Tag: annalisacrawford

Book Review: The Boatman

Annalisa Crawford, through three short stories, featuring female protagonists, who frequent the pub, The Boatman, creates a haunting novella.

The Boatman by Annalisa Crawford – Book Cover

Book: The Boatman

Author: Annalisa Crawford

Genre: Fiction, Short stories

Review copy: BookSirens

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Must read

Three haunting short stories that converge into a novella.

“The Boatman” is a collection of interlinked stories that revolve around three women, each with a unique connection to an old pub known as “The Boatman”. This pub, steeped in history, serves as a sanctuary for those seeking solace and friendships. Within its centuries-old walls, the pub becomes a character in its own right—a silent observer of the lives of Quinn, Ella, and Rona.

“The Boatman collects misfits. Strange solitary creatures who yearn for contact with the outside world—but not too much.”

Annalisa Crawford weaves a tapestry of suspense around her lead characters. Demons of the past and premonitions haunt these women as they navigate life and relationships. The narrative is atmospheric, with the pub a haunting backdrop to the unfolding drama. Strangely, the title reminded me of the legend of the ferryman who carries souls to the netherworld. With death lingering in the pages, this connection seems relevant. The protagonists are trying to escape inner demons, and this is a metaphor for how we escape all our pain, trauma, and misgivings at death.

The first story, “The Traveller,” is my favorite, and the main character, Quinn, evokes empathy. She bemoans,

“… I thought I would die of grief. But I was wrong. I live on.”

Her grief is palpable:

“The day begins, and I am empty.”

Ella’s story, the second in the series, has an interesting premise but could have been shorter. The deep dive into Ella’s inner turmoil, while insightful, borders on the repetitive. The last story in the book is an experimental writing piece that ties up the entire narrative, making this collection of three short stories a novella.

The writing style is entrancing, focusing on the characters’ complexities and the subtle interplay of their interactions within the confines of The Boatman, in their homes, and at work. The lonely battles of each character are relatable, yet how Crawford wraps up each story is unique. In the last story, as characters and events converge, an element of intrigue fills the pages like the slow-rolling mist from the river across the pub.

Are the women and their companions just trapped in the past, or have they found a way to escape trepidations, conquer longings, and culminate an eternal quest for a home, love, and belongingness? Read “The Boatman” to appreciate the dark, character-driven stories with a hint of the paranormal. Annalisa Crawford’s masterful storytelling and richly drawn characters make this a must-read for fans of literary fiction, particularly those who enjoy short stories.

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Book Review: The Clock in My Mother’s House

Annalisa Crawford, through a collection of stories – The Clock in my Mother’s House – skillfully transports readers into a world where time bends, age defies conventional boundaries, and characters confront their inner demons.

The Clock in My Mother’s House – Book Cover

Book: The Clock in My Mother’s House

Author: Annalisa Crawford

Genre: Fiction, Short stories

Review copy: BookSirens

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Must read

Short stories spanning a variety of themes and notions – some obtuse, some as real as they can be.

Annalisa Crawford, through a collection of stories – The Clock in my Mother’s House – skillfully transports readers into a world where time bends, age defies conventional boundaries, and characters confront their inner demons. “Your future isn’t fixed. It’s like an ocean, flowing in all directions, nothing’s settled until you’re much older.”

Her narratives blur the lines between reality and fantasy, inviting readers to delve into either mystical realms beyond comprehension or to contemplate the workings of the human mind. Each story is meticulously crafted, showcasing Crawford’s expertise in blending elements both mystical and real. For example, in All the Magpies Come Out to Play, she captures fear and hope during a pandemic. In two stories A Thousand Pieces of You and Click – she delves into intense emotions and the power of resilience.

Crawford’s writing style is captivating. Each story is imbued with possibility, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the layered narration and ponder the story’s direction. Even in the confines of a short story, the characters elicit the reader’s interest and empathy. Whether it’s a stormy night or a tranquil weekend, The Clock in My Mother’s House promises an immersive reading experience that stays with the reader long after the last page is turned.

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Book Review: Cat & The Dreamer

Mystery, melancholy, and a struggling protagonist in a novella that is a compelling read: Cat and the Dreamer by Annalisa Crawford

Cat and the Dreamer – Book Cover

Book: Cat & The Dreamer

Author: Annalisa Crawford

Genre: Fiction

Review copy: BookSirens

Available at: Amazon.in

Recommended: Must read

Trigger warning: Death, bullying

Mystery, melancholy, and a struggling protagonist in a novella that is a compelling read

Cat and the Dreamer by Annalisa Crawford is a captivating read that deftly intertwines elements of mystery and melancholy. Crawford’s writing style is exquisite, drawing readers in with its expressive prose and evocative descriptions. “My dreams are always vivid, lurid almost, like an over-exposed photo. It’s how I know what’s real. Reality is tinted with a disappointing grey pallor, washed out, even when the sun is shining and the sky is cobalt blue, or golden leaves are falling from the trees.”

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Crawford’s character introduction and development. Readers are quickly drawn to Julie, the protagonist, intrigued by her mysterious aura. As an adult professional still living with her parents, her life circumstances pique interest. Julie is portrayed as self-conscious, burdened by the past, and experiencing waking dreams that blur the lines between illusion and reality, as she searches for “A Perfect Dream.”

Crawford expertly spins a storytelling web that captivates readers, keeping them engrossed until the very end. She presents a unique perspective through monologues, with references to the ‘cat’ that emphasize its wild traits over its typical feline cuteness. The book cover is a succinct portrayal of how Julie’s dreams are her escape portal.

Overall, Cat and the Dreamer is a slow-burn fiction that rewards readers with its engaging narrative and unfolding revelations. Crawford’s skillful writing and masterful storytelling make it a must-read for fans of literary fiction. The novel develops gradually, demanding the reader’s concentration, introspection, and appreciation of a poignant story told in a unique style. Importantly, the book sheds light on the complexities of adolescence, the impact of peer influence on young adults, and the burdens one can carry throughout life.

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.