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Broken Shards of a Masterpiece
From the fractured mind of Unforgivable comes ten new stories that explore the fragility of perfection in Broken Shards of a Masterpiece.
Each tale welcomes you to a world shattered by obsession, intrigue, and desire where the remnants of reality and illusion meet at a razor edge.
Each tale welcomes you to a world shattered by obsession, intrigue, and desire where the remnants of reality and illusion meet at a razor edge.
Audible Audio
First published March 27, 2013
10 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
James Fuller
60 books115 followersJames Fuller has enjoyed the fine art of writing for many years now, he's currently in the process of bringing out his new up and coming fantasy novel: Fall Of The King, the first book in which he hopes to be a series of nine books. James has also written movie scripts, short stories, and has had numerous pieces of poetry published. Through the years he has acquired quite a large fan base for his ...fiction not only through his blog and other various social networking websites such as Facebook but with other writers and artists of all sorts. James' other personal projects also include a comic series for mature readers; a tale of love, loss and vengeance which ignites in amazing emotion as James hopes to bring his character and story to life (collaborating with an artist.)
James has an absolute passion for bringing characters and situations to life with his detailed writing skills that really brings his books to life and makes his characters and their journeys so favourable. As an author he also goes above and beyond when it comes to writing battle scenes, the intricate design and explanations of fighting, not only in swordplay but also in tactics is one of James incredible expertise in which he delights in.
When James isn't on his computer writing his 2nd book of his fantasy series (Salvas) or writing short stories he enjoys recreational activities such a camping, fishing, hiking, and archery. Along with being an adventurous outdoors man James also spends many of his hours in a day as a devoted husband and father.
James has an absolute passion for bringing characters and situations to life with his detailed writing skills that really brings his books to life and makes his characters and their journeys so favourable. As an author he also goes above and beyond when it comes to writing battle scenes, the intricate design and explanations of fighting, not only in swordplay but also in tactics is one of James incredible expertise in which he delights in.
When James isn't on his computer writing his 2nd book of his fantasy series (Salvas) or writing short stories he enjoys recreational activities such a camping, fishing, hiking, and archery. Along with being an adventurous outdoors man James also spends many of his hours in a day as a devoted husband and father.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 16, 2020
The first story (I'm totally blanking on the name of it now) immediately grabbed my attention to the beautiful imagery in it. I'm kind of a romantic pantheist, so maybe I'm partial but that one was my favorite for the emotion and nature in it.
In the audiobook, the Narrator's voice really added to the story. He could act out how they said it, not only repeating the words. There was emotion behind his voice as well, especially in some of the darker stories.
The darker works were also just well written. Some of the dialogue felt contrived, but the actual actions and plot points were mostly gripping. There's some I definitely wanted more of (which isnt a bad thing) such as the one about a heroine addict shooting up.
Overall, my impression was positive. I would read something by this author again and listen to an audio book by the same narrator again.
In the audiobook, the Narrator's voice really added to the story. He could act out how they said it, not only repeating the words. There was emotion behind his voice as well, especially in some of the darker stories.
The darker works were also just well written. Some of the dialogue felt contrived, but the actual actions and plot points were mostly gripping. There's some I definitely wanted more of (which isnt a bad thing) such as the one about a heroine addict shooting up.
Overall, my impression was positive. I would read something by this author again and listen to an audio book by the same narrator again.
November 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this collection of 11 short stories. There's an interesting variety between the stories and each end with a particular twist to make you reflect. There's something within each story that explores the human condition, how misery as much universal as individual. The prose is crisp and the stories engaging. I listened to the audiobook and was impressed by the range of voices by the narrator.
July 27, 2022
Audiobook review:
This was an intriguing collection of creepy short stories that I thoroughly enjoyed!
I am a huge short story fan, and this collection didn’t disappoint. Although I don’t read horror often, I found myself intrigued and drawn in to every one of these tales to the point that I found myself wanting more when they ended. Every story was unique and exciting with a unifying theme of death and gore.
The narrator for the audiobook did a fantastic job. I was truly impressed by his voice and he brought these tales to life for me. I’d definitely listen to another audiobook by him and I will be reading more by this author for sure.
I would highly recommend this collection to anyone looking for some scary reads that won’t take up too much time to finish!
