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Parthenium's Year
“Value not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver.”
Spencer Wolfe has finished college and returns to his hometown with no idea what he’ll do next. Unexpectedly, he meets a girl he has never seen before, which doesn’t happen often in Oak Green, Missouri. She is unlike anyone Spencer has ever met. She speaks by sharing quotes and stories. She looks at the world with wonder, having recently ventured off her family’s property for the first time.
Her name is Parthenium. Spencer is drawn to her because, in spite of her peculiar childhood, she overflows with sensitivity and perception. She also has a mysterious eagerness to achieve, and when Spencer discovers why, his life is suddenly set on a new course.
Parthenium’s Year, a novella of 15,000 words, is a story of the true nature of gifts. Not gifts born of wealth, but rather gifts born of love, and of imagination, and perhaps even magic.
Spencer Wolfe has finished college and returns to his hometown with no idea what he’ll do next. Unexpectedly, he meets a girl he has never seen before, which doesn’t happen often in Oak Green, Missouri. She is unlike anyone Spencer has ever met. She speaks by sharing quotes and stories. She looks at the world with wonder, having recently ventured off her family’s property for the first time.
Her name is Parthenium. Spencer is drawn to her because, in spite of her peculiar childhood, she overflows with sensitivity and perception. She also has a mysterious eagerness to achieve, and when Spencer discovers why, his life is suddenly set on a new course.
Parthenium’s Year, a novella of 15,000 words, is a story of the true nature of gifts. Not gifts born of wealth, but rather gifts born of love, and of imagination, and perhaps even magic.
70 pages, Paperback
Published November 15, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 31, 2017
"Value not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver."
Just being written by Stan, I knew I'd love it!
Beautifully described, unique not that much a love story but the meaning behind the nearly utopian way of living of a family, enigmatic and magical. A bitter sweet ending, that only Stan can permit it.
What I found unique also was the way Parthenium, the girl speaks, expressing herself with quotes: a wonderful way Stan has expressed the feelings in each and every moment of the story, the names of her siblings...it's all beautiful!
Just being written by Stan, I knew I'd love it!
Beautifully described, unique not that much a love story but the meaning behind the nearly utopian way of living of a family, enigmatic and magical. A bitter sweet ending, that only Stan can permit it.
What I found unique also was the way Parthenium, the girl speaks, expressing herself with quotes: a wonderful way Stan has expressed the feelings in each and every moment of the story, the names of her siblings...it's all beautiful!
October 29, 2017
This is a sweet romance story with a difference. Parthenium is a very well-educated (home schooled) and talented twenty year old girl from a reclusive family, who has never stepped outside her family’s farm before. She meets Spencer, a twenty-three year old boy, who has yet to decide what he wants to do with his life. Spencer is captivated by Parthenium’s quirkiness: “I imagine you think I’m strange. But how would I know what normal is?”. Spencer is the first non-related young male that Parthenium has met. They fall in love. Parthenium has come out into the world to make her mark on it. She has exactly one year to do that, before she dies at twenty-one – as have six of her siblings before her. Spencer decides to make Parthenium his life mission, to either postpone her death, or to make her time left on earth worthwhile and meaningful.
There is a lot of beauty and magic in this book – in the language used and in the objects created by both Parthenium and Spencer. Parthenium speaks in perfectly chosen quotations (references at the end of the book) and asserts: “Spencer, in this story, I am the poet, you are the poetry.”
Parthenium’s family seem to have stepped straight out of a fairy-tale. She and her twenty-three siblings have mystical origins, and the family tradition of making “Sin Eaters” sets them well apart from the rest of the world.
The expected shortened lifespan of the siblings concentrates all their energies into preparing themselves for a momentous twenty-first (and final) year. Each has particular, highly honed talent (Parthenium has three!) to ensure they will have an impact on the world beyond their short life. They are destined to be very high achievers – but you have to ask yourself, if they will have actually lived. At least Parthenium finds love.
