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The Beach
Alan loves the beach. More than a weekend respite, it is his home, his refuge, his sanctuary. And for most of the year, he strolls the sand in blissful solitude, letting nature—and no one else—touch him.
But spring has given way to summer, and soon, the annual invasion of vacationers and tourists will subdivide the beach with blankets, umbrellas, and chairs, depriving Alan of his privacy and seclusion—the fundamental touchstones of his life.
Resigned to endure another seasonal onslaught of beach-goers, Alan believes there is nothing he can do but prepare for the worst.
But fate has other plans.
Delivered to him on the crest of a rogue wave, the strange object appears to have no purpose, no practical use—until Alan accidentally discovers what waits inside. Now he must attempt to unravel an ageless mystery, unaware that the final outcome will change his life, and the beach, forever.
In the companion novella "Short Time," you’ll meet a respectable but bored middle-class executive, who exchanges his future for six months of excess and extravagance, only to discover out the price he must pay for his hedonistic indulgence is beyond anything he could have imagined.
But spring has given way to summer, and soon, the annual invasion of vacationers and tourists will subdivide the beach with blankets, umbrellas, and chairs, depriving Alan of his privacy and seclusion—the fundamental touchstones of his life.
Resigned to endure another seasonal onslaught of beach-goers, Alan believes there is nothing he can do but prepare for the worst.
But fate has other plans.
Delivered to him on the crest of a rogue wave, the strange object appears to have no purpose, no practical use—until Alan accidentally discovers what waits inside. Now he must attempt to unravel an ageless mystery, unaware that the final outcome will change his life, and the beach, forever.
In the companion novella "Short Time," you’ll meet a respectable but bored middle-class executive, who exchanges his future for six months of excess and extravagance, only to discover out the price he must pay for his hedonistic indulgence is beyond anything he could have imagined.
206 pages, Paperback
First published August 12, 2012
About the author
Jaye Frances
9 books257 followersJaye Frances is the author of "The New Girl in Town" and the suspense thriller series, "World Without Love." The trilogy includes “Betrayed,” "Reunion," and "Redemption." Her other books include "The New Girl in Town," a special collection of Jaye’s most heart-wrenching, mind-tingling, and thought-provoking stories, "The Beach," a psychological thriller about the possibilities—and horror—of wishful thinking, and "Love Travels Forever," a collection of seventeen poignant short stories.
For more information visit Jaye at:
http://.JayeFrances.com
http://JayeFrancesBooks.com
http://JayeFrances.Substack.com
http://JayeFrancesYouTube.com
http://Linkedin.com/in/JayeFrances
http://Facebook.com/JayeFrancesAuthor
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jaye-Fr...
https://x.com/JayeFrancesNews
http://instagram.com/JayeFrancesWriter
For more information visit Jaye at:
http://.JayeFrances.com
http://JayeFrancesBooks.com
http://JayeFrances.Substack.com
http://JayeFrancesYouTube.com
http://Linkedin.com/in/JayeFrances
http://Facebook.com/JayeFrancesAuthor
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jaye-Fr...
https://x.com/JayeFrancesNews
http://instagram.com/JayeFrancesWriter
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 18, 2013
Alan loved the beach (his beach), but when summer came, the tourists came with it. He thought the beach belonged to him and hated having to share it.
As he walked, he turned to look back at his bungalow. He had worked hard to be able to buy this slice of Heaven. He preferred his own company and talked to the ocean as if it was a trusted friend.
He had reached the granite rock outcrop, which continually amazed him. He would walk the beach until he reached the rock, then look over his domain. A storm was approaching and he didn't have time to make it back to the bungalow, so he hid behind his the rock, seeking protection from the wind.
When the water swirled around his feet, something bumped his leg. He held the object and asked the air around him, "How much longer is this going to last?", and the storm abated. He thought nothing of it.
As he examined the object, he thought it was a prism, because of the beautiful lights reflecting from it. He couldn't see how to open it, so he grabbed a hammer and nail and struck it. He was stunned with the result.
A man spoke from behind him. He dropped the "bottle" and turned.
Alan's adventure began.