*I was given a free copy of this audiobook by the author and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
This was an intriguing collection of creepy short stories that I thoroughly enjoyed!
I am a huge short story fan, and this collection didn’t disappoint. Although I don’t read horror often, I found myself intrigued and drawn in to every one of these tales to the point that I found myself wanting more when they ended. Every story was unique and exciting with a unifying theme of death and gore.
The narrator for the audiobook did a fantastic job. I was truly impressed by his voice and he brought these tales to life for me. I’d definitely listen to another audiobook by him and I will be reading more by this author for sure.
I would highly recommend this collection to anyone looking for some scary reads that won’t take up too much time to finish!
*I was given a free copy of this audiobook by the author and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
November 6, 2020
**A free copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for a review.**
“Even the gods were fraught with the blight of impatience.”
This is the line, from the first story in the anthology, is the one that hooked me. Not just because it's good, but because we as readers are impatient as well from time to time. I usually don’t spend time with short stories, but this anthology scratched an itch I didn’t know I had. Not only did I enjoy this book, but it has also renewed my interest in anthologies in general.
The summary of Broken Shards of a Masterpiece says the tales are about “the fragility of perfection” and “a world shattered by obsession, intrigue, and desire.” In case the subtext wasn’t clear, these stories are dark. No one in these stories is obsessed with baking the perfect batch of chocolate chip cookies. A few of the stories involve violence, stalking, etc. If any of that is a deal-breaker, this book might not be for you. With that one caveat, I’d say this book is a solid recommendation.
The stories were varied enough to be interesting, but all had a sinister undertone. Some felt a little like Twilight Zone, some a little like Law and Order SVU, and some had a different feel altogether. Fuller has a clear voice and has a solid command of descriptions. For example, I personally couldn’t care less about cars. But when he describes the car in Ride of a Lifetime not only could I picture every detail but I also could understand why someone would appreciate a car so much. Other details, like the particulars of what a stalker does outside his target’s apartment building, disgusted me. This, of course, was Fuller's intention.
I enjoyed Broken Shards of a Masterpiece, and will be adding James Fuller’s other works to my To Be Read list. While I enjoyed the audiobook, at the time of this review the book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you’re not turned off by the explicit nature of the stories, this is an anthology I’d recommend. 4.5/5 Because we all must pursue perfection.
“Even the gods were fraught with the blight of impatience.”
This is the line, from the first story in the anthology, is the one that hooked me. Not just because it's good, but because we as readers are impatient as well from time to time. I usually don’t spend time with short stories, but this anthology scratched an itch I didn’t know I had. Not only did I enjoy this book, but it has also renewed my interest in anthologies in general.
The summary of Broken Shards of a Masterpiece says the tales are about “the fragility of perfection” and “a world shattered by obsession, intrigue, and desire.” In case the subtext wasn’t clear, these stories are dark. No one in these stories is obsessed with baking the perfect batch of chocolate chip cookies. A few of the stories involve violence, stalking, etc. If any of that is a deal-breaker, this book might not be for you. With that one caveat, I’d say this book is a solid recommendation.
The stories were varied enough to be interesting, but all had a sinister undertone. Some felt a little like Twilight Zone, some a little like Law and Order SVU, and some had a different feel altogether. Fuller has a clear voice and has a solid command of descriptions. For example, I personally couldn’t care less about cars. But when he describes the car in Ride of a Lifetime not only could I picture every detail but I also could understand why someone would appreciate a car so much. Other details, like the particulars of what a stalker does outside his target’s apartment building, disgusted me. This, of course, was Fuller's intention.
I enjoyed Broken Shards of a Masterpiece, and will be adding James Fuller’s other works to my To Be Read list. While I enjoyed the audiobook, at the time of this review the book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you’re not turned off by the explicit nature of the stories, this is an anthology I’d recommend. 4.5/5 Because we all must pursue perfection.
November 6, 2020
Firstly, a lot of my review is to do with my preference for reading the written word over Audible.
I know that a lot of people get through a quantity of books by listening to them on their commute or while doing other things but I just really struggle with this. I want to sit and savour the language.
This was especially pertinent for this collection of incredible stories by James Fuller. Each story had a shock factor where I genuinely gasped out loud. I wanted to just take a moment to pause and reflect or gather myself before I continued with listening to the next story.
