"I was captivated and intrigued where the next story may take me"

"This is a razor sharp and powerful short story collecting. Weaving real historical events, with the author's adoration for the country, this is a wonderful collection and tribute to Bulgaria."

- Goodreads review

"To Venice" - short story

I meet her on the vaporetto.

“First time in Venice?” she asks.

“Yes. I’m scouting out locations for a new film,” I reply, but then immediately regret revealing too much information. I stand near the rail, glancing at the warehouses on the waterfront as our water bus speeds toward its docking at St. Mark’s Square. I turn back to her. “What about you?”

“I’ve been here several times before,” she says. “But I keep returning.”

“I detect a British accent.”

“London.” She covers her mouth and coughs, and then says, “Born and raised there. And you? American, no doubt.”

“New York. Born and raised there.”

This makes her laugh. For the first time, I take a good look at her. Fortyish, I assume, perhaps a few years younger than me. Tall, slim, with a very pleasant face and brownish hair held tight in a youthful ponytail. Casual slacks and blouse, slightly more elegant than my own blue jeans and T-shirt emblazoned with ‘Italy’ on a tricolor flag. No wedding ring noticeable, which makes me subconsciously cover mine. Then, realizing I’m staring, I turn away, glancing at the other passengers on the morning boat ride.

Read the rest of the story on Libre.

"Many of these stories are emotional and heartfelt"

"I had never heard of Rakiya before, but I became quickly acquainted with the knowledge that it’s a type of alcohol, or fruit spirits. Rakiya is consistently present in this short story collection. It is either the main focus of the story, as in the story titled, Rakiya, or briefly mentioned as a modest character. This book contains an impressive 12 short stories.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to read and review Rakiya. Ellis Shuman is a talented storyteller who eloquently brought Bulgaria and its characters to life. Many of these stories are emotional and heartfelt. I appreciate learning about this beautiful country and its history. "

Read the full review on A Book and A Dog

"Enjoyed my introduction to Bulgaria and can highly recommend"

"I have never visited Bulgaria and I was intrigued when I read another review for this collection by the promise of great characters, historical elements and wonderful writing.

"My expectations were met as I read the stories covering not just the history and culture of Bulgaria and its countrymen and women, but how strong and resilient they have had to be across their long and sometimes turbulent history."

Read the full review on Smorgasbord Book Reviews

"Place becomes almost like another character"

"Rakiya: Stories of Bulgaria give us a glimpse into the history, culture, politics, people, and traditions of Bulgaria with the most extraordinary characters and settings.

"Shuman vividly portrays Bulgaria in all its richness and beauty, the gorgeous baked goods and winning drinks whilst also showing its flaws and hardships.

"Wonderful stories."

Read the full review on Goodreads.

"I wish Ellis could continue his beautiful storytelling."

"I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was sad to see it end. I wish Ellis could continue his beautiful storytelling.

"They say books help you travel the world from the comforts of your home and with Rakiya: Stories of Bulgaria this saying is totally achievable.

"Each story was well-researched, and the characters were engaging. Choosing my favorites wasn’t possible, as each story was special in itself."

Read the full review on Chapter Chats With Caroline.

Interview with me - Lisa Haselton Book Reviews & Interviews

"I lived in Sofia, Bulgaria, for two years. In addition to exploring the country, I learned the story of how Bulgarian Jewry survived the Holocaust. I knew that when I began writing short stories set in Bulgaria, I wanted to include a story about this period in Bulgarian history. I am not a writer of historical fiction, so I approached this subject in a different way. The story is 'Forgiveness.'"

Read the full interview on Lisa Haselton Book Reviews & Interviews.

My books is being read in Nigeria!

Thanks to Obiahu Blessing Chidiebere for publishing a wonderful review on D'Lit Review!

https://dlitreview.com/rakiya-ellis-shuman-book-review/