4 STARS - Would Highly Recommend To Others
The moral of the story, be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.
I was first drawn to the book because of the gorgeous cover. I love the beach, sand and water, so I will stop and browse whenever I see a cover with them on it.
The writing makes this an easy read, with the story flowing smoothly as the plot unravels.
I felt for the guy, because I love the beach and hate sharing it too. But, who died and made him God?
The ending was so creepy, it sent chills running up and down my spine and the hairs on the back of my neck tingling, but I smiled too. lol When you read it, you will know, that in itself could be considered creepy.
Could you imagine wading on the oceans edge and looking down, only to see...............
There is a bonus novella at the end of the book. What price are you willing to pay, in exchange for having all your heart desires right now?
I received this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
As he walked, he turned to look back at his bungalow. He had worked hard to be able to buy this slice of Heaven. He preferred his own company and talked to the ocean as if it was a trusted friend.
He had reached the granite rock outcrop, which continually amazed him. He would walk the beach until he reached the rock, then look over his domain. A storm was approaching and he didn't have time to make it back to the bungalow, so he hid behind his the rock, seeking protection from the wind.
When the water swirled around his feet, something bumped his leg. He held the object and asked the air around him, "How much longer is this going to last?", and the storm abated. He thought nothing of it.
As he examined the object, he thought it was a prism, because of the beautiful lights reflecting from it. He couldn't see how to open it, so he grabbed a hammer and nail and struck it. He was stunned with the result.
A man spoke from behind him. He dropped the "bottle" and turned.
Alan's adventure began.
4 STARS - Would Highly Recommend To Others
The moral of the story, be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.
I was first drawn to the book because of the gorgeous cover. I love the beach, sand and water, so I will stop and browse whenever I see a cover with them on it.
The writing makes this an easy read, with the story flowing smoothly as the plot unravels.
I felt for the guy, because I love the beach and hate sharing it too. But, who died and made him God?
The ending was so creepy, it sent chills running up and down my spine and the hairs on the back of my neck tingling, but I smiled too. lol When you read it, you will know, that in itself could be considered creepy.
Could you imagine wading on the oceans edge and looking down, only to see...............
There is a bonus novella at the end of the book. What price are you willing to pay, in exchange for having all your heart desires right now?
I received this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
April 19, 2014
As Alan strolled down the beach, his thoughts were on the coming weeks – the influx of tourists with the warmer months almost upon them would ruin his beach; the trash, the noise and all that accompanied the invasion of strangers out for a good time. As he sat on his favourite rock and gazed out to sea his frustration was great – he knew he could do nothing to save his beach, his home, his life…
Suddenly washed up beside him was a strange item, maybe an artefact which he could clean up and add to his collection. But a sudden storm came from nowhere, lashing the coastline, stunning him with its ferocity. As he hurried home, he clutched the device to his side – what was it? He hadn’t seen anything like it before. And it was when he attempted to attach a hook to this strange cylindrical object - simply to hang it for display purposes; that his life changed immediately.
Well this was not like I thought it would be! A short story showing a man who was selfish and self-centred, loving “his” beach but disliking the tourists who he felt didn’t deserve to be there. The strange and weird twist was totally unexpected. A quick read which I quite enjoyed…
Suddenly washed up beside him was a strange item, maybe an artefact which he could clean up and add to his collection. But a sudden storm came from nowhere, lashing the coastline, stunning him with its ferocity. As he hurried home, he clutched the device to his side – what was it? He hadn’t seen anything like it before. And it was when he attempted to attach a hook to this strange cylindrical object - simply to hang it for display purposes; that his life changed immediately.
Well this was not like I thought it would be! A short story showing a man who was selfish and self-centred, loving “his” beach but disliking the tourists who he felt didn’t deserve to be there. The strange and weird twist was totally unexpected. A quick read which I quite enjoyed…
October 3, 2012
This was a small anthology of two short stories with one of them being a contemporary allegory and the other contemporary fiction. They have the common link of two guys being faced with life choices, what they choose and the results of their choices. Both stories in their own ways were challenging to read and stayed with me afterwards giving me reason to pause and reflect on my own life (yeah, they're those kinds of stories).
