The Angel in My Well

by Kevin Ansbro

Joe Bonnard is a 26-year-old photographer with a great circle of he is still coming to terms with the death of his favourite grandmother, when a beautiful, celestial being gatecrashes his one-man pity party.
Imran Aziz has been afforded opportunities his parents could only have dreamed but he has gradually alienated himself from friends and family, incensed by Western antagonism of Muslims.
Each man is about to embark on his own life-changing date with destiny.
Each wishes for a love that transcends life, itself.
The Angel in my Well weaves otherworldly fantasy with real-world
Spiritual forces, and fate, can take a human being only so far...

Genres: Magical Realism, Fiction, Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance

97 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 30, 2014

About the author

I was born to Irish parents, and have also lived in Malaysia and Germany.
My formal education was at Hamond's Grammar School in Swaffham, and at the Norfolk College of Arts and Technology (Stephen Fry being a much more famous former student).
I write in the magical realism genre, meshing otherworldliness into the harshness of our real world. I also like to handcuff humour and tragedy to the same radiator.
Perhaps incongruously for an author, I have a background in karate and kickboxing and travel extensively - particularly in the Far East.
I'm married (to Julie) and currently live in Norwich, England.
Stuff about me: I'm a foodie and an avid reader who values good manners, love and friendship. I am constantly putting my foot in it, am reputed to have a wicked sense of humour and love to laugh, but sometimes make that 'snorty pig' noise when doing so.
I'm also easygoing and extremely friendly. So, come on over for a chat — I'll put the kettle on!

Twitter: @kevinansbro

www.kevinansbro.co.uk

Reviews

[Elyse Walters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin's short story begins at a funeral for Kathleen-Marie Slattery. Joe, the narrator, 26 years old, is her eldest grandchild. Kathleen had lost her husband, Rex, thirty years earlier. Her husband was killed -a horrific tragic mindless violence.
It was bad enough Kathleen had to live with years of grief in her life --this woman knew loss first hand. She could write the book on loss.....
Yet,
It didn't take long until I felt a deep pit of sadness in my gut for Joe, too. A visual image entered my mind of what Joe looked liked.
Have any of you seen the TV series Suits? Patrick J. Adams plays the role of Michael Ross on the show "Suits". Michael Ross plays is a brilliant college dropout turned unlicensed lawyer. His parents died when he was a child. Mike was raised by his grandmother.
Joe, was raised by 'his' grandmother. I love this character, Joe Bonnard!
Joe's parents died - Siobhan & Philippe- [beautiful names], when Joe was a baby. Kathleen loss her daughter too!

Needless to say... when Gran's funeral and reception was over......the eulogies, sobbing, laughter, alcohol, finger food, and chit chat, .....Joe went home.
My heart ached when Joe put himself to bed with a glass of Pinot Grigio, sobs, in the dark.
I put my reading down for a few minutes to do some blessings-- I morned Joe's grandmother with him. To loose the most important person in your life - is a very big loss!
Then I sent a blessing to 'the-land-of-Disneyland' to my mom, dad, and grandparents, too. At this time of year - The holiday season -I think it's only natural that we tend to think about the people in our lives whom we've loved very much who have died....
This tender book came into my hands ( as often books do), at a good time.

More about "The Angel in My Well".....
Joe two uncles - Rogan and Ciaran became Joe's "de facto" dads in his young life. - They each had their own individual qualities they wished to pass on to Joe.....but Joe wasn't anywhere close to a "Bruce Lee" type as they were ....Joe was a luv-bug sweetie-type of a man. He wanted passionate love in his life: to love and be loved!!
Can you see why I might adore this character myself?

Joe meets Mary on a train traveling from Norwich to London: Its LOVE!!!!.....
Oops....
Silly guy, no matter how kissable her lips were - no matter how scrumptious Mary was - that they meshed perfect together-- when the train pulled into his stop at the Liverpool Street Station.....he let her get away with a hand shake. The only possible-detail contact information he knew about Mary was that her grandfather lived by the sea in Cromer.

In the weeks following the funeral- Joe has little gusto for life. He misses his grandmother and his love life sucks! He is a 'female-buddy-magnet'.
Oh my..... my heart is bleeding!!! Sh.... and smiling ( a little) ....because our endearing guy Joe has a "wishing well" in the center of his front lawn
THIS IS A SHORT STORY......
Joe wants love.
He has a wishing well ..
Joe, himself is an angel....( easy to love)..... MIGHT we be headed for a little magical-angel-fairy-dust?
Tell me you aren't dying to know how the rest of this story turns out?
I've only shared about the first 20% of this story. DON'T be so sure you know what's coming down the pipeline....
You'll meet other characters: Imran Khan for example. He and his brother, Wasim, grew up in Birmingham-- but their father immigrated as a youngster from Pakistan.
Imran goes from being a normal happy Brummie kid to being completely disillusioned with urban Brit life. He begins to wear Islamic clothing - grows the unruly beard - drops his friends and family. At age 32, he has a wife and son who are sad, hurting for the loss of the Imran that use to be FUN!

I'm not telling anymore of this story --- but you will want to know how Kevin ties things together. Many surprises- and by the very end - ( and Kevin's notes) -- MY GOD....if you are a little like me, your eyes will be watering!!!

