Devil's Darning Needle

Britta Santowski is a freelance writer in Victoria, B.C.

Linda Holeman offers a layered tapestry of memorable characters in this
collection of nine short stories, most of which have their roots planted
in the Canadian Prairies. And though the stark influence of the Prairies
resonates throughout this work, Holeman demonstrates artistic
versatility by incorporating a wide range of experiences: urban, rustic,
domestic, and international.

The characters are captivating. The gloomy obsessive lesbian in
“Willow” summons fear and intrigue as she enmeshes herself in
another woman’s life. In “Eva’s Mirror,” Eva’s aging face
begins “to close in upon itself,” and we, through her husband, watch
Eva fade. “When Birdie Came,” Birdie, the black cleaning woman from
Trinidad, fills the gaping emptiness in Nadine’s hollow soul.

Holeman’s stories are further enriched by her ability to use
characters as the readers’ lens. In “The Summer Goldie Died,”
cousin Barb becomes the means of capturing a glimpse of life in the
countryside. A city visitor, Barb (and through Barb, the reader)
observes the actual topography of these traditionally idyllic and calm
pastures.

By layering character development through the perspectives and
experiences of other characters, Holeman offers a multifaceted look at
the ordinary. Her skilful application of rich landscape and colorful
characters has resulted in this memorable collection.