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Some
of the short stories in this section of Stories and Books
reflect the writer's occasionally dark sense of humor - nurtured,
no doubt, by many long hours in a newsroom where nothing is
sacred and a joke can be made about (nearly) anything. I am
also an avid mystery reader and loved the twists and turns
of old classic TV such as Twilight Zone and Alfred Hitchcock.
Thus, some of the free short stories you'll find here reflect
all those elements in addition to an imagination that consistently
landed this writer in the vice principal's office during her
school years.
Many contemporary short stories are lauded for their complexities,
subtleties, innuendo, and writing conventions that put reviewers
in awe of their talent. I don't think you'll find any of that
in my free short stories - particularly the awe-struck reviewers!
I can live with that so long as you enjoy the tales.
Since I've devoured so many mystery books and short stories,
in addition to being a professional editor for nearly two
decades, I trust that someone out there will find my stories
interesting and amusing - in a delightfully dark way. And,
will enjoy the nostalgic setting and soft message in the last,
very short piece, "Wading in the Channel."
I also include a spot of humor with "Gypsy's Wedding,"
based on a real experience I had while covering a story in
Austin, Texas. In addition, I wrote a soft and nostalgic piece
inspired by an afternoon on a beach along the English Channel.
I'll be adding more short stories as they tumble forth and
share them on Stories and Books .com!
Not Just for
Adults
Many years ago I did a story on a blacksmith who told the
tale of how horseshoes became a symbol of luck. I searched
the Web and could not find a version of this fable. So, if
you have a youngster who likes tall tales, please make a gift
of Four Shoes for the Devil for him or her!
READ Four Shoes for the Devil!
Feedback
Invited
As in all of Stories and Books, I invite your comments and
will publish favorable, and critical feedback that is suitable
for this site.
Simply click on a title below to go to the free short story
of your choice.You can read them online or print out a copy
and curl up with a quick read.
Please remember that all my work is copyrighted and, although
I am pleased to have it read, I would be infuriated if someone
plagiarized in any way, these original works or used them
for commercial profit. Please Contact Us for permission to
reprint any story beyond your personal use.
It feels good to set these short stories free from the electronic
files and personal piles where they've been languishing for
many years. Please read, hopefully enjoy and kindly let me
know your thoughts!
Along
the Garden Path
This two-part short story follows the life of a solitary woman
whose passion is raising flowers and fending off civilization.
But, there's a reason for Gina's penchant to be left alone
and it all began with a young man whose singing voice wrapped
around her heart like ivy, nearly stopping her breath. This
love was never lost. Even when his voice faded into a hot
valley wind Gina basked in his presence and protected his
secret - and hers.
This FREE short story is yours to read online or print and
enjoy.
PART ONE or click here
for PART
TWO
I welcome your COMMENTS.
The Goody-Goody Girl
Is there such a thing as just being too good? Charlene never
thought so until one day when she searched her mind, listened
to her broken heart and decided it was time for a change.
She had her transformation thought out to the tiniest detail
except for one thing - for some people being very, very bad
isn't all that easy.
READ NOW
I welcome your COMMENTS
- Please see one reader's review at the left!
Time the Waves
I watched from the shoreline of the English Channel as an
older married couple strolled the beach and stood apart watching
the waves. Nearby, as if from a mirror of time long past,
a young couple rolled on a blanket oblivious to anything other
than the warmth of their own bodies. Can change happen from
a small moment in the summer sun?
READ NOW
Gypsy's
Wedding
She's no longer a young songbird pursuing a career in Nashville.
Gypsy is approaching middle age and very pleased she's found
an acceptable man to provide her with the security to which
she'd like to become accustomed. All she needs to do is keep
her eclectic wedding party and her bethrothed on task long
enough to get that Harley Davidson ring on her finger. Join
the party for some short story fun!
READ NOW
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