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SOOP’s Weekly Book Giveaway Program

Whether you’re looking to escape reality or deepen your understanding of our world, dive into SOOP’s remarkable collection of tales!

 

Introducing SOOP’s Weekly Book Giveaway Program, a unique program available for anyone willing to support our talented writers and established authors in their publishing journey. Discover new amazing writers, vote on the ones you want to see published, and possibly win an exciting new read.

Become a supporter by pressing VOTE on your favorite stories and enter a weekly drawing to win books from our catalog of hot and trending releases without any entry fee.

What are you waiting for? Every vote counts! Unlock your favorite stories today:

ImageTitleShort Story GenresTagsSummaryDatehf:tax:story_genreshf:tags
'Cherry Red' By Brianna Whitener
‘Cherry Red’ By Brianna Whitener, , Step into the memories of a man who longs for his past love. A love with the potential to last a lifetime if it weren’t tainted by alcoholism and an ultimatum. Instead he finds himself trying to move on only to be haunted by the cherished moments of a lingering love.September 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'Bumpty Bumpty Ben' By Cede Rubin
‘Bumpty Bumpty Ben’ By Cede Rubin, , A story of true love.September 23, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
' "The Midnight Caller" ' By Samiya Khan
‘ “The Midnight Caller” ‘ By Samiya Khan, , Chapter 1: A Chilling Message The city of Darkwood was known for its grim history, a place where secrets festered in the shadows and nightmares lurked around every corner. In this eerie setting, Detective Alex Monroe received a call that would plunge him into a case unlike any other. It was a rainy night when his phone rang. The voice on the other end was distorted, the words spoken in a low, haunting whisper. "I know what you did, Detective. I've been watching." Alex's heart raced as he tried to identify the caller. "Who is this? What are you talking about?" The voice continued, "You thought you got away with it, but the past always catches up”. Chapter 2: A Dark Secret Alex couldn't sleep that night. The chilling message had awakened memories he had long buried. Years ago, he and his partner, Sarah, had been involved in a case that had gone horribly wrong. A dangerous criminal had escaped justice, leaving behind a trail of bloodshed. Sarah had disappeared soon after, and Alex had been haunted by guilt and unanswered questions ever since. He had always suspected that someone within the police department had betrayed them, but he had never been able to prove it. Chapter 3: A Race Against Time The ominous calls continued, each one revealing more about the past Alex had tried so hard to forget. The caller seemed to have an intimate knowledge of the case and an eerie ability to predict Alex's every move. As the body count began to rise, it became clear that the killer was recreating the crimes from that fateful case. Desperate to stop the madness and clear his name, Alex delved into the dark underbelly of Darkwood, searching for clues that would lead him to the truth. Chapter 4: Unraveling the Mystery With the help of an enigmatic hacker named Lily, Alex uncovered a web of corruption and deceit within the police department. The killer was someone with a personal vendetta against him, someone who wanted to expose the truth about the case that had destroyed so many lives. As the pieces of the puzzle fell into place, Alex realized that the key to solving the mystery lay in confronting his own past and facing the demons that had haunted him for so long. He had to track down Sarah, the only person who could provide the answers he needed. Chapter 5: The Final Confrontation The trail led Alex to an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of Darkwood. There, in the flickering light of a single bare bulb, he finally confronted the killer, who turned out to be a former colleague driven mad by the secrets of the past. A tense standoff ensued, with Alex trying to talk the killer down while keeping a gun trained on them. In the end, it was a heart-wrenching confession that shattered the silence. The truth about that fateful case was laid bare, and justice was served, but at a heavy cost. As dawn broke over Darkwood, Alex stood alone in the cold, empty warehouse, haunted by the events of the past. The chilling caller was silenced, but the scars of the past would never truly heal. The city of Darkwood may have seen the end of one nightmare, but in its shadows, others still lurked, waiting for their time to emerge.September 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'"Love on the Seaside"' By Samiya Khan
‘”Love on the Seaside”‘ By Samiya Khan, , Chapter 1: A Chance Encounter The sun hung low over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the tranquil seaside town of Harbor Cove. Sarah, a young woman with chestnut hair and a smile that could brighten the gloomiest day, had returned to her childhood vacation spot for a much-needed break from her busy city life. She had always found solace in the sound of crashing waves and the salty breeze that filled the air. As she strolled along the wooden boardwalk that lined the beach, her gaze was drawn to a man sitting alone on a bench, his eyes fixed on the vast expanse of the ocean. He had a rugged charm about him, with a tousle of dark hair and a strong jawline. His name was Daniel, and he was a writer in search of inspiration for his next novel. Their paths crossed when a sudden gust of wind sent Sarah's hat tumbling to the ground. Daniel was quick to retrieve it, his fingers brushing against hers as he handed it back with a warm smile. "You dropped this," he said, his voice like a gentle sea breeze. "Thank you," Sarah replied, feeling a blush creep onto her cheeks. She couldn't help but notice the intensity in his eyes. There was something magnetic about the stranger she had just met. Chapter 2: A Shared Connection Sarah and Daniel's chance encounter soon evolved into daily meetings on the boardwalk. They would share stories of their lives, their dreams, and their love for the ocean. Sarah, an aspiring marine biologist, was fascinated by Daniel's tales of his adventures as a writer. She admired his passion for capturing the beauty of the world through words. In return, Daniel found himself captivated by Sarah's intelligence, kindness, and the way her eyes sparkled when she talked about the wonders of the sea. He felt a connection with her that he had never experienced before, as if their souls were intertwined by the same ocean that had brought them together. One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and painted the sky in shades of pink and orange, Daniel mustered the courage to ask Sarah out for dinner. She accepted with a smile that felt like a promise of new beginnings. Chapter 3: Love Blooms Their first date was at a quaint seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor. Candlelight danced on their faces as they shared laughter, stories, and plates of freshly caught lobster. The hours melted away, and it felt as though they were the only two people in the world. Days turned into weeks, and Sarah and Daniel's love blossomed like a seaside garden in full bloom. They spent their mornings watching the sunrise, their afternoons exploring hidden coves, and their evenings sharing dreams and aspirations under the starlit sky. But it wasn't just the picturesque setting that deepened their love. It was the way they made each other feel alive, the way they inspired one another to chase their passions, and the way they found solace in each other's arms. Chapter 4: Facing the Storm As the summer drew to a close, a storm began to brew on the horizon, mirroring the turmoil in Sarah and Daniel's hearts. Sarah's responsibilities in the city beckoned her back, while Daniel was torn between his love for her and his need to find inspiration elsewhere. One stormy evening, with rain pelting against the windows of their beachfront cottage, they sat in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Finally, Daniel spoke, his voice trembling with emotion. "I don't want to lose you, Sarah, but I also can't bear to hold you back from your dreams." Tears welled up in Sarah's eyes as she took his hand. "And I don't want to leave you, but I know I have to follow my heart." Chapter 5: Love's Promise In the midst of the storm, they made a pact to support each other's dreams, no matter the distance that separated them. Sarah returned to the city to pursue her career as a marine biologist, while Daniel continued to travel in search of inspiration for his novels. Their love, tested by the miles that separated them, only grew stronger with time. They wrote letters, shared late-night phone calls, and counted the days until their next seaside reunion. Their love story became a testament to the power of love and the beauty of following one's dreams. And every summer, as the sun set over the tranquil seaside town of Harbor Cove, Sarah and Daniel would reunite on the same boardwalk where they had first met, their love as enduring and boundless as the ocean itself.September 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'There's Nothing In The Woods' By Skylier Jones
‘There’s Nothing In The Woods’ By Skylier Jones, , A friendly camping trip goes wrong in this thrilling horror.September 19, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'The Chasm' By Skylier Jones
‘The Chasm’ By Skylier Jones, , Adam, the First Man, and Adam, The Last Man, collide in this epic Science Fiction Masterpiece.September 19, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Red Dress' By Phillip Hoehr
‘Red Dress’ By Phillip Hoehr, , A woman finds herself in a mysterious ballroom during a masquerade. She has to find out what is happening before it is too late.September 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'The Phoenix and his Act of Courage' By Keith Burkholder
‘The Phoenix and his Act of Courage’ By Keith Burkholder, , This phoenix is powerful and can save lives on planet Earth. It is known for its total greatness and overall abilities.September 13, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'The End From The Beginning' By E.Allen Roge
‘The End From The Beginning’ By E.Allen Roge, , What stops you from fulfilling everything you are meant to do in life? I can show you that it's simpler than you have ever imagined. In these pages, you will find the principles that God himself uses to accomplish all the things he has done or will do. God created you to be successful not a failure. Read these few chapters and you will understand that when you begin at the end of a thing, you bypass all the excuses and circumstances that were previously standing in your way.September 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-motivational-inspirational short-story
'The Mistress' By Francine Lee A
‘The Mistress’ By Francine Lee A, , Discarded by her parents and left to fend for herself at 14, Eris, now a middle-aged Mistress, is not just fighting to stay alive. She's fighting to become the leader of the rebellion, but can someone who appears to live a life of luxury convince the other half of the enslaved to side with her? TW: Sex Trafficking and ViolenceSeptember 7, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-dystopian short-story
'Repairs' By Elke Barter
‘Repairs’ By Elke Barter, , Her days are long and lonely, but she has found a way to fill her calendar with the names and numbers of men who, upon payment by check, are willing to come and share a quiet moment together. September 7, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-positive-social-transformation short-story
'Justice is Served' By Scott Ludwig
