Poets in Hell: A Heroes in Hell Anthology Compiled by Janet Morris + giveaway

In the underworlds, injustice always reigns: Join us and our damnedest poets for the crookedest poetry festival in perdition where language comes to die and no rhyme goes unpunished.

Poets in Hell: A Heroes in Hell Anthology

Compiled by Janet Morris
Genre: Dark Epic Historical Fantasy
The best, the worst, and ugliest bards in perdition vie for Satan's favor as poets slam one another, Satan's Fallen Angels smirk up their sleeves, and the illiterati have their day. Find out why the damned deserve their fates as Hell's hacks sink to new poetical depths!

The first Bible writer drafts a deal with the Devil.

Attila the Hun learns his punishment's just begun.

Mary Shelley and Victor Frankenstein make a monstrous mistake.

Bat Masterson and Wyatt Earp get their unjust deserts.

Hell's Undertaker goes on holiday.

The Damned Poets Society slams away.

A nameless soul shows Dorothy Parker that fame is a bitch.

In the underworlds, injustice always reigns:

Join us and our damnedest poets for the crookedest poetry festival in perdition where language comes to die and no rhyme goes unpunished. 

Stories inside:

• Words - Chris Morris
• Seven Against Hell - Janet Morris and Chris Morris
• Reunion - Nancy Asire
• Hell-hounds - Bruce Durham
• The Kid with No Name - Jack William Finley
• All Hell to Pay - Deborah Koren
• Poetic Injustice - Larry Atchley, Jr.
• When You Gaze Into an Abyss - Matthew Kirshenblatt
• Pride and Penance - Tom Barczak
• Grand Slam - pdmac
• Undertaker’s Holiday - Joe Bonadonna and Shebat Legion
• Red Tail’s Corner - Yelle Hughes
• Faust III - Richard Groller
• Tapestry of Sorrows and Sighs - Bill Snider
• Haiku d’État - Beth W. Patterson
• A Mother’s Heart - Bill Barnhill
• We the Furious - Joe Bonadonna
• Damned Poets Society - Michael H. Hanson
• All We Need of Hell - Michael A. Armstrong

**On Sale until the end of the month!**
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Excerpt from Poets in Hell
Words by Chris Morris
In the beginning was the Logos, the Word. In the beginning come always the words. Words are the mortar of the mind.

“Look, you!” J the Yahwist, first author of the Old Testament, exhorted empty air, waving her hands about her on a blasted heath encircled by dark and cold.

As in ancient times, this command brings light out of darkness, souls out of nowhere. All the heath fills with them, the detritus of the damned, singing and keening and rhyming aloud at the top of their lungs, each trying to outshout the other: the prolix, the wordy damned of perdition. Here are the teeming illiterati, the poor poets of pride and ignorance, angry and bleating like sheep at the altar, romancers of death, hoping for slaughter, dreaming of surcease.

J would give them peace if she could, but she couldn’t: peace was oblivion, oblivion was escape, and escape was unattainable in hell. Death could be had, and cheap, but never lasted long: no sinning soul could win its way to heaven’s grace.

J’s god reigned as a jealous god, tempestuous; unfair, equivocal. As her skin glowed caramel, neither white nor yellow, brown or black, so her eyes were inconclusively hazel, flecking every color in creation. Like her god on high, set up from eternity before the earth was made, she belonged nowhere in damnation, not to this New Hell nor any other. She was only visiting here. Or so she thought; so she hoped.

“Look, you,” J called a second time aloud, and a thousand heads turned her way; a thousand mouths clamped shut as she began to tell her tale to their minds’ eyes.

Invariably, these words are her signal to infernity that she is ready to begin. Inevitably, those words summon not only story, but the Deceiver, a lord of hell himself.

Sensing joy, incensed by pleasure, now comes Satan, white- winged and glorious, amid his host of fallen angels, circling to land, streaming intolerance and wrath on all the fools below, who howl the more.

At times like these, J misses Solomon. That wise warrior-king (her fellow writer of words worth hearing) would enjoin even such rabble as this to vie with the lords of hell themselves, if she’d but ask him.

