all of us, even in love.
Scarlet truly provided some great escapes in her portraits of just stuff we women live shyly or boldly.
A likkle bit of something for everyone book.
January 28, 2025
Romance novels are from my default reading material but this one came recommended by a friend so I decided to reach a bit out of my comfort zone and I am glad I did! "Love, Lift me Up" specifically caught my eye- it perfectly captures those intense elevator encounters I have experienced in life. Marcia's reaction to Jeffrey felt familiar- I instantly recognized that same flustered energy from my own occasional elevator ride with another stranger. I found her steamy daydreams both endearing and amusing as I have often wondered if similar thoughts were occurring in real life. maybe I'm more of a romantic than I thought? This book has helped me discover that. Would recommend a read even if this genre isn't normally your cup of tea!
February 12, 2025
Scarlet Ibis James's "Scarlet Yearnings" is a delightful surprise. While short story collections about Love and Desire aren't typically my go-to, I was drawn into the world she created within these pages. Ms. James's writing is evocative, and she has a knack for developing characters that feel real and relatable. Each story offers a unique glimpse into different facets of love and desire, and I found myself eagerly turning the page to see what would happen next. If you're looking for a collection of well-written and engaging short stories, "Scarlet Yearnings" is definitely worth checking out.
November 29, 2024
Scarlet is a hugely talented and prolific writer. Her fiction explores ‘the depths of emotions and heights of human potential.’ Her debut collection of short stories is inspiring and uplifting. They'll make your heart beat faster, your smile wiser, and your headspace happier (and wanting more!) Scarlet's captivating prose is fluid, sweet, and resonating, drawing us into the world of each and every one of her characters and their dilemmas of heart and soul. Beautifully written and presented, I cannot recommend Scarlet Yearnings (Collection Book 1) highly enough.
October 10, 2024
Scarlet Yearnings is a lovely work that examines Black love in all of its forms. The book delves into the subtleties of relationships: withholding, disappointment, longing, fever, nostalgia and lack are all covered.
The market for fiction about love has yet to be flooded with Black perspectives, and I am so glad that Scarlet wrote a work that looks honestly at multiple iterations of Black relationships (including interracial dalliances) with vulnerability and care.
The market for fiction about love has yet to be flooded with Black perspectives, and I am so glad that Scarlet wrote a work that looks honestly at multiple iterations of Black relationships (including interracial dalliances) with vulnerability and care.
October 10, 2024
This compilation of stories about love and desire are well written and gives food for thought. They are well written, empowering and will have them on your mind long after reading them. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2024
A varied collection of black relationships in it's many forms. The subjects range from interracial, the forbidden & taboo. If you are looking for a varied read that covers lots of areas. Then look no further and read on. Well worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2025
This anthology is a fantastic collection that explores universal themes of love, loss, and unification (with self and others). The stories are relatable, deep, and entertaining, leaving a lasting impression of what it means to yearn for love and meaningful bonds. I love Scarlet's voice and narrative style, and look forward to her next collection.
January 21, 2025
This collection of stories describe love in all it’s forms: unrequited love, spiritual love, old love, lost love, love than spends space and time…it is a welcome escape from the harshness of the world and a great read to feel warm and cosy on cold winter nights!
May 27, 2025
These stories are a journey through love and yearning. Great read.
July 7, 2025
Very well done stories that capture the imagination and attention and keep you in the story
January 18, 2025
🎉 Exciting News! Scarlet Yearnings: Stories of Love and Desire by Scarlet Ibis James has been nominated for two prestigious literary awards - the Black Authors Awards and the Eric Hoffer Award!
The collection features standout tales like "The First Time She Met Her Father," "Love Me, Daddy," and "Love, Mystical and Destined," each offering unique perspectives on love's transformative power. Her storytelling seamlessly bridges the warmth of Caribbean storytelling traditions with contemporary urban romance.
As noted by reviewer Britni Pepper, these stories are "gems, sparkling with fresh light at every page." The Bourbon-Sipping Bibliophile praised James for "not shying away from the messy, complicated side of love," while P. Cammalleri deemed it "a must-read for anyone who appreciates heartfelt, beautifully crafted storytelling."
Join us in celebrating these well-deserved nominations for Scarlet Ibis James's debut collection, which dares to explore the depths of human connection and the yearning within us all. Congratulations to Scarlet Ibis James on this remarkable achievement!
Looking to experience these captivating stories yourself? "Scarlet Yearnings" is available now through Goodreads and major book retailers.
The collection features standout tales like "The First Time She Met Her Father," "Love Me, Daddy," and "Love, Mystical and Destined," each offering unique perspectives on love's transformative power. Her storytelling seamlessly bridges the warmth of Caribbean storytelling traditions with contemporary urban romance.
As noted by reviewer Britni Pepper, these stories are "gems, sparkling with fresh light at every page." The Bourbon-Sipping Bibliophile praised James for "not shying away from the messy, complicated side of love," while P. Cammalleri deemed it "a must-read for anyone who appreciates heartfelt, beautifully crafted storytelling."
Join us in celebrating these well-deserved nominations for Scarlet Ibis James's debut collection, which dares to explore the depths of human connection and the yearning within us all. Congratulations to Scarlet Ibis James on this remarkable achievement!
