Stuff that’s fiction
Mitchell sails confidently through familiar waters, sharing sea tales and narrow escapes with Peter. His control of the yacht mirrors the one place he feels certain—out here, among the tides, currents, and markers of a world that obeys rules. Peter’s casual question about children strikes a chord. There will be no children, Mitchell says. Samantha […]
Mitchell and Peter sail through the Pearl Channel aboard Surly Mermaid. It’s Mitchell’s world now—confident, calm, in control. He wasn’t always a sailor, but fear taught him quickly. Now, he navigates currents, winds, and the subtle shifts in people with practised ease. Over drinks, Mitchell shares how solitude at sea makes people vulnerable—and how women
The Skipper’s Game Read More »
Mitchell wasn’t expecting visitors. Yet a knock interrupted his solitude. At the door stood a young woman in a red coat—blonde hair, bright eyes, hauntingly familiar. It was Nina. No—couldn’t be. Nina was dead. But the voice, the smirk… it was her daughter. Natasha. She introduced herself politely, excited, fidgeting with a note in her
The Girl at the Door Read More »
Mitchell needed release. A week of mundane photography and artificial smiles had worn him down. The soundscape in his ear wasn’t helping either—mundane clicks and casual chatter from another woman’s apartment. No threat. No secrecy. Just ordinary life. He closed the feed and opened an old folder: photos of “her.” Not Sam. The other one.
The One He Keeps Hidden Read More »
Two decades after its initial draft, SEETHINGS has undergone a profound transformation. This darker, sharper version enhances its psychological depth, exploring themes of obsession and madness. With tightened prose and heightened tension, it redefines the neo-noir genre, inviting both new readers and returning fans to experience its unsettling narrative. It’s currently free on Smashwords.
SEETHINGS Reborn: A Darker Descent, 20 Years in the Making Read More »
Timing the climax in fiction is essential for emotional impact. The classic 3-act structure positions it around 75%, allowing fallout processing. Alternatively, a midpoint climax serves as a twist in fast-paced stories. Lastly, a final-act climax creates built-up tension, common in horror. The key is to ensure the climax feels earned.
Mastering Climax Timing in Fiction Read More »
God’s Will. That’s what Sam always said when life veered off course. “It’s His plan.” Easy words for someone who’d drawn the line and stood behind it. But what if He drew the line straight to Nina’s door? I followed it, step by step. Each link in the chain of events had clicked too neatly
A Journey of Fate and Desire Read More »
“I had to know,” I told him. “I had to hear you say it.” Tony didn’t respond. His silence said more than words ever could. “You’re just as capable,” I continued. “You’ve walked that edge. You’ve pushed past it.” “You bastard, Mitchell,” he whispered, trembling. “That doesn’t make me like you. I’m still innocent.” I
A Tense Confrontation Read More »
Readers of dark fiction often seek to explore complex human emotions and fears in a safe environment. This genre allows for a controlled confrontation with fear, enhances empathy, and provides cathartic experiences. Ultimately, these readers are drawn to understand the darker aspects of life while processing their own emotions through engaging narratives.
The Psychology Behind Dark Fiction’s Appeal Read More »
The life of a writer is multifaceted, encompassing not just storytelling but also marketing and promotion. Writers often struggle with the promotional aspect, which is vital for success. Michael Forman shares his daily routine, balancing writing with analyzing sales data, managing social media, and addressing challenges like Amazon’s review policies, while seeking tools for flexibility.
The Writer’s Journey: Balancing Creativity and Promotion Read More »