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Uncommon Anthologies #1
UnCommon Bodies
A Collection of Oddities, Survivors, and Other Impossibilities. Step right up to the modern freakshow. We have mermaids, monsters, and more. You won't be disappointed, but you may not get out alive. UnCommon Bodies presents a collection of 20 beautifully irreverent stories which blend the surreal and the mundane. Together, the authors explore the lives of the odd, the unbelievable, and the impossible. Imagine a world where magic exists, where the physical form has the power to heal or repulse, where a deal with the devil means losing so much more than your soul.
The authors: Christopher Godsoe, Philip Harris, Sessha Batto, Rebecca Poole, Brent Meske, Robb Grindstaff, Sally Basmajian, Michael Harris Cohen, Robert Pope, Jordanne Fuller, Deanne Charlton, Bey Deckard, Vasil Tuchkov, SM Johnson, PK Tyler, Laxmi Hariharan, Daniel Smith, Samantha Warren, Bob Williams, Kim Wells, Keira Michelle Telford
Contents:
* Saltwater Assassin (2015) / short story by Samantha Warren
* We Is We / short story by Michael Harris Cohen
* Don't Touch Me / short fiction by Bey Deckard
* Undead Cyborg Girl / short fiction by Kim Wells
* Skin / short fiction by Brent Meske
* Scars: First Session / short fiction by Jordanne Fuller
* Mermaids / short fiction by Robert Pope
* In Her Image / short fiction by Vasil Tuchkov
* It Runs in the Family / poem by Deanne Charlton
* Brenga's Body / poem by Deanne Charlton
* Eternity in a One-Night Stand / poem by Deanne Charlton
* Reserved / short fiction by SM Johnson
* UnTamed / short fiction by Laxmi Hariharan
* Ruby and Deidre / short fiction by Robb Grindstaff
* All the Devils / short fiction by Keira Michelle Telford
* Ruby / short fiction by Bob Williams
* Phantom Pain / short fiction by Philip Harris
* Daedalus' Daughter / short fiction by P. K. Tyler
* The Zealot [d.o.mai.n] / novelette by Christopher Godsoe
* Made for This / short fiction by Sessha Batto
* Unbreakable Heart / short fiction by Rebecca Poole
* The Well-Rounded Head / short fiction by Sally Basmajian
* From the Inside / short story by Daniel Arthur Smith
.
The authors: Christopher Godsoe, Philip Harris, Sessha Batto, Rebecca Poole, Brent Meske, Robb Grindstaff, Sally Basmajian, Michael Harris Cohen, Robert Pope, Jordanne Fuller, Deanne Charlton, Bey Deckard, Vasil Tuchkov, SM Johnson, PK Tyler, Laxmi Hariharan, Daniel Smith, Samantha Warren, Bob Williams, Kim Wells, Keira Michelle Telford
Contents:
* Saltwater Assassin (2015) / short story by Samantha Warren
* We Is We / short story by Michael Harris Cohen
* Don't Touch Me / short fiction by Bey Deckard
* Undead Cyborg Girl / short fiction by Kim Wells
* Skin / short fiction by Brent Meske
* Scars: First Session / short fiction by Jordanne Fuller
* Mermaids / short fiction by Robert Pope
* In Her Image / short fiction by Vasil Tuchkov
* It Runs in the Family / poem by Deanne Charlton
* Brenga's Body / poem by Deanne Charlton
* Eternity in a One-Night Stand / poem by Deanne Charlton
* Reserved / short fiction by SM Johnson
* UnTamed / short fiction by Laxmi Hariharan
* Ruby and Deidre / short fiction by Robb Grindstaff
* All the Devils / short fiction by Keira Michelle Telford
* Ruby / short fiction by Bob Williams
* Phantom Pain / short fiction by Philip Harris
* Daedalus' Daughter / short fiction by P. K. Tyler
* The Zealot [d.o.mai.n] / novelette by Christopher Godsoe
* Made for This / short fiction by Sessha Batto
* Unbreakable Heart / short fiction by Rebecca Poole
* The Well-Rounded Head / short fiction by Sally Basmajian
* From the Inside / short story by Daniel Arthur Smith
.
368 pages, Paperback
First published November 24, 2015
11 people are currently reading
815 people want to read
About the author
Michael Harris Cohen
24 books24 followersMichael Harris Cohen’s stories have been published in various magazines and anthologies including F(r)iction, Black Candies, Necessary Fiction, A Punk Rock Future, Catapult’s Tiny Crimes, The Dark, and Conjunctions. His first book, The Eyes, won Mixer’s “Sex, Violence, and Satire” contest judged by Stephen Graham Jones. He’s received a Fulbright grant for literary translation and fellowships from The Djerassi Foundation, OMI International Arts Center, The Atlantic Center for the Arts, Jentel Artists Residency, Blue Mountain Center, and the Künstlerdorf Schöppingen Foundation. He’s a graduate of the MFA program at Brown University where he won the Weston Award for best graduate fiction manuscript. His collection of horror fiction, Effects Vary, is forthcoming from Cemetery Gates Media in October, 2022. He lives with his wife and daughters in Sofia and teaches Creative Writing and Literature at the American University in Bulgaria.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
November 1, 2015
I had the absolute pleasure of performing line edits on this collection. Some of these stories are poignant and touching, others are a helluva good time. I recommend this book if you're in the mood for something out of the ordinary with characters that are, inexplicably, easy to relate to.
November 2, 2015
Laxmi Hariharan's 'Untamed', one of the tales in this collection, reminds me of a more mainstream Angela Carter. It’s not just the magical realism it’s the alchemy of combining myth and the modern world to create storytelling gold. In this case, the mythical framework is not the gruesome fairy tales of the brother’s Grimm and other tale-spinners of cold northern climes, but the ancient, rich tapestry of India.
The chaotic markets, port and temples of this world are vividly imagined. Hariharan knows how to play with names. There’s something about using the old colonial Portuguese-given name for a post-apocalyptic re-imagined Mumbai that lights up little neurons of satisfaction. The Hugging Saint is also a wonderfully named creation and a perfect meshing of the ancient and modern world. What could be more modern than a hug? There’s even science behind why it is good for your health. What could be more ancient than a saint?
There is a wonderful vivid tale of a giant fish that saves the people of Bombay from a tsunami that could be Indian or ancient European in origin. But it is the main story of Leana Iyeroy, a teenaged girl with an animal within, her gloriously bloody, violent transformation and the wonderful surprising twist in the end of this story that most reminded me of Carter.
There is just so much going on in this story: Leana is an all too human monster, with weaknesses, failures of judgement and hesitations. Her situation, a living hybrid of a human and wolf, isolated amongst full humans who probably hate her, wrestling with the animal inside, is positively freudian and calls to something dark and anxious in all of us. When Leana asks why there are so many temples in Bombay, she is told, “We love our temples, it’s where we come together to not only pray but to reassure ourselves that we are together on our shared journeys. That we are not alone.” The same could be said about stories.
Lovers of straightforward fantasy will find this accessible, but there’s a lot in here for the more serious reader, as Hariharan's fluency and confidence with language and her ability to infuse her characters with depth, even in a short tale like this, makes this story a leaping-heart joy to read.
The chaotic markets, port and temples of this world are vividly imagined. Hariharan knows how to play with names. There’s something about using the old colonial Portuguese-given name for a post-apocalyptic re-imagined Mumbai that lights up little neurons of satisfaction. The Hugging Saint is also a wonderfully named creation and a perfect meshing of the ancient and modern world. What could be more modern than a hug? There’s even science behind why it is good for your health. What could be more ancient than a saint?
