Chasing the Dragon

by Kathy Hoyle

Through exquisite prose and heartfelt storytelling, Hoyle weaves together the threads of sorrow and hope, inviting readers to join Maggie, Claire, and Judith on their emotional journey. From the heart-wrenching burial of their war hero father, to the tender moments of childhood innocence, each page resonates with raw authenticity.

Hoyle presents the reader with a remarkable portrayal of grief, exploring the complexities of familial relationships in a small-town community reeling from the after effects of The Vietnam War.

"Chasing the Dragon" is a masterfully crafted novella-in-flash that will tug at your heartstrings, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.

68 pages, Paperback

Published June 6, 2023

Reviews

[Matt Kendrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gut punch of a novella about the Vietnam war. This is a story layered with deep emotions that rivets and shocks in equal measure. Exploring themes of grief, trauma, family, honour, and what it means to be a hero, the narrative unfolds through multiple viewpoints, all written in beautifully evocative prose that brings situation and character to life in such a powerful way. Heart-breaking and unforgettable, this is a must-buy for fans of the novella-in-flash form as well as anyone who enjoys historical fiction or who is simply looking for a resonant story brilliantly told.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing. What a journey I've just been taken on, a rollacoaster of emotions. The story telling in flash so cleverly written as you weave in and out of all the characters who tell this heartfelt story. I couldn't put it down, will re read this and absorb every single word that kathy has put into my world.

[Bronwen Griffiths · Rating 5 out of 5]

A devastating novella about the Vietnam war, told from the point of view of the family involved in the aftermath of the war, the veteran himself, and the local community. The title refers to the heroin addiction many Vietnam vets fell into. A compelling novella-in-flash which is not an easy read but is an important one and Hoyle always remains humane, whatever, and whoever, she is speaking for.

[Nichole Beauchamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Gut punch of a book. Lots of different forms used, from factual info about drug use by soldiers in Vietnam to mythology to more traditional flash. Very convincing portrayals of angry, mean-hearted men and those caught in their wake. Tragic, sad, captivating.

[Zeina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful novella in flash with brilliant characters and great storytelling. The stories came to life while reading and I loved it!