Twisted Tales and Turns by Smita Das Jain

Title: Twisted Tales and Turns

Author: Smita Das Jain

Publisher: Readomania

Genre: Short Stories

First Publication: 2023

Language: English

Book Summary: Twisted Tales and Turns by Smita Das Jain

What if reality was a carefully crafted illusion, and every truth you thought you knew was a mirage? Get ready to experience a roller coaster of emotions. Just when you think you have it figured out, the unexpected will leap at you from a page, leaving you stunned and breathless.

A daughter waiting for her father to return from war…
An artist struggling to create a masterpiece…
A scientist having her own definition of a better world…
A friend who loves without being loved back…
A man who has eyes only for another woman on his wedding night…

Twisted Tales and Turns is a captivating collection of short stories where nothing is as it seems. Are you prepared for the buried truths and shocking revelations that lurk beneath the surface?

Book Summary: Twisted Tales and Turns by Smita Das Jain

Short story writing is an intricate art that demands brevity, precision, and the ability to convey depth in a limited space. Crafting compelling short stories is undoubtedly challenging, but creating exceptional ones that resonate with readers on multiple levels is an even more formidable task. However, “Twisted Tales and Turns” defies the odds and makes the craft appear deceptively effortless. Each story within the anthology is a testament to the author’s mastery, effortlessly weaving together captivating plots, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes. The seamless flow of narratives and the seamless interplay of emotions in these stories make it seem as if the author effortlessly conjured them from thin air. In truth, the apparent ease with which this collection delivers powerful storytelling is a testament to the author’s exceptional talent and skill, proving that the ability to create extraordinary short stories is indeed a mark of a true literary artist.

“Twisted Tales and Turns” is an enthralling collection of short stories that takes readers on a captivating journey through a diverse range of emotions and experiences. Divided into four distinct sections, the book delves into a myriad of themes, showcasing the author’s prowess in storytelling and her ability to evoke a plethora of emotions in readers. From heartwarming tales of love, acceptance, and self-discovery to suspenseful narratives filled with unexpected twists, each story in the book leaves a lasting impression.

“Out of this World,” the captivating opening section of the anthology, sets the stage for an enthralling journey into the realms of the extraordinary. The section commences with the intriguing short story, “The Figure in the Charpoy.” As the protagonist delves deeper into this mysterious phenomenon, the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur, culminating in a spine-chilling climax that lingers in the mind long after the story ends. With each turn of the page, the sense of eerie fascination intensifies, leaving readers on the edge of their seats. This opening story serves as a perfect introduction to the anthology, inviting readers to embrace the unexpected and venture into the unknown as they prepare to embark on a literary odyssey like no other. Another story in this section is “Top of the World” which takes center stage, painting a poignant portrait of a young girl awaiting her soldier father’s return from a distant war. Amidst the raging elements of nature, the story captures the enduring love between a father and his daughter, leaving readers emotionally moved. The narrative explores themes of loss and hope, immersing readers in the resilience of a child’s heart and the impact of war on families.

The second section, “Not Too Far into the Future,” presents a captivating collection of futuristic short stories that delve into the realms of science, technology, and human nature. The story, “Throwback to History,” introduces us to a talented writer, Maneka, and her husband, Mayank, who grapples to understand and appreciate her literary aspirations. The narrative explores the societal challenges faced by women pursuing their passions in the twenty-third century and how history and fiction from earlier eras still resonate with the present. Another story from this section, “Guided Missiles, Misguided Men,” delves into the realm of high-stakes military operations and international intrigue. A top-secret missile test takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious UFO interferes, leading to unforeseen consequences and raising questions about the nature of global conflicts and hidden powers beyond Earth. As these thought-provoking tales unfold, readers are invited to ponder the complexities of human choices, the impact of advanced technology, and the potential consequences of our actions in the near future. The section “Not Too Far into the Future” captivates with its imaginative storytelling, leaving readers both thrilled and introspective about the course humanity might take in the years to come.

In the third section titled “All Doesn’t End Well,” we encounter different stories with contrasting emotions. The story, “The Mask of Pretence,” follows Sanya, a driven and ambitious woman about to make a significant presentation for her firm. However, as she faces her competitor, Karan, from her past, memories of love and heartbreak resurface, causing her to reflect on the sacrifices she made for her career. In another story, “The Perfect Abode,” we meet Suhasi, who moves into her dream home with her family. Despite the idyllic surroundings and efforts to create the perfect space for her daughter, Sonali, tragedy strikes as Sonali falls ill during the pandemic and eventually passes away. Suhasi’s dream home turns into a haunting reminder of her profound loss. This section illustrate the unpredictability of life and how it can be fraught with emotional challenges.

In the fourth and final section titled “Love Comes in All Hues,” the stories delve into themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the various forms that love can take. In “The Consent,” the protagonist, despite being hesitant at first, gradually embraces the love and care offered by her father’s new partner, ultimately finding a sense of belonging and acceptance within their family. The story beautifully portrays the power of love in bridging gaps and forming strong connections. On the other hand, “A Matter of Her Identity” follows a woman who has undergone a significant life-changing transformation. She awakens from a pleasant dream to find herself finally at peace with her own identity. The story revolves around her acceptance of her true self as a woman and her liberation from the constraints of societal expectations and gender norms. It explores the profound impact self-discovery can have on one’s life, leading to a newfound sense of confidence, contentment, and self-love.

Having read and enjoyed Smita Das Jain’s previous two works “A Price to Love” and “A Slice Of Life,” diving into her latest book, “Twisted Tales and Turns,” was an absolute delight. Once again, Smita’s storytelling prowess shines through as she effortlessly weaves an array of emotions and themes into her narratives. Her ability to delve deep into the human psyche and explore the intricacies of relationships is truly commendable. With each story, she takes us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving us guessing until the very end with her masterful plot twists. “Twisted Tales and Turns” not only showcases the author’s growth as a writer but also reaffirms her talent for crafting compelling and relatable characters that stay with readers long after the final page.

With its unique blend of genres and thought-provoking plots, “Twisted Tales and Turns” offers a compelling and unforgettable reading experience that will keep audiences engaged from the first page to the last. The skillful storytelling and well-crafted characters allow readers to immerse themselves in different worlds, exploring themes of human relationships, personal growth, and the complexities of life. Whether you are a fan of drama, romance, mystery or suspense, this book has something to offer for everyone. I highly recommend “Twisted Tales and Turns” to anyone looking for a compelling, immersive, and emotionally resonant reading experience.