GO RIGHT OVER TO AMAZON.....purchase this gem - only $2.99 on Kindle.....by one of the most loved community -participating- guys - AND AUTHOR....on Goodreads!
A Goodreads FRIEND TO MANY!!!
[that's right, many still don't realize Kevin is an author - because - he never pushes his friends to read his books]. What's wrong with him?/! Silly silly!!!
He never even mentions he writes TOUCHING HEARTFELT BOOKS!!!!!
The ladies swoon over KEVIN ANSBRO!!!! WE SHARE HIM!!!
Men love the Kevin just as much!!! He's a great friend.
And best of all, Kevin ADORES his wife Julie!!!! We love Julie too!

I'd like to take a minute ( I'm sure Kevin wouldn't mind), to acknowledge the many great authors - like Kevin - on this site - who are READERS --- and FRIENDS - very supportive members. They never push us to read their books.... most don't even ask us. They are grateful when we do -- but our connections with them aren't dependent on if we do or don't. Jay Green, Nancy Brady, Anne P. Collini, Alan Beard, Jason Koivu, Alice Poon, and Dov Zeller. My list could go on and on....I don't mean to leave anyone out!!!!! Many Thanks to all of you for being friends/authors in my life whom I'm
very grateful to know!!

KEVIN.....I am sincerely moved with this story and the spirit it lives in. Thank you for writing it. SUCH A GIFT!!!!! If either one of my children wrote this book -- I'd be a wet-noodle crying mess.
This a BEAUTIFUL story... honoring the diamonds of life!!!
This type of book is invaluable with my own life path- my reading journey. It fills me with deepen awareness of how blessed we are to LOVE and
BE LOVED!

Final words about this book:
A word from a reincarnated Gran:
"Once you return to Earth, all memories and thoughts are erased. You start fresh. But,
if you are lucky enough, you might encounter someone you loved in a previous life. You will form an instant affinity with them, but without ever realizing why".

Lots more "Okey-dokey" smiling FUN.....with Grandma Kathleen and Joe!!!
only $2.99 ... what ya waiting for? :)

HUGE SUPER HUGS TO MY FRIENDS HERE ON GOODREADS!!!!

[Jaline · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Angel in my Well is small in size; huge in heart. In this novel, heaven meets earth, friends meet family, east meets west, and love has a way of altering these meetings in unexpected ways.

All these meetings have love in their configuration: love of people, love of country, and love of beliefs. When does love nurture and when does it destroy?

At the point where good meets evil and love meets itself, the combustion is dramatic and life-changing.

I had a few surprise tears while reading this story. While it bears a few scars of a first-time novel, there are also many advanced-level similes and metaphors as well as some beautiful imagery. What affected me most was its honesty and sincerity. For me, those count far more than any amount of literary devices that may present themselves in a book.

I read from my heart, not my head – and this book was written from the heart so it is no surprise that it was a great match. I look forward to reading Mr. Ansbro’s second book later this month!

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d only managed to read a tiny bit of this lovely story yesterday afternoon before I was plagued with endless interruptions, and rather than read through that frustration, I put it aside, stopping shortly before the Angel appears to Joe through the well.

Joe’s been down for a while, a believer in love, his former girlfriend out of the picture, and now his grandmother, Kathleen, has made her final goodbye. They’ve had the funeral, the burial. Beyond sad, he goes through the motions of life, but that’s about all. He sees the three days of trash scattered about the house, but can’t bring himself to care enough to pick up a thing.

Kathleen appears to Joe, restored to her much younger self, from his well, which is only fitting since she’s “as Irish as Molly Malone.” Wells and water figure heavily in Celtic spirituality, water is essential to life, life emerges from water, water is the source of the earth, the source of life. Primeval.

Joe is only momentarily surprised; an overwhelming rush of love soon swallows delight. He finds her dry clothes, which do not fit her slight frame. She answers all of his many questions over craic, a lovely, sweet scene.

Meanwhile, Joe’s taken Kathleen shopping for more appropriate clothing for a night out on the town, with friends. Kathleen is a delight. Ansbro’s at his best when describing all the scenes that involve Kathleen, her delightful self really shines through. A lovely evening is had by all. It’s obvious, though, that the frivolity has taken a toll on Kathleen, and she gives him one important task to fulfill, something he must do, he must keep his promise.

A task that is not without danger, but one that will ultimately lead him to a life he’ll treasure.
There’s also a parallel story involving a young British Muslim man, who is on a completely different path. Their stories converge in London.

We all want to remember those we love in this life, those whose life have ended whether through tragedy or course of nature. Most want to be remembered after they are gone from this life, this earthly “being,” the day to day to day that is often monotonous, but always life. Some are desperate to be remembered, to have their YouTube videos viewed by the millions. Some just pray that those who love us will remember, share us with those who follow.

Last year for Christmas, my daughter gave me a present, which is really more of a gift for her, for her children, relaying stories of my life. “What is one of your earliest childhood memories?” “What was your Dad/Mom like when you were a child?” and so on. It’s not really entirely for her, there is something so therapeutic about revisiting moments in your life, remembering. I look at photos and for one moment I can believe my parents, my grandparents even, all those I’ve loved, that they are still with me. All these things I’d long since thought about come flooding back, as other topics, thoughts, triggered other memories.