Beyond the romance, the book makes you think about what makes a worthwhile life. Is it your achievements? Happiness? Love? Wealth? Health? If you know when your life will end, will you pack more in? A bucket-list? Is a long life ever more meaningful or desirable than a short, concentrated life?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review
There is a lot of beauty and magic in this book – in the language used and in the objects created by both Parthenium and Spencer. Parthenium speaks in perfectly chosen quotations (references at the end of the book) and asserts: “Spencer, in this story, I am the poet, you are the poetry.”
Parthenium’s family seem to have stepped straight out of a fairy-tale. She and her twenty-three siblings have mystical origins, and the family tradition of making “Sin Eaters” sets them well apart from the rest of the world.
The expected shortened lifespan of the siblings concentrates all their energies into preparing themselves for a momentous twenty-first (and final) year. Each has particular, highly honed talent (Parthenium has three!) to ensure they will have an impact on the world beyond their short life. They are destined to be very high achievers – but you have to ask yourself, if they will have actually lived. At least Parthenium finds love.
Beyond the romance, the book makes you think about what makes a worthwhile life. Is it your achievements? Happiness? Love? Wealth? Health? If you know when your life will end, will you pack more in? A bucket-list? Is a long life ever more meaningful or desirable than a short, concentrated life?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review
November 10, 2017
Delightful
A sweet, playful tale of love and mysteries in the Missouri Ozarks. I️ was privileged to have gotten a sample of this book as it was being written and couldn’t wait to read it. The ending is a bit sudden and leaves me wanting more but perhaps that’s not a bad thing for a writer. Overall a very good book.
A sweet, playful tale of love and mysteries in the Missouri Ozarks. I️ was privileged to have gotten a sample of this book as it was being written and couldn’t wait to read it. The ending is a bit sudden and leaves me wanting more but perhaps that’s not a bad thing for a writer. Overall a very good book.
May 19, 2022
I’m not a huge fan of short stories, or even novellas, because I typically like more character development, but I really enjoyed this novella. My lovely husband is a huge fan of the author and recommended it to me and I’m glad he did. The Templeton family are fascinating characters. Now I’m off to study Ozark folk ways. 😁
July 10, 2019
A true love story
I decided to read this book because I finished with The Infusion Series And The Bridgers Series. Also from Stan C Smith.
Although he usually writes bye-bye this is a coming-of-age love story. I thought it was so original and so simplistic and complicated at the same time. This author has quickly become my favorite author. This it’s a step away from the books he usually does and yet it is just as good. Although I did not understand how her mother had five more children after her father passed away but in order for a book to be good sometimes you have to suspend believe. I did and it was great. I would recommend this to anyone who loves quirky short story, Romances with a message or just something to pass the afternoon this is the book for you. I love that I know I said that already!
I decided to read this book because I finished with The Infusion Series And The Bridgers Series. Also from Stan C Smith.
Although he usually writes bye-bye this is a coming-of-age love story. I thought it was so original and so simplistic and complicated at the same time. This author has quickly become my favorite author. This it’s a step away from the books he usually does and yet it is just as good. Although I did not understand how her mother had five more children after her father passed away but in order for a book to be good sometimes you have to suspend believe. I did and it was great. I would recommend this to anyone who loves quirky short story, Romances with a message or just something to pass the afternoon this is the book for you. I love that I know I said that already!
October 30, 2017
Parthieniums Year was different than other books I have read by Stan Smith. Part love story part finding your self and what you have to offer. I loved it just as much as the other books he has written. The story line was unique, the characters were well developed and you could not help but love them. The book was a short story and I hated to see it end. Made me think after reading it. What if we only had a short amount of time would we find out passion and try and do it?
Can't wait to see what else Stan brings to use in the future. One of my favorite authors. Received an advanced copy or free for an unbiased and honest review.
Can't wait to see what else Stan brings to use in the future. One of my favorite authors. Received an advanced copy or free for an unbiased and honest review.
November 12, 2017
This story was really intriguing to me. Parthenium was so unique as a main character; how she spoke and the beliefs she held were totally interesting to me. I appreciated the mysticism of her family and its history. I also appreciated Spencer's ability to accept it, and accept her, despite his more pragmatic perspectives. I found Mr Smith's writing style to be engaging and his plot well executed. I look forward to reading more of his work.
