There is love and suspense and so much atmosphere in this short story that I want to read more about both Jack and Hazel. Brilliantly narrated in flashes , I enjoyed reading this story.
HAZEL is written by a very special and much loved close friend of mine, but this review is honestly unbiased.
I'm someone who's a bit of a tough reader to please. I'm not hesitant to admit it. I don't think twice to close a book within 2 or 3 pages if the writing style doesn't hook me in. HAZEL here won my heart and ruled it like an empress with every single sentence. A short story whose plot can be explained in one line, the display and delivery is like a storm and earthquake at once. It's not easy to craft something like this. No, it's not.
Neerja Di slayed it. Just slayed it.
I sunk and surrendered within the first few lines, letting myself be taken through a raw journey of very real, very red and extremely beautiful emotions. The narrative struck different parts of my heart and mind and when the story ended, I wished it didn't. I wanted to read more. I wanted to know more. I wanted to feel more.
This is one masterpiece, Neerja Di. I loved it so much I can't explain how much. You're a powerhouse of writing talent and I can't wait to read more of your works! Excellent!
This is a good attempt by this first time author. The characters are well defined and the story line is gripping with a bout of suspense thrown in. I also liked the way the author has structured and narrated this short tale. I wish her the best and I look forward to reading more works from her.
The book reminds me of a movie (Anime) I watched on Netflix, Flavours of Youth. Similar pacing of the story line and similar reminiscing by the protagonist. The story line in Hazel starts off with a similar feeling of longing and it can be felt everywhere in every sentence. If you've ever been in love you may relate to it.
The story moves fast and you are wondering what it might be leading to but then comes the end and I was left wondering, oh, I thought, oh, now I get it. So yeah, I liked how the author managed to get me to sit up and take notice of the end. I had to go back and see where I lost the plot.
Apart from that, I feel the usage of certain words, grammar and if a few generic errors are fixed it can make this a delightfully good short story.
This short story by my blogger friend and a dear supporter, Neerja, is a masterpiece in itself. The magic lies in her astounding narration. She keeps up the suspense till the end. She has a beautiful way with words. I could realize the depth of the reader in her. Only a seasoned reader can write such moving prose. If you can overlook the measly grammatical errors, you'll find this story utterly enjoyable.
I am in awe of you, NJ. Waiting eagerly to read more of your works. Keep writing!