The stories were all so different which was a delight and I so enjoyed the first story (Placement of the Stars) especially because the prose was just so beautiful and resonated with me.
Having said that about my preference for the written word, listening to the story - Room For Rent - was like listening to a radio play and I got really into it.
I'd highly recommend this book (although perhaps in print) to anyone who wants to try reading a collection of exceedingly well written short stories which are all a bit different.
I guarantee that each story will grab your attention and you will not be disappointed.
I know that a lot of people get through a quantity of books by listening to them on their commute or while doing other things but I just really struggle with this. I want to sit and savour the language.
This was especially pertinent for this collection of incredible stories by James Fuller. Each story had a shock factor where I genuinely gasped out loud. I wanted to just take a moment to pause and reflect or gather myself before I continued with listening to the next story.
The stories were all so different which was a delight and I so enjoyed the first story (Placement of the Stars) especially because the prose was just so beautiful and resonated with me.
Having said that about my preference for the written word, listening to the story - Room For Rent - was like listening to a radio play and I got really into it.
I'd highly recommend this book (although perhaps in print) to anyone who wants to try reading a collection of exceedingly well written short stories which are all a bit different.
I guarantee that each story will grab your attention and you will not be disappointed.
June 23, 2022
Broken Shards of a Masterpiece is a beautifully written collection of short stories. I'm normally not a fan of collections like this. I'd normally rather read a full blown novel than a billion different short stories but this book was worth every second. You are immediately sucked into each story and even though, a few left wanting more, each short tale manages to weave these intricately written stories that are somehow wrapped up at the end with an unexpected twist that leaves you with you jaw on the floor. I had 2 standout favorites (they were all great but these two I LOVED) The Ride of a Lifetime and Shadow Well, which just so happens to be the first two stories in the book. Nothing like starting out with a bang.
November 15, 2020
(I listened to this book on audible)
This book of short stories was an incredible sample of the author's excellent writing skills! And making it even better was the brilliant combination of the narrator with the stories. A perfect match for an outstanding audiobook experience.
Fantastic narration! Fantastic stories! This is one happy reader! I highly recommend the magic of listening to this on audible.
This book of short stories was an incredible sample of the author's excellent writing skills! And making it even better was the brilliant combination of the narrator with the stories. A perfect match for an outstanding audiobook experience.
Fantastic narration! Fantastic stories! This is one happy reader! I highly recommend the magic of listening to this on audible.
April 5, 2021
A book full of short marcels of stories that made me want more. James definitely teased me with this one as I listened to it on Audible. So many great stories full of interesting characters and plots that I was sad when each ended.
It is definitely a great read or listen but it definitely left me wanting more. I hope James writes more books like this one even if each story is short and leaves you asking "and then what happened?"
It is definitely a great read or listen but it definitely left me wanting more. I hope James writes more books like this one even if each story is short and leaves you asking "and then what happened?"
August 28, 2022
I really enjoyed this short story collection. Each story was uniquely written and engaged in an intriguing plot. I wasn't bored with this and enjoyed it quite a bit. Each story had me fully engaged and hanging onto every word. Each story was so different from the last, but so well written. There were various themes found in here too! Action, a little bit of suspense in a few of them, love, passion...etc.
Pick this up if you're looking for a good, quick read!
Pick this up if you're looking for a good, quick read!
August 28, 2020
I love short stories and these are fiercely dark and compelling. My favourite one was While you Sleep, which takes you inside the mind of a stalker. I could not read The Truth Shall Set You Free because it’s about a heroin addict shooting up and it made me feel squeamish. There is always a great twist in these stories and I could not put them down.
May 18, 2017
Four Stars
I loved the stories. A little quick and to the point for my taste, but they were enjoyable regardless. I definitely want to read more works by this author.
I loved the stories. A little quick and to the point for my taste, but they were enjoyable regardless. I definitely want to read more works by this author.
June 10, 2013
What is the only thing better than reading one James Fuller story? Reading ten! I don’t know whether to call this ten smash hits or one. Each story sends you to a different corner of James mind, immediately wraps you in its arms and sends you flying for the ride of your life. It was a little peek behind the curtains.