There is a wonderful vivid tale of a giant fish that saves the people of Bombay from a tsunami that could be Indian or ancient European in origin. But it is the main story of Leana Iyeroy, a teenaged girl with an animal within, her gloriously bloody, violent transformation and the wonderful surprising twist in the end of this story that most reminded me of Carter.
There is just so much going on in this story: Leana is an all too human monster, with weaknesses, failures of judgement and hesitations. Her situation, a living hybrid of a human and wolf, isolated amongst full humans who probably hate her, wrestling with the animal inside, is positively freudian and calls to something dark and anxious in all of us. When Leana asks why there are so many temples in Bombay, she is told, “We love our temples, it’s where we come together to not only pray but to reassure ourselves that we are together on our shared journeys. That we are not alone.” The same could be said about stories.
Lovers of straightforward fantasy will find this accessible, but there’s a lot in here for the more serious reader, as Hariharan's fluency and confidence with language and her ability to infuse her characters with depth, even in a short tale like this, makes this story a leaping-heart joy to read.
November 21, 2015
**This review is only Bey Deckards Don't Touch Me.
Blurb:Fighting is what Beau does best, because the very thing he dreads is exactly what lends him the extraordinary strength to defeat even the worst odds. And he does it all with the help of his angel, the woman he longs desperately to hold...but can't.
I'll start off by saying: I had no clue what I was getting into. When the ARC was offered I'd never read the blurb and never read Bey Deckard's work. What I received is an achingly beautiful love story.
It's the love story of a fighter who has an aversion to human touch.
And his angel, who loves, takes care of him, and accepts him the way he is.
This story read very much like a sad melody. It's short but packs a strong punch. My heart ached for Beau. To love deeply but not truly be able to be with that person is a torture I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Then to finally receive what your heart longs for most... Well, let's just say the ending is bittersweet. It left me shattered. Just thinking about it makes my eyes water, my nose itch, and my heart ache.
This story gets 5 Poignant Stars.
**ARC kindly provided by the author to Gay Book Reviews for an honest review**
Blurb:Fighting is what Beau does best, because the very thing he dreads is exactly what lends him the extraordinary strength to defeat even the worst odds. And he does it all with the help of his angel, the woman he longs desperately to hold...but can't.
I'll start off by saying: I had no clue what I was getting into. When the ARC was offered I'd never read the blurb and never read Bey Deckard's work. What I received is an achingly beautiful love story.
It's the love story of a fighter who has an aversion to human touch.
"Fear. My secret weapon. That's why I down so many guys."
And his angel, who loves, takes care of him, and accepts him the way he is.
This story read very much like a sad melody. It's short but packs a strong punch. My heart ached for Beau. To love deeply but not truly be able to be with that person is a torture I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Then to finally receive what your heart longs for most... Well, let's just say the ending is bittersweet. It left me shattered. Just thinking about it makes my eyes water, my nose itch, and my heart ache.
This story gets 5 Poignant Stars.
**ARC kindly provided by the author to Gay Book Reviews for an honest review**
October 26, 2015
I enjoyed reading Laxmi Hariharan's highly original short story 'UnTamed' included in Philip Harris's 'UnCommon Bodies' . 'Untamed' forms part of Laxmi Hariharan's Bombay based series beginning with 'The Many Lives of Ruby Iyer.' The Ruby Iyer novels and this short story are set in a dystopian future Bombay and in UnTamed the author imagines an even further future time, when humans blend with animals. There is a more mythical quality to the narrative, detailing legends and new beginnings, with a talking fish and a hugging Saint, both of which make complete sense in the context of the events described. A fascinating blend of old, new and yet to come conveying a great sense of Bombay's many possible futures.
December 8, 2015
UnCommon Bodies is a very unique anthology that collects a number of short stories around the unifying premise of physical oddities. There are several traveling circus sideshow freaks, cyborgs, mutilated figures, people coping with body issues, and love between a man who is too short and a woman who is too tall.
As with the human body itself, there much in the way of variety here and these stories run the gamut of genres, from a breezy bit of lesbian erotica set against the Jack the Ripper murders of 1800s London written by Keira Michelle Telford, to science fiction escapism, some poetry and romance, to Dust Bowl oddities, and body horror.
In addition to Telford's strong entry, there's a terrific, if brief, look at the lengths a mother will go to in order to find her daughter in Philip Harris's "Phantom Pain." Kim Wells kicks off a new series with part one of "Undead Cyborg Girl," capturing the fun of a particular Marvel hero and setting the stage for greatness. Daniel Arthur Smith takes us from the flooded streets of Prague to Budapest on a quest for a tattoo unlike any other in "From the Inside," easily one of my big favorites in this collection. P.K Tyler turns in a strong magical fantasy of a woman growing feather in the wake of her father's death.
By presenting such a unique theme, the authors are able to focus on their personal storytelling strengths, giving this anthology a very broad feel. It's hard to categorize into a specific genre niche, but easier to say simply that this collection likely has a story for everyone, if not more.
[Note: I received a copy of this anthology from a contributing author in exchange for review.]
As with the human body itself, there much in the way of variety here and these stories run the gamut of genres, from a breezy bit of lesbian erotica set against the Jack the Ripper murders of 1800s London written by Keira Michelle Telford, to science fiction escapism, some poetry and romance, to Dust Bowl oddities, and body horror.
In addition to Telford's strong entry, there's a terrific, if brief, look at the lengths a mother will go to in order to find her daughter in Philip Harris's "Phantom Pain." Kim Wells kicks off a new series with part one of "Undead Cyborg Girl," capturing the fun of a particular Marvel hero and setting the stage for greatness. Daniel Arthur Smith takes us from the flooded streets of Prague to Budapest on a quest for a tattoo unlike any other in "From the Inside," easily one of my big favorites in this collection. P.K Tyler turns in a strong magical fantasy of a woman growing feather in the wake of her father's death.
By presenting such a unique theme, the authors are able to focus on their personal storytelling strengths, giving this anthology a very broad feel. It's hard to categorize into a specific genre niche, but easier to say simply that this collection likely has a story for everyone, if not more.
[Note: I received a copy of this anthology from a contributing author in exchange for review.]
November 2, 2015
This is an intricate and intriguing mix of many different voices and stories. There will always be something new here, no matter how many times one re-reads the collection, and with such a variety of stories, this will most assuredly happen at least once. I thoroughly enjoyed the many different stories in this book - in particular, Sessha Batto's work, Made For This. I am always delighted to crawl between the pages of her work, for even when she writes shorts like this one, the characters and situations are rich and well-detailed, even in the harshness of the moments they inhabit. Another fantastic read, which makes me reconsider my decade-long aversion to science-fiction, is Rebecca Poole's "Unbreakable Heart". The journey we take with her subject - I won't reveal any names to avoid spoilers - is a delightful fray, filled with tense horror and the relief of revenge. Definitely another of my favourites. A good editor to glance over the book as a whole would ensure the collection would receive a solid five-star from me, and, I'm sure, from anyone else who happens across this vibrant collection!
October 14, 2018
Another one of my favorites horror books!
I have to admit that in this collection there were some stories that I didn't like or I couldn't fully understand what was happening and that's why it doesn't have 5 stars. Otherwise, it's incredible, with lots of blood, murder, vengeance, sometimes a little bit of romance, sirens, weird creatures with uncommon bodies ;)
Some of the ones I remember that were really twisted and dark were We is we by Michael Harris Cohen, Saltwater Assassin by Samantha Warren, Don't touch me by Bey Deckard, The Well-Rounded Head by Sally Basmajian.
I'm so sad I don't remember a lot of things (I read it in 2015) but what I do remember is how I felt, so scared, always watching my back and my eyes were so opened in shock that I'm surprised they didn't fall of my face. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend it <3
I have to admit that in this collection there were some stories that I didn't like or I couldn't fully understand what was happening and that's why it doesn't have 5 stars. Otherwise, it's incredible, with lots of blood, murder, vengeance, sometimes a little bit of romance, sirens, weird creatures with uncommon bodies ;)
Some of the ones I remember that were really twisted and dark were We is we by Michael Harris Cohen, Saltwater Assassin by Samantha Warren, Don't touch me by Bey Deckard, The Well-Rounded Head by Sally Basmajian.
I'm so sad I don't remember a lot of things (I read it in 2015) but what I do remember is how I felt, so scared, always watching my back and my eyes were so opened in shock that I'm surprised they didn't fall of my face. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend it <3
June 1, 2016
There aren't words. With this AMAZING line up of writers, one can only hope they do it right. And man o man did they! I can't wait to get my paperback version so I can read them all again, almost like the first time :D
*I was given an ARC for my honest opinion
*I was given an ARC for my honest opinion
November 3, 2015
The UnCommon Bodies anthology is fascinating. Sometimes shocking, even disturbing, it also provides moments of hilarity. A good example of this would be Sally Basmajian's The Well-Rounded Head, in which a wife is only attracted to her husband because of his perfectly circular noggin. When his head appears to lose volume, the marriage hits the skids. Other stories may delight some readers and potentially upset some, too, but most are compulsively readable. This book is definitely worth checking out by a mature and discerning audience.
November 3, 2015
I had the pleasure of reading Jordanne Fullers story Scars:First Session and it is a beautifully heart wrenching story about overcoming the physical and mental abuses a person can suffer from family and loved ones.This is by far the best story this author has written it is beautiful and engaging and definitely a must read.
December 4, 2015
Short stories are just that, short. Sometimes authors just miss breathing their tale to life or they do not quite draw out the emotional tags. Laxmi Hariharan does both with each stroke of her pen. Follow along as we are taken into Ms. Hariharan’s world of the Ruby Iyer Universe, a post-apocalyptic, dystopian place set in the streets of multicultural Bombay.
Leana is different than those around her. She is a hybrid, part human, part werewolf and she is struggling to come to terms with her inner monster. Does everyone know what she is? Do they fear her? Is she unlovable? Should she be destroyed? Her inner wolf scents the humanity and wants to devour it, forcing Leana to keep to herself. When tales of the Hugging Saint reach her, she must go on a quest to meet this being and understand what makes him special, while possibly receiving a deeply desired hug given with pure love. Is he a shyster or is there more to him than she believes? How could anyone truly love everyone, even monsters?
Ms. Hariharan blends, pain, hope and despair into a world gone mad, where anything can happen. Is it faith that brings peace and love? Will Leana find faith in herself or will she lose control as her inner beast takes over? Either way, she must learn to accept herself and move on. Truly a tale that delivers all of the meat of a longer tome, in and bite sized piece that will leave you both satisfied and wanting more!
I received a review copy of Laxmi Hariharan’s Untamed a mesmerizing tale and a powerful addition to this anthology. I definitely would love to read the entire anthology!
Publication Date: November 24, 2015
Publisher: Fighting Monkey Press
Genre: Fantasy Anthologies
Print Length: 307 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Leana is different than those around her. She is a hybrid, part human, part werewolf and she is struggling to come to terms with her inner monster. Does everyone know what she is? Do they fear her? Is she unlovable? Should she be destroyed? Her inner wolf scents the humanity and wants to devour it, forcing Leana to keep to herself. When tales of the Hugging Saint reach her, she must go on a quest to meet this being and understand what makes him special, while possibly receiving a deeply desired hug given with pure love. Is he a shyster or is there more to him than she believes? How could anyone truly love everyone, even monsters?
Ms. Hariharan blends, pain, hope and despair into a world gone mad, where anything can happen. Is it faith that brings peace and love? Will Leana find faith in herself or will she lose control as her inner beast takes over? Either way, she must learn to accept herself and move on. Truly a tale that delivers all of the meat of a longer tome, in and bite sized piece that will leave you both satisfied and wanting more!
I received a review copy of Laxmi Hariharan’s Untamed a mesmerizing tale and a powerful addition to this anthology. I definitely would love to read the entire anthology!
Publication Date: November 24, 2015
Publisher: Fighting Monkey Press
Genre: Fantasy Anthologies
Print Length: 307 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 24, 2015
Review for Don't Touch Me by Bey Deckard only.
A review by The Blogger Girls.
Wow. I feel like a broken record, but here is yet another amazing story by Mr. Deckard. It doesn’t matter what the story is about; it doesn’t matter how long the story is. This one, just as with everything else I’ve read by him, has gripped me from the start, made me forget about genre, tense or anything else I notice when I’m reading other stories, and just keeps me focused on the story I’m given.
This one is about a man who has a phobia of sorts in that he cannot stand human touch. Even the thought of it is enough to get his nerves and stomach acting up. He is a fighter, down and dirty, underground and shady. He uses his illness, for lack of a better word, to his advantage, allowing the fear and feelings to turn into rage that make him unstoppable in the ring.
By his side is his best friend, a woman he loves as much as anyone can without being able to actually touch her. She understands his issues and is there through thick and thin to put him back together and orchestrate how that happens when others need to step in, such as doctors, etc. It was so easy to see the love they had for each other yet knowing they could never actually be together.
This is also another very unique story. There is no sex, very little in the way of romance, yet the feelings pour off the pages. I was so involved in their story that the end just hit me out of nowhere and I seriously wanted to cry for the loss and end of the story. I wanted to know so much more about these two and was in no way ready for it to be over. I highly recommend you check this out, as well as every other story Mr. Deckard has to offer – you won’t be disappointed.
A review by The Blogger Girls.
Wow. I feel like a broken record, but here is yet another amazing story by Mr. Deckard. It doesn’t matter what the story is about; it doesn’t matter how long the story is. This one, just as with everything else I’ve read by him, has gripped me from the start, made me forget about genre, tense or anything else I notice when I’m reading other stories, and just keeps me focused on the story I’m given.
This one is about a man who has a phobia of sorts in that he cannot stand human touch. Even the thought of it is enough to get his nerves and stomach acting up. He is a fighter, down and dirty, underground and shady. He uses his illness, for lack of a better word, to his advantage, allowing the fear and feelings to turn into rage that make him unstoppable in the ring.
By his side is his best friend, a woman he loves as much as anyone can without being able to actually touch her. She understands his issues and is there through thick and thin to put him back together and orchestrate how that happens when others need to step in, such as doctors, etc. It was so easy to see the love they had for each other yet knowing they could never actually be together.
This is also another very unique story. There is no sex, very little in the way of romance, yet the feelings pour off the pages. I was so involved in their story that the end just hit me out of nowhere and I seriously wanted to cry for the loss and end of the story. I wanted to know so much more about these two and was in no way ready for it to be over. I highly recommend you check this out, as well as every other story Mr. Deckard has to offer – you won’t be disappointed.
November 24, 2015
A few months ago I was fortunate enough to read Keira Michelle Telford's short story All the Devils included in the Uncommon Bodies anthology. Previously, Telford’s work has been eloquently written and engaging from start to finish. Her newest addition, All the Devils, is no exception. Telford’s Victorian London (shortly after Jack the Ripper) is uninhibited. She doesn’t shy away from the gruesome and grisly descriptions of the poverty, crime and destitution people in Whitechapel experienced. Yet, this is not a story about indigence. Rather, this is a story about exploration and discovery.
