Review: Haunting tales with an environmental twist
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 15, 2014
This collection of short stories by Nicua Shamira are beautifully written narratives that draw the reader into fantasy worlds richly described and inhabited by tantalizing mythological creatures and humans. Written in the first person, each story has its own unique setting from a water-based land in 'Cascade' to the dark and harsh landscape in 'Red Ribbon. Both tales are strangely haunting with hints of love and regret and they do linger well after reading.I enjoyed the different cast of characters in each story that essentially are there to explore mankind's connection with nature and the environment. And it was my only criticism - that on occasions they came across less well developed than the physical environments they inhabited. But, what I liked was the message behind each story; to nurture and not destroy this beautiful planet we live in; to stop experimenting with genetics, to accept our frailties and live our lives in harmony This theme was developed further in 'Footsteps' a sci-fi tale that is both cautionary and poignant.I warmed to the first three stories more than the last, simply because I preferred the content to that of the more fantasy/magic themed 'Untamed' but it is still a lovely story and well-written.I think that Nicua could develop each short tale and extend its theme to produce longer and more developed plots and characters. As they stand, I was left wanting to know more, to experience drama and conflict and love and hate with the protagonists, through action rather than exposition. I wanted the storylines to have more depth in terms of character motivation and reaction to events that take place. Although the beautiful physical description of place are wonderful, they are lengthy and often at the expense of a fulfilling plot. Having said that, I did enjoy reading these stories and believe that Nicua is a very talented writer that has the potential to be great. I will read more of her work, as she is a writer to look out for.