Here is a little extra on my two favorite stories:
Placement of the Stars – If you are like me, you have a tendency to “actively follow” aka stalk James website and Facebook page you may recognize this from a snippet he released a few months ago. I was entranced my this story back then and seeing the full thing made me happier than a pig in poo. It’s a beautiful love story between lovers stuck in different realms and it is absolutely beautiful.
The Truth Shall Set You Free- This is a sad story from a view rarely seen. This is a story of passion, forgiveness and a true heart despite the circumstances.
James Fuller has done it again. If I wasn’t already addicted to his writing this wonderful collection of short stories would have surely done me in!
Here is a little extra on my two favorite stories:
Placement of the Stars – If you are like me, you have a tendency to “actively follow” aka stalk James website and Facebook page you may recognize this from a snippet he released a few months ago. I was entranced my this story back then and seeing the full thing made me happier than a pig in poo. It’s a beautiful love story between lovers stuck in different realms and it is absolutely beautiful.
The Truth Shall Set You Free- This is a sad story from a view rarely seen. This is a story of passion, forgiveness and a true heart despite the circumstances.
James Fuller has done it again. If I wasn’t already addicted to his writing this wonderful collection of short stories would have surely done me in!
May 24, 2013
Short Stories at their best!, April 12, 2013
This book of short stories is a masterpiece! Each one is so well written and leaves you wanting more--proof of a master storyteller! I was amazed at the rich detail of the first story, Placement of the Stars and the one Star Crossed Lovers. I felt like I was at the scene! His stories are well developed and some of the twists are totally unexpected! I thought by reading a few I would be able to guess the end of the next one...not the case! There is enough variety that the reader can find a story to fit just about any mood. My favorites were the two above, The Truth Shall Set You Free, and While you Sleep.
Featuring Asylum is a great story also, I believe I saw it was written by someone else. What an unexpected ending!
I can not wait to read James' full books as these shorts are amazing!
This book of short stories is a masterpiece! Each one is so well written and leaves you wanting more--proof of a master storyteller! I was amazed at the rich detail of the first story, Placement of the Stars and the one Star Crossed Lovers. I felt like I was at the scene! His stories are well developed and some of the twists are totally unexpected! I thought by reading a few I would be able to guess the end of the next one...not the case! There is enough variety that the reader can find a story to fit just about any mood. My favorites were the two above, The Truth Shall Set You Free, and While you Sleep.
Featuring Asylum is a great story also, I believe I saw it was written by someone else. What an unexpected ending!
I can not wait to read James' full books as these shorts are amazing!
July 17, 2013
James Fullers' Broken Shards of a Masterpiece is an amazing anthology that had me looking around my empty darkened bedroom jumping at any little noise I might hear.
He is a master of suspense and horror, showing us the dark side of life but in a way that makes us want to see more. Its' like when you were a little kid watching a horror movie with your hands over your eyes and you peeked through open fingers as your curiosity got the better of you.
Edgy, spine tingling and yet not your typical horror stories as James gives you such a true sense of the feelings and settings so that you almost feel you're inside the heads of some very strange characters.
A must read in my opinion if you want something truly different and totally mind bending.
He is a master of suspense and horror, showing us the dark side of life but in a way that makes us want to see more. Its' like when you were a little kid watching a horror movie with your hands over your eyes and you peeked through open fingers as your curiosity got the better of you.
Edgy, spine tingling and yet not your typical horror stories as James gives you such a true sense of the feelings and settings so that you almost feel you're inside the heads of some very strange characters.
A must read in my opinion if you want something truly different and totally mind bending.
July 18, 2013
I was wanting to read something different and boy did I find it with this collection of short stories. Some where good but there was a few that had a "scary campfire" to them and they were AWESOME!! When I go camping next weekend I will be telling some of these around the fire. It's so hard to get teenagers who think they have heard it all hehehehe. Thanks James!!
March 3, 2014
James Fuller is very well good at what he does. He can capture a reader in two sentences and have you on the edge of your seat until the very last word. He's definitely a master of the written word. I highly recommend everything he has written. However, he specializes in suspense and horror.
November 11, 2013
I liked it. Some pieces where very very interesting to read. Some less.. Over all I had a good time.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews