Daniel Kelley

A Dance with Tilly is a lovely short story, perhaps too lovely to be so short. I would’ve wanted to read at least a couple hundred pages more and get to know the fascinating characters even better.

The story indeed felt like it could’ve easily been an excerpt from a longer book; it seemed like there was so much more behind the characters, the setting and the whole tale. In a way, the shortness made the story feel perhaps a little plain, like there was something missing. On the other show more hand, that same feature also made it beautiful and refreshing, like a quick dive into the pool on a hot summer day.

The storytelling was amazing and I already grew very fond of the characters. I really liked the writing style and admired how so much emotion and depth could be conveyed in such a few words. However I didn’t quite manage to get deeply enough into the story in such a short read to actually love it, hence only the three and a half stars instead of the four (or more) that it could’ve deserved. But I will definitely read more of this author’s works and really really enjoyed this one! show less

This story is big on nostalgia. The wonderful descriptions of the edibles available in Auntie Winifred’s bakery did have my mouth watering in anticipation. The adventures of Frances, her brother and their two cousins transported me back to my childhood and some of the innocent mischief my siblings, cousins and I could get up to when we would all gather at Grandma’s for an extended family visit. The descriptions of Auntie Winifred’s apartment over the bakery filled with old furniture as show more a play area for the cousins is one filled with the magic of childhood imagination.

A heartfelt story of childhood memories, the enduring bonds of family connections and how both shape our lives, even later on in life as adults. show less

I have triskaidekaphobia fever!!! I could not get enough of this story. It is full of wit and wonder. The author is facile with words and has a creative style of storytelling. I was trying my best to figure out all the clues to this tale, but the first time I read it I only got 5 out of the 13.
I agree with another reviewer - I wish it were a longer story. But it truly leaves you with a warm fuzzy feeling! A 13th Tail is destined to be a classic fable!

This book has such a strong premise that I couldn't resist it: winners of a small-town raffle are approached by a man claiming he can send them back in time to re-live a day of their choosing.

Raffle Ticket is hard to define, because it's got a bit of mystery, a bit of small-town drama, and a bit of time-travel fantasy, but none of these elements overtake the story. So it is worth noting that the titular ticket takes a while to show up, but when it does, all the previous development devoted show more to the characters and town pays off.

Maybe that's the real strength that made me enjoy this novel so much: the characters and location feel fully-formed, so it's a pleasure to take this odd journey with them.

There are a few twists with real emotional weight. The plots wraps up nicely. Oh, and the writing is sharp, with just enough description to not wear out its welcome, especially as the pace picks up. I did notice that characters were constantly touching each other's shoulders, but maybe that's a regional thing.

Anyway, this is a great light read that made me happy. If I could go back in time and prevent myself from reading it, I would say "no thanks, time travel, I'm good." Five stars. show less