That’s a little of what this felt like to me, a gift of love and memories, shared through stories that shared this sense of endless love. A wonderful talented writer sharing his gift with us, sharing a bit of his family with us. I feel blessed, Kevin Ansbro. Truly.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute little book. Two story lines going on that come together at the end.

I have a little story Kevin, a friend of my daughter's just lost her third child, Caroline, last week, a baby girl 14 months old that was born with Trisomy 18. Two days later she and her husband were taking a walk and a red Cardinal almost flew right into them. A cardinal also visited their friends who live nearby who were close to the family. I think it was Caroline letting them know she was ok :)

[Leila · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Kevin's second book difficult to classify with reference to genre but this didn't seem important for me. As much as I enjoyed his first book with its many fascinating details about Thailand running through his plot and characters... this book is quite different. It is short but packs so much into the story. I found it so clever in the way that Kevin provides such a powerful impact in how he contrasts the lives of the two main characters who are poles apart in their thinking and life styles.

Joe is a male white young man and British, whereas Imram, also young and male, is a Muslim who was born in this country. I don't want to reveal any more without spoilers happening. Enough to say that though their lives are wholly separate at the start of the book, he changes who is narrating the story and either Joe or Imran tell us who they are throughout the developing plot which has a series of apparent coincidences which draw the two men closer to each other as the story progresses. I felt this was dealt with in such a smooth and clever way. This book affected me on a deep personal level, right from the beginning in that it hit straight through into my own private perceptions, in both their stories of what life was like for them in their individual environments.

Kevin adds an unexpected paranormal side to the life of one of the men which is again unexpected, original and enjoyable to read, for it does lighten the content. It's contrast with the reality of the rest of the plot worked for me. All in all I felt this was an unusual novel and although short, it gave me an author's own intimate portrait of two immensely different life styles that are quite probable in our modern society of mixed cultures and he gives us some insights as to what might well be some of the reasons that cause young people to decide to venture down different paths when they become adults. Both characters grow but in different ways. This book caused me to ponder a lot. I wonder if Kevin will write more about either one, or both of his characters in the future. I loved it and recommend it highly.

[Kimber Silver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin Ansbro is an artist of the written word
A beautifully crafted short story. It captured my attention from the very first line and held on until the last. Five stars are not enough!
Be sure to read the poignant dedications at the end.

[Mark Porton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part Love story

Part Rom-Com

Part terror-thriller

Part Ghost-story

Part suspense

The Angel in my Well by Kevin Ansbro is a fascinating read, it kept me on my toes. This one pulled a few surprises and was one of the most imaginative stories I have read for some time.

The main character Joe is getting over the death of his grandmother who looked after him as a child. The chapters involving him are narrated in the first person, it gave me an intimate sense of what he is about and what he is going through. However, there is another timeline – this one, narrated third person is about a son of a Pakistani immigrant (to the UK) – Imran. Now this boy has been radicalised and has turned into someone his family do not really know anymore.

Joe’s and Imran’s stories seem destined to meet.

Senor Ansbro is an exceptionally good writer – he not only writes about the ordinary, the light and fluffy – he also descends into the grittiness of marginalism and violence. But there is more, the author also introduces a mystical element and funny enough it all works. It all works perfectly.

In the wrong hands a mix like this could go horribly wrong – but the author pulls it off magnificently, it fits, it makes sense, and it makes one dream – see my next para 😊

I usually write my reviews immediately after I finish a book – but this time I didn’t because I wanted to think how it would be as a man of 60, going for a pint of beer with my 24 year old Dad but also to have lunch with my Mum as a 24 year old beauty. Mum was gorgeous, funny and so strong nobody would want to mess with her, and Dad was a very funny, man who knew a so much and was always up for some good banter. We shared an enthusiasm about sport, politics amd Mum.

You know I spent three hours working my bollox off in the garden today and all I could think about was meeting Mum and Dad when they were younger. Oh, I wish. When a book does this - it has done its job.

This story pulled me in all sorts of directions, and I love that. 4.5 Rounded down to leave room for this author's other books.

4 Stars

[Shelley's Book Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:

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Having read both Kinnara and In the Shadow of Time by this author, I am convinced he is the king of magical realism. This one is about finding love, fate, and faith. Mr. Ansbro seems to always strike the right balance between fantasy and reality and this book is no exception.

Whenever I read one of Kevin Ansbro’s stories it is always the characters that strike me the most. I loved Joe’s gran so much. She reminds me of my mother who also saves ketchup packets from take-out restaurants. And the fact she mentioned watching him rumpy bumpy or having a poo had me falling off the chair laughing.

I enjoyed reading both Joe’s and Imran’s storylines, Imran’s is much more serious than Joe’s but in the end, the stories come together in a surprising way. The author writes from the heart and I wasn’t surprised at all to find he was inspired by his own mum and grandmother, I bet they’re really proud. All. The. Stars.

[Lyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This may be my favorite Kevin Ansbro book.

So far.

Kevin’s 2014 novella, The Angel in my Well, was brimming with magical realism and chock full of his worldly personality.

Describing a time when protagonist Joe has lost his beloved grandmother, our hero then discovers a very unusual guest in his backyard well.

