A Quiver full of arrows by Jeffrey Archer

Its not often that I read short stories , but for some reason I was compelled to read this one. Maybe its because my cluster mate at office had it , maybe it was because I was going home early that day and wanted something to read, but whatever the reason I brought home A Quiver full of arrows, a collection of short stories by Jeffrey Archer, and started reading it and I didn't stop until I read all 12 short stories in one go. Although by the same author the stories are varied and thoroughly enjoyable. The most pleasing thing about the book is how well the author has blended the stories with true stories taken from history. This lens is pretty much a summary of Quiver full or arrows and I hope I convince you to read the whole thing because it really is a great read. I didn't write much in the description because it wouldn't be that great of you know the story beforehand and my favorite one of the all is "old love".

1) The Chinese Statue

The first story takes you from modern times to ancient China where a casual remark from the British ambassador makes him an owner of rare piece of art from China. You can learn about some Chinese traditions and makes you a bit vary of giving casual remarks

2) The Luncheon

This is funny story and shows desperate things people can do to achieve what they want to achieve. And also shows that if your not properly informed you can lose money for unnecessary things.

3) The Coup

Two people who have being business rivals for years check into the same hotel in another country. A coup takes place and they are stuck in the hotel for few days and discover a lot about themselves

4) The First Miracle

This is one of stories that fills those holes in history. If you are a Christian you can guess some characters of the story halfway down the story but I double you can guess the main character until you come to the end of story.

5) The Perfect Gentleman

A card games changes a life of a man and helps him get over his trouble, but did he really won it or does the compassion shown by his rival changes his life ? Very intriguing story.

6) One Night Stand

Two people who were friends for a long time desires one woman and who will get her ? Can the desire of a woman brake even the best of friendships ? Maybe they can , if nothing else you can get an insight of how women think

7) The Century

Another story that is gently blended in with history. It helps if you have some understanding about the game of Cricket otherwise you might find it a bit difficult to understand the terms used in this short story.

8) Broken Routine

Some people are just used to routines and when there routine is broken you just might find them doing crazy things. This is such a story although the story line might sound a bit familiar.

9) Henry's Hiccup

A rich man who is used to have everything done for him finds that the things have changed after the war and pleasing his wife with the luxuries isn't as easy anymore

10) A Matter of Principle

An honest man who succeed because of hard work and good work ethics finds himself in a position where his ethics might hinder the progress of his company. Who will win ? The ethics or the company or is it just that he doesn't get a hint

11) The Hungarian Professor

An old professor gone crazy or a brilliant professor who travels the world through the aid of books.

12) Old Love

My favorite short story is also the last story. Two undergraduates with a bitter rivalry but the circumstances leads them to be lovers who start a memorable love story and two people who couldn't be separated for more than few hours even in death. A great finish to a great collection of short stories

I already voted for "Old Love", which one is yours ?

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