No genre is safe from me! (OK, maybe Romance is safe)
One thing that bugs me is the accusation that I am too subtle. Too subtle? Is this even possible? I like to give my readers some credit: I always assume they are clever, educated, and have a good sense of humor...
I've has been writing fiction for over 20 years and recently published eight new titles, as well as a short story collection. Every book I write is exhaustively researched, I'm proud to say.
I have been a reporter and editor for many newspapers, and worked for The New York Times for well over ten years. Winner of the BBC Short Story Award.
This was a micro read and it rocked my world in mere minutes! A shocking revelation was revealed at the end and my imagination went wild long after I shut my kindle. I kept creating various scenerios in my mind. I am a big fan of sci-fi movies such as Alien and The Matrix so this was a perfect mini story for me.
I can always depend on author M.K Alexander to deliver a well written story that intrigues me and taps into my imagination.
The Barrier is a wonderful short story and M.K. Alexander is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. When I read Alexander’s writing, particularly his dialogue, I'm always impressed. That said, The Barrier feels like a short preview to a larger novel. (At least I hope that it is). Although, it is an enjoyable read in it's own right, it may be Alexander's way of signalling us that there is a much larger work ahead.
I won't reread The Barrier. The book cover is substandard, and for me, the storyline is forgettable. I liked The Reviewer much more than this short story.
The Barrier by MK Alexander A Book Review by AZP July 2025
The tone is curious and haunting!
The book tackles a strange phenomenon occurring at a certain place. This marvel is waiting yet for a continuing exploration in order to understand its nature and its implication to human existence. In this book, an entity or agency had found the fitting explorer to commence the mission.
The writing style of narratives is noteworthy as it walks through the reader from the point of view of the explorer.
Its conclusion is haunting and chilling! I am sure there will be a sequel to this tale.
The beginning of The Barrier was cloudy, murky, and darkly but I knew something was up! This story ramps up nicely but quickly, and I immediately thought before the ending “…our worst fears lie in anticipation.”-Balzac, huh?—but, of course I just had to finsh reading it. This story is very well written, and took full advantage of my fearful worst-case imagination, as MK knew it would most likely for all readers. I wish to personally thank MK Alexander for a nightmare I know I will soon have. Well done, sir.