Looking to experience these captivating stories yourself? "Scarlet Yearnings" is available now through Goodreads and major book retailers.
January 19, 2025
Lust propels one towards a benevolent goal, love… not so much.
A girl's impression of adoration is not just created, it is indelibly branded on the frontal lobe as soon as she lays eyes on her father. Although nurture plays a role in a woman’s perception of love, biology is the dominant force in one’s perception of sexual attraction.
In medicine, a rebound is the return to a previous state or condition. In life, a rebound is the deliberate act of bouncing back after a hard hit. Both are reactive, however, only the former requires a willingness to improve after a decline.
Told from a first-person perspective and filled with crisp, perfunctory details reminiscent of ‘70s and ‘80s hits describing unmistakable sexual chemistry at first sight, Love Me Daddy, is flash fiction at its finest.
Set in the most historic neighborhood of the world's concrete jungle, this is a nod to infatuation, the most prevalent, yet misunderstood romantic notion. Featuring an unnamed, naturalista protagonist, and an antagonist summed up as tall, wealthy, white, and handsome, this piece will make modest readers blush through carefully crafted internal (lust-filled) desires.
Brimming with contradictory allusions to every girl’s core longing to be loved and to never disappoint her first and only true love, this is a bite-sized reminder of the psychological bond between dads and daughters.
One of many in this debut short story collection, this passionate piece is more meaningful than a casual encounter. Although brief in form, it is a reliably satisfying conveyance of how memories are aphrodisiac and have the potential to affect casual encounters.
A girl's impression of adoration is not just created, it is indelibly branded on the frontal lobe as soon as she lays eyes on her father. Although nurture plays a role in a woman’s perception of love, biology is the dominant force in one’s perception of sexual attraction.
In medicine, a rebound is the return to a previous state or condition. In life, a rebound is the deliberate act of bouncing back after a hard hit. Both are reactive, however, only the former requires a willingness to improve after a decline.
Told from a first-person perspective and filled with crisp, perfunctory details reminiscent of ‘70s and ‘80s hits describing unmistakable sexual chemistry at first sight, Love Me Daddy, is flash fiction at its finest.
Set in the most historic neighborhood of the world's concrete jungle, this is a nod to infatuation, the most prevalent, yet misunderstood romantic notion. Featuring an unnamed, naturalista protagonist, and an antagonist summed up as tall, wealthy, white, and handsome, this piece will make modest readers blush through carefully crafted internal (lust-filled) desires.
Brimming with contradictory allusions to every girl’s core longing to be loved and to never disappoint her first and only true love, this is a bite-sized reminder of the psychological bond between dads and daughters.
One of many in this debut short story collection, this passionate piece is more meaningful than a casual encounter. Although brief in form, it is a reliably satisfying conveyance of how memories are aphrodisiac and have the potential to affect casual encounters.
January 21, 2025
Scarlet Yearning: Stories of Love and Desire is a captivating collection of twelve short stories exploring love and desire in traditional and unconventional ways. The author's nuanced portrayal of romantic, familial, or self-reflective relationships presents a deeply emotional and evocative reading experience. Each story taps into universal feelings, from the ache of unrequited love to the intense spark of attraction at first sight.
One standout piece, about a young girl yearning for the affection of her absent father, is particularly poignant. Its brevity packs a powerful punch, bringing forward the intensity of longing and loss in just a few pages.
The author’s style is both relatable and immersive. She brings each character to life through vivid descriptions and emotional depth, making you see and feel their struggles, passions, and hopes. Every story feels like an invitation into the personal journeys of individuals grappling with identity, belonging, and the varied expressions of love.
This collection is perfect for readers who enjoy fiction that entertains and encourages reflection on the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. Scarlet Yearning is a beautiful, thought-provoking exploration of love in its many forms.
One standout piece, about a young girl yearning for the affection of her absent father, is particularly poignant. Its brevity packs a powerful punch, bringing forward the intensity of longing and loss in just a few pages.
The author’s style is both relatable and immersive. She brings each character to life through vivid descriptions and emotional depth, making you see and feel their struggles, passions, and hopes. Every story feels like an invitation into the personal journeys of individuals grappling with identity, belonging, and the varied expressions of love.
This collection is perfect for readers who enjoy fiction that entertains and encourages reflection on the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. Scarlet Yearning is a beautiful, thought-provoking exploration of love in its many forms.
July 13, 2025
Writing Scarlet Yearnings was like excavating pieces of my soul and laying them bare on the page. Each story explores a different facet of love—from the aching void of parental absence to the intoxicating pull of forbidden desire. I poured my longing for connection into these twelve tales, drawing from my Trinidadian roots and the complexities of modern relationships.
These aren't perfect love stories with neat endings. They're messy, real, and sometimes heartbreaking—just like life. Through Tessa's cosmic deception, Oorun's impossible choices, and Senzada's mystical destiny, I've tried to capture love's beautiful contradictions.
This collection is my heart, offered to yours.
These aren't perfect love stories with neat endings. They're messy, real, and sometimes heartbreaking—just like life. Through Tessa's cosmic deception, Oorun's impossible choices, and Senzada's mystical destiny, I've tried to capture love's beautiful contradictions.
This collection is my heart, offered to yours.
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