Rachel Ingalls Knihy

'Black Diamond' is a collection of five short stories, loosely linked by the theme of kinship. Ghoulish and gripping, they all begin in an atmosphere of unsophisticated tranquillity.

The book showcases a remarkable talent through concise storytelling that captures intense emotions such as love, terror, betrayal, and grief. Each tale is distilled into a powerful poetic form, delivering impactful narratives that convey deep feelings and experiences in a compact manner, allowing readers to engage with complex themes in a uniquely succinct way.

The title-piece in this collection is the novella 'The Man Who Was Left Behind', which tells of a retired lawyer from the American South whose entire family has been destroyed. His grief drives him to haunt the bars, parks and laundromats of the town where he was once a respected citizen. The accompanying stories 'St. George and the Nighclub' and 'Something to Write Home About' are both set on the island of Rhodes, and both offer disquieting portraits of marriage.

"I loved Mrs. Caliban. So deft and austere in its prose, so drolly casual in its fantasy..." - John Updike

The transformation of Millie, a neglected American wife, begins with a haircut and new outfits in London, leading to an affair in Africa that awakens her true self. As she sheds her insecurities, Millie embraces life and love, much to the astonishment of her husband and those around her. Set against the backdrop of an African safari, the narrative explores themes of rebirth and self-discovery, with Millie's journey from a drab existence to a vibrant, fearless woman reflecting the enchanting unpredictability of life.

Jede Seite ist originell und faszinierend. Halten Sie sich einen Samstag frei und lesen sie die Geschichte in einem Rutsch! Harper's Magazine Die Smalltalk- Geheimwaffe jeder Cocktailparty wird in dieser 'Mrs.?Calibans Geheimnis' sein, eine ebenso eigenartige wie wunderbare Novelle. NPR

This collection features four distinct novellas, each exploring unique narratives and characters. "Third Time Lucky" delves into themes of chance and fate, while "People to People" examines connections and relationships in modern society. "Captain Hendrik's Story" offers a glimpse into the life of a maritime captain, blending adventure with personal struggles. Lastly, "Inheritance" tackles the complexities of legacy and familial ties. Together, these stories provide a rich tapestry of human experiences and emotions.

Prepare to meet what lurks beneath . 'Macabre, fantastic and haunting . In her vision of intimacy and interdependence, you're simply not safe until everybody else is dead . ' Guardian'Idiosyncratic, haunting, masterly .