The Cats of Savone

“Most novels begin their lives as short stories. Writing, much like any gift, skill, habit, or hope, is strengthened through practice, training, and exercise. The short story is the stretching and dedication to a running regime long before the marathon. It is the repetition of scales on the piano, years before the recital.” – David-Michael Harding

The Cats of Savone is an exemplary collection of stories from the pen of author David-Michael Harding. Eight short stories and novellas make up his first installment in The Completely Abridged Series – Short Novels for Busy People. The title story is the PEN International Winner, The Cats of Savone, which follows a pregnant cat beneath a mammoth steel gate into the exercise yard of the Savone Correctional Facility. The hardened convicts in the maximum security prison adopt the cat as much as she adopts them. But an accident in the prison leads to murder and a host of tough choices for tough men – inmates and guards.

Additional stories provide glimpses into the life of a man who has gone through a lifetime of labels – retarded in the 50’s, handicapped in the 70’s, and now with special needs – Jonny Archer finds himself on an unlikely trip in The Junket. The Jazz Bridge chronicles the history and anniversary of an ordinary bridge in an ordinary town as something extraordinary happens. The collection is rounded out by My Boo Radley and the high school baseball pitcher who learns lessons from an old fan who the world viewed as a monster.

For fans of David-Michael Harding, these shorts and novellas are glimpses into the stories, talent, passion, and personalization his rich characters are layered in. Readers care about the people in a Harding story. You’ll cheer and jeer – laugh and cry as you enjoy these engrossing shorts.

Amazon Goodreads

The story of Henry Bass, very interesting, the history in this story. Felt like I was listening to my grandpa tell a story. I read many books and have never read a collection like this all in one book. So very different. Excellent writing and keeping the attention of the reader. Most writers get stuck on one thing or are known for just one kind of book. You definitely know what to expect as far as Horror or Science fiction, Romance etc. But this writer has been able to cross the lines and touch them all. I am looking forward to the sequel to Cherokee Talisman. Also a volume 2 , to “The Cats Of Savone.” David-Michael Harding , remember that name when you want a good book to read.

Diane

Amazon

Wow! What a fantastic read! I especially loved the diversity of the short stories. The author truly offers the reader such a broad spectrum from which to choose, depending on what type of mood you are in & how much time you have! The Cats of Savone was right up my alley (cat!). The stories were so intriguing, I didn’t want them to end and am hoping a few become a full-length novels! I really enjoy books that are well balanced in accurate historical references and characters with whom you begin to care about & understand as you turn the pages, this is exactly what I found with these 8 short novels.

C Y

Amazon

I really enjoyed all of these stories. I think both young and old would enjoy these stories and yes the diversity, they are all so different with totally different story lines. It’s hard to say for sure but I think My Boo Radley is my favorite! It makes me think of the little league days where all my brothers played and I remember watching them and of course going to the concession stand and just hanging out there with my girlfriends! Although The Junket was a close second and very good too. The two main characters were so endearing and portrayed very well. A little bit sad but overall very good. I really enjoyed all the stories. I love the idea of short stories… after all these are “8 short novels for busy people” and that they are!

Book fanatic

Amazon

David Harding’s latest offering gives readers many choices. Usually when I read short stories, they are centered around a theme, not so with Harding. His 8 short novels will capture you, starting with the title offering which takes place in a prison on the east coast. Later in the book the setting moves to Las Vegas,where you will meet another of Harding’s fully realized narrators in “The Junket”. The middle short novels include a Civil War tale and even a sci-fi thriller. I enjoyed skipping around his potluck of stories and would highly recommend these 8 short novels.

Sweetpea

Amazon

Great book. It consists of eight very creative and entertaining short stories, each of which can be read in an hour or two. The diversity of topics and subject matter showcases Harding’s versatility.

Jonathon Thomas

Amazon