November 2, 2017
Parthenium's Year is a standalone. This is a short quick read. The book blurb adequately describes the storyline so I'm not going to repeat that info here. Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride as you read. I received a copy of this book from the author and chose to leave a review for other readers.
November 15, 2017
I think this is a book that everyone should read.
This is the first Novella that really touched me. Don't get me wrong I did like other Novella's but this one really got to me.
You need an open mind when you read some things in the Novella.
I was not sure that I would like or understand this story and I am glad that I was wrong.
This is the first Novella that really touched me. Don't get me wrong I did like other Novella's but this one really got to me.
You need an open mind when you read some things in the Novella.
I was not sure that I would like or understand this story and I am glad that I was wrong.
November 4, 2017
Another wonderful story
A sweet and beautiful love story different than any other! Mr. Smith has used his gift of story telling to paint a picture of a love we all wish we had. Perhaps also a picture of the love we can give. Be sure to have a tissue handy!
A sweet and beautiful love story different than any other! Mr. Smith has used his gift of story telling to paint a picture of a love we all wish we had. Perhaps also a picture of the love we can give. Be sure to have a tissue handy!
June 25, 2018
Stan Smith is really talented
Parthenium’s Year is a fascinating and very original story. Smith writes well about important and provocative themes. He is thoughtful and creative. You might like it. I did.
Parthenium’s Year is a fascinating and very original story. Smith writes well about important and provocative themes. He is thoughtful and creative. You might like it. I did.
May 26, 2018
Beautiful story
What a beautiful story Stan Smith has written. Very different from others I’ve read of his, but that’s ok. All I can say is do yourself a favor and read this story
What a beautiful story Stan Smith has written. Very different from others I’ve read of his, but that’s ok. All I can say is do yourself a favor and read this story
May 23, 2019
Parthenium's Year
A magical look at life. From the eyes of two lovers. An the imagination they can create. You may forget the singer but don't forget her song. I loved it!!
A magical look at life. From the eyes of two lovers. An the imagination they can create. You may forget the singer but don't forget her song. I loved it!!
March 23, 2020
Spoke to my heart on several levels
Parthenium’s Year, a love story with a twist, spoke to my heart on several levels. A charming tale set in rural Missouri, the novella builds on the concepts of living each day to the fullest while leaving a positive impact on the lives of others. Enhanced by memorable quotes sprinkled throughout, one quote by Kempis, “a wise lover values not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver,” made me recall another favorite story of mine, The Gift of the Magi. I won’t spoil your enjoyment of this unique story by divulging the “twist,” but know that it results in a real page-turner and a quick read.
Parthenium’s Year, a love story with a twist, spoke to my heart on several levels. A charming tale set in rural Missouri, the novella builds on the concepts of living each day to the fullest while leaving a positive impact on the lives of others. Enhanced by memorable quotes sprinkled throughout, one quote by Kempis, “a wise lover values not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver,” made me recall another favorite story of mine, The Gift of the Magi. I won’t spoil your enjoyment of this unique story by divulging the “twist,” but know that it results in a real page-turner and a quick read.
May 11, 2022
Stan Smith's Masterpiece
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring, cited in Parthenium's Year
The above quote takes on even more significance when time is short. When time is short, as it is for Parthenium, every moment becomes a treasure. This book makes you see clearly the treasure of your loved ones - and that time is short and nothing is guaranteed for any of us. I've always said Stan Smith is a master storyteller, but Parthenium is his masterpiece.
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring, cited in Parthenium's Year
The above quote takes on even more significance when time is short. When time is short, as it is for Parthenium, every moment becomes a treasure. This book makes you see clearly the treasure of your loved ones - and that time is short and nothing is guaranteed for any of us. I've always said Stan Smith is a master storyteller, but Parthenium is his masterpiece.
