A review by chuckstafer
Cardiff, by the Sea: Four Novellas of Suspense by Joyce Carol Oates

challenging dark emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This was an excellent set of 4 short stories by a very talented suspense writer, anchored (in my opinion) by the 3rd story in the collection, Phantomwise, 1972. These stories were all dark, suspenseful, and unnerving, each in their unique way. The writing style of most of the stories is a bit different and caused me to slow down or re-read passages at times, but it wasn't to the point that it affected the quality of the story. 

Major trigger warnings are spread throughout the novellas and include self-harm, miscarriage, domestic violence, child abuse, and violence. 

I enjoyed the dark undertones of these stories though and may need to check out some other collections by this author. 

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