November 4, 2015
I had the pleasure of reading Sally Basmajian's story The Well-Rounded Head. It was so surprising and witty, I laughed out loud a number of times. If the other stories in this collection are anywhere near as good, I will be thoroughly entertained.
November 21, 2015
An excellent anthology of trei-freaky, weird & wonderful short stories!
Series 2 anyone??
Series 2 anyone??
November 23, 2015
UnCommon Bodies is an intriguing and elaborate mix of many interesting and very, very different voices and stories. We get to meet mermaids and mermaid assassins, cyborgs and wolves, talking, growing fish, cybernetic ghost hackers and monsters. Oh and people who can mold and sculpt flesh. Yikes.
We dive right into the eighteen hundreds then straight into the future with a quick stop at the now and here, sparkled with magic and a bit of kink. These stories are all charming in their own way, moving and poignant, and most of all, just real good entertainment.
My first thought was – upon seeing that cover and reading that title – that this would tun out to be some kind of collection of modern freak show characters and stories, but it's so much more; It's all about emotions and feelings and what it means to have a heart and soul. Having the ability to feel pain, love and resentment no matter who you are, what you look, feel or smell like. Or whatever. You get the point :)
I thoroughly enjoyed the many different stories in this anthology -
Mermaids by Robert Pope, Saltwater Assassin by Samantha Warren, UnTamed by Laxmi Hariharan and Daedalus' Daughter by P.K. Tyler -
but especially Bey Deckard's - Don't Touch Me. - which earned itself five shiny poignant stars. ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
When the advanced readers copy was offered, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. With the whole anthology as much as Bey's story. But I adore Bey and his characters, so I wasn't worried. Those lovely, lovely writer peeps didn't disappoint! Especially not Bey ♥ Oh what an achingly beautiful and moving love story that was.
Don't Touch Me by Bey Deckard: Fighting is what Beau does best, because the very thing he dreads is exactly what lends him the extraordinary strength to defeat even the worst odds. And he does it all with the help of his angel, the woman he longs desperately to hold...but can't.
Myhumble review:
The scene opens; Beau vs. The Kobra.
Beau is a fighter.
Spends most of his time in cages and warehouses until he's fucking exhausted and in so much pain he can't see straight. Fighting hurts, the punches, simplest contacts really, terrify him, yet fighting has become his everything. It's all he can do, all he wants to do, until the end...
Beau never had the same life as you and me. He can't touch without it being painful, nauseating and disgusting even. There is something wrong with his skin, getting worse with every year. Bare contact is bad, wet contact is worse, and fighting pushes him to his very limit. When an opponent has him caged in, on the floor on his back, his instincts tell him to flee but he has to fight to win. And survive.
The only light in his life is Suzy; She's very dear to him, and has been the only constant in his life. When he came back from the war, all bullet-riddled, Suzy found him alone and lonely back at the house he grew up in, kicked the nurse out and took over caring for him. Suzy is the only person who understands, and accepts Beau's difficulties, his painful experiences with a person's most natural instincts and cravings.
Loving touches, the gentlest caresses, are nearly impossible for Beau, and he can only bear closeness, intimacy, with another person when he’s had enough to drink. That doesn’t make for a loving relationship with anyone, as you might guess. And he doesn't want his Suzy to see him like that. It breaks his heart. (Mine too.)
Being with Suzy, without being able to actually be close to her is a pretty painful way to live, and I hurt so much for Beau.
One night, a particularly bad night, Suzy is right there again to help, but sometimes not even an Angel has the power to heal all your wounds.
Bey tells us his story with only a few pages but the impact on me was enormous. I was moved to tears.
TEARS.
Bey, how did you manage to put so much FEELS in such a short story?
*admire*
He cared so much for her, and it pained me to think that he can't have what 'normal' people, couples, friends and families can have. I'm not the most touchy-feely person, in fact I don't like being touched most of the time, but thinking it could be impossible, cause pain? No, that shit is not funny, at all.
Makes me want to go hug and cuddle the few people I care about. Especially my dog.
I don't often read short stories, because they're usually "too short" to thoroughly enjoy, but I have to admit, most of the stories in this anthology are very well done, with just the right amount of story, feelings and a nicely wrapped up conclusion.
If you haven't guessed yet:
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
:)
****
Many, many thanks to the publisher, and Bey, for giving me the chance to read this wonderful book in advance.
We dive right into the eighteen hundreds then straight into the future with a quick stop at the now and here, sparkled with magic and a bit of kink. These stories are all charming in their own way, moving and poignant, and most of all, just real good entertainment.
My first thought was – upon seeing that cover and reading that title – that this would tun out to be some kind of collection of modern freak show characters and stories, but it's so much more; It's all about emotions and feelings and what it means to have a heart and soul. Having the ability to feel pain, love and resentment no matter who you are, what you look, feel or smell like. Or whatever. You get the point :)
I thoroughly enjoyed the many different stories in this anthology -
Mermaids by Robert Pope, Saltwater Assassin by Samantha Warren, UnTamed by Laxmi Hariharan and Daedalus' Daughter by P.K. Tyler -
but especially Bey Deckard's - Don't Touch Me. - which earned itself five shiny poignant stars. ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
When the advanced readers copy was offered, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. With the whole anthology as much as Bey's story. But I adore Bey and his characters, so I wasn't worried. Those lovely, lovely writer peeps didn't disappoint! Especially not Bey ♥ Oh what an achingly beautiful and moving love story that was.
Don't Touch Me by Bey Deckard: Fighting is what Beau does best, because the very thing he dreads is exactly what lends him the extraordinary strength to defeat even the worst odds. And he does it all with the help of his angel, the woman he longs desperately to hold...but can't.
My
The scene opens; Beau vs. The Kobra.
Beau is a fighter.
Spends most of his time in cages and warehouses until he's fucking exhausted and in so much pain he can't see straight. Fighting hurts, the punches, simplest contacts really, terrify him, yet fighting has become his everything. It's all he can do, all he wants to do, until the end...
Beau never had the same life as you and me. He can't touch without it being painful, nauseating and disgusting even. There is something wrong with his skin, getting worse with every year. Bare contact is bad, wet contact is worse, and fighting pushes him to his very limit. When an opponent has him caged in, on the floor on his back, his instincts tell him to flee but he has to fight to win. And survive.
The only light in his life is Suzy; She's very dear to him, and has been the only constant in his life. When he came back from the war, all bullet-riddled, Suzy found him alone and lonely back at the house he grew up in, kicked the nurse out and took over caring for him. Suzy is the only person who understands, and accepts Beau's difficulties, his painful experiences with a person's most natural instincts and cravings.
Loving touches, the gentlest caresses, are nearly impossible for Beau, and he can only bear closeness, intimacy, with another person when he’s had enough to drink. That doesn’t make for a loving relationship with anyone, as you might guess. And he doesn't want his Suzy to see him like that. It breaks his heart. (Mine too.)
Being with Suzy, without being able to actually be close to her is a pretty painful way to live, and I hurt so much for Beau.
One night, a particularly bad night, Suzy is right there again to help, but sometimes not even an Angel has the power to heal all your wounds.
Bey tells us his story with only a few pages but the impact on me was enormous. I was moved to tears.
TEARS.
Bey, how did you manage to put so much FEELS in such a short story?
*admire*
He cared so much for her, and it pained me to think that he can't have what 'normal' people, couples, friends and families can have. I'm not the most touchy-feely person, in fact I don't like being touched most of the time, but thinking it could be impossible, cause pain? No, that shit is not funny, at all.
Makes me want to go hug and cuddle the few people I care about. Especially my dog.
I don't often read short stories, because they're usually "too short" to thoroughly enjoy, but I have to admit, most of the stories in this anthology are very well done, with just the right amount of story, feelings and a nicely wrapped up conclusion.