About the Authors:
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Best selling author Janet Morris began writing in 1976 and has since published more than 30 novels, many co-authored with her husband Chris Morris or others. Most of her fiction work has been in the fantasy and science fiction genres, although she has also written historical and other novels. Morris has written, contributed to, or edited several book-length works of non-fiction, as well as papers and articles on nonlethal weapons, developmental military technology and other defense and national security topics.

Christopher Crosby Morris (born 1946) is an American author of fiction and non-fiction, as well as a lyricist, musical composer, and singer-songwriter. He is married to author Janet Morris. He is a defense policy and strategy analyst and a principal in M2 Technologies, Inc. He writes primarily as Chris Morris, but occasionally uses pseudonyms.

Choice of print or ebook of Poets in Hell,
$20 Amazon giftcard – 1 winner each!

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Tales From the Cursed Edge (Dark Stories of Swords and Sorcery: An Edge Weaver Anthology) + giveaway

Step beyond the threshold of safety and discover what lies beyond . . . the Cursed Edge.

Six gripping tales of courage, sacrifice & redemption await on the precipice between salvation and damnation.

Tales From the Cursed Edge (Dark Stories of Swords and Sorcery: An Edge Weaver Anthology) 
Created by Marie Ito
Stories by Michael Magistro, James Andrews, W.E. Wertenbeger, Rob D. Smith, Jack Finn, JP Wilder, Chris Mason
May 15, 2025
Where light fails, heroes are forged in darkness. 

Six gripping tales of courage, sacrifice, and redemption await on the precipice between salvation and damnation. Each story draws you deeper into a world where magic flows like blood and monsters prowl the shadows.

Journey with unlikely heroes thrust into extraordinary circumstances—a mundane worker transported to a realm of danger and destiny, a mighty king confronting the terrible price of power, a battle-hardened mercenary facing the ghosts of his past, a loyal emissary venturing into enemy territory with nothing but faith, two companions racing against time to prevent an ancient evil’s return, and a lone holy warrior seeking divine aid against a darkness that threatens all creation.

These tales explore the moments that define us: when fear must yield to courage, when ordinary souls rise to extraordinary challenges, and when the darkness seems insurmountable, but the flame of hope refuses to die.

From master storytellers Michael Magistro, James Andrews, W.E. Wertenberger, Rob D. Smith, Jack Finn, JP Wilder, and Chris Mason comes an anthology that will transport you to lands where magic and monsters reign, and where heroes are forged in the fires of adversity.

Step beyond the threshold of safety, and discover what lies beyond . . . the Cursed Edge. 

The Savage Rat Lord by Michael Magistro:
A young fast-food worker falls into another world and finds his true calling in a desperate village.

Denmýr by James Andrew:
A powerful warrior king faces dark truths about his family’s bloody legacy and his ancestral sword. 

The Many Mouths of the Endless Night by W.E. Wertenberger & Rob D. Smith:
A mercenary confronts childhood guilt in a city where rat-controlling street urchins stalk the night.

The Last Emissary by Jack Finn:
A desperate kingdom sends its final messenger to a usurper’s court in a last attempt to end a brutal war. 

The Black Altar by JP Wilder:
Two companions discover a dark artifact tied to an ancient cult seeking to open a forbidden gateway.
 

Heroes Never Die by Chris Mason:
A lone paladin, survivor of a sacred order, embarks on a quest to reclaim divine power against cosmic horror.

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Michael Magistro is a Clovis, California-based author with deep roots in the vibrant Bay Area. When not managing regional operations for a Fortune 150 company, Michael channels his passion into crafting compelling narratives that explore themes of redemption, legacy, rebirth, and the enduring search for hope in the darkest of times. Outside of his professional and creative pursuits, he enjoys powerlifting, devouring a wide range of media, and cherishing moments with his family.

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James Andrews is a full time artist and designer living in the Northeastern United States. This is the first step in his journey as an author and he has many more stories to tell. When he's not sculpting dragons, drawing comics, or writing, he spends all the rest of his time with his golden retriever and his cat.

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W.E. Wertenberger is a writer of Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Crime fiction. He grew up in Northern Ohio and currently lives and works in Kentucky. His most recent work has appeared in Savage Realms Monthly and Cirsova Magazine.

