**** Define Love Review by Rox Burkey
Author Karen Black delivers a twisted love and insanity relationship in this fast-paced short story. Ethan is the target of domestic violence by his wife of ten years, Rochelle.
As the backdrop for the story, the harm domestic violence inflicts upon a family is heartbreaking. The twists and turns give the reader pause and relief in rapid succession.
“Rochelle, however, was still asleep. She continued to snore softly as he tiptoed past the bed. The closet door slid open without a sound. Careful not to rattle the hangers, he pulled a shirt and a pair of pants from the rack, and crossed the room to retrieve his socks and underwear.
Relieved that his wife was asleep, Ethan still paused at the foot of the bed. Rochelle’s ebony hair covered the side of her face, but it didn’t hide her full red lips. Ethan shivered at the memory of what those lips had done just days before. The woman was as sensual as she was volatile.
With a sigh, Ethan shuffled into the bathroom to shower and shave. Dressed and ready to leave for the office, he sneaked around the bed to get his wallet and keys from the dresser. As he slid the wallet into his pocket, Rochelle sat up.”
The characters are believable, and the plotline is done to perfection. It is a sad story and yet one that likely occurs more often than you might thinks. Passions can work for and against a relationship. Author Black itemizes what can happen when sanity and logic are gone in an instant. I recommend this thoughtful quick read along with other works by Karen Black.
About the Author:
Karen Black lives in the eastern United States with her husband and various critters, wild and domestic. Hobbies include herb gardening, wildlife watching, and winemaking, though all are put on hold when she’s caught up in a story. With a lifelong affection for animals, a fascination with the supernatural, and a background in criminal justice, the author draws on experience as well as imagination to create stories that are believable, unique, and entertaining. Expect the unexpected.
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2 replies to "Treacherous Love"
This story affected me strongly. I love that Karen told the story from the man’s POV. It showed his reasons for staying in an abusive situation. I agree with you. It is well written and compelling! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on it!
Jan, you are so sweet to stop by. Thank you.