Ansbro also depicts a second storyline, one of misplaced idealism with devastating repercussions. The two stories come together in a closing scene that is mesmerizing and electrifying, causing me to read the last third of the short book in one sitting.

As with his other books, the story itself is very good but what makes this work so well is the way the writer tells the tale, his likable and approachable prose a joy to read.

Well done, Kevin, and I’m off to find your next book.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kevin Ansbro first came to my attention not as an author but when Cheri, a goodreads friend of mine, suggested that " Since Cary Grant was dead, the perfect man to play the beloved Count Alexander Rostov from A Gentleman in Moscow would be Kevin Ansbro." My curiosity was lit and I began to follow his comments in reviews. I found him to be a talented wordsmith with an insight to the human soul and heart, displaying a quick wit but never without kindness to others.

All of these skills I found within this story. The story though short was artfully developed with an unexpected plot, moments to add a twinkle to your eye in laughter, times to reflect and ponder , peppered with a touch of mysticism and above all characters to press to your heart.

Kathleen ,my favorite character, was full of love, wit, wisdom, tenderness,and an insight into others not unlike Kevin himself.

A unique read that I will not forget.

[Nat K · Rating 4 out of 5]

An absolutely charming novella.

Joe Bonnard is a young man in his twenties, who keenly feels the loss at the passing of his beloved Grandmother, Kathleen Slattery. Having recently attended her funeral, Joe spirals into a cycle of pity, takeaway food & excessive drinking.

One dark and stormy night (I had to throw that line in!), Joe’s Grandma re-appears…in the well at the bottom of the garden.

To Joe’s surprise, and Kathleen’s delight, she has taken on the form of a lithesome, twenty something Irish beauty. An evening of darkly humorous bonhomie ensues, where Joe & Kathleen spend an evening imbibing with Joe’s friends. Kathleen’s tongue has lost none of its fierceness, and I found myself chuckling at some of the one liners she came out with.

”Oh, for the love of Jesus,” piped Kathleen, “this music is loud enough to wake the Devil…”

It turns out that the reason that Kathleen has returned, is to shake Joe out of his apathy. And to point him in the right direction for the love that awaits him.

Joe had recently shared a train carriage with the delightful Mary, on a trip from Norwich to London. Their connection was immediate, but at journey’s end, he stupidly neglects getting Mary’s phone number. Has Joe let Mary slip through his fingers? Will Joe & Mary’s paths cross again?

”I have snippets of things, in the future, that would be of huge interest to you.”

Running concurrently with Joe’s story, is the tale of Imran. UK born and bred, he becomes increasingly dissatisfied with the seeming materialism of the world around him. Imran decides to take matters and his future into his hands, a future that will have his name of the front page of the newspapers.

Joe & Imran’s paths cross, as is the case in the odd synchronicity of life.

This story ties together so many themes. Love, familial love, devotion, fate. It is a delightfully whimsy, wonderful read. With lots of biting wit. I enjoyed it immensely.

[Phrynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short but very sweet and what an ending!

The author has a wonderful way with words and with magic realism, but this story is also a romance and a thriller. Poor Joe misses the opportunity of a life time when he fails to act on meeting the girl of his dreams. Imran is disappointed in other people's values and decides to take a devastating action.

The two stories come together at the end in an amazing way and the ultimate conclusion is perfect. I loved it.

[Nilanjana Haldar · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Look, I’m as dead as a dodo! What’s the use of eating if my blessed organs don’t work? Now stop acting the fool and call the damn takeaway.”

One of the most beautiful novellas I have come by! This is the author’s debut and it is one of the most beautiful stories I have ever read!!

The death of Joe’s grandmother, Kathleen, has left him despondent and in pain, to the point that it is worrying his caring friends. Then one night he hears a strange caterwauling noise and splashing emanating from his well. When he sprints out to reach for it, he comes face-to-face with a beautiful young woman with pre-Raphaelite features. This unexpected human’s transient visit leads Joe into a life of his dreams, something he believed had slipped through his fingers.

Although I have read and reviewed all of author Ansbro’s other books, I would like to reintroduce him again in a different way—-this is where he has designed a mystical story in which he has made the impossible palpably possible with cheer, sheer laughter, and promises in the aftermath of a beloved's demise, in a way that celebrates a beautiful life that has passed by.
I had tears with the death and had absolutely no idea as to what would come to hit me next and, truth be told, I loved the surprises to bits!

I earnestly, truly, genuinely, frantically advise everyone to come read it and experience a lady as tenacious, and gregarious as Joe’s mother, Kathleen.
Heartbreakingly, this is the last book of this author that this lifetime affords me.

[Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great short story by Kevin Ansbro who always seems to strike a perfect balance between fantasy and gritty realism, between humor and poignancy. A joy to read.

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some writers are born with a more fully-formed gift than others. That doesn't mean they don't work hard at it. It shows that Kevin Ansbro does. Still, you only need to run across his comments on reviews here to know the man was born with the gift of writing in a marvelous, distinctive voice. (I think that's how I found him, through his clever comments on other people's reviews.) And while I'm glad his short story collection has broad range and varying depth, Kevin Ansbro's sweet spot is magical realism with heart and soul and great humor.