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Rob D. Smith wanted to weave tales as soon as he plucked his first Fantastic Four comic book off the grocery store spinner rack. He honed his imagination with scribbled drawings in notebooks creating intricate stories where he learned that his imagination was far greater than his art skills. Words became his way of exploring the weird worlds in his mind. Since then, he has had wide success in the crime, horror, fantasy, and weird fiction genres.

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Jack Finn is a folk horror author and member of the Horror Writers Association. He lives in the Pacific Northwest with his wife and two clever dogs. His debut novel, The Seven Deaths of Prince Vlad (Anuci Press, 2024), explores dark and thrilling themes. In 2025, Jack’s werewolf duology—Prey Upon the Lambs (April) and The Desolation of Hunters (September)—will be released by Anuci Press, along with They Come When You Are Asleep, an anthology of his short stories (Velox Books). His work has appeared in notable horror collections, including Doors of Darkness, Horroscope 4, Twelve Months of Horror, and more. 

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JP Wilder also known as JP Vile, is a versatile author and academic specializing in fantasy, science fiction, and pulp genres. Best known for his Crusader series and Hunter Caine Pulp Stories, Wilder delves into themes of war, honor, betrayal, and redemption through action-packed storytelling. He has contributed essays and introductions to the Edge Weaver Classics series, covering iconic works like A Princess of Mars and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Wilder also explores historical mysteries and survival strategies in his academic works. Holding an MBA and an MFA in Creative Writing, he enriches his narratives with profound historical depth.

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Chris Mason is a fantasy and sci fi writer hailing from Jackson, Mississippi. He is the author of The Stars Fell (Science Fiction), as well as The Dark Rider (Dark Fantasy). A fan of epic storytelling centered around good versus evil, he can usually be found gaming on his couch with his cats, Quincy and Rocky, or traveling in search of new inspiration.

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Tales From Planet Sanos: A Multi-Author Science Fiction Romance Omnibus + giveaway

The future is grim. Seven human women, trained in survival and negotiation are being permitted to land on Planet Sanos with one goal: secure a future for the humans of Earth… at any cost.

Tales From Planet Sanos
A Multi-Author Science Fiction Romance Omnibus
with stories by Celia Kyle, Chloe Graves, Elin Wyn, Holly Hanzo, Lara Roth, Mary Ashe, Robin O’Connor
June 10, 2025
Genre: Science Fiction, Short Stories, Alien Invasion, Scifi Romance
The future is grim. The Earth’s oceans are poison to humans, and pure water, untainted by the generations of pollution, is scarce and coveted. Our only hope—Earth’s only hope—rests in the landing capsule gradually descending from the generational spaceship, the USS Legacy. Seven human women, trained in survival and negotiation are being permitted to land on Planet Sanos with one goal: secure a future for the humans of Earth… at any cost.

This SPECIAL EDITION print omnibus has a glossy cover, printed edges, digital signatures, and custom artwork throughout. It contains the following Planet Sanos shared world novellas:

Taken by the Alien Merking by Celia Kyle
Taken by the Siren King by Chloe Graves
Taken by the Storm King by Elin Wyn
Taken by the Alien Kraken King by Holly Hanzo
Taken by the Leviathan King by Lara Roth
Taken by the Merrow King by Mary Ashe
Taken by the Alien Triton King by Robin O'Connor

