Short Stories

Now Available from JMS Books

An unexpected snowstorm brings about a surprise reunion when two young men find themselves at the mercy of nature’s whim.

Jesse Ostermann’s scenic detour in the family’s new motorcar becomes treacherous when snowflakes start to fall. But a gallant savior shows up to offer assistance. Memories and longings are rekindled as the two hunker down against the howling winds in an Annapolis blanketed in white.

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This is a sweet sexy story of friends to lovers and love lost and reunited. I loved it!  ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

–MM Good Book Reviews

A really sweet coming-of-age short about eighteen year old Jesse Ostermann reconnecting with a best friend, Newton ‘Fig’ Brabinger. The story is sweet, charming, and warm. 

—On Top Down Under Book Reviews

Also worth mentioning [is] Barry Brennessel’s turn-of-the-century [tale], which features two snowbound boys keeping themselves warm as best they can.

—Out in Print

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Now Available from JMS Books

For Jeremy Saura, music helps reassure him as he faces challenges from the often frustrating yet exciting uncertainties of life. Friendship, a potential new romance, and especially a favorite song drive him onward.

It’s 1986. A new job. New technology. New fears. It often feels like too much. But there is reassurance in song. One piece in particular touches his soul. Jeremy gets chills as he listens to the lyrics, a beautiful powerhouse of determination over despair that only gains in impact as he replays it. Something he desperately needs to give him the momentum to navigate the trials and tribulations of work life, a complex friendship, and a budding romance.

For Jeremy, music is on the top of his list of the keynotes to survival.

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Barry so eloquently captured the rhythms of the mid-80s – the big changes that were beginning in the role of technology and media in our lives in new ways, the tentative steps being taken by many towards living an authentic life and the horror and fear surrounding the AIDS epidemic.  Listening to Jeremy’s inner dialogue and slightly sarcastic nature literally felt like I was stepping back in time.  I loved his voice in this story.  Once again, I am in awe of Barry’s talent in bringing to life characters in what I can only describe as movie-like story.  Read this story. You won’t be disappointed.

—The Armchair Reader

I have a fondness for this author’s books as they often manage to blend the serious with gentle humour. This book was no exception.

Overall, this was a bit of a trip down memory lane for me but was intertwined with a nicely written romance and I’d definitely recommend the story to those who remember the 1980s.

—Jenre for Brief Encounters Reviews

“…a quality short read that delivers humour, a bit of sexy, thoughtful moments, and a positive outlook.”

—On Top Down Under Book Reviews