‘Justice is Served’ By Scott Ludwig, , A prosecuting attorney takes advantage of his position as an agent for justice.September 7, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-detective-mystery short-story
'The Pull' By Isaiah Williams
‘The Pull’ By Isaiah Williams, , A boy who can see the supernatural tries his best to ignore those visions, but something keeps pushing him to warn others about them.September 6, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Female predator on the prowl' By Keith Burkholder
‘Female predator on the prowl’ By Keith Burkholder, , Linda goes on the prowl to get blood and flesh from her sexual escapades.September 6, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'White Lies And Lipstick ' By Jae Franklin
‘White Lies And Lipstick ‘ By Jae Franklin, , College sweethearts, Kevin and Laila, have the perfect marriage. Kevin, an executive at a lucrative marketing agency, spends all his time investing in work -allowing Laila to be a stay home wife. Laila, although loves her husband, is secretly frustrated with her husband’s workload. She finds herself partaking in a secret, passionate romance with a young lesbian woman, Natalie. Natalie is a gorgeous dominant, feminine woman who possesses an undeniable love for Laila -but there’s much mystery to the young, exotic lover. As twist and turns unfold, a family is turned all the way around.September 5, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-lgbtq short-story
'There is Something At the Door' By Tina Herranen
‘There is Something At the Door’ By Tina Herranen, , Something lurks outside Wendy's home, but she has an unexpected ally.September 5, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Sex (Cells, Sells, Sales)' By Terence Davis
‘Sex (Cells, Sells, Sales)’ By Terence Davis, , It's 2033, the sex industry is booming, and twins, Zeta and Zeus are trying to take over the business, globally. Sex runs the world and mastermind Dr. Zeta Philips has a plan to control the whole enchilada, with her genius brother, Zeus, they set out to control the industry and then the world.September 4, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'WORKING GRACE' By Joshua O
‘WORKING GRACE’ By Joshua O, , Once upon a time, in the small, picturesque town of Baale on Lagos Island, there lived a boy named Cherish who, for the early years of his life, seemed to have everything he ever wanted. His aged parents, Architect Tunde and Mrs. Adesewa, were affluent and provided for him with the utmost care. The house they lived in was a castle, and Cherish as a kid was showered with toys, gifts, and extravagant holidays. He had never known the taste of want, and the world appeared to be at his feet. But as time passed, life had a curious way of throwing unexpected challenges. The family fortune dwindled due to a series of financial setbacks. Cherish, who had grown accustomed to abundance, found himself facing a world he had never known before; a world of austerity. Cherish watched his parents' relentless dedication, and though he didn't fully grasp the gravity of their situation, he admired their unwavering determination Architect Tunde and his wife Adesewa struggled to maintain their lavish lifestyle as they went out to the banks for huge long-term loans using their house as collateral before their demise. Cherish's journey was challenging, and he often faced moments of despair. He encountered setbacks and disappointments, but he never gave up. His resilience and hard work began to pay off as he earned a degree in Computer science. As he looked back on his journey, he couldn't help but smile. Working Grace had finally brought laughter and prosperity back into his life. Cherish, once a boy who had known only abundance had become a man who had learned the true value of hard work, determination, and family. he had triumphed over adversity, proving that even in the face of the most daunting challenges, the human spirit could prevail.September 4, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'For the Love of Dogs' By Angela Coulson
‘For the Love of Dogs’ By Angela Coulson, , After her marriage fails, Angie takes her family across the country for a fresh start. With a new job, a teenager and volunteering with her therapy dog, there's not much time for romance. With some help of her furry friend, Lily, she meets a man that makes her feel things she's not sure she's ready for. Will her fear keep her from taking a chance on love, or will fate keep throwing him in her path?September 3, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'Stoneport Ghost Stories' By Jennifer Bassett
‘Stoneport Ghost Stories’ By Jennifer Bassett, , "Stoneport Ghost Stories” uncovers the layers of a neighborhood's history through the narrator’s memory as she delves into the memories of childhood innocence. A glimpse into a past where unity reigned, and the bonds between families were unbreakable. Until things took a darker turn, revealing the shocking events that shattered the idyllic tranquility. Follow the reminiscing narrator through the tumultuous aftermath of a double murder that rippled through the heart of the close-knit Laotian American community. With each passing year, the neighborhood transformed into a ghost story itself, a haunting reminder of what once was, of the laughter, camaraderie, and shared moments that now exist only as echoes. "Stoneport Ghost Stories" presents a gripping exploration of how tragedy can reshape lives, redefine relationships, and leave an unforgettable mark on a place and its people. The narrator weaves together the threads of memory and loss, crafting a ghost story that transcends the supernatural, and digs into the enduring power of community, memory, and the lingering presence of the past.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-detective-mystery short-story
'Unpravaield justice!' By Maria Alston.Inner city angel
‘Unpravaield justice!’ By Maria Alston.Inner city angel, , This story is about a young mother who raised 5 children alone & one day she went to pic them up from school to find out c.p.s.took them .5 years after slaving to get them back .The c.p.s worker admitted to lying on the paperwork to obtain the children...# I am her.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-historical-fiction short-story
'Fanciful ' By Bellakat
‘Fanciful ‘ By Bellakat, , Clients in an assisted living facility soon realize they are not alone when they discover fairies residing within their facility.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'GRANDAD WAS AN AIR RAID WARDEN' By Anne Godden-Segard
‘GRANDAD WAS AN AIR RAID WARDEN’ By Anne Godden-Segard, , A short bio of my British grandfather who was an air raid warden during WW2 in Southampton, UK. He was a tough guy. He vowed that if the Germans landed on British soil, “I will go after them with my pitchfork." Years later I learned that he never owned a pitchfork.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Flex Out ' By Bobbie Bell
‘Flex Out ‘ By Bobbie Bell, , A short story in which a young man finally understands why God told us to be kind and compassionate. When he thought he knew everything and realized he had a lot more growing and learning to do.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'As above, so below.' By Bobby Bell
‘As above, so below.’ By Bobby Bell, , Based on a true story. The reality of a relationship that was not meant to be.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'To Kvetch or To Kvell, That is the Kvestion' By Phyllis Cohen
‘To Kvetch or To Kvell, That is the Kvestion’ By Phyllis Cohen, , An essay (hopefully humorous) to understand how Yiddish became so prevalent in American English.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-humor-entertainment short-story
'Spectre' By Crimson Skizz
‘Spectre’ By Crimson Skizz, , Waking in the dead of night, I notice things are not as they should. As I move through my mansion, reflecting on my past, I ponder who may be here with me-and what they are going to do once I find them.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Sweet Detriment down Corridors ' By Robyn Ginnie
‘Sweet Detriment down Corridors ‘ By Robyn Ginnie, , This story tells a mystical tale of a chemistry shared between two people. The story is written from the admirer’s point of view and surrounds an infatuation by a lecturer with one of his students, Lilea. After a series of fateful events, his infatuation is returned. This cosmic connection forms by means of fate and destiny. The love for the two people have for each other is both effortless and undeniable, beautiful and bittersweet.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'Ruby and the Turbo Tree' By Michelle Oakley
‘Ruby and the Turbo Tree’ By Michelle Oakley, , Follow Ruby on a journey through a meadow, where she discovers a magical tree. This special tree grows something very different. Rather than flowers or fruit it grows kittens. Follow Ruby and her kittens on their adventures to Cat City.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
'Seventeen years asleep and the awakening' By Deana Kiser
‘Seventeen years asleep and the awakening’ By Deana Kiser, , Meet me: the real life Rip Van Winkle. No, I wasn’t literally asleep like him but I was asleep for many parts of my life for nearly two decades after an accident followed by debilitating chronic pain. It was not a painless restful slumber. In addition to pain it was filled with: opioid addiction, immobility, weight gain and obesity, clinical depression, and an reclusive existence … and then a single moment in time awoke me and propelled me to reclaim time and life. It’s been a physical and mental transformation while coming to acceptance that this nerve/pain disease is an unwanted companion in life I must co-exist. This is a journey of reconciling what was and dreaming new old dreams again versus the nightmare of the dark slumber now that I’ve fought and clawed my way back into the light of day Like Rip I tell my tale of the many years of sleep to all the village. I invite you in…August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Hoarder Bob's Mom' By Deborah Watts
‘Hoarder Bob’s Mom’ By Deborah Watts, , Bob's house and property was one of the worst hoarding nightmares I have ever seen. His 96 year mother died.. supposedly in a care home. That wasn't the truth he had her buried under a pile of hoarding crap to cover her up. He just did want to let her go. He thought people in other countries keep the dead bodies in the house. Eventually to hide the smell of he has to put her in ONE of his numerous freezers. Now the time it come to slowly clean up his horrific hoarding mess. Bob bought a meat grinder and ground up his beloved Mother. Bob repackaged his ground up dead Mom in big rotten hamburger packages and fed the rotten hamburger to the dogs. Then he dumped the rotten smelly package in the dumpster. Bob knew If anybody would encounter the rotten repackaged meat that looked unopened.. the smell would be blamed on the hamburger. No one would ever know.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'The toils of man' By Keairah Leftrick
‘The toils of man’ By Keairah Leftrick, , In the life of man, there are many joys and sorrows. There are trials and hardships as well as causes to celebrate. This is the lot man must contend with.August 30, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Wrong Target' By Lana Bradstream
‘Wrong Target’ By Lana Bradstream, , People in Trier kept to themselves, but loved to know one another's business. They gathered information through watching, listening, whispering. Their eyes, ears and tongues descended on Thomas, a young man whose hands were sticky. Their vindictiveness and judgments took Thomas from a life on the streets to something much worse.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-historical-fiction short-story