If you haven't guessed yet:
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
:)
****
Many, many thanks to the publisher, and Bey, for giving me the chance to read this wonderful book in advance.
November 24, 2015
Uncommon Bodies is a wonderful anthology filled with works by a collective of very talented authors! I loved the idea of the anthology and I was very excited to see how this unique premise would be carried out.
One of the stories that I loved was UnTamed which was the first work of Author Laxmi Hariharan I’ve read and needless to say I will be reading all her works! I really do not know where to start. But I enjoyed the magical tale that had a touch of dystopia, but was more. I believe the mix of the Bombay culture simply added fantastic layers to the story! I could see the colors— blues and greens of the statues in the temple courtyard and I could see Ganesh—the elephant headed god. I could taste the cupcakes described as small mounds of sweetened cheese shot through with saffron threads, sprinkled with cardamom powder, and slivered with almond and pistachio—wow!
The description was lush and full and I loved the fiery, restlessness of the main character Leana Iyeroy who’s part wolf and human, but desires to be a full human girl! I loved hearing the tales of Brahma and the founding of the new world and what happened during the apocalypse and what brought it on.
I enjoyed the meeting between Leana and the Hugging Saint (she calls the Hugging Boy). I enjoyed the ending and how Leana finally is set on the right path to find her true self!
I am very interested in reading the previous books which events lead to this story and the main character and I’d be very interested in learning what happens NEXT to Leana!
Well written, wonderfully descriptive and plenty of action!—Ms. Hariharan is a master storyteller and I am truly a fan!
Awesome story! A must read for those who enjoy a wonderful magical realistic or dystopian story with a multicultural setting!
******************************************************
I also enjoyed Author P.K. Tyler’s Daedalus’ Daughter which was a delicate dance for my senses. The story teased me into its web at the start when presenting the first white feather. I was intrigued by what could be happening to the grieving young woman Isha? I knew going into this short read of the Greek mythology which included Daedalus, the skillful craftsman and artist, whose son did not heed the warning to not fly too close to the sun with wings created by his father. But what of Daedalus’ DaughteR? What if more was happening with the family which was far greater than works created by a craftsman?
These questions twirled in my mind as I was drawn into the beauty of Ms. Tyler’s storytelling. Soft, gentle and lyrical the web was weaved catching the reader in its grasp and then all of a sudden the surprise ending! Although was it a surprise? In my head, I had toyed with the thought that there could be no other outcome, but yet I was surprised having being lulled into the budding relationship between Isha and the handsome Minh, the caretaker for her inherited cabin.
Their relationship also posed the question who and what was Minh? How and why did he react not with fear and disgust at seeing what was becoming of Isha, but with fascination and adoration?
But before I could find my full… the story was done! I imagined myself knocking on the author’s door begging for more! More of these characters and more of their lives and what happened next?!
I could see this as a full length work and with the haunting, lyrical quality of the telling would sure to thrill the reader! Well written and a surprise ending will entertain and thrill the reader!
Author PK Tyler has a new fan!
I look forward to reading more of the fabulous stories and visiting the intriguing worlds in UnCommon Bodies which I will recommend as a must read!
One of the stories that I loved was UnTamed which was the first work of Author Laxmi Hariharan I’ve read and needless to say I will be reading all her works! I really do not know where to start. But I enjoyed the magical tale that had a touch of dystopia, but was more. I believe the mix of the Bombay culture simply added fantastic layers to the story! I could see the colors— blues and greens of the statues in the temple courtyard and I could see Ganesh—the elephant headed god. I could taste the cupcakes described as small mounds of sweetened cheese shot through with saffron threads, sprinkled with cardamom powder, and slivered with almond and pistachio—wow!
The description was lush and full and I loved the fiery, restlessness of the main character Leana Iyeroy who’s part wolf and human, but desires to be a full human girl! I loved hearing the tales of Brahma and the founding of the new world and what happened during the apocalypse and what brought it on.
I enjoyed the meeting between Leana and the Hugging Saint (she calls the Hugging Boy). I enjoyed the ending and how Leana finally is set on the right path to find her true self!
I am very interested in reading the previous books which events lead to this story and the main character and I’d be very interested in learning what happens NEXT to Leana!
Well written, wonderfully descriptive and plenty of action!—Ms. Hariharan is a master storyteller and I am truly a fan!
Awesome story! A must read for those who enjoy a wonderful magical realistic or dystopian story with a multicultural setting!
******************************************************
I also enjoyed Author P.K. Tyler’s Daedalus’ Daughter which was a delicate dance for my senses. The story teased me into its web at the start when presenting the first white feather. I was intrigued by what could be happening to the grieving young woman Isha? I knew going into this short read of the Greek mythology which included Daedalus, the skillful craftsman and artist, whose son did not heed the warning to not fly too close to the sun with wings created by his father. But what of Daedalus’ DaughteR? What if more was happening with the family which was far greater than works created by a craftsman?
These questions twirled in my mind as I was drawn into the beauty of Ms. Tyler’s storytelling. Soft, gentle and lyrical the web was weaved catching the reader in its grasp and then all of a sudden the surprise ending! Although was it a surprise? In my head, I had toyed with the thought that there could be no other outcome, but yet I was surprised having being lulled into the budding relationship between Isha and the handsome Minh, the caretaker for her inherited cabin.
Their relationship also posed the question who and what was Minh? How and why did he react not with fear and disgust at seeing what was becoming of Isha, but with fascination and adoration?
But before I could find my full… the story was done! I imagined myself knocking on the author’s door begging for more! More of these characters and more of their lives and what happened next?!
I could see this as a full length work and with the haunting, lyrical quality of the telling would sure to thrill the reader! Well written and a surprise ending will entertain and thrill the reader!
Author PK Tyler has a new fan!
I look forward to reading more of the fabulous stories and visiting the intriguing worlds in UnCommon Bodies which I will recommend as a must read!
February 16, 2016
Wait for it…wait for it…BOOM !! and its Over
Note: The following review is for the story "Untamed"by "Laxmi Hariharan" and NOT for the entire book
First of all a huge thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of her story, which is part of the Anthology that is this book, Uncommon Bodies
Laxmi Hariharan is one of those rarest Indian authors that had changed my view about Indian authors as I was part of that group who had given up hope in finding a good book among all those engineering/management romance books that is piling up in the stores these days and reading a purely Indian based paranormal/dystopian YA in all its authenticity was like hitting diamond after being buried deep down in coal for ages.
(you think I am over exaggerating…meet me in the back alley and I have a bag full of engineering/management romance books that I can use to hit people who thinks I am over reacting… one more engineering/management romance book with hindi shayaris and I am throwing the first person I see, from top of Everest)
So anyways where were we…oh yes the anthology..
I am a huge fan of the author’s imagination power and most importantly writing and narration. The author can actually make you sit and read her work because her narration is captive and language is satin smooth.
BUT..this time around I have a problem
The problem with this book is that I feel that when the author was actually drafting it, she must have had huge plans for it but down the line she must have realized that this is eventually going to be a short story and needs to end in few words and she literally did that
The book to me was like accidentally bumping into a drama while surfing through channels on a TV and without knowing you are so engrossed that, forget being at the edge of the seat, you are literally face pressed to the TV screen and when your goosebumps comes out with official flags and pomp pomps, the end credits roll in…telling you to stay glued for the next episode to be aired next week, except in our case there is no next week and you can’t help but throw the remote in anger… its that frustrating!!
