Bobbie’s Reviews > The Alchemy of Sorrow > Status Update

The Paperweight Watch: This was the only one I considered not finishing. It was like a grief textbook, almost pedantic, rather than a story I could connect with and empathize with the character. Almost like the author forced the character to mention the word grief multiple times to prove he was feeling it.

The quiet: I enjoyed the way the author used, subtle foreshadowing that let you know. Some thing was going to pull the pieces together, but not in a way that you were expecting the outcome. There was still that element of surprise when the story played out.

Summer Souls: I loved how poetic this story sounded. The story was tight, fantastical, with just the right hint of science fiction.

Death in the uncanny valley: I actually really enjoyed the premise of this story. I feel like it was fresh and new with the use of VR, and how technology can help rejuvenate connections between people. So often technology is seen as a negative, and I like how the author turned it around to use it as a support for those who were grieving.

Thicker than Water: though the story began with a moment of fear and a race home, it seemed to drag, and until the actual conflict was introduced, I found myself asking for the point. The second half knit it together and felt satisfying, but I still think at least 15-20mins of the story could’ve been left out, and it would’ve been more impactful.

Thief: I actually like the twist halfway through, as realities change.

The Witch in the Woods: another 2nd person story, but no idea who was the speaker, which was less than impactful for the overall story. I actually liked the story, since I found myself wanting more, but there were too many loose ends, the least of which being the purpose of the 2nd person narrator.

Recurrence of Jasmine: I am not 100% sure even after listening to the whole story. What exactly was the connection to grief. It wasn’t clear. I was also stuck on the repetitive use of indentured servant when what was really meant and happening in the story Was perpetual slavery until about 2/3 in when she was given the promise of freedom. It also seemed very out of place when in the end, she chose not to have it.

A Matter of Trust was long and drawn out. I never felt connected to the main character, Bastian. It felt like the author was trying to put too many things together.

Skies on Fire was relatable as the main character works through the grief of lost purpose due to chronic illness/pain. Her anger and disillusion felt honest, and the author’s diction was powerful and effective.