'God's Plan' By Grace Kerner
‘God’s Plan’ By Grace Kerner, , A raw perspective of religion, faith, and loss through the eyes of a young girl named Ruby. As her questions and feelings about the afterlife and God persist, so do her home struggles, internal battles, and heartbreak; which help her come full circle on how to feel about the religion and ideas she was raised with.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
''Confessions of a non-Best-Selling Author' By Thomas McKenna
”Confessions of a non-Best-Selling Author’ By Thomas McKenna, , Can a somewhat computer-challenged Boomer navigate his MacBook Pro and the realm of indie publishing to fulfill a lifelong dream of creating his first book? Can he conquer those pesky copy/paste commands and those never-ending 'hard-returns?' Find out in Mr. McKenna's hilarious short-story, 'Confessions of a non-Best-Selling Author.'August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-humor-entertainment short-story
'Daniel' By NA
‘Daniel’ By NA, , The story starts from the perspective of Geneva Britt, a former high school sweetheart who's anxious to reunite with her unrequited love, Daniel Hall, at his book signing. Will the two of them get back together, or will they part for good?August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'Shitty Day Sonnets' By Michelle Lisan
‘Shitty Day Sonnets’ By Michelle Lisan, , While Sonnets usually bring to mind the floral romance of Shakespeare, I prefer to give my complaints a jaunty meter so it feels less sad. But also, definitely more sad.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Why You Shouldn’t Flip Off Strangers' By Liz Frame
‘Why You Shouldn’t Flip Off Strangers’ By Liz Frame, , A dysfunctional family goes on a well intentioned vacation, but to there misfortune, after flipping off a stranger driving a semi, everything takes a turn for the worse. Will the family reconnect and resolve their feud?August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-adventure short-story
'The Toymaker’s Secret' By Brianna DeLong-Brown
‘The Toymaker’s Secret’ By Brianna DeLong-Brown, , 18 year old Juniper York is desperate for a new beginning where she can prove to the world she can make something of herself. That’s when she found a flier for Jack Robert’s toy shop. A nice little starter job is one foot in the right direction. Or….is it the start to something more sinister?August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Lady In Red' By Rory McKenzie
‘Lady In Red’ By Rory McKenzie, , Home alone on her five-year anniversary, Erica resigns herself to another boring Friday night in. But when a mysterious package arrives at her door, she’s thrust into cryptic game of Simon Says, where losing could mean having her intimate secrets exposed.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'The Collective Man' By Corey Ramsey
‘The Collective Man’ By Corey Ramsey, , An impetuous act by a young scientist is seemingly responsible for near global genocide. He now races against the clock to save perhaps the only life remaining on the planet; himself and three reluctant companions.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Nine Months' By Lana Bradstream
‘Nine Months’ By Lana Bradstream, , In the not-too-distant future, victims of sexual assault have to endure further torture. If the assault results in pregnancy, they are not given a choice whether or not to carry. The women with enough value and money are given an additional choice - stay awake through it all or select an induced coma.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Zepeh Brotherhood' By Christophe Willermoz
‘Zepeh Brotherhood’ By Christophe Willermoz, , An utopian world beneath Uluru which works directly with extraterrestrial civilisations.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Who Told You Life Was Fair' By Karen Hontz
‘Who Told You Life Was Fair’ By Karen Hontz, , A countries tragedy opens the innocent eyes of a ten year old girl, who learns that the good guy doesn't always win; changing her sheltered world of black and whites to an ambiguous grey.August 29, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'The Holiday Witch' By Melissa Bowden
‘The Holiday Witch’ By Melissa Bowden, , Anandrea loved Halloween so much every year she would prepare for the next Halloween all year long she decoratied her lil cottage for the special changes of each mthAugust 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'The Simpleton And The Bronze Unicorn' By Cass Hawkings
‘The Simpleton And The Bronze Unicorn’ By Cass Hawkings, , Lucinda is the daughter of a blacksmith, but she and her best (and only) friend, Maria, are treated poorly because of their skills. Wanting to change the trajectory of their lives, Lucinda decides to spin wool on a spinning wool and with the help of her father, Papa Saz, creates a beautiful creature.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Silence ' By Monica Howard
‘Silence ‘ By Monica Howard, , Recurring dream leads to a realization of infidelity and ends fatally.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Water in the Desert' By Hannah Marie.
‘Water in the Desert’ By Hannah Marie., , A small business owner flips the weakness in her body and emerges into a passion for cooking by growing a bakery. Baker Heather Dillard’s body rejects itself and she has a brush with death, but she refuses to let that stop her. She learns about healing through foods and shares her own recipes in books and baking. Her vision for the future continues to grow, and she refuses to submit to the conventional, striving to push beyond barriers.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-motivational-inspirational short-story
'Locust ' By Sibyl R Cooper
‘Locust ‘ By Sibyl R Cooper, , The Chimera Programme was a scientific failure but a creative success. Scientist Dr. Glen Lanstern merged the consciousness of twelve writers with an animal of their choice to report on their experience outside of human thought under animal law. Unfortunately, the writers were all driven to madness and muteness once returned to human form, but they produced creative work about their experiences. From this failure, The Chimera Collection of Short Fiction was born. Author Gareth Harlow's contribution to the collection, 'Locust', is of great interest to the academic community. Reprinted frequently after the collection's initial release, scientists, anthropologists, and philosophers are still baffled by Harlow's contribution and continue their attempts to decipher the layers of his retelling.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'There's No Such Thing as a Bad Boy' By Stephen Conrad
‘There’s No Such Thing as a Bad Boy’ By Stephen Conrad, , Can a boy be born bad? Some kids get to be kids, others never will. In a world separated from the free world, kids who believe they're men commit grown up offenses. Some boys navigate what it means to be a man while having never been a kid. What can you learn about life if there's no one to teach you? What if your future hangs on the decision of one judge and 12 jurors? You begin life hoping for the best, but quickly find that all your hopes, dreams and desires have slim chance of ever becoming reality. For boys who are not yet men, hope slowly fades a bit more everyday. There are no children here.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'The Watchers' By Louis P Cervone
‘The Watchers’ By Louis P Cervone, , The Watchers is a Trilogy of a world that may actually exist somewhere in the world hidden from mainstream view. While the locations of these unseen societies is vague the reader may find similarities to their own communities.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-dystopian short-story
'The Watchers' By Louis P Cervone
‘The Watchers’ By Louis P Cervone, , The Watchers is a Trilogy of a world that may actually exist somewhere in the world hidden from mainstream view. While the locations of these unseen societies is vague the reader may find similarities to their own communities.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-dystopian short-story
'There's No Such Thing as a Bad Boy' By Stephen Conrad
‘There’s No Such Thing as a Bad Boy’ By Stephen Conrad, , Can a boy be born bad? Some kids get to be kids, others never will. In a world separated from the free world, kids who believe they're men commit grown up offenses. Some boys navigate what it means to be a man while having never been a kid. What can you learn about life if theirs no one to teach you? What if your future hangs on the decision of one judge and 12 jurors? You begin life hoping for the best, but quickly find that all your hopes, dreams and desires have slim chance of ever becoming reality. For boys who are not yet men, hope slowly fades a bit more everyday. There are no children here.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Death Stood in the Doorway' By adriano garcia
‘Death Stood in the Doorway’ By adriano garcia, , After years of escaping his bony hand, I have my final showdown with Death.August 28, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'S.A.D.A.C.A.B.A.C.O.B.O.T. Yeah, I'd want to know too!' By Trace Ole'
‘S.A.D.A.C.A.B.A.C.O.B.O.T. Yeah, I’d want to know too!’ By Trace Ole’, , I'm going to vibrantly illustrate the crazy, cruel, hilarious, painfully honest way I have come to know and understand this life. It's with no exaggeration, a gripping tale that is seemingly foreign and yet very relatable. If I hadn't lived it myself, I'd swear it got ripped off from some fictional character made for TV. Tragic, Funny, Dramatic, Psychotic. All Truth, all Semantic, No Filter. Why? Because Somebody else out there is Constantly Blind-sided as well. I just don't want them thinking their alone.August 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
' Sadacabacobot- Oh Yes, I'd Wanna Know Too.' By Trace Ole'
‘ Sadacabacobot- Oh Yes, I’d Wanna Know Too.’ By Trace Ole’, , The idea here is to illustrate the challenges and difficulties facing many people today. From a sea of distractions to learning how best to live. I'd like to showcase many relevant and relatable problems that no prior generation has any experience with, hence no advice. The spotlight will focus on addiction in it's many forms, reminding everyone that hey, we are all on the same rock and basically need and want for the same things. So my intention is to lead the reader to walk down paths they may never have even considered, by dissolving that illusion many subscribe to; that they and their experiences are somehow more important than someone else's.August 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'The Little Black Book' By gloria lockridge
‘The Little Black Book’ By gloria lockridge, , When person's curiosity causes them to imagine all sorts of things and eventually leads them to explore. Their curiosity is satisfied when strange events are revealed to them..August 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
'The Masseuse' By Scilla
‘The Masseuse’ By Scilla, , The ions and jolly masseuse came to work for the rich, old man, yet seemed to had ulterior motivesAugust 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'To the Father of Cats' By BC Charles
‘To the Father of Cats’ By BC Charles, , A young man leaves his family to try his luck in the untamed wilderness with a magical cat as his only companion. When his cat is injured he must determine what he will do to save her.August 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Divine Intervention from Above ' By Paula Zahratka
‘Divine Intervention from Above ‘ By Paula Zahratka, , God in my lifeAugust 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Unexpected Love' By Helaine Hunt Martin-Jack