This first is a novella, dedicated to his late mother. Ansbro paints the covers for his books and until his latest this was my favorite. She's not directly referred to as a character in Angel in My Well -- the grandmother in it bears her name, so impossible to tell -- but the woman in the painting is surely its muse. For me besides being attractive, she's possessed of great inner beauty.

Like his other novels there are discrete stories that in time intersect. Here there are two: the story of Joe, whose beloved grandmother has died but emerges from his well, and that of an increasingly radicalized Muslim. For me the greatest strength of Kevin Ansbro's writing is -- the writing. He has a unique way with words, an ability to surprise, entertain and move that is here in its infancy.

Each successive work I've read has been better than the last. This is a simple story, told well and easy spoiled so here's a small selection of appetizers:

They wanted me to be Bruce Lee. Instead they got John Lennon.

...ignoring my old-fashioned sensibility to engage in some polite small talk, she trawled me into the bedroom and used me like a human pommel horse for over an hour.

The wet cotton that clung to her was diaphanous in the moon’s anaemic light. The girl was of a similar age to me, she seemed other-worldly, a modern-day Ophelia...
“WHAT the fuck?” I spluttered, “Jesus Christ! Are you drunk?”

I adore the transition in that last bit, the way it moves from prose that's lulling lullaby to Joe's screech. So much talent. The Angel in My Well is the seedling that would grow into a Tree. Three stars from me to four then five. Not long ago I'd never heard of Kevin Ansbro. Now I adore his work.

[Glenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another excellent book written by the wordsmith Kevin Ansbro. It is a short story that opens at the funeral of Joe (the protagonist and narrator) for his grandmother. Joe and his grandmother are extremely close and Joe falls into a deep depression after the funeral. He sits around for some time not cleaning, eating properly or pretty much anything that normal people do.

Joe's grandmother appears to him in human form as much younger, from the well at his house. Joe realizes that she was a very beautiful woman when she was young. He takes her to shop for some appropriate clothing and they prepare for a night on the town. She charms everyone she comes into contact with.

This story also has an alternate plot involving a Muslim man and his dire plan. I was perplexed about how this story relates to the beautiful story told of Joe and his grandmother. But, I had total confidence in Kevin Ansbro and his ability to create a perfect merging of the two stories. Of course, he did not disappoint.

This is a beautifully written short story that relates to a personal loss that I suffered through when my grandmother passed away. She had been my primary caretaker while I was growing up and when she passed away I was devastated.

Lovely story that everyone should read.

All of my book reviews can be seen on https://travelreadlove.blog Come and see them.

[Cynthia Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed “The Angel in my Well”, a tale of mysticism and faith, love lost and love found, and the perils of confusing hatred with devotion. It's a story that allows us to examine not just what we know about life, but what we don't know.

The tale is told mostly from the POV of Joe Bonnard, the young protagonist whose emotions vacillate between sadness over the loss of his grandmother and a palpable yearning to find the love of his life.

Reading this novella was like dropping into a vivid dream unexpectedly. I was moved along by the inviting prose, willing to go wherever it took me. I wasn’t disappointed. Every scene, every well-laid twist in the plot, led me to an ending that managed to mix the delightful with the unthinkable. Really looking forward to reading more by this talented author!

[Daniel Garwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The Angel in my Well’ is a three-hour short story and the first of the author’s published works. Set in modern-day England, the first of two threads is written in the first person from the point of view of 26-year-old Joe Bonnard.

Joe was orphaned at one-year-old, when his parents, Siobhan and Phillipe, were in a fatal car accident. Joe was raised by his maternal grandmother, Kathleen-Marie Slattery, and her two sons, Rogan and Ciaran. Kathleen’s husband, Rex, had been killed by a knife-wielding drug addict.

We first meet Joe in Shrewsbury at Kathleen’s funeral. After the funeral, he drives home to Rosa Cottage on the outskirts of Norwich where he lives alone. Described by a friend as ‘A handsome geek’, Joe is unlucky in love. He does meet the woman of his dreams, Mary, on a train journey to London. They flirt, but fail to exchange contact details. Joe has had a few girlfriends and does periodically get taken off the shelf and dusted — we learn how a married woman had plied him with Champagne and then used him ‘like a human pommel horse for over an hour’.

Kathleen, Joe’s ‘angel’, returns from the dead. He finds this beautiful revenant in the well in his garden. She no longer appears to be eighty-three, but in her twenties. Kathleen reveals the secrets of the afterlife: a harmonious waiting room followed by the transmigration of your soul (or ever-changing character itself, if you’re a Buddhist) into human or other animals. But the reason for Kathleen’s return is to pass on instructions to Joe. This she does, but not before a clothes shopping spree in the city and a night on the town, posing as Joe’s cousin. Kathleen returns to the ‘waiting room’ and Joe follows her instructions.

The second thread is written in the third person. Haroon Aziz and his wife Khizra relocate from Pakistan to the UK and have two sons, Imran and Wasim. Whilst the rest of the family are content, Imran is not. We meet Imran when he is thirty-two. He is married to Yasmin and they have a son, Tariq. Imran is angered by Western invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan and the subjugation of Muslims. He states that infidels steal Islamic land and kill innocent Muslims. He sees his father as a slave to the ‘unbelievers’.

