As a common theme of the twenty-five short stories of "Small Steps," lives are seen as being determined by these small steps. The collection encompasses happenings in different places and times, ranging from early nineteenth century Italy or America to contemporary accounts either in America or South America. Several present the many facets of love. In some cases, unusual responses of a man or a woman are guided by unexpected expressions of love. For example, a disturbed Viet Nam veteran after witnessing the birth of a girl becomes a hidden, one-man protection squad while she is growing up. He saves her from a number of situations including a kidnapping and possible murder. In another story, a girl is being trained as a trickster by her grandfather. In trying to con a young man she falls in love with him. Many other yarns have different twists and turns. Six are mystery/adventure stories having surprising denouements.