‘Unexpected Love’ By Helaine Hunt Martin-Jack, , When you think all is lost, love blossoms out of pain and darknessAugust 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'Memoir of Devil's mind ' By Nettie Martinez
‘Memoir of Devil’s mind ‘ By Nettie Martinez, , The cruelty of a Dark Narcissist man to his supposedly love ones ... What I have done to you to deserve all this painful treatment that keeps over and over with your thoughts, your words and actions I remain with laceration in my mind, soul, and all over my body Over years past by... she was able to scape alive and successful reinitiate her wounded life.August 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Angels posing as humans on planet Earth' By Keith Burkholder
‘Angels posing as humans on planet Earth’ By Keith Burkholder, , This is about angels posing as humans on planet Earth.August 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'The Murder Of Viola Beck' By Cass Hawkings
‘The Murder Of Viola Beck’ By Cass Hawkings, , Murder victim Jocelyn Beck tells the story of how she helped to dig deeper into the mess of a mystery that is the murder of her grandmother, Viola Beck. Knowing she will need help, Jocelyn recruits Erin Naylor, the resident crime journalism student in their small hometown of Ernst alongside a crew of helpful townspeople.August 27, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-detective-mystery short-story
'Izzy's Ink' By Izzy Wilson
‘Izzy’s Ink’ By Izzy Wilson, , I. Genesis...a poem about the inception of domestic violence and incest that shaped my young self. II. Consequence...2 poems about my return--despite helping hundreds of other women escape family violence as a social worker (and knowing and ignoring the red flags)--to submissively accepting multiple forms of abuse. III. Phoenix Rising..."The misogyny--that foot on my neck--held me down only till I was pissed enough to fight back tooth and nail!" --Izzy WilsonAugust 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'The Homecoming(from The Outsiders Adventures)' By OSYM1
‘The Homecoming(from The Outsiders Adventures)’ By OSYM1, , This story, is a part of a collection of short stories, in a volume about 2 Brothers, that are mercenaries. They only do jobs for the benefit of society and good people. This story follows the Brothers in their early days of training, centered around the older Brother, Scott, who is having a training session with the Painted One, (P.O.) in their private dojo and home, in a secluded mountain, far away from society. They're suddenly visited by a former student, who brings good and bad news about an old friend of P.O.'s.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-dystopian short-story
'Izzy's Ink' By Izzy wilson
‘Izzy’s Ink’ By Izzy wilson, , Collection of 3-4 autobiographical poems; one on being silenced, one on childhood abuse/family violence, one about a former domestic violence counselor who fell in love w an abuser.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Blink' By Kevin Holmes
‘Blink’ By Kevin Holmes, , These are what happens when the person blinks. Stream of consciousness bits in between.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'The Adventures of Abraxis and Graymite' By Corpus
‘The Adventures of Abraxis and Graymite’ By Corpus, , There is a School that still burning Green Fire: the people are STILL BURNING AND SCREAMING. She has trouble bathing, writing and understanding many things, but she's one hell of a Conduit! The Contaminants are rising. Can Lady Abraxis and her team deal with inner demons, desires and their past at the same time?August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Die for me' By Peter Lehmann
‘Die for me’ By Peter Lehmann, , True Tale of a boxer who won Gold in Olympic games, first for his country, turned professional and was killed in his championship fight. Die for me was the last words his trainer said to him as he entered the last round.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-historical-fiction short-story
'Die for me' By Peter Lehmann
‘Die for me’ By Peter Lehmann, , True Tale of a boxer who won Gold in Olympic games, first for his country, turned professional and was killed in his championship fight. Die for me was the last words his trainer said to him as he entered the last round.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-historical-fiction short-story
'BTW No Judgement!' By Sarah Hinkes
‘BTW No Judgement!’ By Sarah Hinkes, , recently read an article in the New York Times regarding the subject of coercive control. U.S. Congresswoman Cori Bush spoke of her own personal experience with a “HIM”, and furthermore applauded Scotland, while admitting that the United States has a lot of catching up to do to take this very serious reality, and make it a true criminalized act. It’s time I’m brave enough to share my own journey. As you know from reading this, I am 3 out of 10 that got out, I am still today 1 out of 10 that SURVIVED! If my story helps just one woman see the signs before the abuse, then all of this will be worth it. This was written at that time. I am open to a larger project but it has taken me seven years to get this far. In the last three years between open heart surgery for an aortic aneurysm, and in June of 2020 a brain craniotomy due to a rather persistent meningioma. Meeting and escaping “HIM” was the most intense and terrifying experience of my young life of 42 years. For these past seven years I have let myself recover physically, emotionally, and in some cases spiritually. I have built walls around me, and over time trusted family, friends, and recently a significant other to at times break through. I am still amazed at how much I tend not to trust when in fact I have the best of intentions to do so. Even though I am not broken, I have won, I do not believe that there will ever be a moment in my life when I will ever feel truly free. That is what this does to you, so let’s together help anyone out here who has or is in this situation, give them a voice, give them strength, respectfully I am still alive, still healthy luckily, so I have to believe that this truth is meant to shared. Thank you for your consideration.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'The Cuckoo Clock ' By Sarah Hinkes
‘The Cuckoo Clock ‘ By Sarah Hinkes, , This has been destined as similar to The Tell Tale HeartAugust 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'The Adventures of Stripey the Fish! ' By Sarah Hinkes
‘The Adventures of Stripey the Fish! ‘ By Sarah Hinkes, , Starlight, a blue fish that shone bright like the stars, swam over to see what’s the matter with her friend Stripey. She listened and agreed that something must be done to help him. Starlight called the other fish together for a fish emergency meeting. Stripey spoke about how sad it made him feel that all the other fish in the tank had a brother, or sister fish that was of their kind. Stripey also explained that he was all by himself, and we wanted to believe that somewhere out there, his family was waiting for him. With his fin, he pointed to the sky up above Lewis’s fish tank that expanded out over a vast, big, and new world. The meeting was very promising, all the other fish promised to help Stripey find his family. All through the week the fish saved bits of fish food for Stripey, Starlight helped to make a sack out of seaweed for Stripey to carry things in. One very big problem remained. Once Stripey was out of the tank, he couldn’t swim in the air, what was a fish with fins, gills, and fishy eyes to do?August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
'A Pond' By Dan Amego
‘A Pond’ By Dan Amego, , He was worn down to the end because of the isolation from the sickness. She talks him out of it.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-self-help-personal-development short-story
'The Toy' By Zack Golden
‘The Toy’ By Zack Golden, , a young man named Elijah grapples with thoughts of his parents' absence, adulthood, and his own sense of self. Amidst mundane actions like making coffee, reading, and observing strangers, the story takes an eerie turn as Elijah's mind drifts to disturbing fantasies involving violence and self-harm. His isolation and unease intensify when he hears knocking at his hotel room door, leading to a heightened paranoia.August 26, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Crowned Heart (Beauty and the Beast Twist Tale)' By Lindsey Weaver
‘Crowned Heart (Beauty and the Beast Twist Tale)’ By Lindsey Weaver, , “Crowned Heart” is a retelling of the classic fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast. The character of Beauty is actually the Beast, this is a gender bend with the female character being important. Cordelia is the main female character that is the antagonist and protagonist of the story. The character of the Beast is not the same either with him this time being the merchant son with a good personality. Rey, he plays an important role with helping Cordelia with self-discovery and finding a support system that is a family for the characters. The bond that the two form though is almost like family, the two becoming close with one another but not really falling in love.August 25, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Creature Feature' By Regina MacIntyre
‘Creature Feature’ By Regina MacIntyre, , A free-wheeling high school graduate runs out of money and takes a job at a drive-in theater in the middle of the desert, only to become the feature for the creatures that go there.August 25, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Take me home' By Christina Robertson
‘Take me home’ By Christina Robertson, , Suffering childhood trauma from a mentally ill father. Journey through my life of emotional abuseAugust 25, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Being Kind is Free' By T Robert
‘Being Kind is Free’ By T Robert, , Life is full of surprises.August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-motivational-inspirational short-story
'A Moment in Time ' By Deb Myers
‘A Moment in Time ‘ By Deb Myers, , Indira is raised in upper echelons of society and becomes the First Lady of the tropocal island of St. Tomas. Her charisma is unmatched and she is loved by the people. Her interest in learning local dance moves leads her to renowned dance troupe director Hanna. Their crossed paths threaten the first family and the outcome of an election on the horizon.August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-lgbtq short-story
'Peace Within' By Lenny
‘Peace Within’ By Lenny, , Story of a Female InmateAugust 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'Peace Within' By Lenny
‘Peace Within’ By Lenny, , Story of a Female InmateAugust 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'poetry' By Big AL
‘poetry’ By Big AL, , This is a poetry submission. It's two poems, God's Sea and The Ship (397 word count).August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-motivational-inspirational short-story
'Wall of shame ' By Princess 👑 Envy
‘Wall of shame ‘ By Princess 👑 Envy, , The story of my life as a stripper and all around hustler getting to the bad. At the same time would love to serve God but the streets keep callingAugust 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'The Pain Reliever' By Big AL
‘The Pain Reliever’ By Big AL, , John Simmons was re-ended by a drunk with no insurance. Now, he's lost his job, is drowning in debt, and addicted to Fentanyl. Suicide seems to be the only way out. Can John rebound with an epiphany that can save his life and his marriage? This short story addresses societies growing addiction to opioids, and the pain they can cause while trying to relieve pain...August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-self-help-personal-development short-story
