A Kaleidoscope of Human Emotions

Kamalika_Reads 04

Book: Amaltas

Author: Hermit Pen

Publishers: The Alcove Publishers

Genre: Fiction, Short stories

Rating: 4/5

How I came to know about this book:

This book was published by the same publisher who has published my book. I was intrigued by the book cover and decided to bask in the golden shower of the Altamas.

What the book is about :

'Amaltas' by Hermit Pen, is a thought-provoking collection of 12 short stories and 43 ultra-short stories that provide an insightful glimpse into a wide spectrum of contemporary human experiences. With a diverse range of themes and narratives, Hermit Pen invites readers to explore the intricacies of modern life and the emotional challenges that come with it.

What I have loved about the book :

The collection encompasses a mixture of themes, from inter-caste and inter-religion marriages to divorce, homosexuality, sexual fantasies, and casual hookups. 'Amaltas' bravely confronts these often-taboo subjects, shedding light on the complex emotional landscapes of modern life. The stories also touch upon the profound impact of riots and the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals and their relationships, making the collection even more relevant and relatable.

One of the strengths of 'Amaltas' lies in its ability to maintain the reader's attention with crisp storytelling. A captivating story (and my Favourite) within 'Amaltas' centres on the two brothers and their families enduring the harrowing existence in the Gaza Strip. Hermit Pen skillfully captures the precarious lives of these characters amidst the relentless bombardment, highlighting their deep-seated concerns to protect their loved ones. This story is a testament to the author's ability to infuse raw emotion and authenticity into their narratives.

What I felt could have been better :

There are moments when a few characters may come across as overly dramatic, which can briefly detract from the realism of the stories. Additionally, given the depth of human emotions explored, the subtle nuances and feelings could have been more deeply defined. Some stories conclude just as the reader begins to connect with the characters, leaving a desire for a more profound exploration of their emotional journey.

Why one should read or not read this book:

'Amaltas' by Hermit Pen is an engaging collection of stories that skillfully dissects the intricacies of human emotions and relationships with finesse. This collection is a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and its ability to weather the storms of modern life.

You can check out the book at Amazon: https://amzn.in/d/4BYA0If

Sometimes I feel just because of word constraints, short stories leave out some great chances to draw better character arcs  What do you love more to read - short stories or novellas? Let me know in the comments.