The Beach
The Beach is the story of a man, Allen, who lives along a stretch of beach in Florida. He loves the beach, but is angered by how visitors to the beach seem to invade his privacy and trash the beach. One day he finds an object that reveals a way for him to have anything he desires in exchange for him paying something worthy in return for it. Naturally his thoughts go immediately toward his beach. He wants it all to himself and determines that anything is worth that cost. But is it?
The story is an allegory with Efil, his 'gift', Allen, the beach and the contract all acting as symbols. It is a story with a profound lesson for all of us and it is a worthy tale that challenges us to take stock of our thinking particularly as we make each life decision. It is short, but it isn't light or sunny so keep that in mind if you choose to read it. I recognized much of what was about to happen just from the foreshadowing of the story that the reader sees, but Allen- because he is obsessed- just blunders along without seeing. The omniscience of seeing the outcome did not make it a boring read because of the air of mystery surrounding the background of Efil and the why I kept wondering behind Efil's little life contract game. A worthy, challenging read!
Short Time
Short Time picks up at the midway point after a man makes a life changing decision. He was given the opportunity to eat, drink and make merry for six months and then he would be handing over his life for future unknown use. The six month party is over and now its time to pay.
The man finds himself in a temporary holding cell with four days of 'conditioning' for his assignment. He meets with a man name Jake who is only there to monitor him before he is sent off to perform his responsibilities. The man finds now that it comes down to it that he finds the suspense of not knowing what he has signed on for is driving him into desperation so he all but begs and then connives to know what is to come. Jake debates with wondering whether knowing or not knowing is best for him. And once he knows?
While this one was not an allegory, it still was a challenge to the reader to take stock. Decisions always have consequences. And is the choice, once made, worth it? I found this a fascinating, psychological read because of how it was told first person with only two characters and almost one setting that is stark and unremarkable, but yet that's forces all the focus on the main character's thoughts and his antagonist Jake. While I was drawn in by the plot of a guy who signed away his life just for a short six month orgy, my interest was held because I wanted to know almost as much as he what the payment would be. He seemed to think it was selling himself as a government man, but like the first story, there was enough of a hesitation in Jake to keep me wondering if he got it right. Now Jake, wow! Jake was the character that actually fascinated me more though there is little to go on. He was hard and cold and he had to be to do what he was doing, but yet-
And the ending proved to me that Jake was indeed the guy to truly be watching in all of this. Tough, but good read.
One thing else I should mention. I found all the extra notes added to the end of the stories well worth reading because they really helped understand the stories.
Both stories can be read easily in one sitting and I recommend them heartily to those who enjoy thought provoking reads.
The Beach
The Beach is the story of a man, Allen, who lives along a stretch of beach in Florida. He loves the beach, but is angered by how visitors to the beach seem to invade his privacy and trash the beach. One day he finds an object that reveals a way for him to have anything he desires in exchange for him paying something worthy in return for it. Naturally his thoughts go immediately toward his beach. He wants it all to himself and determines that anything is worth that cost. But is it?
The story is an allegory with Efil, his 'gift', Allen, the beach and the contract all acting as symbols. It is a story with a profound lesson for all of us and it is a worthy tale that challenges us to take stock of our thinking particularly as we make each life decision. It is short, but it isn't light or sunny so keep that in mind if you choose to read it. I recognized much of what was about to happen just from the foreshadowing of the story that the reader sees, but Allen- because he is obsessed- just blunders along without seeing. The omniscience of seeing the outcome did not make it a boring read because of the air of mystery surrounding the background of Efil and the why I kept wondering behind Efil's little life contract game. A worthy, challenging read!
Short Time
Short Time picks up at the midway point after a man makes a life changing decision. He was given the opportunity to eat, drink and make merry for six months and then he would be handing over his life for future unknown use. The six month party is over and now its time to pay.