'Gadsilly, the Giraffe that Ate Cleveland' By David Giles
‘Gadsilly, the Giraffe that Ate Cleveland’ By David Giles, , A satire of modern culture and old bad moviesAugust 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Unlikely Heroes' By Babie Kane
‘Unlikely Heroes’ By Babie Kane, , In a bleak enslaved world an unlikely hero emerges from the very depths of mythology and our darkest nightmares. Can humanity overcome its fears to embrace what is likely its only hope for freedom? Is unity, peace and freedom a long dead dream or will the beast of our nightmares ignite our passion for life again?August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-dystopian short-story
'Unveiling Possibilities: Embracing an Adult Gap Year for Career Transition and Freedom' By Grayson McKinley
‘Unveiling Possibilities: Embracing an Adult Gap Year for Career Transition and Freedom’ By Grayson McKinley, , Discovering how taking time off from your career can be a catalyst for personal growth, self-discovery, and embracing a new chapter of life filled with passion, purpose, and boundless opportunities.August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-self-help-personal-development short-story
'Heaven's Warrior' By Brianne Saunders
‘Heaven’s Warrior’ By Brianne Saunders, , A short poem about my mother’s fight with Lung Cancer. I hope this piece touches the hearts of those who have been through something similar. May their memory live on for as long as air fills your lungs. Just breathe. ************************ Heaven’s Warrior With shadow’s cast in fate’s cruel heart, A soul still young, withering apart. Your skin still smooth, not a wrinkle to see, If only Cancer never took you from me. The sickness spread fast; a disease of life, Only giving us all mere months to suffice. I cried as I watched your energy grow thin, As the medicine ate you up from within. Your long brown hair falling out on the floor, Blue eyes dimming, vibrant no more. Once plump red lips, now kissed too pale, I held on so tight, your body now frail. I prayed to God, take me instead, Yet every morning I woke up in bed. I was so angry, so hurt, so utterly torn, How could you take a mother, leaving children to mourn? I miss your smile, your laugh, your hug My heart stopped when we pulled the plug. You fought with such fire, such vigor, and grace, Yet your soul flew home to God’s embrace.August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'Heaven's Warrior' By Brianne Saunders
‘Heaven’s Warrior’ By Brianne Saunders, , A short poem about my mother's fight with Lung Cancer. I hope this piece touches the hearts of those who have been through something similar. May their memory live on for as long as air fills your lungs. Just breathe.August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'Love Hurts' By Rod Martin
‘Love Hurts’ By Rod Martin, , Marci, a college coed falls for Ian who says he's the owner of a talent agency which turns out to be a cover for porn films. After a painful break up, she plots her painful revenge.August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'non lost' By W.w.forte
‘non lost’ By W.w.forte, , upon Awakening Jameson feels himself being watched. several figures hover over him ,as his sight comes back to his groggy eyes he thinks he recognizoes some of the faces. But Amelia Earhart and DB Cooper couldn't be here....wait... I am, was on a flight to... .August 24, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-adventure short-story
'Monsters @ Night' By Silver
‘Monsters @ Night’ By Silver, , A campsite with a little haunting history to it, legend tells of shrieks howls and screams fill the haunting atmosphere night, monsters that will trick you in to staying forever. people go in, but they don’t make it out! The woods and lake are all connected.August 23, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Untill we met' By Alexia Demirdjian
‘Untill we met’ By Alexia Demirdjian, , We see from the inside the windshield of a car, with a closed but transparent hood. The Increasingly colorful route and women's hands leading to SHE sticks her hand out the window while making waves. The sun begins to hide as The voice of the protagonist, a woman of about 45 years It counts almost as a thought that escapes. SHE (off) They say that before entering the sea, the river trembles with fear... look back, the winding road that crossed and go towards ahead an ocean so vast, that entering it is like disappear forever... the car advances on the road and after several zigzags slows down and stops abruptly. Something metallic and sharp bounces off the bottom of the auto.la naphtha spills on the road. SHE (off) But there is no other way. He river can't come back. Nobody can return. Going back is impossible existence. only when entering in it, fear will disappear and you know it's not about disappear into it, but become ocean.August 23, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-positive-social-transformation short-story
'Until we met.' By Alex
‘Until we met.’ By Alex, , We see from the inside the windshield of a car, with a closed but transparent hood. The Increasingly colorful route and women's hands leading to SHE sticks her hand out the window while making waves. The sun begins to hide as The voice of the protagonist, a woman of about 45 years It counts almost as a thought that escapes. SHE (off) They say that before entering the sea, the river trembles with fear... look back, the winding road that crossed and go towards ahead an ocean so vast, that entering it is like disappear forever... the car advances on the road and after several zigzags slows down and stops abruptly. Something metallic and sharp bounces off the bottom of the auto.la naphtha spills on the road. SHE (off) But there is no other way. The river can't come back. Nobody can return. Going back is impossible existence. only when entering in it, fear will disappear and you know it's not about disappear into it, but become ocean.August 23, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-positive-social-transformation short-story
'Love Doesn't Mean FOOL' By Punteas Wakumi Jin
‘Love Doesn’t Mean FOOL’ By Punteas Wakumi Jin, , How a single mom came up with organizing a donation drop yard and making trips give to homeless and other persons that are considered forgotten.August 23, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-positive-social-transformation short-story
'Scarlet' By Angela Dawn Russell
‘Scarlet’ By Angela Dawn Russell, , An alliterative prose/flash fiction piece based on memoir, utilizing fantasy and fairy tale elements to illustrate the heroine's battle with her demons/fictional protagonist/ghosts of the past.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program short-story who-will-save-the-hero-tales-of-chosen-ones-slaying-the-demons-within
'Where Is Bob?' By T Scott Sparks
‘Where Is Bob?’ By T Scott Sparks, , The Unites States Space Force is conducting a secret manned space mission to study the effects of long-term space travel on humans. But there is a twist!August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Book of Lehona' By Stefan simmons
‘Book of Lehona’ By Stefan simmons, , Ellie Altorius works in her parents library where she must guard a magic book the Book of Lehona. When the book is stolen and the library is buened to the ground she must go on a journey to find other librarians and get her book back.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Six Toys ' By Braac Rhiley
‘Six Toys ‘ By Braac Rhiley, , Group of teens go camping, one by one they disappear. No trace. Years into the future, a child finds them but not what they were.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Where the Rats Reside' By Morgan Mathews
‘Where the Rats Reside’ By Morgan Mathews, , A society's once vibrant humanity has been smothered by a suffocating regime known as the Divine Province. Citizens are expected to obey the lies of the Province as the piles of bodies rise in the wake of their unchecked power. In this bleak realm, smiles are manufactured, laughter hollow, and genuine human connection extinguished. The Province enforces a rigid medieval-like structure, forcing women to shroud their bodies in masks resembling mice, symbolizing their subjugation. Conformity reigns, and women's voices are stifled, dreams reduced to mere whispers. These women are forbidden from engaging with men and must remain silent unless addressed. Their bodies stripped of autonomy are under the control of the government, a consequence of a society that emerged from a nuclear war but evolved into an authoritarian cult. Under the pretext of security, the Province wields an advanced technology called "Mindlink" connecting citizens' minds to a centralized network, erasing memories of the past and quashing any flicker of rebellion. A list of rules, growing in number as deifance persists, hangs in every home and public space, enforcing strict obedience. Punishments range from lashings to public executions, and the Province's chilling signature "Infra Nos" accompanies each decree. There is no hope. And there is no escape.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-dystopian short-story
'Snickerbobble ' By Feather Lloyd
‘Snickerbobble ‘ By Feather Lloyd, , Snickerbobble was a happy young man. He had everything he could ask for. A well off family, supportive town, money. Deep down something just didn’t feel right.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
'Combat Fatigue' By Morgan Mathews
‘Combat Fatigue’ By Morgan Mathews, , Silence. A sound Charles Anderson was far too familiar with. He spent years in a P.O.W. camp just waiting to be rescued or the day that death would take him. He was nineteen when he was drafted into the Vietnam war. He was the all-American son that any parent would have dreamed of, but any youthful enthusiasm had now long passed. A treaty was signed that signifies America’s submission from the war, and the prisoners are rescued from their camps. But through years of vivid horror and torture, Charles Anderson would never be the same. He returns to his small town in the United States, but feels as though he never left the war. He is met with backlash from citizens as they throw both physical and metaphorical stones. He and other returning veterans are treated like murderers as the consequences of war have reverberated long after its end. Charles struggles to get back on his feet while he also fights vivid nightmares of the war and the torture he endured; leaving his mind a confusing mess.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-historical-fiction short-story
'Poetry Collection' By Morgan Mathews
‘Poetry Collection’ By Morgan Mathews, , This collection of poems was written following the death of my grandfather as well as my cat when I felt the lowest in my life. I was dealing with loss and a family that was falling apart. I felt betrayed and the only way to follow my feelings was to move a pen about paper. These are a chosen few of my personal favorites from the hundreds that I wrote. Each dealing with the feelings of death, loss, and betrayal.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-positive-social-transformation short-story
'Beutiful Country' By Christophe Willermoz
‘Beutiful Country’ By Christophe Willermoz, , The tranquil of a remote island with its both visible and invisible mystery.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Crosswalk Blues' By Ema Almon
‘Crosswalk Blues’ By Ema Almon, , A collection of five short poems all written from, about, or to the road, "Crosswalk Blues" seeks to explore the casual and catastrophic inner turmoil a young woman might most easily confront alone on her daily commute.August 22, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'Davey Jones: Heavyweight Champion of the World ' By Carl Chase
