Promise of Shelter

Britta Santowski is a freelance writer in Victoria, British Columbia.

The central theme of this collection of eight short stories is the clash
between female autonomy and romantic/familial relationships. In
“Shelter,” a mother’s trip to and from the corner store
encompasses the conflicts of motherhood, the chill of illness and death,
and the satisfaction of regaining control of one’s own life. “Unlit
Water” explores conflicting identities as expressed by Miriam, mother
of two and smothered wife. In the collection’s most intricate tale,
“Accept My Story,” the protagonist explores her own distorted
reflections on a childhood friend. There isn’t a wasted word in these
complex stories; with each successive reading, they yield fresh layers
of meaning.