A Loose End and Other Stories   By: S. Elizabeth Hall

A Loose End and Other Stories is a collection of short stories written by S. Elizabeth Hall. This anthology invites readers into a world where the ordinary is layered with the extraordinary, presenting a unique blend of genres and narratives.

One of the distinguishing features of this book is the author's ability to seamlessly shift between various genres. From science fiction to contemporary fiction and even elements of magical realism, Hall showcases her versatility as a writer. Each story takes the reader on a different journey, leaving behind any notion of predictability. This variety ensures that the collection never becomes monotonous.

Hall's writing style is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the settings and characters. Her attention to detail immerses readers in each story, allowing them to become fully engrossed in the narrative. Whether it's the futuristic landscapes of a distant planet or the familiar streets of a small town, the author's descriptions elicit a strong sense of place.

The collection also impresses with its strong character development. Each protagonist is distinct, with fully fleshed out personalities and motivations. Hall brings her characters to life, providing them with depth and complexity. As readers follow their journeys, they become emotionally invested in their triumphs and struggles.

The themes explored in A Loose End and Other Stories are wide-ranging, touching on topics such as love, loss, identity, and the human condition. Hall adeptly tackles these subjects, intertwining them with her imaginative storytelling. Her exploration of human emotions and experiences resonates with readers, making the stories relatable on a deeper level.

Moreover, the book is well-structured, with a balance between shorter and longer stories. This layout allows for a smooth reading experience, making it easy to devour the collection all at once or savor each story individually. Regardless of the approach, the book remains engaging from beginning to end.

While the anthology as a whole is a compelling read, there are a few stories that stand out as particular highlights. "The Forgotten Ones" is a haunting tale of memory and loss, juxtaposing the fragile nature of human connections with the power of remembrance. "Between Realities" embraces science fiction elements, exploring the limitless potential of technology and its impact on both individuals and society. These stories, among others, showcase the author's skill in crafting diverse narratives.

In conclusion, A Loose End and Other Stories is a captivating collection that will appeal to a wide range of readers. S. Elizabeth Hall's storytelling prowess, ability to create vivid worlds, and engaging characters make this anthology a truly enjoyable read. Fans of short fiction will be delighted by the variety and depth presented in these stories, leaving them eagerly awaiting the author's next literary endeavor.

First Page:

One September morning, many years ago, when the Channel Islands seemed further off than they do now, and for some of them communication with the outer world hardly existed, some two hours after the sun had risen out of the sea, and while the grass and the low growing bushes were still fresh with the morning dew, a young girl tripped lightly along the ridge of a headland which formed the south side of a cove on the coast of one of the smaller islands in the group. The ridge ascended gradually till it reached a point on which stood a ruined building, that was said to have been once a mill, and from which on the right hand side the path began to descend to a narrow landing place in the cove. The girl stood still for a moment when she reached the highest point, and shading her eyes looked out to sea. On the opposite side of the cove a huge rock, formed into an island by a narrow shaft of water, which in the strife of ages had cleared its way between it and the rocky coast, frowned dark and solemn in the shadow, its steep and clear cut sides giving it a character of power and imperturbability that crowned it a king among islands... Continue reading book >>