November 6, 2022
When I finished reading this wonderful novella the first word that came to my mind was beautiful. I think that’s right, this is a beautiful tale full of imagination about, mainly, love. We follow Spencer who happens to meet a young woman named Parthenium. She has an unusual family, with an unusual history. The author mixes in some fantastical elements to a wondrous love story. I don’t want to give away too much of the story. It’s a great read to grab a copy and enjoy the ride that is magical, fantastical, yes beautiful, and sometimes bittersweet.
February 20, 2020
“Value not so much the gift of the lover as the love of the giver.”
If you are a fan of Stan C. Smith's writing, you will find Parthenium's Year quite different than his two great series written so far. This is a very short beautiful story you must read! After I finished, I wanted to give a copy to everyone I know. Don't miss this exceptional story.
"Forget the singer, but don't forget the song!"
If you are a fan of Stan C. Smith's writing, you will find Parthenium's Year quite different than his two great series written so far. This is a very short beautiful story you must read! After I finished, I wanted to give a copy to everyone I know. Don't miss this exceptional story.
"Forget the singer, but don't forget the song!"
December 13, 2024
What an absolutely phenomenal story! It's touching, lovely, and heartbreaking. So beautifully written and not to be missed. I loved all the quotes used in it; I even recognized some. Smith very helpfully adds a glossary of these at the end.
I don't read many short stories, but Smith writes them amazingly well and I read a lot of them.
I don't read many short stories, but Smith writes them amazingly well and I read a lot of them.
March 30, 2025
I had the privilege of meeting Stan Smith today at a local book fair and he is just the sweetest man who deserves ALL the praise! He convinced the to read this one, and I am so glad he did. This was such a beautiful novella, beautifully written, with some fun quirky aspects. The ending was so bittersweet but I loved every second of this ☺️🥹
February 7, 2026
Excellent soul-stretching read....
Everything Stan C. Smith has produced is inspiring. As confined as it is to its simple story parameters, this little vinette is possibly among his best broad-reaching conveyances, teaching in so many layers I expect I'll be revisiting it every year for the rest of my life! Excellent, inspiring, & satisfying.
Everything Stan C. Smith has produced is inspiring. As confined as it is to its simple story parameters, this little vinette is possibly among his best broad-reaching conveyances, teaching in so many layers I expect I'll be revisiting it every year for the rest of my life! Excellent, inspiring, & satisfying.
October 25, 2020
An emotional short story
I'd read this was a short "romance" and only picked it up because I love other works by this author. But, damn, it really got me. I was crying for about the whole last quarter of the story.
I'd read this was a short "romance" and only picked it up because I love other works by this author. But, damn, it really got me. I was crying for about the whole last quarter of the story.
January 3, 2021
Incredibly powerful
This novella is a true gem! I downloaded it because it was free, but I read it because I so enjoy Mr. Smith’s prose style. He doesn’t disappoint. It’s a quick, wonderfully inspiring read.
This novella is a true gem! I downloaded it because it was free, but I read it because I so enjoy Mr. Smith’s prose style. He doesn’t disappoint. It’s a quick, wonderfully inspiring read.
June 18, 2025
love…
I really enjoyed this short story (novella?). I really connected with both lead characters. I also felt the love the male lead felt for the female lead. Hard to pull off, but it worked here beautifully.
I really enjoyed this short story (novella?). I really connected with both lead characters. I also felt the love the male lead felt for the female lead. Hard to pull off, but it worked here beautifully.
December 17, 2025
Short and Sweet
This book was more of a novella than the novel I anticipated it would be. It was quite poignant, and nothing like the suspense thrillers I usually read. It was, however, a story I won't soon forget.
This book was more of a novella than the novel I anticipated it would be. It was quite poignant, and nothing like the suspense thrillers I usually read. It was, however, a story I won't soon forget.
February 9, 2025
Stunning!!
This book was awesome. It seemed a bit short, but it is well worth the read. I applaud the author.
This book was awesome. It seemed a bit short, but it is well worth the read. I applaud the author.
January 3, 2026
I LOVED this book. The setting is in the Missouri Ozarks with a family that seems out of time. I really enjoy folk art, music, and stories.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews