Okay, let’s talk about this stunning new short story by L. Austen Johnson: True Loaf

☆☆☆☆☆

➼ The cover: this is definitely what first attracted me to reading this, I mean please look at how gorgeously stunning this is!! As an absolute sucker for a good cover, I was swooning with this read before I even had a copy and knew it was going to be a five star read. While only available online, I’d honestly love a physical copy just so I could own an amazing story with such a lovely cover that warms my heart.

➼ The literary aspects: inspired by Balkan Folklore, but as the author specifies it is moreso in the literary sense with its tone, plot, and structure that is common in the region and unlike what is typically found in books. With structure, the story normally follows an introductory sequence, body, donor sequence, and hero’s return, which is exactly what the author describes amid the bonus content and explains that similarities can absolutely be seen, which I found very easy to point out and loved! From its inclusion of imagery, sequences, villains/heros, varying archetypes, diction, and folklore, I honestly see this as the perfect short read for high school students in their English classes during the short story units, it was just such a fantastic read in which you could analyze every sentence in the same way one would towards a story such as The Lottery or The Yellow Wallpaper. Moreover, I was so obsessed with the symbolism behind Yarrow and the bond present between the main character Riley and Aiden!! As a 19 page fast read, if you’re looking to stimulate your imagination in the best ways possible with a fast read that will also boost your goodreads goal, this is the read for you.

➼ The story: True Loaf follows the protagonist Riley as she is asked by a stranger to utilize Yarrow from the forest, which she can also only get at twilight. Quickly, the plot advances from there, in an eerie yet fascinating way that will have you eyes glued to the page. The writing style and literary aspects really aid in bringing this story to life in all the best ways.

➼ The read: Short and sweet. Honestly, the best type of read. You’ll be engaged from the get-go with no regrets after reading from its engaging plot to the wit and intellectual writing by the author; a perfect read for any day, time, or place, and absolutely worth your while.

Thank you to the author and Booksirens for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.

“Go around the tree nine times, and on the ninth time, you’ll be at the edge of the forest. There, you’ll find the Yarrow with the whitest flowers and most silver stems. Only that Yarrow should be eaten. Any other won’t be good.”