Havoc Shore by Maureen Cullen

Despite a widely held belief that short stories are easier to write than a full-length novel this belief is erroneous. Writing a short story is a skill not all authors achieve.

However, Maureen Cullen is an author who possesses that gift for short-story writing as she proves in Havoc Shore.

Collections of short stories are usually stand- alone tales. This collection is different insofar as they are connected, spanning the years from the early fifties up to the present time.

Although not always presented in chronological order, the authorʼs control of the timescale, as well as each title stating clearly the year it is set, clarifies what might be termed flashbacks.

These 21 stories are interwoven, following families or their members but the clarity of writing eliminates confusion.

Itʼs almost ʻa moment in timeʼ book. Life is full of such moments which often make a greater impression on us than we may realise at the time.

In ʻThe Heronʼ a story unfolds illustrating such. It works well. Not everyone can do this.

Ordinary people living their lives and the challenges they face day to day.

At first read one might be forgiven for thinking where are the heroes so expected these days. The heroes are there. They are the ordinary people trying to live their lives as best they can.

The McLean siblings each carry their own version of a life-altering event, revealing the fractures and fierce loyalties within a working- class family.

We read how they deal with everyday adversity and poverty, just surviving but it is not all doom and gloom. There is humour and joyfulness.

As in ʻThe Heronʼ, possibly my favourite story, these are well drawn, highly believable characters. One suspects the majority from life. It matters not. They are alive!

Although the town in this book may be fictional the author has woven her stories into the background of places such as Wallaceʼs cave and Overtoun Bridge, which many will instantly recognise.

Havoc Shore is written in both standard English and the local vernacular. This divide of narration and speech works very well. There is always something to which the reader can relate - ʻrivalriesʼ/division of class /religion/ race, almost mentioned in passing but enough to suggest a greater background therein.

These stories can be read as ʻstand alonesʼ but I would advise the reader to take them as the author has written them.

However you read them I am sure you will enjoy such a highly talented author whether or not you are local.

A list of awards and accreditation prove the previous statement about this authorʼs skill as a short story writer but see, or rather read, for yourself. I am sure you will agree.

Havoc Shore is available from: Amazon - Paperback £9.63 + P/P, Kindle Edition £5.99

Ringwood Publishing, Glasgow £9.99 + pp