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Tales from Planet Sanos - Taken by the Alien Merking Excerpt
“Well, humanity f*cked around. And now, it’s time to find out.”
Brooke raised her eyebrows at the mumbled comment from the back of the craft as the landing capsule hummed with anticipation. Or perhaps it was just the vibration of the engines straining against the unknowns of Planet Sanos’ atmosphere. Brooke’s gaze was fixed on the hazy mostly-blue orb growing larger on the viewscreen, her mind a whirlwind of calculations and contingencies.
“All right, ladies,” Brooke announced, her voice steady despite the flutter in her chest. “We’re programming the final approach. Once we land, you know what to do. We’ve trained for this. You’ll each meet with negotiators and leaders of the different species on Sanos and secure a future for humans.”
“Captain, are we sure that’s wise? We don’t know much about any of these species beyond what they provided to command.” Brooke recognized the voice of another captain on the mission and allowed herself a thin smile in return.
“It’s a risk, but we need to show them we’re serious. One leader to another. It’s why we’re all the same rank with the same training. It’s our only hope for this mission. And our only hope as a species.”
The youngest of their sevensome chimed in, her fingers dancing across the touchscreen as the capsule continued its descent. “And if they’re not as… diplomatic as we hope?”
“Then we adapt,” Brooke replied, the certainty in her voice belying the knot in her stomach. “We’ve trained for this. Our survival depends on it.”
The capsule shuddered slightly as it pierced the upper atmosphere. The buffeting was a reminder of their precarious situation. Brooke’s eyes remained locked on the horizon of the alien world, her thoughts straying to the generations aboard the USS Legacy hovering above Sanos. Their lives hung in the balance of this mission.
The next to final member of their team leaned back in her seat. “We’re making history either way. First human envoys to an alien world.”
Brooke nodded, the weight of their mission pressing on her. “Let’s make sure it’s a history worth telling.”
The capsule’s artificial intelligence, a soothing voice that had become a constant companion, interrupted their exchange. “Atmospheric entry successful. Preparing for landing sequence.”
Brooke’s heart rate ticked up a notch. The time for theory and training was over. It was time for action. She unstrapped from her seat, her movements fluid and purposeful. “Once we’re on the ground, it’s showtime. Remember, we’re here to secure a future, not just for us, but for every soul aboard the Legacy.”
As the capsule descended, the blue of the sky gave way to a landscape of verdant jungles and shimmering oceans. It was a world untouched by the blight that had consumed Earth, a reminder of what they were fighting for.
The landing was smooth, the capsule settling onto the alien terrain with a gentle thud. Brooke took a deep breath, steeling herself for the encounter ahead. She turned to her compatriots, her eyes shining with determination. “This is it. We’ll make contact and assess the situation and bring home a win for the humans of the Legacy.”
With that, Brooke stepped towards the airlock, her hand resting on the door controls. The future of humanity hinged on the next few hours, on her ability to negotiate with a species they barely understood. But as the door slid open and she took her first step onto Planet Sanos, Brooke felt a surge of hope.
This was their chance, their only hope, and she would seize it with every ounce of strength she possessed. The fate of Earth was in her hands, and she would not falter.
The first breath of Sanos’ air filled Brooke’s lungs with a scent so pure, it felt like drinking in the essence of an untouched world. Exquisite beaches stretched before her. The sand was a pristine white that seemed to glow against the cerulean expanse of the ocean. Lush jungles pressed at her back, a vibrant tapestry of emerald that whispered secrets and stories untold.
But there was little time for awe. Humanoid figures emerged from the foliage. Their scales shimmered in the sunlight, a mosaic of blues and greens that confirmed their identity—Quxoni. They approached with a regal bearing, gesturing for Brooke to follow. She cast a final glance at the landing capsule, where the other five human females tasked with liaising with the other species of Sanos stood poised, their expressions a blend of worry and pride.
Brooke’s escort led her to a massive tent, its fabric billowing in the gentle sea breeze. As she crossed the threshold, her eyes fell upon a figure that commanded the space and attention. This must be their chief negotiator, though nothing in the dossier about the Quxoni could have prepared her for the reality of his presence. Towering and muscular, with long, flowing blue hair and bright green eyes, he was a vision of otherworldly allure. A sensation, undeniably primal, stirred within her, a pull that was both disconcerting and exhilarating.
“Welcome to Sanos,” the male’s voice rumbled, a melody of bass notes that resonated in her chest. “I am Zetron Kallithar. You will negotiate with me.”
Brooke met his gaze, her own voice steady. “Thank you for receiving me. I am Captain Brooke Harris.”
His lips quirked into a half-smile that seemed both a challenge and an invitation. “Curious, that you came alone. Only seven females to negotiate for the future of your people. Is this a display of trust… or desperation?”
She returned the smile, her eyes narrowing slightly. “Perhaps it’s a bit of both. But I assure you, we’re not as helpless as we seem.”
“Our scientists tell us that your planet is dying,” he retorted. “Your people are hungry. And your government has allocated a portion of the last of your people’s resources to sending you to negotiate with the species of Sanos. Ostensibly to beg for assistance. That seems pretty helpless to me.”
“Your scientists may be right,” Brooke repeated, keeping her composure as she walked towards him. Zetron cocked his head and moved slightly, taking a step as he gestured to her to follow him. “But we humans have a saying.”
“Which is?”
“We may be down, but that doesn’t mean we’re out.” Brooke’s lips twitched.
“Interesting,” Zetron murmured as he padded along next to Brooke. “Even with the extreme difficulties of your people, you remain hopeful.”
