Story Excerpts

Heartshock
by Nick Wolven

At first Maya can’t figure out what’s happened. Then, when the shock fades, she can’t believe it.

The world is throbbing, shooting pain through every nerve, and Maya’s whole existence, at the moment, is dark. Then she starts to hear chatter, human noise, shifting bodies. Plus a screaming of alarms. And feels pressure.

A hand on her shoulder. Firm.

“We did it.” Astrid’s voice is like something high and far away, a star far north of the galactic plane. “It’s over, Captain. We won.” READ MORE

 

Bachelorettes on the Devil’s Dance Floor
by Stephanie Feldman

In spring, on the eve of Saint Walburga’s Day, the witches gather in the mountains of Central Germany to celebrate the devil.

So says the hotel concierge. He also says there will be vendors, performances, and huge crowds. The three American girls should walk; the route to the festival site, the Devil’s Dance Floor, is easy.

“How did you not know?” Elle, the best friend, complains. “And it’s our last night.”

“There was nothing on the website!” Bea, the sister, cries.

“It’s spontaneous!” Angie, the bride, insists. “I wouldn’t want anything else.” READ MORE