Suzy Steward Dubot is a prolific author of a few novels, multiple short stories and a variety of essay length tales. Some are memoir, others fiction in a variety of genre. The first book to be reviewed below is a very short, essay length, memoir which is why this unusual step of reviewing two books together has been taken.
Square Peg in a Round Hole by Suzy Stewart Dubot
This short memoir is a counterpart to another of the author’a memoirs, ‘Sail Away’.
Though it is short (960 words) this memoir provides a nice insight into 1950’s British life. Perhaps even more so because matters are seen from the viewpoint of someone, who up to this point, had only lived in the United States of America, a very different culture, especially back then.
The descriptions of homes and school certainly bring to light how life really was in those days. Something, those who lived in that era will probably have forgotten and certainly those born more recently will have little or no conception of. Even television period dramas do not really convey how life was. However, with this memoir the reader will gain a real sense of the times.
The whole tale is enhanced by the author mixing objective observations and personal experiences in the telling.
Four stars (4*).
The book is only available in digital format.
Smashwords (In various formats to suit all devices including .mobi for Kindle.) Book is free.
As mentioned above ‘Sail Away’ is the counterpart to the book just reviewed.
If interested, T. R.’s review may be read here.
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Confused Memories by Suzy Stewart Dubot
This short story is described as being fiction within the fantasy genre. The reference to ‘memories’ is what first attracted attention.
This is not only a fun story but also provides realistic insights. It shows how many people like to recall past events and occurrences. Some may remember the old expression ‘Rose coloured spectacles’ (How things may appear to look better in hind site). The tale also exposes how memories can sometimes be incomplete and less accurate than the truth.
What if someone could reconstruct something from the past – would it be as they remember? Would it comfort? With such a short story (2,040 words) it is not possible to say more without spoiling it for potential readers.
Readers: With time between appointments; While commuting; Just looking for a quick fun read; etc. would enjoy this tale.
Four stars (4*).
The book is only available in digital format.
Smashwords (In various formats to suit all devices including .mobi for Kindle.) Book is free.
T. R. Robinson Publications 