12 Possessions

by Timothy Ruplin

12 Possessions is a collection of short stories that spans many genres, including speculative fiction, psychological thriller, dystopian satire, and techno-noir. Some of the topics explored include AI ethics, digital surveillance, virtual reality, and dystopian justice systems. The story's darker philosophical undertones and moral complexities balance perfectly with its satirical elements. Rather than preaching, the stories invite reflection through strong situational irony and lived experience.

266 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 6, 2025

Reviews

[Amy J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

12 Possessions is a good book that shows how the smallest objects can carry the heaviest weight. Ruplin writes with a quiet intensity, turning everyday things into anchors of memory, grief, and love. The prose is spare but evocative, and while some chapters drift, most cut right to the bone. A haunting meditation on what we hold onto—and what holds onto us.
I really enjoyed 12 Possessions because it made me slow down and look at ordinary things in a new way. Ruplin has a gift for taking something simple—a keepsake, a piece of clothing, a forgotten object—and uncovering the emotions attached to it. The writing is both tender and sharp, and I found myself reflecting on my own “possessions” as I read. It’s one of those books that lingers quietly, and I loved that about it.

[Stephanie Peterman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publishers and Goodreads for the ARC!

Excellent short story collection and right up my alley! Throughout, Ruplin injects political, societal, ecological, and economical commentary, deftly maneuvering between stories of technology disruption in dystopian America, spirituality, climate crises, addiction recovery, and bicycles (so many bicycles), all while weaving the proverbial thread through each with a callback to a name or personality from previous stories. Genius. Loved this book.

4.5 ⭐️

[AMAO · Rating 5 out of 5]

💯💯💯💯💯

[Angela Costa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the short story concept. Each tale had plenty of " food for thought". I will be putting Timothy Ruplin on my TBR lists in the future.