Dread by Aseem Rastogi #bookreview #bookchatter #books @aseemrastogi2

Dread - Short Stories by Aseem Rastogi is a collection of five stories which he dedicates to the resilience of the human mind to overcome fear and adversity. Unfortunately, I didn't find any of the five stories meeting that criteria. All the five stories are incidental, consequential, and 'spur of a moment' driven. All stories move from 'happy-go-life situation' to 'adversities' conditions. They start with a hope and end up with hopelessness. In my opinion, these are there is nothing like creating hope and overcoming fear and adversity. Rather, I found there are no substantial takeaways from these stories. These are depressing stories moving from brighter side of life to the darker side of the life. Though, some go on that direction in a very harsh manner and others in a milder tone.

In my opinion, every story of Dread - Short Stories by Aseem Rastogi had a better scope of ending. But, then, it all depends on the author how he or she wants to craft those. I also feel that the story, storytelling, and its presentation/plot reflect the author's priorities of what stuff he wants to present to his readers. That brings a point to ponder what exactly should be the motive of a story? Do I, as a writer or a storyteller want to stun my readers? Or I would like them to be comfortable while reading my stories. But on the other hand, the stories are very well written. These are crisp, running at good pace, easy to understand, and hand sharp turns. The character building is strong and stories are well moulded. I think, in a frame of short stories, these are near to perfection in terms of selection of words and the flow of the story.

If I summarize Dread - Short Stories by Aseem Rastogi, the stories are worth reading because the author carries a unique style of writing /narrating his stories. It's a kind of passionate writing. I am sure, this author has a natural art of writing, creativity, and a good potential to create some excellent work. And finally if I look at the genre to which these stories belong to, it's a perfect match.