Short Story, Blood Red, by FC Malby
I’ve been recording readings of short stories and extracts of my work to SoundCloud. You don’t need an account to listen. I’ve recently added one of my longer and earlier short stories, which you can download as an eBook.
Set in Jaipur, India, this story reveals the hidden tensions in the mind of a young boy as he has to let go of the girl he loves for an unknown young bride, chosen by his parents. As the wedding day approaches, will he be able to follow his parents’ wishes in the face of his passion and quiet desperation?
Reader review:
Top review from United Kingdom
5.0 out of 5 stars Two Hearts Broken and Bleeding
“The title of this book is very rich in symbolism, and the story true depth. Two young hearts filled with a love that can never be, left facing a life of emptiness they have not chosen. It is easy to imagine their hearts left broken and bleeding. These two young people have no choice but to be obedient to their families and their traditional ways of life. The first line of the story reads: “Her, sari, the colour of blood, caught the breeze as she turned and walked away”. He knows that is the last memory he will ever have of the love of his life and is prepared to carry it forever. What a stunning start to a story! This story continues so full of emotion and is delicately written. It was very easy to empathize with the character right at the start. It takes a great talent to drag me in so quickly. I felt the pain as he did. This book can turn even the most hardened bachelor into a romantic! The story may be short, but the memory will last on.”
F.C. MALBY 