Although characterised as perhaps a Muslim might be characterised in the West by a long robe with long sleeves, sandals, a prayer cap, and beard, our interest in Imran as a person is guided by an appreciation of universal human traits. He has tried to severe ties with family, friends and society, but still loves his family. When his father is not around, he visits his mother and professes his love for Yasmin and Tariq. The author skilfully plaits these two threads together to an intense and satisfying conclusion.

‘The Angel in my Well’ has the purity and daring of a first excursion into published writing. There is nothing formulaic about it. The length is correct: further development or depth would simply have added words, but not added to the experience. I read and enjoyed ‘Kinnara’, the second of the author’s publications, and his latest work, ‘The Fish That Climbed a Tree’, is firmly on my ‘to read’ list.

P.S. If there is an award for the vilest character in fiction, I nominate Khaled Sial, an acquaintance of Imran, who makes Bill Sikes look like Mr Magorium.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this short story (novella?) about an unexpected visitation. It is a little rough about the edges, but most first books are, and the author makes up for this with a heartfelt and often very funny tale with a surprisingly wide scope. It also helps that Ansbro has a really nice turn of phrase.

If I had one criticism, it would be that (for me at least) the most interesting part of the story (with the titular Angel) is over too soon, leaving the reader with a reasonably lengthy third act that could have been a great story on its own but wasn’t quite as engaging as the first part of the book.

The scenes with Kathleen are where this story really comes to life and Well (see what I did there?) worth the price of admission by themselves. I’m very much looking forward to reading the author’s full length novels.

[Anthea Syrokou · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book that I’ve read by author Kevin Ansbro, and I was so excited to live in the pages of this story for a while after having a most rewarding experience reading one of the author’s other books, Kinnara. I was, once again, left mesmerised by the author’s ability to create such a fascinating and intriguing world, which showcases his talent as a great author, as well as his vivid and colourful imagination. It also reveals his soul, as this story is heartfelt and real with respect to human emotions and behaviour, even though there are magical elements employed and the story is fictitious.

I was amazed by this beautifully written, poignant, and extremely witty story which deals with fear, loss, love, second chances, and how life can suddenly throw you the most brutal punches which can leave one feeling defeated, and how there can be room for healing and hope on the other side of it. Kevin Ansbro’s masterfully constructed writing evoked a melange of emotions within me as a reader. One minute I was crying from how beautifully and profoundly he portrayed the feelings that the protagonist, Joe, feels about losing his grandmother Kathleen — the sharp-witted, hilarious yet caring and resourceful woman who raised him, and other times I was laughing at the author’s everyday observations. It is a somewhat short story so I don’t want to give too much away, but I will point out that the unexpected occurs in this story, and the author’s clever wit and his ability to invite the reader into the world the characters find themselves in, is an extraordinary skill; the descriptions of the different settings place the reader in the heart of the action.

This story also touched on how parents can have the best intentions to raise their children to grow up and become respectable members of society, and how they can feel like they have failed if they don’t succeed in their efforts. This is highlighted in the parallel story which introduces the character of Imran, a young man who has been led astray and follows a destructive path, which completely challenges his parents’ values and notions about life. It threatens the foundations of his family unit.

The author is able to delve deep into the core of human emotions through Joe and Kathleen, and through many of the other diverse characters. Many scenes tugged at my heart, especially when Kathleen tells twenty-six-old Joe: “you are, and always will be my lovely little boy.” As a mother, the sentiment behind this comment was greatly felt in my heart.

From the onset the writing is sprinkled with the author’s sharp humour which, at times, had me in stitches. Joe’s friends were also hilarious, and the bond they shared was felt from the onset, which can be quite difficult to achieve in a short story — the author not only achieved this, but excelled in placing the reader in the lives of the characters.

I think this story speaks to everyone who has lost someone dear to them, and it encouraged me, as a reader, to see things through different perspectives. I could sense Joe’s desperation to cling onto his grandmother’s memory, to have more time with her, and to look for any sign of her in his environment; even in nature. I have often looked at the birds in my garden and wondered if any of them were, in fact, someone that meant so much to me, so the struggle Joe faces is a real one. Joe’s need to find a way to continue with the flow of everyday life without Kathleen; his isolation and despair seeped lamentably, yet soothingly through the pages.

For those who do not like dwelling on the negatives, this story is one about facing tragedy and loss, but it is mostly of hope — of healing, and learning to cope with life after experiencing loss. Although kismet plays a large role in the story, it also highlights that the ones we lose who truly loved us want us to take life by the reins and continue to steer our paths with fiery determination.

From the onset, I was hooked and quickly became immersed in this short story which is rich in quality from start to finish. Different threads in the plot were delicately and skilfully stitched together to form a story that was so unpredictable and suspenseful. The only thing that was predictable about this story, for me, was the author’s ability to deliver an ingenious, heartfelt, whimsical, and enchanting piece of writing that will definitely have a special place in my heart, and in my library. I look forward to reading more of Kevin Ansbro’s work.

[Laysee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Angel in My Well is a beguiling short story about familial love that transcends the grave, a mystical visitation from the spiritual realm, the fanaticism of suicide bombers, and a sweet romance.

