Sheila Deeth's review of Sneaky Shenanigans by Violetta Antcliff

Sneaky Shenanigans, by Violetta Antcliff

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A fun short story and an enjoyable book to read over mid-morning coffee, Sneaky Shenanigans by Violetta Antcliff should do a good job of chasing those Monday blues away. Patrick O’Malley, farmer, loner, smoker, dog-lover, is missing his old Ma who died a short while ago. But now it’s time to get on with life and he’s going to ask the Widow Bridget Flynn if she’ll “consider walking out with him.” He’s thought long and hard about it, but when the dear widow opens her door he’s delightfully tongue-tied, and she delightfully vocal.

The dialog’s fun and convincing, village and neighbors providing background scenery and sound, hot tea (with a little extra) providing spice. The author carefully unwraps Patrick’s emotions, slowly wakening him to life’s possibilities, but there’s always the pull of peaceful loneliness and the joy of not being watched. Will he stay on the farm? Will he move to the village? Will he ever commit himself?

In the end some very pleasing shenanigans conspire to make Patrick’s intentions honorable, and the conclusion will leave you looking for more possibilities besides morning coffee and afternoon tea. Parties are fun, and this party’s convincingly written, evocatively told, and sure to please.

Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Sheila Deeth is the author of Refracted and Black Widow, among others.