Review: Absolutely Brilliant. Don't Pass This One Up!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 5, 2012
"An Honest Mistake" is a marvellous short story by Andrew Biss. I wasn't familiar with this author's work, so I wasn't sure what to expect. It was one of the recent free books offered on Amazon and it sounded intriguing, so I decided to try it. I'm very glad I did.This story reminded me of some of the best works of great English storytellers such as Roald Dahl, in terms of quality. The author painted such a vivid word portrait of the two protagonists, that they came to life for the reader. I've encountered people like these two characters, and I could picture the setting, characters, conversation and action taking place. It was hilarious in an understated macabre way--like watching an approaching train wreck that is impossible to stop. The action took place entirely in one room, with only the two characters, over a very short period of time. It is a tribute to Mr. Biss' talented writing ability that he was able to develop fully the characterisation and plot within the parameters of the short story format. There was no sense of anything missing, anything rushed or incomplete. It was just perfect.It is impossible to give a synopsis without giving the ending away. Suffice it to say that one scatty wife combined with one verbally abusive, inattentive husband equals poetic justice in Mr. Biss' hands.I think anyone who likes dry humour will love this story. I definitely want to try some more of Mr. Biss' books to see how they measure up against this story.(edited for spelling)