The book starts in a way that you have no idea what is going on but somehow makes you want to know and you begin reading it and drowning yourself to reach a point where there is no turning back and BHAM !! the author just finishes the entire thing in just one line
(oops I may have made the author loose a chunk of her prospective readers with my review…haven’t I?...shuuuu me and my big mouth )
For a short story she brings out something really intriguing and powerful but the process of wrapping it up, is what breaks the entire charm.
Its like breaking up through a text message and this sure is a really longgggg review for a short story
The author is a gem worth treasuring if you are one of those who are in dire need of some good indian fiction authors to follow. No doubt she can lure you into her world with her words. Her stories has a very sharp and clean treatment and technically speaking so does this one but the way the book ends is very hasty…too hasty and abrupt.
Note: The following review is for the story "Untamed"by "Laxmi Hariharan" and NOT for the entire book
First of all a huge thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of her story, which is part of the Anthology that is this book, Uncommon Bodies
Laxmi Hariharan is one of those rarest Indian authors that had changed my view about Indian authors as I was part of that group who had given up hope in finding a good book among all those engineering/management romance books that is piling up in the stores these days and reading a purely Indian based paranormal/dystopian YA in all its authenticity was like hitting diamond after being buried deep down in coal for ages.
(you think I am over exaggerating…meet me in the back alley and I have a bag full of engineering/management romance books that I can use to hit people who thinks I am over reacting… one more engineering/management romance book with hindi shayaris and I am throwing the first person I see, from top of Everest)
So anyways where were we…oh yes the anthology..
I am a huge fan of the author’s imagination power and most importantly writing and narration. The author can actually make you sit and read her work because her narration is captive and language is satin smooth.
BUT..this time around I have a problem
The problem with this book is that I feel that when the author was actually drafting it, she must have had huge plans for it but down the line she must have realized that this is eventually going to be a short story and needs to end in few words and she literally did that
The book to me was like accidentally bumping into a drama while surfing through channels on a TV and without knowing you are so engrossed that, forget being at the edge of the seat, you are literally face pressed to the TV screen and when your goosebumps comes out with official flags and pomp pomps, the end credits roll in…telling you to stay glued for the next episode to be aired next week, except in our case there is no next week and you can’t help but throw the remote in anger… its that frustrating!!
The book starts in a way that you have no idea what is going on but somehow makes you want to know and you begin reading it and drowning yourself to reach a point where there is no turning back and BHAM !! the author just finishes the entire thing in just one line
(oops I may have made the author loose a chunk of her prospective readers with my review…haven’t I?...shuuuu me and my big mouth )
For a short story she brings out something really intriguing and powerful but the process of wrapping it up, is what breaks the entire charm.
Its like breaking up through a text message and this sure is a really longgggg review for a short story
The author is a gem worth treasuring if you are one of those who are in dire need of some good indian fiction authors to follow. No doubt she can lure you into her world with her words. Her stories has a very sharp and clean treatment and technically speaking so does this one but the way the book ends is very hasty…too hasty and abrupt.
November 23, 2015
The Ruby Iyer Universe has provided me with hours of entertainment already. So, when I heard that Author Laxmi Hariharan has come up with a short story set in the same universe, albeit a different timeline, I jumped up at the chance of getting my hands on an ARC. And Laxmi doesn’t disappoint her fans.
Untamed is the story of Leana Iyeroy trying to come to terms with who she is. She is a half wolf - half human hybrid with has blood on her hands. In order to try discovering her true self and finding her path - her place in this new world, Leana travels to meet the legendary Hugging Saint. Does she find the answer she is looking for?
The problem with short stories is that… well, it is short. But Laxmi has packed in so much within those 7000 words that it delivers a lot more than one would expect. The world is changing from what we know so far and the changes intrigue me. But do not worry if you are a stranger to the Ruby Iyer Universe, you can read this as a standalone short story and it would still be equally interesting. I loved the way the author has set up the world, introduced the protagonist, put across the struggles of the character and delivered the bottom line of the story in so very few words. The narration style is something that is easy to understand yet has a feeling of grandeur about it.
This anthology also contains 19 other stories and while each story brings in a different flavor to the collection, they have the common thread of stories that are told beautifully. From monsters to mermaids and cyborgs, from performing twins to serial killers, this anthology has a lot to offer. My other favourites from this anthology would be ‘We is We by Michael Harris Cohen’ and ‘Daedalus' Daughter by P.K. Tyler’
Untamed is the story of Leana Iyeroy trying to come to terms with who she is. She is a half wolf - half human hybrid with has blood on her hands. In order to try discovering her true self and finding her path - her place in this new world, Leana travels to meet the legendary Hugging Saint. Does she find the answer she is looking for?
The problem with short stories is that… well, it is short. But Laxmi has packed in so much within those 7000 words that it delivers a lot more than one would expect. The world is changing from what we know so far and the changes intrigue me. But do not worry if you are a stranger to the Ruby Iyer Universe, you can read this as a standalone short story and it would still be equally interesting. I loved the way the author has set up the world, introduced the protagonist, put across the struggles of the character and delivered the bottom line of the story in so very few words. The narration style is something that is easy to understand yet has a feeling of grandeur about it.
This anthology also contains 19 other stories and while each story brings in a different flavor to the collection, they have the common thread of stories that are told beautifully. From monsters to mermaids and cyborgs, from performing twins to serial killers, this anthology has a lot to offer. My other favourites from this anthology would be ‘We is We by Michael Harris Cohen’ and ‘Daedalus' Daughter by P.K. Tyler’
November 24, 2015
I've been through a number of anthologies lately and wasn't sure what to expect from Uncommon Bodies, but I had read some of the author's works previously so I was confident that I was in for an interesting experience. Beginning with the jolting tale of sideshow freaks Mary and Millie, Michael Harris Cohen kicks proceedings off nicely, and it quickly becomes apparent that this collection is something special indeed.
Uncommon Bodies is a vivid and diverse collection of weird and wonderful tales of the body, each author lending a unique voice, never afraid to shock the reader, yet still managing to draw them in and see the beauty within the madness, each tale as twisted as it's character's, yet strangely familiar, as we stare like uncomfortable voyeurs at those who would find us equally strange. The beauty of Uncommon Bodies is that it forces the reader to question both morality and reality, and every story without exception provokes thought and emotion in the reader.
While every story is exceptional in this collection, my personal favourites were contributions from Laxmi Hariharan, whose gorgeous prose floats from the page in "UnTamed", Daniel Arthur Smith's intriguing tale of a unique tattoo artist "From The Inside", with Robb Grindstaff's short and sweet "Rudy And Deidre", and Kim Wells' "Undead Cyborg Girl" also worth a mention, as is P.K. Tyler's compelling tale "Daedalus' Daughter".
A hugely enjoyable anthology for those with open minds who like their fiction left of centre, who travel on the outskirts, those who need no box to think outside of, and if every now and again you like to take a dip in the darkness, this is exactly the pool you need.
Uncommon Bodies is a vivid and diverse collection of weird and wonderful tales of the body, each author lending a unique voice, never afraid to shock the reader, yet still managing to draw them in and see the beauty within the madness, each tale as twisted as it's character's, yet strangely familiar, as we stare like uncomfortable voyeurs at those who would find us equally strange. The beauty of Uncommon Bodies is that it forces the reader to question both morality and reality, and every story without exception provokes thought and emotion in the reader.
While every story is exceptional in this collection, my personal favourites were contributions from Laxmi Hariharan, whose gorgeous prose floats from the page in "UnTamed", Daniel Arthur Smith's intriguing tale of a unique tattoo artist "From The Inside", with Robb Grindstaff's short and sweet "Rudy And Deidre", and Kim Wells' "Undead Cyborg Girl" also worth a mention, as is P.K. Tyler's compelling tale "Daedalus' Daughter".