When the story begins, Joe Bonnard (age 26) is at the funeral of his beloved grandmother, Kathleen-Marie Slattery, who had raised him after his parents perished in a car accident. One of the first things that struck me is Ansbro's power of observation recounted through Joe's account of the funeral attendees. Mourners come dressed in clothes that sit wrongly somehow, mingle awkwardly and assume an air of propriety that is strangely out of place. Ansbro's quirky humour bubbles up unbidden even in a sombre gathering of mourners.

The story is less about Joe than Gran, a character I adore and would love to meet. "Gran was hugely entertaining and extremely funny, but was also combative and outspoken; some might, with justification, say 'blunt'." It is easy to see how someone like Gran would be greatly missed. In his grief, Joe left his cottage in disarray. But guess who comes visiting from the depth of the well in his garden?

Another story runs alongside that of Joe and Gran, and reminds us of the turbulent times in which we live. Imran Aziz (age 32) is a migrant worker from Pakistan. He is not well acculturated to life in England on account of disillusionment that follows the repression of Muslims in Britain. He dons the traditional garb and withdraws into his own world and his worship of Allah. He starts making a bomb in partnership with Khaled Sial, an extremist trained by Al-Qaeda in Kashmir. The tension builds in anticipation of carnage to follow.

The Angel in My Well is a well crafted story that has touches of the magical and surreal that soften the harsh realities of an increasingly volatile world. It is beautifully written and deserves to be more widely read.

[Laurie Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Aren’t there a lot of scruffy buggers at funerals?”

Kevin—how true. What a great first line! And what faith to like my review in advance!

To get cracking then. The Angel in my Well: An intriguing title. I wondered at first who drowned in there. Now, from another review, I see the protagonist's angel is really Kathleen, his newly deceased beloved Gran, who returns to help him get on with his life and get over the loss of his one true love.

There’s magic in this—and fabulous wit (“Gestapo-style spectacles,” “cardboard coffins,” “the rehearsed solemnity of the undertakers”). The image of Joe’s maternal grandfather riding a unicorn in slow motion brings to mind Stardust (Neil Gaiman, the master).

I’m sorry to say I have no Kindle. (Head too close to pixel art. Forgive me, I like to curl up with print.) But rest assured The Angel in my Well is an e-book I definitely want to read.

To judge from the preview, worth five stars.

[Wendy Slater · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Kevin Ansbro proves himself to be a superb writer. The Angel in My Well, Ansbro��s short story, is remarkable, brimming and overflowing, sating all one’s literary senses. A perfect short story filled with subtle foreshadowing, extraordinary descriptions, humor, philosophy, faith and hope. Ansbro deftly weaves the story such that the reader sees the tapestry forming, yet, the author brilliantly manages not to reveal too much too soon. While the story is magical realism, The Angel in My Well is extraordinarily pertinent to today with cultural, social, and religious references that empower and awaken the reader to contemplate both the sophisticated nuances of conflict in our world, as well as the mysterious magic. The Angel in My Well is a tale of family struggles, love, circumstance, and the healing of family lineage: the best of an adult coming of age/empowerment story. The reader is left with hope and knowing we are not alone. A fantastic read!

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I read this little novella the other day while I was waiting for the kettle to come to a boil -- an almost true descriptor, since the story is so short and lovely that the time flew by. It doesn't take more than a minute to read, it seems, but leaves you with a warm-hearted feeling of infinite possibilities.

The story centres on Joe, just after the death of his cherished grandmother, Kathleen. Kathleen's story (for that's how I think of it) was magical. Kevin Ansbro captured the spirit of love and longing, and the implications of what we all would do for "just one more moment" with those we loved, and lost.

In a parallel plot, (no spoilers) we encounter a lost soul who, in his despair, stands in direct counterpoint to Kathleen's life-affirming presence, the irony of which is not lost on the reader. Kathleen, in death, is more alive and vital than is the young man whose despair eats at the centre of the story. Although the secondary plot was well-executed, overall, I found it ancillary -- and just a little bit of a cliché. Kathleen's story stood as a testament, on its own, to the power of love. There is more power in the simple message than there is in fireworks, to my mind.

It is enough to say that Kevin Ansbro's strength lies in his ability to take the little acts in life and catapult them to the mythical: he shines in illuminating the transformation of the mundane to the legendary.

[Sue Lloyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

A more than worthy 5 star review for this wonderful tale

The Angel in my Well by Kevin Ansbro is a small but perfectly formed, must read, novel.

Kevin is a master at weaving a storyline together with believable characters and an intelligent plot.

From the moment I started reading this book, my attention was captured, and it remained so throughout the pages.

The realistic depiction of the funeral in the opening pages was both astute and humorous; setting the scene perfectly for all that would follow.

I found the relationship between Joe and Kathleen very touching. Her mothering skills were second to none, and as the tale developed, she became a legend simply by being herself.
Having Irish roots myself, I could easily relate to this thrifty matriarchal figure, and I found myself giggling on more than one occasion at her ballsy, ‘no holds barred’ attitude.

Without giving too much away, I was not sure that I would have wanted to have loved and lost, not just once, but twice given the option.

Joe and Kathleen's bittersweet reunion was, however, for the greater good and provided a flawless link to the latter half of the book.

Imran’s storyline is one of topical relevance. Kevin provided a convincing insight into this character’s beliefs and ultimately, his action, for which he must bear the consequences. I genuinely was concerned while reading his account and was willing Kevin to steer the book to a fitting conclusion. He did, and how!