“What other option do we have?” Brooke glanced at him with a brow quirked.
Before Zetron could respond, the ground trembled beneath their feet. A cacophony of explosions filled the air, followed by the staccato zing of phaser fire. The tent walls shuddered but held firm against the onslaught, protecting them fully despite their gauzy appearance. Handy. Brooke’s heart thundered, instincts screaming for action.
Her hands itched for a weapon and she glanced around the space searching for one, but the tent was sparse save for a few ornate cushions and a low table. Zetron’s eyes met hers, a flash of concern crossing his features.
“Seems we have unwelcome guests,” he remarked, his tone betraying no panic, only a calm readiness.
Brooke’s mind raced. “Who are they?”
Zetron’s gaze darkened. “The anti-alien faction, most likely.”
“The anti-alien what?”
Another explosion rocked the tent, closer this time.
“Now is not the time,” Zetron yelled, betraying a hint of the worry in his voice.
Brooke’s survival training kicked in and she dropped to her knees, sweeping the ground with her hands, searching for anything buried within the sand that she could use as a makeshift weapon.
But she came up empty-handed. Dammit.
As phaser fire continued to rain down, Brooke knew their initial meeting had taken an unexpected turn. The fate of her people and the potential alliance with the Quxoni now hinged on their ability to survive the onslaught together. She locked eyes with Zetron.
Zetron’s voice sliced through the chaos, a command rather than a request. “We must move, now!” Before Brooke could fully process his words, he bolted to her.
“Wait!” she yelled, but it was no use. Within seconds, she found herself cradled against his chest, his powerful arms securing her against him. In another few seconds, Zetron hoisted her over his shoulder effortlessly and ran from the explosions.
The world blurred as he bolted toward the rear of the tent, the fabric parting before them.
Brooke’s heart pounded in time with Zetron’s strides, the erratic rhythm of phaser fire echoing in her ears. She caught glimpses of the battle raging around them—the seven species that had come to meet them clashing with unseen assailants.
They quickly reached the ocean’s edge, the waves lapping at the shore. Zetron didn’t break stride, his gaze fixed on the horizon as he entered the water. Brooke’s breath hitched as the cool liquid enveloped them, a stark contrast to the heat of battle.
“Hold your breath,” Zetron instructed, his tone leaving no room for argument. She complied, filling her lungs with air just as they submerged.
Underwater, the world transformed. The sounds of battle muted to a distant hum, replaced by the serene gurgle of the ocean. Schools of iridescent fish darted past, their colors a vibrant testament to the life thriving beneath the waves. Brooke’s eyes stung from the saltwater, but she refused to let go of the awe that beheld her.
Zetron’s pace never faltered, transforming from a rapid gate to a racing swim as his legs transformed into a glittering tail. His arm muscles and tail worked in harmony to propel them forward. Brooke’s lungs began to burn, the initial lungful of air rapidly depleting.
This is it, Brooke thought to herself. The grand plans of humanity to resurrect itself are about to be blown.
Just as she teetered on the edge of panic, Zetron halted, his lips meeting hers in a kiss that was as startling as it was lifesaving.
Air flooded her mouth, a precious gift that eased the ache in her chest. The kiss was clinical, devoid of passion, yet Brooke couldn’t ignore the undeniable spark that ignited within her. Zetron’s eyes held hers, a silent promise that they would survive this ordeal.
Beneath the surface, the world was a shimmering dance of light and shadow. Zetron’s arms and tail, powerful and sure, continued to propel them through the water with an ease that spoke of his aquatic nature. Brooke clung to him, her heart racing from the adrenaline and the unexpected intimacy of their escape. Each time her lungs screamed for air, Zetron’s lips found hers, offering sustenance in a kiss that was more a lifeline than a lover’s caress.
The kisses were quick, efficient—but not without effect. With each shared breath, Brooke felt a connection grow, a realization that they were in this together. She couldn’t deny the thrill that coursed through her, a heady mix of fear and excitement, as they moved as one through the alien ocean.
Finally, the water around them lightened, the deep blues giving way to the vibrant turquoise of shallower waters. Zetron angled them towards a sliver of sand that cut through the ocean. The island was small, fringed with palm-like foliage that swayed gently in the breeze, a deserted paradise that seemed untouched by the chaos they had left behind.
As they neared the shore, Zetron’s hold on Brooke shifted. He waded in the shallow water as he guided her onto the shore. She stumbled, her legs unsteady after their underwater journey, but his grip was firm, supporting her until she found her balance.
“Almost there,” he assured her, his voice a low rumble.
Brooke nodded, her gaze locked on the beach ahead. She took a step, her booted feet sinking into the soft sand beneath the water. Another step, and another, until her knees buckled and she fell forward, crawling the last few feet onto dry land.
Brooke collapsed onto the sand, her breaths coming in ragged gasps as she recovered from their ordeal. But as her breathing steadied, a sudden sense of urgency compelled her to turn back, to see the man—or rather, the Quxoni—who had saved her life.
What she witnessed took her breath away once more. Zetron waded in the shallows, the water lapping around him, as his form underwent a stunning transformation. The iridescent scales that had covered his body during their swim receded, leaving only a sporadic few across his form. His physique shifted slowly, the streamlined elegance of his aquatic tail melting away to reveal the powerful, muscular form of a man in his prime.
His bright green eyes, always alert and intense, seemed to glow even brighter against the backdrop of his now-humanoid features.
Brooke watched, transfixed, as his transformation completed leaving behind a man who was both awe-inspiring and strangely familiar. She realized, with a jolt, that she had held her breath, and she let it out in a rush.
“Holy shit,” she murmured to herself. “Who knew our would-be allies were so fucking hot?”