The man finds himself in a temporary holding cell with four days of 'conditioning' for his assignment. He meets with a man name Jake who is only there to monitor him before he is sent off to perform his responsibilities. The man finds now that it comes down to it that he finds the suspense of not knowing what he has signed on for is driving him into desperation so he all but begs and then connives to know what is to come. Jake debates with wondering whether knowing or not knowing is best for him. And once he knows?
While this one was not an allegory, it still was a challenge to the reader to take stock. Decisions always have consequences. And is the choice, once made, worth it? I found this a fascinating, psychological read because of how it was told first person with only two characters and almost one setting that is stark and unremarkable, but yet that's forces all the focus on the main character's thoughts and his antagonist Jake. While I was drawn in by the plot of a guy who signed away his life just for a short six month orgy, my interest was held because I wanted to know almost as much as he what the payment would be. He seemed to think it was selling himself as a government man, but like the first story, there was enough of a hesitation in Jake to keep me wondering if he got it right. Now Jake, wow! Jake was the character that actually fascinated me more though there is little to go on. He was hard and cold and he had to be to do what he was doing, but yet-
And the ending proved to me that Jake was indeed the guy to truly be watching in all of this. Tough, but good read.
One thing else I should mention. I found all the extra notes added to the end of the stories well worth reading because they really helped understand the stories.
Both stories can be read easily in one sitting and I recommend them heartily to those who enjoy thought provoking reads.
September 24, 2012
Since there are two stories in this one I am going to review them separately. I give The Beach 3 stars and Short Time 4 stars.
The Beach – Alan, the main character, was very well written and you could easily picture him and his beach in your head. This story didn’t grab me in the beginning as much as some of Jaye’s other stories did. I think it was the main character that I disliked. However he was supposed to be a character that you don’t want to be around. Once I got further into the story I was more into it.
Like the other stories before, Jaye has written this from a male POV and she did a wonderful job. Alan gets a chance to make a bargain with a genie type being but doesn’t think it through. If an offer sounds to good to be true it usually is. Words to live by I say. LOL.
Short Time – This was a very short story just after The Beach. The main character remains nameless throughout the story which adds a level of mystery to it. I was very surprised how quickly I was sucked in this story. The main character was a male who made a bargain with The Suits that he could have anything he wanted for 6 months but then they would come for him and after that he belonged to them. They would determine his life from then on. He agreed and signed the contract. The story is about what happens after the 6 months are up.
I really enjoyed reading this story although I figured out the very end before it was revealed. I just can’t believe how stupid he was. Someone should have caught him 6 months ago and shook him just to wake him up!
All in all I recommend checking this book out. It was a fun read and not that long.
The Beach – Alan, the main character, was very well written and you could easily picture him and his beach in your head. This story didn’t grab me in the beginning as much as some of Jaye’s other stories did. I think it was the main character that I disliked. However he was supposed to be a character that you don’t want to be around. Once I got further into the story I was more into it.
Like the other stories before, Jaye has written this from a male POV and she did a wonderful job. Alan gets a chance to make a bargain with a genie type being but doesn’t think it through. If an offer sounds to good to be true it usually is. Words to live by I say. LOL.
Short Time – This was a very short story just after The Beach. The main character remains nameless throughout the story which adds a level of mystery to it. I was very surprised how quickly I was sucked in this story. The main character was a male who made a bargain with The Suits that he could have anything he wanted for 6 months but then they would come for him and after that he belonged to them. They would determine his life from then on. He agreed and signed the contract. The story is about what happens after the 6 months are up.
I really enjoyed reading this story although I figured out the very end before it was revealed. I just can’t believe how stupid he was. Someone should have caught him 6 months ago and shook him just to wake him up!
All in all I recommend checking this book out. It was a fun read and not that long.
September 7, 2012
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This story tells of a man named Alan, that has a home on the beach. Alan is retired and enjoys his time on the beach that he thinks of as his. He is a very grumpy, cynical man who prefers to be alone and becomes very angry with the people who spend time on the beach. He feels they are too loud, and they litter his beloved beach and they just cause too many problems for him. Alan comes across a container one day that he brings home. HE finds out it contains a "genie" that comes out to negotiate a deal with Alan. Unfortunately Alan finds out too late what happens when he makes a deal with this genie name Efil.
