Author: Jeffrey Archer
Other works: ’Kane And Abel’, ‘Not A Penny More,
Not A Penny Less’
Synopsis:
A collection of 12 short stories, nine of which are based
on stories he heard while in prison.
1.
"The Man Who Robbed
His Own Post Office"- A couple decide to rob their own post office so as
to retrieve their hard earned money.
2.
"Maestro"- A
master chef and his tax evading antics.
3.
"Don't Drink the
Water"- A husband plotting the death of his wife.
4.
"It Can't Be
October Already"-A man who makes an annual “visit” to prison.
5.
"The Red King"-How
a man came to represent both competing parties in an auction for an item which
belonged to him.
6.
"The Wisdom of
Solomon"-A divorce case
7.
"Know What I
Mean?"-A smuggler’s tale.
8.
"Charity Begin at
Home"-The noble accountant.
9.
"The Alibi"-How
a prisoner murdered his wife.
10.
"A Greek
Tragedy"-A Greek wedding.
11.
"The
Commissioner"-An ex-con turns a new leaf.
12.
"In the Eye of the
Beholder"- Why a football star married a stout lady.
Note: None of the stories make a lasting impression. Jeffrey Archer’s
greatest gift is his narrative skill. He rarely got a chance to use it. In a
short story, it is the plot that matters and he has been found wanting in this
direction.
The fact that most of the stories
were those heard from prison means that most of the protagonists end up in
jail. This takes the sting off the plot.
Plus Points: None that I can think of.
Things to ponder: “It Can’t Be October Already”. Is it
based on an O.Henry short
story? Why has Cat O’ Nine Tales got 12 tales?
Remark: Archer should stick to novels.
Who should read this: Die-hard fans of Jeffrey Archer.
Who shouldn’t read this: Those who don’t want to waste their
time and money.
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