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Ex-dance teacher, former accountant and erstwhile collectible doll salesperson, Celia Kyle now writes paranormal and science fiction romances as well as urban fantasy. It goes without saying that there's always a happily-ever-after for her characters, even if there are a few road bumps along the way. Today she lives in central Florida and writes full-time with the support of her loving husband and two finicky cats.

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New Release: Chaotic Cupids: When Love Goes Awry Anthology from Wordfire Press

Inside these pages, you’ll find tales where love has taken the path less traveled, to wondrous and unexpected destinations.

Where a romance can span 1,000 years and astronomical distances ...

Where a devil and a priest can fall in love, despite their most basic beliefs …

Where a man keeps the spirit of his wife alive through creative gardening …
You may think you know where these lovelines lead but be prepared to be delightfully wrong.

Chaotic Cupids: When Love Goes Awry
by C Marie Fuhrman, J.E. Birk, Sebastien De Castell, Kristi Charish, Kevin J. Anderson, Allyson Longueira, CL Fors, Meagan Friedman, Adelaide Halliday, Amy Liz Harrison
July 22, 2025
Love is in the air…or is it? When it comes to love, anything can go awry.

What if Cupid’s aim isn’t so perfect after all? What if the arrow finds the wrong target, or the right target at the wrong time?

Romance can blossom in an ancient castle, at a local café, or on an interstellar generation ship. But what happens when magic, technology, planetary alignments, or sheer bad luck turn romance into a disaster?
What if the meet-cute is not so cute?

What if the mystical globe crystals tell you that you have more than one soul mate?

Or what if you’re a robot who has downloaded feelings?

Here is your chance to free fall into a world where love, magic, and wonder can devolve into chaos and confusion. Upgrade your situationship with soul mates, arranged marriages, death personified, terraformers, and deals with the devil you know. These 23 original stories and poems take aim at your favorite romance tropes across galaxies, through portals, even into the afterlife…

Brought to life by New York Times bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson and award-winning editor Allyson Longueira—and their graduate students at Western Colorado University—Chaotic Cupids: When Love Goes Awry showcases the beautiful chaos of love in all its many and wondrous forms, with unexpected results, hilarious mistakes, and terrifying consequences. (Winged cherub optional.)
Once Upon A Time … Love got in the way. This wasn’t the plan, but the story might be better that way.

