CONCLUSION: A Fictional Ending to a Somewhat True Story

Everyone has experienced an encounter, an awkward situation, or has been involved in an incident with another person that has never been resolved. It could be as simple as a misunderstanding, a rumour-mill mis-share, or the taking of parallel paths that never had a chance to cross and untangle the mix-up. What if we could wrap up those niggling concerns that tend to plague us for most of our lives? Is it possible to make amends with a parent before it’s too late? Is there any way to mend a broken fence with a neighbour? And, can a relationship that went off the rails, and screeched to a grinding halt, get back on track?
We will never get our day in court to fully explain, and there’s no jury to assess all of the details and then to rule in favour of one or the other. And even then, our take of what happened would be based on our personal perspective and our subjective interpretation. There won’t be a reconstruction of how something played out so that the other person can witness an alternative angle to the event, which would be more in sync with our own sensibilities, rather than with theirs.
So, when Trina gets a call from Liz, there may be a chance to finally reveal the truth. But whose?
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C.A. O’Brien has worked as a professional writer and editor for more than four decades, contributing to major newspapers and publications, as well as editing a series of magazines for a well-known publishing company. Since her retirement, she is dedicated to her craft of writing essays, poetry, short stories and fiction. caobrien.ca

Reviews for Conclusion:

5.0 out of 5 stars for CONCLUSION: A Fictional Ending to a Somewhat True Story

Oh, the tranquil, tremulous and turbulent waters of relationships. When to acknowledge the truth and turmoil below and when to just go with the flow. We’ve all been there, but I’ve never seen this dilemma dealt with as well as O’Brien does in this book. So much rang true. I appreciated the first-person perspective which includes Trina’s honest questioning of her own motives and actions. When to risk and why. The tension is real and kept me turning the pages, hoping…

S. Whelehan

A wonderful read. The character of Trina is so believable and relatable. O’Brien creates situations leaving the reader turning the pages to discover how Trina, a likeable but fallible character, will resolve.

S. Tromanhauser

At some point in all of our lives we are faced with a dilemma that carries a heavy burden and feels like we are trapped in a catch 22. The truth often costs our friendships, loved ones and ultimately for ourselves dearly. This ‘can’t put it down’ book dives deep into the protagonist’s quest for clarity and truth with the hopes of reconciliation. Thank you for a great read.

C. Massey