The Sense of Blood Ink

Nick Spill's "The Sense of Blood Ink: Nine Stories About Love" is a mesmerizing collection that delves into the heart of human relationships in a post-pandemic world. The titular novella follows Zacharias Hideman, a successful but isolated fantasy author, whose life is turned upside down by the arrival of Alexandrina, a young woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to the heroine of his novels. Their passionate affair leads to a startling revelation that will challenge everything they thought they knew about love, family, and identity.

Surrounding this central story are eight additional tales that showcase Spill's versatility as a storyteller. From the bittersweet memories of "Amanda, Goya, St. Francis, Joni Mitchell, and Ma Bell" to the playful literary musings of "Mel Comes to the Mountain or Chekhov and Mayonnaise," each story offers a unique perspective on love and human connection. Spill's characters navigate the complexities of relationships against backdrops ranging from Cold War espionage to New Zealand's art scene.

With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human heart, Spill crafts stories that are at once intimate and universal. "The Sense of Blood Ink" is a poignant exploration of love in all its forms - romantic, familial, forbidden, and everything in between. This collection serves as a testament to the enduring power of human connection, even in the face of isolation and adversity, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever loved, lost, or longed for understanding in an increasingly complex world.