The Other Side of the Door’


Fiction - Mystery - General
170 Pages
Reviewed on 12/04/2013
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Jill Vance worked as a ghost writer for many years before deciding the constraints of only writing about plots and characters chosen by others was too limiting. In 2013 she wrote the first book under her own name, The Other Side of the Door which is a collection of short stories with a twist in the tale.
Towards the end of 2014 Jill published her second book of short stories with a twist, Dark between Shadows.
This was closely followed, (1st January 2015), by a longer single short story called Wrapped With Thorns. This started life as a short story to be included in Dark between Shadows. However, as she wrote it, the story took on a life all its own and kept growing. It grew to the point it was too long to be included in the book and at that point it became a complete story all on its own.
Currently the third book of short stories with a twist is underway.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Lee Ashford for Readers' Favorite

The Other Side of the Door by Jill Vance is a curious collection of seventeen diverse and absorbing short stories. Some of these shorts have a paranormal aspect, while others are more along the lines of urban fiction. Still others represent a number of distinct genres. One thing this collection makes obvious is that Jill Vance has a far-reaching imagination, and the ability to create riveting tales. I was so engrossed in these stories that I was surprised when I realized I was on the final page. I think what had me so riveted was that the great diversity of stories exposed me to a number of genres I wouldn’t ordinarily read. I was pleasantly surprised to discover I stayed fully involved in each tale. Having said that, I am confident in predicting that anyone who reads this book will find stories to enjoy.

The Other Side of the Door is an apt title for this book. As the author notes in her introductory text, “You never know what’s on the other side of the door until you open it. It might be pleasant, it may be a shock, but one thing is for sure – it will be a surprise.” Those concise statements provide an appropriate description of this book, and nothing I can say would add a thing to her remarks. The Other Side of the Door is truly a book with something for everyone. Regardless of your usual interests, you will find at least one story herein touching upon that interest, along with several – perhaps many – other tales you may be surprised you enjoy. This book is an excellent way to “test drive” genres that may be new to you. I highly recommend this book for everybody. Even a reluctant reader will find stories in here to captivate their interest.

Phoebe Brown

I must say that I have enjoyed these short stories immensely. The author was very on spot with these stories and even though they were short they were very fun and interesting. I loved that she wrote so concise while giving me a complete story at the same time. The characters were all well developed and the plots were flawless. The best part is that she writes these stories so well that you can't help but to get lost in them and as one comes to an end you are just as excited to get started on the next one. Believe me, this is a must read and I look forward to more books and stories from this author.

Beyond the tree line

I have an hour commute to work and these short stories were perfect. The trip went by so fast. The stories are so well written. They all get right to the point but still give enough background to make each story interesting. Some are really short but you still never lose any of the story. There are so many twist and surprises which made me wanting more. These are all very quick reads and my favorite is "Cat Burglar", I've read it three times already. This book is perfect for anyone that wants something to read without having to stop at different parts of a book. You can read the entire book or a few stories at a time. Even if you don't care for short stories you will be pleased with this book especially if you enjoy mystery, a must read!

Sophie

I have never been big on short story collections, makes me think of school and studying English pros but this book was recommended to me y a friend and I have to say it really is a great read mainly due to the writers craft.

The book is a collection of seventeen short stories, with their own unique twists of playfulness, yes one or two are very short but this is an art in itself, to tell such a good story in so few words. The stories just flow and you find yourself racing along almost unable to put the book down, with The Wine Cellar being one of my favourites, but if truth be told they are all really good and I highly recommend if you're looking for something to read on a journey then this book is just perfect.

Buckeyegirl

This collection of short stories is great if you want lots of action in a quick read. The author weaves a intriguing and mysterious tale with every story that leaves the reader guessing what will happen next. Each story has its own mood as we encounter many twists and turns. Some of the stories have a darker, edgy feel as they deal with the supernatural and death. The stories are well written and the characters are well developed despite the relatively little space that author used for each story.

As another reviewer already mentioned this book does have many stories that are full of moral lessons or go with the theme of an old adage such as things are not always what they appear. The majority of these characters are likable people and they feel real as the author gives us glimpses into their thoughts. The author does execute her stories in such a way that it is hard to predict the ending, unlike so many writers now a days.

I also enjoyed that the book was written from a different perspective than I am used which is that of a European. While I have read numerous pieces of British literature (being an English major and all) these are generally the more classic literature collections and I have not read much contemporary literature by European authors. As an American looking in, I enjoyed all the little details about Europe that we in the States can't regularly experience. I have a weakness for the charms of the Old World, I suppose.

If you are looking for a bit of mystery and suspense for your summer reading The Other Side of the Door is a great place to start.

Danielle D.

I love short stories, and this book was a winner.

Short stories that leave you guessing and wondering what the outcome will be. Moral lessons are entwined throughout each story, and each are excellent on their own and will be fun to retell over and over.

I am always looking for short, moral stories to share around the dinner table and I will definitely be reaching for this one time and time again.

Yvonne Crawford

First I have to say that the author is very creative and clever with these short stories. Never could I imagine how they would end, which is awesome! I love the unexpected which made these fun to read. I also really liked the way the author writes in general. The tempo of the stories were perfect and her writing is very fluid. The plots were tightly written.

My favorite story was Freedom in Mind. It made me laugh because I kind of know a character like Linda. The ending was great! I giggled and then I couldn't wait to dive into the next story.

The length of these stories are perfect because I would read between one and three every night. Just a nice little winding down time before bed. I'll be on the lookout for more from this author!

Cathy

A friend recommended this book and I am really glad she did because I enjoyed it. The stories are great and you really don't know how it will end until the last minute. I liked it so much I bought more as gifts.

Linda

I read this book and loved it. So much in fact I have just finished reading it for a second time. Each story has its own twists and turns and totally unexpected endings. I read a different story at night or occasionally on a journey. I hope the author publishes another book soon. Really did enjoy this one. Cost a lot less than one of my usual weekly magazines but a lot more enjoyable.... and no pages and pages of adverts!!!

alav

I loved this book and simply couldn't put it down, each story carefully crafted, full of suspense, intrigue and a twist in the tale. A must read, will be looking out for other titles by this author.

Andrew Beacom

Perfect for picking up and reading a little or a lot. Loved it and looking forward to more of the same.

Julie W

If you remember and enjoyed 'Tales of the unexpected' on TV from years ago then you will love this collection of short stories based mostly around crime and punishment.

They all have a twist to them and most keep you guessing to the end. Crime is covered well and it's a quick fix as all the stories are a quick read, Ideal for travelling on the train or in a car as a passenger

Each story is easy to read and get into and each story is quite different. The writer certainly has a good imagination.

Recommended :)

Ryan

“The Other Side of the Door” by Jill Vance is a singular collection of seventeen different and engaging short stories. Some of these shorts have a paranormal aspect while others are more along the lines of urban fiction.

I was pleasantly surprised to discover I stayed fully involved in each tale. Having said that, I am confident in predicting that anyone who reads this book will find stories to enjoy.