flotsam and jetsam - twenty-one curious tales

Flotsam and Jetsam is a collection of short stories that explore the mysterious and unexpected, featuring characters with hidden pasts and secrets. The stories take place in various settings, including an island off the coast of Galway, a fading actress's life, and an English seaside town, and always hint at something deeper and more intriguing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2022
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

Flotsam and Jetsam is a captivating collection of diverse yet interconnected tales that delve into the depths of human experience. The short story, akin to a double espresso of literature, packs a powerful punch, leaving a lingering and satisfying aftertaste. These narratives aim to surprise and intrigue readers, unveiling the hidden mysteries and secrets that lie beneath the ordinary surface. What begins as a mundane existence suddenly transforms into something extraordinary, defying expectations. An economy of expression adds depth and layers to the stories, igniting the reader's imagination and inviting them to explore the uncharted territories of the narrative.

In the title story, "Flotsam and Jetsam," both protagonists carry with them troubled histories, hinted at but never fully revealed. Can two lost souls somehow find their way to unity? On the picturesque island of Uaigneach, off the coast of Galway, Donal and his ailing father lead a life of inexplicable austerity. When the old man passes away, Donal brings his new wife to the island, unknowingly setting in motion a series of strange events.

In "The Understudy," life and drama intertwine dangerously when a fading actress finds herself in the midst of a life-changing role that has far-reaching consequences in her real life. Whether in the ancient seminaries of Milan or the humble local library of an English seaside town, or even during the vibrant heyday of the Lyons Corner Houses or at the traditional burial of a gypsy matriarch, this collection of curious tales offers a treasure trove of mystery. Each story unfolds like a puzzle, inviting readers to piece together the fragments and unravel the secrets that lie within. Flotsam and Jetsam is a testament to the power of storytelling, reminding us that even in the most ordinary of circumstances, there is always room for wonder and discovery.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803134833