Stories Between Us
Author: Bissme S.
Publisher: Fixi Nova
ISBN: 9786297693774
Some books entertain, while others invite readers to pause and reflect on the quiet moments that shape everyday life. Stories Between Us by Bissme S. belongs to the latter category. Rather than relying on dramatic plot twists or grand adventures, the author explores the emotional landscapes that exist between ordinary people—the conversations, silences, memories and relationships that define what it means to be human.
The title itself offers an important clue. These are not simply stories about individuals, but stories that exist "between us"—within families, friendships, communities and even between strangers whose lives briefly intersect. It is in these shared spaces that Bissme finds both conflict and compassion.
The book's attraction is its accessibility. The prose is clear, unpretentious and conversational, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the characters without being distracted by elaborate literary flourishes. Yet beneath this apparent simplicity lies careful observation. The author notices the small details—a gesture, a forgotten promise, an awkward silence—that often reveal more about a person.
The collection, featuring 18 stories, follows along the line of the Arabian Nights where the Queen of Fire dictates to the writer to write her 18 stories in 18 days if he wants to stay alive. These stories cover considerable emotional range. Some stories carry warmth and gentle humour, like “The God of Rain” reminding readers that joy often emerges from life's simplest moments. Others like “His Wife, My Wife, Our Wives”, “A Stranger to Myself" and “Ocean” venture into disappointment, loneliness or regret, showing how people struggle with expectations, loss and changing relationships. Throughout, however, there is an underlying sense of hope, as inspired by the symbol of, or the mention of the unicorn that appears throughout the book. Even when characters face difficult circumstances, the narratives suggest that understanding and empathy remain possible.
That's Bissme's way of telling his readers that although his stories are mostly grim and depressing, he wants to offer them hope in the end.
The author also succeeds in creating believable characters. They are rarely portrayed as heroes or villains but as ordinary individuals making imperfect decisions. Their strengths and weaknesses feel authentic, making it easy for readers to recognise aspects of themselves or people they know. This authenticity gives the stories lasting emotional resonance.
Another notable aspect of the collection is its pacing. Most stories unfold gradually, allowing emotions to develop naturally instead of forcing dramatic conclusions.
Readers looking for fast-moving action may find the pace deliberately restrained, but those who appreciate character-driven storytelling will likely enjoy the quiet confidence with which each narrative progresses.
The themes explored are universal: family, belonging, memory, forgiveness, identity crisis and the passage of time. Readers from different backgrounds can connect with the dilemmas faced by the characters because they arise from experiences shared across cultures.
What makes Stories Between Us particularly appealing is its invitation to reflect. Many stories linger after the final page, encouraging readers to reconsider their own relationships and the conversations left unfinished. The book reminds us that life's defining moments are not always spectacular. Often, they occur in ordinary encounters that only reveal their significance in hindsight.
If there is a limitation, it is that readers seeking high suspense or complex, interconnected plots may find the understated approach less compelling.
The book is designed less to thrill than to observe, less to astonish than to illuminate everyday humanity.
Ultimately, Stories Between Us is a thoughtful and heartfelt collection that celebrates the connections binding people together. Bissme S. demonstrates that powerful storytelling does not require extraordinary events. Sometimes the most memorable stories are those that mirror our own lives, reminding us that every relationship contains untold narratives waiting to be understood. It is a quietly rewarding read that leaves a lasting impression through its empath and deep appreciation for the human experience.
The book retails at RM28.00 and is available online directly through the Buku Fixi Novo Stories Between Us - Shopee Malaysia listing, the Buku Fixi Novo - Stories Between Us - KotaBuku platform, or via Stories Between Us: S., Bissme: Amazon.de: Bücher for international orders.
Review copy courtesy of Pixi Nova.