A hugely enjoyable anthology for those with open minds who like their fiction left of centre, who travel on the outskirts, those who need no box to think outside of, and if every now and again you like to take a dip in the darkness, this is exactly the pool you need.
November 25, 2015
A journey at the juncture of fantasy, horror, and science fiction, this collection of stories thrusts readers into the disorienting experience of inhabiting bodies deformed, maimed, of mixed species, and otherwise alien to us. Each turn of the page to the next story requires a literal disembodiment, one that can be thrilling, disturbing, or -- in the best stories -- both. The stories can be uneven in quality, and sometimes the same themes are revisited too often. But the standouts in the collection rise above the spectacle of the uncommon body, and find universal and true threads of emotion.
"We is We," the opening story by Michael Harris Cohen, plays with subject-verb agreement to convey the two-in-one perspective of a freakshow attraction who has been locked up for their entire life. The viscera of the freakshow, and the violence that ensues, are effectively bleak and awful, but the aching human longings expressed by the narrator(s) transcend grammar and gawking: “I recall the touch of sun on our faces, the wet feel of a bath. I remember grass between our toes. I still dream of those things and my dreams are mine and mine alone.”
Phillip Harris' "Phantom Pain" takes readers into the world of a back-alley surgeon / butcher that will make their skin crawl, but the gore has an emotional center: to show the depths of a mother's love and desperation.
Most of the stories are accordingly dark, often bloody. But Sally Basmajian's "The Well-Rounded Head" provides welcome comic relief and an allegory about the pursuit of perfection in love. The line, “I wasn't about to downgrade to Mr. Potato Head when I had married the perfect Nerf,” is well worth the read.
"We is We," the opening story by Michael Harris Cohen, plays with subject-verb agreement to convey the two-in-one perspective of a freakshow attraction who has been locked up for their entire life. The viscera of the freakshow, and the violence that ensues, are effectively bleak and awful, but the aching human longings expressed by the narrator(s) transcend grammar and gawking: “I recall the touch of sun on our faces, the wet feel of a bath. I remember grass between our toes. I still dream of those things and my dreams are mine and mine alone.”
Phillip Harris' "Phantom Pain" takes readers into the world of a back-alley surgeon / butcher that will make their skin crawl, but the gore has an emotional center: to show the depths of a mother's love and desperation.
Most of the stories are accordingly dark, often bloody. But Sally Basmajian's "The Well-Rounded Head" provides welcome comic relief and an allegory about the pursuit of perfection in love. The line, “I wasn't about to downgrade to Mr. Potato Head when I had married the perfect Nerf,” is well worth the read.
November 24, 2015
I recently had the privilege of reading an advanced review copy of Uncommon Bodies, a collection of short stories themed around side-show freaks and other folks with unusual physical anomalies. As you might expect, all the stories in this collection are quirky, odd and occasionally a little bit disturbing – but in a fun sort of way. Every story is different and while sometimes this makes the collection a little uneven, I like the fact that I never knew what I was going to get when I turned the page. I particularly liked Samantha Warren’s story, Saltwater Assassin. Her main character is my kind of heroine – kick-ass but with a vulnerable core. I also really enjoyed Keira Michelle Telford’s story All the Devils, which cast a new light on one of my favorite unsolved mysteries – the murders in White Chapel. All the stories in the collection took a twist I hadn’t expected. Characterization is strong throughout the collection and is what really makes these stories, about truly unusual and possibly monstrous people, accessible. Reader be warned, these stories are for grown-ups – there is both graphic sex and violence. But if you ARE a grown-up, you need to pick up this collection. It will remind you what being human is really all about.
Note: I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own.
Note: I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own.
November 24, 2015
This anthology impressed me with its diversity and substance; more often than not anthologies are filled with shorts that can feel incomplete and/or superficial. Fortunately, UnCommon Bodies is filled with rich and complex, albeit dark, tellings. These shorts explore a range of genres, from magic realism, to a more contemporary setting, and then a little of everything in between; this anthology is a beautiful tapestry of many colours and textures.
Of all the shorts in this anthology, Reserved by S.M. Johnson is definitely the lightest. However, while it is a story that is sweet and loving, it is also raw and confronting, and there is an air of sadness and desperation that can be felt through Pete’s character. Rory’s effervescent self walks into Pete’s world, bringing with him hope. Rory seems to be the balm that momentarily soothes Pete’s pain and loneliness. They find a refuge in each other and what transpires between them is something beautiful and honest. For a short read, it is well written and well paced, characters were endearing, and the story compelling and arousing.
This is a fantastic anthology; a little bit of all my favourite genres, and an introduction to undiscovered authors. A smorgasbord of fantastic shorts. Highly recommended.
*An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review
Of all the shorts in this anthology, Reserved by S.M. Johnson is definitely the lightest. However, while it is a story that is sweet and loving, it is also raw and confronting, and there is an air of sadness and desperation that can be felt through Pete’s character. Rory’s effervescent self walks into Pete’s world, bringing with him hope. Rory seems to be the balm that momentarily soothes Pete’s pain and loneliness. They find a refuge in each other and what transpires between them is something beautiful and honest. For a short read, it is well written and well paced, characters were endearing, and the story compelling and arousing.
This is a fantastic anthology; a little bit of all my favourite genres, and an introduction to undiscovered authors. A smorgasbord of fantastic shorts. Highly recommended.
*An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review
November 24, 2015
I read an advance copy of this book, and found it to be very unusual.
Most of the stories feature topics that I would not routinely choose to read, but I enjoyed a few of them. The ones that interested me the most were Undead Cyborg Girl, Saltwater Assassin, Phantom Pain, and From the Inside. Some others I found confusing, and a couple seemed unfinished. More than one appeared to be a chapter or installment from a larger story. That particular trait is not unique to this book. I’ve seen it in several recent collections of short stories.
There isn’t much of a cohesive theme to the collection. The stories are inventive, with characters ranging from magical mermaids to high tech cyborgs. Magic, horror, science fiction, and the paranormal are all represented. Loosely speaking, every story is fantasy of a sort, as there are no “normal” humans and routine lifestyles, as the title indicates.
That which is not my personal favorite thing will certainly be a favorite for someone else. All of these stories are well written, and feature a wide variety of characters and plots. This type of assortment provides something for everyone that likes fantasy to enjoy. If the weird and unusual is your cup of tea, you’ll find plenty of entertainment here.
Most of the stories feature topics that I would not routinely choose to read, but I enjoyed a few of them. The ones that interested me the most were Undead Cyborg Girl, Saltwater Assassin, Phantom Pain, and From the Inside. Some others I found confusing, and a couple seemed unfinished. More than one appeared to be a chapter or installment from a larger story. That particular trait is not unique to this book. I’ve seen it in several recent collections of short stories.
There isn’t much of a cohesive theme to the collection. The stories are inventive, with characters ranging from magical mermaids to high tech cyborgs. Magic, horror, science fiction, and the paranormal are all represented. Loosely speaking, every story is fantasy of a sort, as there are no “normal” humans and routine lifestyles, as the title indicates.
That which is not my personal favorite thing will certainly be a favorite for someone else. All of these stories are well written, and feature a wide variety of characters and plots. This type of assortment provides something for everyone that likes fantasy to enjoy. If the weird and unusual is your cup of tea, you’ll find plenty of entertainment here.
November 23, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Robb Grindstaff's "Rudy and Deidre" is a story about (as the summary states) "a shorter than average man admir[ing] a taller than average woman from afar." But it feels like a much bigger story than that, and broader than its short length would seem. I've read other work from Robb, and one thing I admire about his style is his ability to evoke strong imagery and emotion without resorting to overly flowery or pretentious language, and this story is a prime example. It's very short, but it makes you feel the frustration of both characters and also makes you wonder what sort of missed connections you might've had yourself for reasons as seemingly insignificant as height.