Jaye Frances once again writes a story that is so descriptive that I felt like I was right there on Alan's beach with him. If there was a genre called science fiction fantasy, that is what I would say this book falls into. One thing that I really appreciate in this authors stories is the fact that when you are finished reading the book she discusses where she gets her references and the deeper meaning of the story. When reading a Jaye Frances book, I never finish with just a story in my head, I usually have learned some kind of life lesson and a little bit of history on top of that.
This story tells of a man named Alan, that has a home on the beach. Alan is retired and enjoys his time on the beach that he thinks of as his. He is a very grumpy, cynical man who prefers to be alone and becomes very angry with the people who spend time on the beach. He feels they are too loud, and they litter his beloved beach and they just cause too many problems for him. Alan comes across a container one day that he brings home. HE finds out it contains a "genie" that comes out to negotiate a deal with Alan. Unfortunately Alan finds out too late what happens when he makes a deal with this genie name Efil.
Jaye Frances once again writes a story that is so descriptive that I felt like I was right there on Alan's beach with him. If there was a genre called science fiction fantasy, that is what I would say this book falls into. One thing that I really appreciate in this authors stories is the fact that when you are finished reading the book she discusses where she gets her references and the deeper meaning of the story. When reading a Jaye Frances book, I never finish with just a story in my head, I usually have learned some kind of life lesson and a little bit of history on top of that.
August 26, 2012
I just loved this story! I saw the capsule, I saw the characters, I saw the beach on and on and on. Jaye Frances is one very talented lady! The story did not turn out quite like I expected, but in no way am I disappointed. I could not have guessed the true nature of this story and I'm glad for that. I so much enjoyed this story. I haven't read her other stories but I most assuredly will. I believe I've become a fan! If you haven't read this story you are missing out. The protagonist is not a nice guy and one day he is confronted by a stranger with the deal of a life time. After some negotiations the deal is sealed to both parties satisfaction. But, after the stranger is gone our protagonist isn't so sure he got the better part of the deal.
What can happen to a person when they get rid of different races of people? How is it done? Where do you start? Do you just do away with the ones currently in existence? Or do you have to go back to the origin of each race to make sure you've rid the world of those you find unsavory? One man receives the answer to all of those questions.
I just knew there was something about this story I would get a kick out of! It has been a while since a story tickled me just right. So original! It is a great short story terrifically told It will leave you with a snide little smile, a sinful feeling of satisfaction and completely entertained. Tell everyone about it! I am.
Jaye Franes gifted this book to me for my review. The review I've written is my honest opinion and in no way influenced by this book being a gift. It is simply a terrific story and well worth the read.
What can happen to a person when they get rid of different races of people? How is it done? Where do you start? Do you just do away with the ones currently in existence? Or do you have to go back to the origin of each race to make sure you've rid the world of those you find unsavory? One man receives the answer to all of those questions.
I just knew there was something about this story I would get a kick out of! It has been a while since a story tickled me just right. So original! It is a great short story terrifically told It will leave you with a snide little smile, a sinful feeling of satisfaction and completely entertained. Tell everyone about it! I am.
Jaye Franes gifted this book to me for my review. The review I've written is my honest opinion and in no way influenced by this book being a gift. It is simply a terrific story and well worth the read.
October 8, 2012
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Where do i start? Right, it was awesome. This book contains two short stories, one is the beach which is about a man who wanted the beach all to himself so he made a negotiation with Efil, who's more like a professional genie slash salesmen. He thought he was making a good deal, thought about it long and hard so that there will be no consequences but in the end, let's just say that the deal wasn't in his favor. This is similar to the second story, short time, and like the first story, the man made a deal with the devil (government that is) that he could have everything he wanted in 6 months in exchange for working with a special "assignment" from the government. Of course, the gullible man that he is, he falls for it , suffers mental torture on his own and eventually falls for another bad deal.
i honestly think that this would be a great tale for teens and up, it's like a more mature version of the tales we've come to know and love.Those tales we had when we were kids and got us scared and guilty whenever we do anything that was at par with the bad guy in our story books. These stories help us realize that our decisions no matter how seemingly small it is, creates impact. And that consequences and "payment" for "good deals" should never be taken lightly. I'm giving this 5 stars and obviously, seeing how much i enjoyed this, The Beach is highly recommended. Yet another excellent work by Jaye Frances. (Seriously, no kidding she's awesome.)
Where do i start? Right, it was awesome. This book contains two short stories, one is the beach which is about a man who wanted the beach all to himself so he made a negotiation with Efil, who's more like a professional genie slash salesmen. He thought he was making a good deal, thought about it long and hard so that there will be no consequences but in the end, let's just say that the deal wasn't in his favor. This is similar to the second story, short time, and like the first story, the man made a deal with the devil (government that is) that he could have everything he wanted in 6 months in exchange for working with a special "assignment" from the government. Of course, the gullible man that he is, he falls for it , suffers mental torture on his own and eventually falls for another bad deal.
i honestly think that this would be a great tale for teens and up, it's like a more mature version of the tales we've come to know and love.Those tales we had when we were kids and got us scared and guilty whenever we do anything that was at par with the bad guy in our story books. These stories help us realize that our decisions no matter how seemingly small it is, creates impact. And that consequences and "payment" for "good deals" should never be taken lightly. I'm giving this 5 stars and obviously, seeing how much i enjoyed this, The Beach is highly recommended. Yet another excellent work by Jaye Frances. (Seriously, no kidding she's awesome.)
February 15, 2013
Book: The Beach
Author: Jaye Frances
Genre: Supernatural Suspense Thriller
Length: Approximately 108 Pages
Note: This book contains two short stories
Wow! I'm completely exhausted after reading these two stories in THE BEACH by JAYE FRANCES. These are both stories about someone being enticed by an outside influence with a huge life choice. Is this a gift, or is it a curse? Do the characters make the right decisions? No.
This is the first work that I've read by Jaye Frances and it's not going to be the last. It has been quite some time since an author made me physically cringe while reading. I agree with the supernatural suspense thriller genre for this book, but I would also add horror to the mix.
These two short stories were written beautifully. Visually I could see everything that Ms. Frances was describing. I could feel the storm coming in, smell the beach. It was a fun read because the author did something very risky. She created very unlikeable characters. I had a deep dislike for the main characters and their sense of right and wrong. Ms. Frances was able to write about horrible character flaws in people, things that make most of us extremely uncomfortable (this is where I literally squirmed in my seat) and move the story to a thought provoking ending.
The two stories in THE BEACH by JAYE FRANCES are must reads.
Author: Jaye Frances
Genre: Supernatural Suspense Thriller
Length: Approximately 108 Pages
Note: This book contains two short stories
Wow! I'm completely exhausted after reading these two stories in THE BEACH by JAYE FRANCES. These are both stories about someone being enticed by an outside influence with a huge life choice. Is this a gift, or is it a curse? Do the characters make the right decisions? No.
This is the first work that I've read by Jaye Frances and it's not going to be the last. It has been quite some time since an author made me physically cringe while reading. I agree with the supernatural suspense thriller genre for this book, but I would also add horror to the mix.
These two short stories were written beautifully. Visually I could see everything that Ms. Frances was describing. I could feel the storm coming in, smell the beach. It was a fun read because the author did something very risky. She created very unlikeable characters. I had a deep dislike for the main characters and their sense of right and wrong. Ms. Frances was able to write about horrible character flaws in people, things that make most of us extremely uncomfortable (this is where I literally squirmed in my seat) and move the story to a thought provoking ending.
The two stories in THE BEACH by JAYE FRANCES are must reads.
January 12, 2013
I was given a free copy of “The Beach” for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed this story by Jaye Frances, as well as, the extra novella, “Short Time”, that came with it. Both were poignant, purposeful and full of meaning, which is not my usual genre. Normally, I prefer mindless fun reading versus thought provoking literature, but I honestly couldn’t put either down once I started. Frances lures you in right away with an intriguing plot and great character development. In “The Beach”, you watch Alan make choices and you want to help him, or warn him, but deep down your know his selfish and ‘idealism’ thinking will come with consequences. Although, I never guessed it would unfold the way it did. In “Short Time”, you don’t even know the character’s name, but he creeps into your mind. Her storyline flows easily and the endings leave you thinking! I look forward to reading more by Ms. Frances. In fact, I have already downloaded one of her other stories from Amazon.