‘Davey Jones: Heavyweight Champion of the World ‘ By Carl Chase, , Davey is young black kid growing up in the slums of Chicago. Who saw his father die from a overdose of drugs, at the young age of 15. Over comes a prison sentence but goes on to become Heavyweight Champion of the world.August 21, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'The Number Tattoo ' By Hank Landry
‘The Number Tattoo ‘ By Hank Landry, , In the middle sixties a young altar boy encounters a priest unlike any before. The altar boy has always been infatuated with WW ll. The priest is past the age and health of maintaining a parish. He is sent as relief to pastors as they take vacations and sabbaticals. A friendship develops over two summers between the priest and the young altar boy. One morning, after mass, Father Fenstad shows the altar boy, Hank, something that is said in Latin each time the prayers of consecration is said. Hanq Igitor. Hank is told this word is his name in Latin. It is a part of the mass that can never be changed. The good father tells Hank he has been chosen. His name can never be taken from the prayer of the mass. Upon the pastors return for Ireland, Father Fenstad returns home. Hank is told that the visiting priest was touched for his service on the altar. The newly refreshed pastor tells of Father Fenstad’s injury. A year passes and the visiting priest returns as he did the summer before. Near the end of his stay the priest arrives at church for morning mass in pain from his injuries. Hank must be the priest legs on the altar for mass. Miracles take place during the mass. Words are heard from heaven. Once mass is concluded Father Finstad relates to Hank the tragedy that befell him as a young man, and that of his kid brother as they were captive in the Auschwitz prison during the war. It is gut wrenching, and the two share the experience that will now affect both of their lives.August 21, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Poems' By Tracey Hankins
‘Poems’ By Tracey Hankins, , A collection of Poems. Each has its own title.August 21, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'Bloody Watson' By John Perez
‘Bloody Watson’ By John Perez, , During a Spring Break Trip from college, a group of students decide to camp in the Florida Everglades for a few nights. They happen upon an Island which is haunted by the Spirit of Ed Watson, a true historical character who murdered dozens of people throughout the US and in the Everglades during the Late 1800's and early 1900's. Inspired by true events, this mystery thriller combines the Historical story of Ed Watson with current times and young adults. A sexy thriller, based in Sunny South Florida, with a twist ending no one saw coming.August 21, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'Way Down in Egypt Land' By Benjamin Armstrong
‘Way Down in Egypt Land’ By Benjamin Armstrong, , During the American Civil War a wounded slave owner is greeted by unlikely people.August 21, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-history short-story
'Threw the wilderness ,before the promise land' By Bridgette Hayes
‘Threw the wilderness ,before the promise land’ By Bridgette Hayes, , In life their are stages we go threw..we have dreams goals aspirations..often times majority of times we have to go threw difficulies before getting there...August 20, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'The Midnight Beach' By K. Davez
‘The Midnight Beach’ By K. Davez, , Greek mythological fictional description of a beach at midnight.August 20, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'The dtrength of water and the power of Love' By Stacey Ireland
‘The dtrength of water and the power of Love’ By Stacey Ireland, , Over comming TragedyAugust 20, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-motivational-inspirational short-story
'The Wolf's Heir: Katrine's Awakening' By L.V. Luca
‘The Wolf’s Heir: Katrine’s Awakening’ By L.V. Luca, , Introducing "The Wolf's Heir: Katrine's Awakening" - a tale of self-discovery, empowerment, and conquering fears. Join Katrine, a human woman with a lineage of wolves and witches, as she embarks on a transformative journey that challenges her beliefs and tests her inner strength. Seeking refuge and purpose on the moon of her ancestors, Katrine faces rejection and threats. Will she reclaim her rightful place and find personal peace? Unleash the power within and break free from fear's grip in this captivating story of resilience and triumph.August 20, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'The Weymouth Wanderer' By Maria Buller
‘The Weymouth Wanderer’ By Maria Buller, , A man caught between his WWII post traumatic stress and alcoholism strikes up a deal with a sinister man using his mortal soul as collateral.August 20, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Celestial Warfare' By Daisy McCurtain
‘Celestial Warfare’ By Daisy McCurtain, , When Heaven's cockiest reaper goes missing, the Angel of Protection is willing to risk everything to find and rescue him - even his wings.August 20, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'This Too Will Pass' By Ruby Smith
‘This Too Will Pass’ By Ruby Smith, , Whatever you are dealing with , it won't last forever. Our troubles will pass when God says ok enough is enough. I am bringing my child out of this you are going through a season but this too will passAugust 20, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-motivational-inspirational short-story
'God Walks These Dark Hiils' By Alan Place
‘God Walks These Dark Hiils’ By Alan Place, , A sceptic has his conceot of religion challenged when he has a car accident, and gets recued a mysterious couple.August 19, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Done Deal!! (Permanently)' By Peggy Vanthul
‘Done Deal!! (Permanently)’ By Peggy Vanthul, , This is a story of a business partnership gone wrong.August 19, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-true-crime short-story
'Mistakes We Make' By Richard McFarlin
‘Mistakes We Make’ By Richard McFarlin, , Josh is a near broke dog walker, who supplements his income by stealing from his clients. He gets a new gig with some very odd people walking their dog. When he tries to steal from them he understands very quickly that there are certain mistakes we make in life that are often times fatal.August 19, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Seven Minutes' By Ellyne
‘Seven Minutes’ By Ellyne, , Rowan Queen is the star of campus hockey. Popular, cocky, but behind the mask, he's a different man. Everyone's a fan, he's the life of the party, but he wants nothing more in his heart than to be a tattoo artist. So he decides to change majors and start following his true dreams besides hockey. He never wanted to go pro, yet everyone expects him to make it to the NHL. Except for one person. Millie Zakharov. They meet at a party, a dressing room to be exact, when they participate in the Seven Minutes of Heaven game. They start talking and realize how much they have in common. She's also an art student studying to be a producer, so she doesn't like athletes. After a kiss, she runs away and Rowan does his best to find her. That's all he need. The fact that she doesn't want Rowan at first just burns him up. This happens, and now that they are both studying in the same department, they can't avoid each other. The hockey player decides to woo the girl, who is the complete opposite of the sorority girls he has dated before. The girl is wild, tattooed, and NOT BLONDE. He likes it because Millie is actually much closer to his world. Through humorous, romantic moments, Rowan convinces her that the two of them would be perfect together. Millie struggles with herself, but eventually gives in and realizes she's been misreading Rowan Queen. Sure, jealousy, misunderstood people, and the hockey world are there behind them like a shadow, but together they create their own world. Rowan and Millie seem like opposites, but as he courts her and they get to know each other, they realize that they are both artists. Rowan carries scars in his heart from a bad coach who made him not want to play hockey so badly. She is helping him to come to terms with this, but in the meantime this past event comes between them when they meet the coach. Millie questions her confidence and whether she has a place in this strange world. Rowan refuses to let her go and holds on to his dream of getting a tattoo, while keeping hockey as a hobby. He conjures up a sweet old school movie scene (Say Anything’s recorder scene) to make her fall in love. They decide to give each other a real chance while balancing between the two worlds, and they succeed very well. Rowan sets off on the road to tattoo success, while Millie is also fighting for her dreams of becoming a producer. The book ends with sweet text conversations. The end of the book also reveals which of their friends will develop a love affair, which will be the subject of the next book.August 19, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'Dark Alice in the new wonderland ' By SonyaLee
‘Dark Alice in the new wonderland ‘ By SonyaLee, , It's snippets of stories all combined into one like little stories for each characters .August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'The Day Technology Died' By Lj
‘The Day Technology Died’ By Lj, , Everything in Dani's life was relatively normal; she got good grades in school, went to work, and took care of her kitten, Stickers. But all of that changed when every screen in her city ceased functioning. As the days went on, and Dani listened to the radio, the deviating reality of the situation came to a head. It wasn't just her city: this outage was global.August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Something Casual' By John Harris
‘Something Casual’ By John Harris, , Lacy is finally ready to enter the dating world after her divorce from Gary Lowen. But the dating world has changed since her single days, with the insanity of the dating apps. When she finally meets a decent guy, she discovers he's a private investigator. He would love for her to join him as he travels for his next case. Who's he looking for, Lacy asks. Gary Lowen.August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-detective-mystery short-story
'The Midnight Mile' By Joan Foley Baier
‘The Midnight Mile’ By Joan Foley Baier, , Before cell phones were available, a teenager's winter's night walk home, alone, became a nightmare when she discovered a man following her. However, her response not only kept her safe, but more likely saved her life.August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-self-help-personal-development short-story
'2 Weeks in a Life' By Nancy Wisdom
‘2 Weeks in a Life’ By Nancy Wisdom, , What it's like to be a homeless old person.August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Fred, I Have to Go Now' By David Lutes
‘Fred, I Have to Go Now’ By David Lutes, , As a new, young pastor in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, I had to visit a very sick and dying parishioner on a regular basis - Maizie. Fred, her husband, was not at all 'believing' when it came to Christian things, and I had to tred carefully around the relevant subjects. When Maize was taken into emergency in her final days, Maizie's angelic visit at her farewell, touched everyone's lives - including mine.August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Delicato' By MARY EASTHAM
