Side Quest: Stories - A Deep Dive Review

by Jalyn Renae Fiske (Author)

Updated at: 23/02/2025

Dive into the fantastical world of Jalyn Renae Fiske's Side Quest: Stories, a collection of fourteen captivating short stories and a poignant poem. These tales explore characters grappling with magical curses, devastating loss, and the yearning for a different life. From mad scientists and dragon attacks to silent gods and the undead, Fiske masterfully blends horror, adventure, whimsy, and tragedy. Each story offers a unique perspective, immersing readers in diverse struggles and dreams. Whether you crave chilling horror or heartwarming redemption, Side Quest: Stories promises a journey into the extraordinary, leaving you pondering the paths to finding yourself and your own unique quest.

4.9 / 11 ratings

Review Side Quest

Wow, "Side Quest: Stories" was quite the ride! Jalyn Renae Fiske has crafted a collection that's as diverse and captivating as its title suggests. I honestly wasn't sure what to expect going in, and that's part of what made it so enjoyable. Each story felt like stepping through a portal into a completely different world, each with its own unique flavour and atmosphere. One moment I was immersed in a dark, gothic fairytale, the next I was exploring a cyberpunk society grappling with unsettling technology, and then whisked away to a whimsical land filled with mischievous faeries. The sheer range is staggering, and yet, each piece felt perfectly formed and satisfying within its own right.

What truly impressed me was Fiske's ability to create such compelling characters in such short bursts of storytelling. Even though the stories are concise, the emotional weight of each character’s journey is palpable. You feel their yearning, their desperation, their hopes, and their fears with surprising intensity. Whether it's the chilling desperation in "Soul Candy," the heartbreaking search in "A Grave of Wind and Leaves," or the darkly humorous absurdity of "Dragon Disposal," every tale is filled with characters that resonate long after you've finished reading. The author's skill lies in her ability to quickly establish stakes, creating a compelling narrative hook that immediately draws you in and keeps you hooked until the very last line.

The writing itself is simply beautiful. Fiske has a lyrical style that's both accessible and evocative. The descriptions are vivid and immersive; you can almost taste the "Verity's Faery Teas" or feel the chilling wind in "A Grave of Wind and Leaves." The language is never overly flowery or pretentious, making the stories accessible to a broad audience, even as the darker themes explore complex emotions and challenging situations. There’s a skillful balance between lyrical prose and direct storytelling that keeps the narrative engaging without sacrificing the emotional depth of the characters.

While many of the stories explore darker themes – loss, grief, betrayal, societal failings – they’re never gratuitous or exploitative. Instead, they feel thoughtful and insightful, leaving you pondering the complexities of human nature long after you turn the final page. There’s a subtle layer of hope interwoven throughout the collection, even in the most tragic narratives, a glimmer of resilience, a possibility of redemption. It’s this balance between light and shadow, whimsy and dread, that elevates "Side Quest: Stories" beyond a simple collection of short stories and transforms it into a truly memorable reading experience.

If you're looking for a book that offers a diverse range of fantastical tales, each with its unique voice and emotional core, then look no further. "Side Quest: Stories" is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction, and honestly, for anyone who appreciates imaginative, well-crafted storytelling. I wholeheartedly recommend it. This is a collection I'll definitely be revisiting, and I eagerly anticipate Fiske’s future works.

See more: Honest review of My Brother's Keeper and Other Strange Tales