PK Tyler's "Deadalus' Daughter" was mysteriously beautiful. The mythological imagery was perfect for showing the physical manifestations of Isha's pain and loss and showing that sometimes the things we want to keep hidden out of fear are the things that others will love us for.
I'm still working through the rest of the stories, but I'm confident they'll be just as good.
Robb Grindstaff's "Rudy and Deidre" is a story about (as the summary states) "a shorter than average man admir[ing] a taller than average woman from afar." But it feels like a much bigger story than that, and broader than its short length would seem. I've read other work from Robb, and one thing I admire about his style is his ability to evoke strong imagery and emotion without resorting to overly flowery or pretentious language, and this story is a prime example. It's very short, but it makes you feel the frustration of both characters and also makes you wonder what sort of missed connections you might've had yourself for reasons as seemingly insignificant as height.
PK Tyler's "Deadalus' Daughter" was mysteriously beautiful. The mythological imagery was perfect for showing the physical manifestations of Isha's pain and loss and showing that sometimes the things we want to keep hidden out of fear are the things that others will love us for.
I'm still working through the rest of the stories, but I'm confident they'll be just as good.
November 24, 2015
*A copy of this book was provided to me for an honest review.*
Anthology of short stories published by Fighting Monkey Press.
This book has 21 short amazing stories and poems. You have mermaids, cyborgs, monsters, people with afflictions, sideshow freaks, hybrids and much more.
One of the stories I really enjoyed was Don't Touch Me by Bey Deckard. It's about a fighter named Beau. Fighting is what Beau does best , because the very thing he dreads is exactly what gives him the extraordinary strength to defeat even the worst odds. Beau has a problem with being touched. It's mentally and physically painful. Whenever Beau has to go to the Hospital he has special papers that tell people how to handle him. He's in love with Suzy. He longs to touch and hold her like normal people. He has to keep her at arms length away. Suzy is his little Angel. The story takes a little twist at the end.
This story is a must read. I wish it could have been longer.
So if you like to read short stories that are full of mish mash of creative talents then the Uncommon Bodies Anthology is your book. It's amazing so I gave it 5 stars.
Anthology of short stories published by Fighting Monkey Press.
This book has 21 short amazing stories and poems. You have mermaids, cyborgs, monsters, people with afflictions, sideshow freaks, hybrids and much more.
One of the stories I really enjoyed was Don't Touch Me by Bey Deckard. It's about a fighter named Beau. Fighting is what Beau does best , because the very thing he dreads is exactly what gives him the extraordinary strength to defeat even the worst odds. Beau has a problem with being touched. It's mentally and physically painful. Whenever Beau has to go to the Hospital he has special papers that tell people how to handle him. He's in love with Suzy. He longs to touch and hold her like normal people. He has to keep her at arms length away. Suzy is his little Angel. The story takes a little twist at the end.
This story is a must read. I wish it could have been longer.
So if you like to read short stories that are full of mish mash of creative talents then the Uncommon Bodies Anthology is your book. It's amazing so I gave it 5 stars.
November 23, 2015
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I was intrigued when I first saw the cover reveal and then even more so when I read a synopsis. I don't normally go for short stories as I want to know what happens from beginning to end, but these stories, snippets of a bigger picture I'm sure, were horrifying, entertaining, interesting, and mesmerizing enough to keep me wanting to read on.
There's a little something for everyone in this collection from horror (We is We is a great one for fans of American Horror Story), to sci-fi/steampunk, to even a bit of romance. The stories are short page turners with characters who, while flawed, are well written.
I definitely think this is a collection for those who like to read but maybe don't have the time to settle into a 500 page epic tale. These are delicious, delectable bites that can be read in a short amount of time and still satisfying to the busy book lover. My only (personal) gripe with the collection is that I want continuations of some of the stories!
Highly recommended.
I was intrigued when I first saw the cover reveal and then even more so when I read a synopsis. I don't normally go for short stories as I want to know what happens from beginning to end, but these stories, snippets of a bigger picture I'm sure, were horrifying, entertaining, interesting, and mesmerizing enough to keep me wanting to read on.
There's a little something for everyone in this collection from horror (We is We is a great one for fans of American Horror Story), to sci-fi/steampunk, to even a bit of romance. The stories are short page turners with characters who, while flawed, are well written.
I definitely think this is a collection for those who like to read but maybe don't have the time to settle into a 500 page epic tale. These are delicious, delectable bites that can be read in a short amount of time and still satisfying to the busy book lover. My only (personal) gripe with the collection is that I want continuations of some of the stories!
Highly recommended.
November 24, 2015
Don't Touch Me by Bey Deckard: Bey charmed us once again with a story of unconventional love – like Romeo and Juliet or the Beauty and the Beast, an impossible love that could and should have been. It is sad and beautiful. Beau is an ex-military with a incredible aversion to being touch which works great for him because he is a fighter and the repulsion of being touched gives him strength to fight any opponent. By his side is always Suzy, his angel. She gives him unconditional love and care. Beau would do anything for her. He just loves her and longs to hold her – something that he thinks is not possible. But then the unexpected happens… I have read every single one of Bey’s books and have yet to find one that may be repetitive or underdeveloped. He is a master story teller and in this short story we get everything you need to be satisfied 100%. It is potent and gives you an unexpected punch. Congratulations! Uncommon Bodies is a playground for people like me - that believe that one size doesn’t fit all.
***A copy of this book was provided to me for an honest review***
***A copy of this book was provided to me for an honest review***
November 23, 2015
Shotgun blast in its genre-fusing originality, Uncommon Bodies still delivers a remarkably consistent quality for those with an ear for language and a taste for the speculative.
I found We is We, by Michael Harris Cohen to be the exemplar of the form. It's bones are a narrative voice that is strong and lean then fleshed out with original phrasing and a just-right, striptease reveal of character that left me interested in what I saw and desperately imagining what was not explicitly told. To this body, Cohen gave a soul, not through an abstract profundity for the human condition, but in the depth of humanity reached with the weight of our truest longings and fears. In this speculative fiction, nothing feels artificial.
I found We is We, by Michael Harris Cohen to be the exemplar of the form. It's bones are a narrative voice that is strong and lean then fleshed out with original phrasing and a just-right, striptease reveal of character that left me interested in what I saw and desperately imagining what was not explicitly told. To this body, Cohen gave a soul, not through an abstract profundity for the human condition, but in the depth of humanity reached with the weight of our truest longings and fears. In this speculative fiction, nothing feels artificial.
November 24, 2015
* I received an eARC copy for the purpose of an honest review*
UnCommon Bodies is reminiscent of a sideshow circus freaks, historical gore, sci-fi and the human condition.
The stories connect on many instinctual levels. Fear, horror, sympathy and even erotically charged. Each author has a character that has a surprising voice that you would not expect from the bullied chubby girl to the heart broken cyborg.
This anthology is a definite standout in the new trend of self-publishing. I was not distracted by typos, storylines that didn't make sense or run on until they were unenjoyable. In fact my only complaint is wanting more!
UnCommon Bodies is reminiscent of a sideshow circus freaks, historical gore, sci-fi and the human condition.
The stories connect on many instinctual levels. Fear, horror, sympathy and even erotically charged. Each author has a character that has a surprising voice that you would not expect from the bullied chubby girl to the heart broken cyborg.
This anthology is a definite standout in the new trend of self-publishing. I was not distracted by typos, storylines that didn't make sense or run on until they were unenjoyable. In fact my only complaint is wanting more!
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