September 30, 2013
Son of a Beach
Move over, Stephen King, you've got company. Author Jaye Frances weaves a tale which begins with a bright, sandy beach then turns darker as the narrative progresses. In a way, this novella stands as a modern version of an old morality drama. Yes, authors are allowed--in fact, expected--to make a few personal points for the improvement of humankind as well as to provide entertainment. The Beach does just that, while holding a reader's attention as the mystery proceeds to an unpredictable conclusion. And not to make a religious comparison, in her author's note at the conclusion, Jaye graciously explains some of the meanings, perhaps obscure to the average reader, not unlike how Jesus had to explain some of his parables to puzzled disciples.
Move over, Stephen King, you've got company. Author Jaye Frances weaves a tale which begins with a bright, sandy beach then turns darker as the narrative progresses. In a way, this novella stands as a modern version of an old morality drama. Yes, authors are allowed--in fact, expected--to make a few personal points for the improvement of humankind as well as to provide entertainment. The Beach does just that, while holding a reader's attention as the mystery proceeds to an unpredictable conclusion. And not to make a religious comparison, in her author's note at the conclusion, Jaye graciously explains some of the meanings, perhaps obscure to the average reader, not unlike how Jesus had to explain some of his parables to puzzled disciples.
January 21, 2013
Well written by someone that obviously has a grasp on wonderful vocabulary. Lines like "a matrix of mirrored squares" and "vacillating between conjecture and assumption" are appreciated. And "purgatorial review"? Perfect. This would have been a great screenplay for a Rod Serling "Twilight Zone" episode. The 4 instead of 5 star is simply because I am much more a novel reader and rarely go for novellas. But if I'm going to read a short story, I would like it to be this clever.
October 20, 2013
A well written pair of short stories. I found the the title story to be by far the better of the two with a fairly unique twist to it. It's about a man who wants his stretch of beach to himself, no matter the cost and in this case the cost was big. The second story was good but not terribly memorable. Overall good writing and well edited, possibly just not my type reading.
August 26, 2014
A fair read. Not original by any stretch of the imagination. Sort of a cross between your standard 'genie in a bottle' fantasy and 'be careful what you
wish for' parable. Enjoyable, nonetheless. I actually liked 'Short Time' a little more, but I'm more predisposed to time travel stories anyway.
Well-polished, as any short story should be.
wish for' parable. Enjoyable, nonetheless. I actually liked 'Short Time' a little more, but I'm more predisposed to time travel stories anyway.
Well-polished, as any short story should be.
December 9, 2013
The main story (The Beach) was short and suspenseful, although it was fairly easy to guess that justice would be served in some way or another. The bonus story (Short Time) was totally a new concept for me and I had no idea how it would end. I actually preferred this story to the first one.
Thanks for another good read, Ms. Frances!
Thanks for another good read, Ms. Frances!
October 27, 2012
I really loved these two novella's. The stories were unique, suspenseful and well-paced. The writing is very smart as well as beautifully descriptive. I loved the author's breakdown of all the symbolism in the stories at the end. Very Kafkaesque!
September 30, 2017
This is actually two short stories rather than one story. The first, same as the title, The Beach was just not for me. I'm not sure if it was because it was too short or if it was because it needed more feeling from the main character. I thought it was going to be an ecological story but ended of as something else that I felt has been done before but that I connected with (in a "OH, I hate that man!" kind of way). The second story was more interesting but this was definitely too short. I felt like I jumped in in the middle of a story and needed more of a background.
February 15, 2013
I need to think about this before I write a review..will update soon.
June 8, 2013
Grossly overpriced for a short story.
A simplistic concept, and a rather self-important heap of info piled on by the author.
Disappointing.
A simplistic concept, and a rather self-important heap of info piled on by the author.
Disappointing.
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