The last page of the book will stay with me for a long time and was a sweet nod to a Kevin's fabulous and much-loved mother, Kathleen Marie Ansbro.

[Clarkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story tells of Joe, a young man grieving from the loss of his beloved grandmother, who’s life path is diverted due to an apparition from beyond our living world.

A story of love, loss, courage and happiness, this book was comforting and uplifting.

Kevin Ansbro has a very inviting writing style, creating characters so knowable and down to earth, I befriended Joe and was quickly turning the pages to learn of his fate.

A great wee story, which will let you party with your lost ones right on through the night.

[Nilanjana Haldar · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Look, I’m as dead as a dodo! What’s the use of eating if my blessed organs don’t work? Now stop acting the fool and call the damn takeaway.”

One of the most beautiful novellas I have come by! This is the author’s debut and it is one of the most beautiful stories I have ever read!!The death of Joe’s grandmother, Kathleen, has left him despondent and in pain, to the point that it is worrying his caring friends. Then one night he hears a strange caterwauling noise and splashing emanating from his well. When he sprints out to reach for it, he comes face-to-face with a beautiful young woman with pre-Raphaelite features. This unexpected human’s transient visit leads Joe into a life of his dreams, something he believed had slipped through his fingers. Although I have read and reviewed all of author Ansbro’s other books, I would like to reintroduce him again in a different way—-this is where he has designed a mystical story in which he has made the impossible palpably possible with cheer, sheer laughter, and promises in the aftermath of a beloved's demise, in a way that celebrates a beautiful life that has passed by. I had tears with the death and had absolutely no idea as to what would come to hit me next and, truth be told, I loved the surprises to bits!!

I earnestly, truly, genuinely, frantically advise everyone to come read it and experience a lady as tenacious, and gregarious as Joe’s mother, Kathleen.Heartbreakingly, this is the last book of this author that this lifetime affords me.

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHIMSICAL WONDER.

“Just surrendering to the serenity of her company struck me dumb with happiness.” (Kindle Location 248).

With prose that delights, Kevin Ansbro’s, The Angel in My Well mixes whimsy, fantasy, and tragedy, with vibrant characters, to produce a very enjoyable and pleasurable read.

Recommendation: Read this brief (100 page) story, and anything else Kevin Ansbro writes. He is a magician with words.

“Imran was sad beyond words to see his mother this upset, but he knew that his path was righteous; he knew that what he was doing was selfless and that it transcended the comforting embrace of motherly love.” (Kindle Locations 408-410).

2QT Limited (Publishing). Kindle Edition. 1,626 Kindle Locations, 100 pages.

[Amiya Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isaac Babel said, “If the world could write by itself, it would write like Tolstoy.” I say if the soul could write by itself, it would write like Kevin Ansbro.

If you have life all figured out and are certain about what is and is not, do not read this book, for it contains the thoughts of a soul on a journey- questioning, learning and hoping. When you lose someone who means the world to you, it is shattering- the emptiness, the loneliness, watching the world continue on while you are still in mourning. That is what Joe is going through when we meet him, and he is doomed under the burdening sadness. Until something truly remarkable happens. In Ansbro's typical style, magic and fantasy are flawlessly woven into the plot in the most surprising and unique way.

In the parallel story following Imran, the son of Pakistani immigrants, the author further explores the destruction our pain can cause when left unchecked. Just like Joe, Imran is miserable, desperately seeking something to fill the emptiness within him. This kind of vulnerability makes him an easy target, and guidance comes from the worst possible source. Unlike Joe, Imran doesn’t evolve spiritually and never receives the fulfillment he is after.

Ansbro captures the human experience like no one else. His writing is soothing and familiar and intuitive, yet boundless. I remain perplexed by how he accomplishes this. His descriptions are so vibrant and colorful, they take on a life of their own. I get lost in Ansbro's work because even the most mundane instances are masterfully rendered. There are no wasted sentences or disposable paragraphs. Every word is precious to the author, an opportunity to further an idea or transform a sentiment, or breathe depth into a moment that may otherwise go unnoticed, and isn't that as it should be?

This book may be considered controversial by some because of how the author deals with the concepts of God and death, but Ansbro isn’t pandering to religious radicals or arrogant academia. He is talking to us, the ones who don’t have it all figured out, the ones still questioning, learning and hoping. The Angel in My Well is beautifully written, highly entertaining, and emotionally therapeutic. Ansbro is a talent not to be missed and quickly becoming one of my favorite new authors.

[Deyanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perhaps it was serendipity that I came upon this meaningful little book through the kind comments of the author, Kevin Ansbro, on Goodreads. Little did I realize until later, that this gracious man is an author. Once I discovered that amazing little detail, I ordered the kindle book.

I was surprised...both by the novel itself and that I was so engaged. It is quirky and clever and creative and in a heartbeat I found myself caring about the main character and his spunky grandmother. Could be that my emotional tug is because I, too, had a grandmother who greatly influenced my life and my love of literature. Wouldn't it be truly magical if I were able to spend even just a few more minutes with her!

I wish I knew to link to reviews. One I respect and that deftly explains my sentiments on this novel is by Elyse. Check out her review and for sure give this delightful little read a go. I think you may be as surprised as I was by the author's skill.