‘Delicato’ By MARY EASTHAM, , My name is Johanna Dane. The bones of my ancestors are buried deep here in Dane's Crossing, a cocoon of singing trees and magical beauty hidden like a jewel between the Whitley Mountains and the Eldorado River. My twin brother Mica says the river is his prop. Every day he leaves the studio, a sketch pad in his backpack, ready to see what surprises she has in store for him. It is hard for me to tell you this. Mica is missing in the floating world that is our town, devastated by the morning's flash flood. Where is he? Where is my beloved brother? I swim faster and faster into the flood's dark corners past someone's teapot, a hot-dog vendor's cart, measuring spoons and the morning's newspapers still tied up with string. Each time I rise back up to the surface, nearly comatose without air, I come back empty handed. Won't you please help me find him?August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-adventure short-story
'AMALGAM' By Macabre Romanticist
‘AMALGAM’ By Macabre Romanticist, , Abstract: This novel chronicles the psychic roller-coaster of a man removed from his one-time soul mate; a woman he once shared an impassioned, loving relationship. Bereft in her absence, he suffers two existences. From nights before, when his eyes open to the mental prison he's been sentenced, his daily anguish nears no end. While asleep, he luxuriates in the blossoming of a reinvigorated love for that very same woman in a world behind closed eyelids. Alongside this amalgam of sorrow and enjoyment, he and life-long friends participate in an intriguing confluence of events. By novel's end, he's drafted a letter that begs forgiveness, hoping a fortuitous wheedling of it into her hands provides a response in accord with the long-overdue, heart-wrenched words he's chosen.August 18, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'Divine Intervention from Above ' By Paula Zahratka
‘Divine Intervention from Above ‘ By Paula Zahratka, , About God in my lifeAugust 17, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Dream' By Sonya Strong
‘Dream’ By Sonya Strong, , Kathy had always Dreamed of going to the same College as her Dad so she fought hard to make that Dream come true but when it became a Reality for her, she never Dreamed that she would have to fight just as hard, for her life after she gets there?August 17, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'The Necromancer's Triumph' By Drew Goodman
‘The Necromancer’s Triumph’ By Drew Goodman, , A necromancer completes the final ritual within his mysterious book, but his ascension was not what he thought it would be.August 17, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'A Killing at the Core Residence' By Kathleen Kockritz
‘A Killing at the Core Residence’ By Kathleen Kockritz, , This happened at a residence in a small town in western Kentucky in the 1980's. The story involves one staff member killing another (crime of passion) and how this event affected the Core Residence Manager. The story deals with what happened and why. It is a true story, with fictional elements.August 17, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-true-crime short-story
'The Last Fish' By Alan Place
‘The Last Fish’ By Alan Place, , With the storms aproaching two fishermen risk thier lives in a bid to save their small fleet, and the business.August 17, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-motivational-inspirational short-story
'Peace Within' By Lenny
‘Peace Within’ By Lenny, , A story of one Karla, who was INCARCERATED. The life She led.... Lots of actionAugust 16, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'The city of Jewels ' By Jeff Rigdon
‘The city of Jewels ‘ By Jeff Rigdon, , This is the latest adventure of Peter Brice, a loveable thief with a heart of gold. He and his odd ball group of adventurers race against an old foe to unlock the secrets of the city of Jewels.August 16, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-adventure short-story
'Shifting Gears' By Rika Edens
‘Shifting Gears’ By Rika Edens, , For some life is incredibly unfair. Timmy copes with his reality by escaping into a delusional self identity. Suzy learns from a childhood crush what really matters in life. They both shift gears.August 16, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'Sally' By Leah Dewey
‘Sally’ By Leah Dewey, , A description of the land of the dead when someone is murdered.August 16, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'The test before me' By Angela Padmore
‘The test before me’ By Angela Padmore, , The unbrokenAugust 16, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-positive-social-transformation short-story
'Particles? I thought particles?' By Chase Garret Mozingo
‘Particles? I thought particles?’ By Chase Garret Mozingo, , An invasion in the night of Beatrice, the handsome protestor of nonchalant betrayal, sardonically repeating, and the defeat of iron in a cordially impregnated satire on life and the meaning of being jolly, wholly or encorpsed.August 16, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-philosophy-culture-sponsored-by-planksip short-story
'Famiglia' By Anonymous Bosch
‘Famiglia’ By Anonymous Bosch, , The children ofAntonio and Bonina Russo are celebrating their patents' 100th birthday and 82 years of marriage at St. Stephen's Nursing Home to be attended by the entire family, including grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Instead of it being a time of family reunion and focus on the celebration, old family rivalries and issues arise. Amelia's son has run away from home, and the aged brood of siblings falls into a host of unresolved family issues.August 15, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'My painful past' By Anna Thompson
‘My painful past’ By Anna Thompson, , Anna has come face to face with her biggest demon, herself. Will her troubled past come to haunt her future? Will her family understand why she had to do what she had to do? Or will she have to dissappear?August 14, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'The long mile of Joe Claypool' By Babs Ahn
‘The long mile of Joe Claypool’ By Babs Ahn, , How bottom land folks in a rural state meet life’s hurdles headonAugust 14, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-humor-entertainment short-story
'Part Time' By Diane Neiman
‘Part Time’ By Diane Neiman, , Do you ever really know your friends? Lovers? Anyone? In most cases the answer is no what is YOUR answer?August 14, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'The Lost Shoe' By Kimberley Cone
‘The Lost Shoe’ By Kimberley Cone, , Danny Shoe is lost. His friends try to comfort and encourage his brother David as his owner Nate tries to find him. Will he be found or is he lost and gone forever?August 14, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
'Once upon time' By Frances Chen
‘Once upon time’ By Frances Chen, , Once upon time, there was an angel live in the Heaven and a fairy lived in the Neverland. They started dancing without introducing themselves, and soon began to fall in love with each other. However, they have been tighten by two opposite land, and their love is forbidden. So, the angel and the fairy went to see the Azael, the Azael said that the angel must cut his wings and the fairy must get rid of her magic so that the master of the island Peter Pan couldn’t find her. And they both did quietly for each other. When wingless angel fell on Neverland, Peter Pan told that she had left, and the angel would be his servant for lifetime. And when the fairy broke the magic bond, Neverland reached to the Heaven, God told her that the angel had abandoned his life and she could wait him in inferno. In this case, both angel and fairy decided to sacrifice themselves, to reborn in the life that they could be with each other. The angel the toxicant, and the fairy walked into the flame. They both held their wishes until the strings of their lives broke, and their new lives had came.August 14, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Happy Birthday' By Patsy
‘Happy Birthday’ By Patsy, , Mostly about aging. The dynamics of the treatment from different parts of the family and with all that , how it effects you in your effort to age easily. Which I know can be difficult for a lot of people even without other situations happening with-in the family.August 13, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'The Sweet Buy and Bye' By Russ Melgar
‘The Sweet Buy and Bye’ By Russ Melgar, , Christmas Story. A widower trying to “escape” Christmas is hurled into an alternate world where he must mend his fractured soul, face his fears and open himself to life again.August 13, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'White Angel' By Samuel. G. Tooma
‘White Angel’ By Samuel. G. Tooma, , A man’s wonderful life crashes down around him, and he is suddenly thrust into a seemingly hopeless situation. With no options available, he turns to prayer. But instead of solutions to his demise, he is subjected to terrifying nightmares which include a mysterious woman in white. Are these nightmares omens of pending doom? Or are they somehow providing him clues to resurrect his life? Is the woman in white an agent of Satan leading him down the road to perdition? Or is she a messenger of God leading him to his salvation? “What should I do?” he cries.August 13, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-detective-mystery short-story
'Many Aspects Of Love' By Greg Gaul
‘Many Aspects Of Love’ By Greg Gaul, , Double Doppleganger intrigueAugust 13, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-romance short-story
'What we don’t know but need to know to live. ' By Janet Peral
‘What we don’t know but need to know to live. ‘ By Janet Peral, , Informing humanity of the complete creation of God and the resources we have yet don’t know about neither know how to fully take use of them to live a successful life with more moments filled with joy than sorrow.August 13, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Ms Sally, Are You An Outlaw?' By Deidre White
‘Ms Sally, Are You An Outlaw?’ By Deidre White, , Southern Belle travels West to meet her father. One night, while on his ranch, a gunman named Big Foot broke in and killed her father in cold blood. That night she vowed to avenge her father's death. School mark by day, but by night she is a relentless killer who won't stop tracking the man who killed her dad.August 13, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-historical-fiction short-story
'The survivor inside' By Sandra Bussell
‘The survivor inside’ By Sandra Bussell, , Childhood andAdult terror and survivingAugust 12, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-memoir-autobiography short-story
'Long Story Short' By Tim G. Young
‘Long Story Short’ By Tim G. Young, , Navigating the twists and turns of modern life are major challenges. One can decide to go with the flow but the flow may not always reach a comfortable situation. But whatever the outcome, life tends to be a long story short.August 12, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'90 day surprise ' By Jennifer Perkins
’90 day surprise ‘ By Jennifer Perkins, , MysteryAugust 12, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Heretics and Persecution ' By Imani Simone
‘Heretics and Persecution ‘ By Imani Simone, , A critical review of the persecution of martyrs. This short essay focuses on the inquisition in relation to the Roman Catholic church.August 12, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Skating through the end of the universe.' By howard Moon
‘Skating through the end of the universe.’ By howard Moon, , The Creator is watching the universe end and putting on her roller skates so she can skate across the universe and start all over again.August 12, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Dreams in Technicolor' By Gerry Watters
‘Dreams in Technicolor’ By Gerry Watters, , My story is about growing up and carrying secrets with a bit of dream/fantasy scenes also included.August 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'Cooking With Water' By Bessie Christian
‘Cooking With Water’ By Bessie Christian, , True short story of an elderly woman troubled by sicknesses brought on by aging.August 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-health-wellness short-story
'The Epic Fish Story ' By E.Palmer
‘The Epic Fish Story ‘ By E.Palmer, , This story is about a man on a fishing trip in 1992 that stumbles across something while fishing that would lead to nightmares and what if's for the rest of his life.August 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-thriller short-story
'cat and mouse game' By chinedu ichu
‘cat and mouse game’ By chinedu ichu, , Milo was a lazy cat who lived in a cozy house with his owner. He liked to sleep on the sofa, eat tuna, and watch TV. He had no interest in chasing mice or playing with toys. He was bored and lonely, but he did not know how to make friends. Max was a clever mouse who lived in a hole in the wall. He liked to explore the house, find food, and read books. He had many friends among the other mice, but he also wanted to learn more about the world outside. He was curious and adventurous, but he did not know how to be careful. One day, Milo and Max met in the kitchen. Milo saw Max nibbling on a slice of cheese and decided to catch him for fun. Max saw Milo pouncing on him and decided to escape for his life. They chased each other around the house, making a lot of noise and mess. They were not friends, but enemies.August 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
‘cat and mouse game’ By chinedu ichu, , cat who lived in a cozy house with his owner. He liked to sleep on the sofa, eat tuna, and watch TV. He had no interest in chasing mice or playing with toys. He was bored and lonely, but he did not know how to make friends. Max was a clever mouse who lived in a hole in the wall. He liked to explore the house, find food, and read books. He had many friends among the other mice, but he also wanted to learn more about the world outside. He was curious and adventurous, but he did not know how to be careful. One day, Milo and Max met in the kitchen. Milo saw Max nibbling on a slice of cheese and decided to catch him for fun. Max saw Milo pouncing on him and decided to escape for his life. They chased each other around the house, making a lot of noise and mess. They were not frienAugust 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
'cat and mouse game' By chinedu ichu
‘cat and mouse game’ By chinedu ichu, , Milo was a lazy cat who lived in a cozy house with his owner. He liked to sleep on the sofa, eat tuna, and watch TV. He had no interest in chasing mice or playing with toys. He was bored and lonely, but he did not know how to make friends. Max was a clever mouse who lived in a hole in the wall. He liked to explore the house, find food, and read books. He had many friends among the other mice, but he also wanted to learn more about the world outside. He was curious and adventurous, but he did not know how to be careful. One day, Milo and Max met in the kitchen. Milo saw Max nibbling on a slice of cheese and decided to catch him for fun. Max saw Milo pouncing on him and decided to escape for his life. They chased each other around the house, making a lot of noise and mess. They were not friends, but enemies. One day, Milo and Max met in the kitchen. Milo saw Max nibbling on a slice of cheese and decided to catch him for fun. Max saw Milo pouncing on him and decided to escape for his life. They chased each other around the house, making a lot of noise and mess. They were not friends, but enemies .One day, Milo and Max met in the kitchen. Milo saw Max nibbling on a slice of cheese and decided to catch him for fun. Max saw Milo pouncing on him and decided to escape for his life. They chased each other around the house, making a lot of noise and mess. They were not friends, but enemies.August 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-childrens-fiction short-story
'Christmas Lights in January' By Laura Duggan
‘Christmas Lights in January’ By Laura Duggan, , On her way across the country to see her dying brother, a woman delivers a eulogy in her mind as she journeys.August 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'The Corner home' By Living Phoenix
‘The Corner home’ By Living Phoenix, , A simple dilapidated home on the corner of a street yet full of mystery.August 11, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
'Teenage Changes' By Shanna Kelley
‘Teenage Changes’ By Shanna Kelley, , The problems teens face during those hard teen years and the parents dealing with them.August 10, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'Incubation' By T.M. Davis
‘Incubation’ By T.M. Davis, , After all these years, Lily shows up at Ray's door, promising the biggest score of a lifetime. But who wouldn't be just a little bit paranoid, if you were the one who put her in jail in the first place.August 10, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Incubation' By T.M. Davis
‘Incubation’ By T.M. Davis, , After all these years, Lily shows up at Ray's door, promising the biggest score of a lifetime. But who wouldn't be just a little bit paranoid, if you were the one who put her in jail in the first place.August 10, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'MS: a Life Lived' By Paula Frew
‘MS: a Life Lived’ By Paula Frew, , I would write about my life with MSAugust 10, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-health-wellness short-story
'The Tour' By C.B. Butler
‘The Tour’ By C.B. Butler, , Tonya and Quincy are on a tour of a winery cellar, enjoying some respite from the everyday, and some alone time before the arrival of their first child. But one of them has alternate reasons for this tour, and it's not to taste more wine... I got the idea for The Tour while on a literal tour of a winery in Augusta, Missouri. My partner and I are huge fans of horror, and we both agreed the cellar of the winery would be a great setting for a tale of terror, although I don't remember who had the thought first.August 10, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-horror short-story
‘If Pain were an Option ‘ By R.D Morgan, , until I don’t have a voice anymore. I want to punch a wall until my hand is broken. I want to hurt someone without hurting them. I want to be able to express my feelings without being judged. I want someone to listen to me when I’m not talking. I want someone to hear my cries for help even when I’m not saying anything. I want someone to care for me without me having to beg for them to care. I want someone to stay without begging them. I want things that aren’t possible in this world and in this timeline. I want love without having to ask for it. I want someone to hug me when they know I’m not ok. I want things that I shouldn’t have to ask for, but I still do. I wanted parents that didn’t scream at the top of their lungs at each other all the time, I wanted siblings that didn’t hate me, I wanted to not be abandoned, I wanted to be loved even when I’m at my lowest. I want someone to care without asking. If physical pain were an option I would take it, but it's not. I must stay clean, and not just for myself this time. I must do it for them. I must do it for my siblings, my mom, my stepdad, and what little friends I have. If pain were an option, I would take it but it's not. I must keep fighting for what is right. What I think and feel is right. People aren’t always going to agree with my opinions and that’s ok, but I must accept that. Nothing is better than pain whether physical, mental, or emotional pain it’s all the same. Family members like to tell me I’m too much or I’m overreacting to certain situations but I’m not, they just don’t like how I am and frankly I don’t like their ways much either. If pain were an option, I would take it. Sometimes you can’t take the opportunities that are presented to you because it’s just not what the mind wants. I could go on and on or I can tell you that pain is something that everyone wants to feel at least once in their life. And some people wonder why other people want to feel pain, it’s because when feeling numb it sucks because all you want to do is feel something and you can’t because well, you’re numb. The numb feeling is like your grandma or someone close to you dying and you not feeling anything, you’re just there. And when you’re numb you want to feel pain even when you can’t. It takes over your life sometimes. Other times some people can’t get their lives back. They are numb forever or at least they feel like are. Pain is pain and feeling it what some people want at least once in their life. If pain were an option, August 9, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'If Pain were an Option ' By R.D Morgan
‘If Pain were an Option ‘ By R.D Morgan, , This short story is about a young girl about 14 or 15 who just wants to feel something rather than nothing. She talks about how physical pain was an option she would take itAugust 9, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-young-adult short-story
'The Derby Curse' By Paula Moomey
‘The Derby Curse’ By Paula Moomey, , My family went from being ministers in the church to serving the devil... how? In this book I will tell you... just open the pages of my nightmareAugust 9, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-families-relationships short-story
'On Holy Ground' By Cantor Mitch
‘On Holy Ground’ By Cantor Mitch, , A woman with a collectable shop finds that her house and property are on sacred burial grounds with mysterious and haunting powersAugust 9, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-fantasy short-story
'Seeing is believing, but what the heart feels truly tells the whole story' By Mickey
‘Seeing is believing, but what the heart feels truly tells the whole story’ By Mickey, , Actual events of my life that include gifts of God's greatest blessings. The interaction of animals and God's will. A trip to pet store for snake food ended up buying a puppy for a 9 year old boy who just lost his father. By the end of the evening the true reason for buying puppy is revealed. When you hear the Lord speak and obey it changes everything. Had a hand raised parakeet, personally picked out, a male according to breeder of bird. Started to lay eggs, and then seizures. Calcium deficiency from laying sterile eggs. Confirmed by vet bird was female, not male, depleting calcium from egg production. Became so attached to this feathered miracle. She was Michael, then Molly. Loved to do turkey calls, bath drink coffee. Very effectionate. Wonderful blessing, smart, comforting to all.August 9, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-religion-spirituality short-story
'Conversation with God' By ben coleman
‘Conversation with God’ By ben coleman, , “In peace, sons bury their fathers. In war, fathers bury their sons.” - Herodotus In 2303 Ten miles northwest of New Century City on the planet of Elysium 2 men are on a day hike with their sons when suddenly there is cataclysmic bone-rattling boom of ships breaking the sound barrier as hundreds of ships of Invasion fleet beared down on New Century City. A story of survival and the grace of GodAugust 9, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-science-fiction short-story
'Don’t Call Us Lay We Can Slay' By Karen Arnold
‘Don’t Call Us Lay We Can Slay’ By Karen Arnold, , This is a story about being sent to a medical doctor because of vertigo and finding a treatment for vertigo myself and telling the doctor’s office about the treatment because the doctor had vertigo.August 9, 2023Voteanthology-program contest-category-biography short-story