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https://wordfirepress.com/

 WordFire Press, a publishing company owned by New York Times bestsellers Kevin J. Anderson & Rebecca Moesta, seeks to publish quality works of fiction and nonfiction, while pioneering new models of cooperation and profitability among authors, readers, booksellers, and the publisher.

WordFire Press publishes works from such notable authors as Allen Drury, Frank Herbert, Brian Herbert, Kevin J. Anderson, Neil Peart, Jonathan Maberry, Alan Dean Foster, Mike Baron, Carol Berg, Doug Beason, Mike Resnick, Jody Lynn Nye, Nancy Kress, Bill Ransom, Steven L. Sears, Rebecca Moesta, June Scobee Rodgers, Mario Acevedo, D.J. Butler, Bruce Taylor, Jay Lake, Ken Scholes, T. Duren Jones, Cat Rambo, Louis Moesta, Ray Kurzweil, Mercedes Lackey, Kevin O'Donnell, Jr., R. Michael Burns, Bill Fawcett, Jen Finelli, MD, M.B. Wood, Lucienne Diver, Jeffrey J. Mariotte, Steven Savile, Steven-Elliot Altman, Rajnar Vajra, David Sakmyster, Edward J. Knight, Brooks Wachtel, Quincy J. Allen, and others.

WordFire Press is based in Colorado, US.

Strange New Moons (Werewolf Anthology)

STRANGE NEW MOONS: A NEW PACK IS RUNNING WILD!

Hi everyone (or should I say ‘Awhhoooo!!!’?), I’m Kayleigh, co-editor of a brand new werewolf themed anthology called Strange New Moons. I guess that also makes me co-pack leader…although, don’t get the wrong idea. These are just stories, we’re not werewolves. We’re definitely not werewolves, because werewolves aren’t even re…

SQUIRREL!

….Ahem, sorry, got distracted there for a second. Anyway, what was I saying? Oh yeah, no werewolves here. Especially not Somer Canon.

So now that we’ve got all that straightened out, I’d love to tell you a little about the anthology and what it contains. Our main goal was to release a collection of werewolf stories that were more on the unconventional side. We all know and love a “standard” werewolf story (someone is attacked by a beast – oh no! – and then they grapple with the changes that start to happen to them as they go wolfside). We didn’t want to give you that. We aimed to give you subverted themes, new and twisted lore, and fresh takes on old tropes. So here’s what we have for you!

Vargsangen – by Mary SanGiovanni

A cold mountain, an especially strong mother, and something unexpected lurking outside in the dark (maybe there are scarier things than werewolves roaming around out there…).

Mary SanGiovanni is the award-winning author of over twenty books, including an Alien tie-in and a Wonder Woman story for DC Comics. And yes, if you stab her with silver, her flesh might hiss, but she’s not a werewolf.

Seamus – by Keawe Melina Patrick
Ever wondered what it’s like to be caged by a deranged scientist, trapped in a particular side of your own body? Wonder no more, because you can read it here.

This author is relatively new to the scene because she only just got bitt…er….recently started publishing. Watch this space because she’s awesome.

Agonies of the Flesh – by Ej Sidle
Where do you turn for particular medical procedures if you’re both woman and wolf? A socially relevant and current story thematically.

Ej Sidle is a writer of short fiction, a horror talent, and loves hunting down prey. Wait…scrap that last part. I mean “going out for a nice meal.”

That Time of the Month – by Kayleigh Dobbs
What if every single woman in the world was a werewolf but none of the men were? What are the rules of society, and what happens on the night of the full moon, exactly?

Kayleigh Dobbs (hello, that’s me!) writes short horror and horror/comedy fiction, and runs a horror review site called Happy Goat Horror. Sometimes it’s hard not eating the other goats, on account of being a werewo…on account of…of hearing that goats are delicious. And for no other reason.

It’s All for the Best, Sweetie – by Rose Strickman
There must be a thousand retellings of Little Red Riding Hood but I guarantee you’ve never read one like this.

This author can be found penning tales of horror, scifi, and fantasy, when her claws aren’t too long and she can type. Huh? What? Oh…by that I mean when her nails are nice and manicured. Her normal human nails.

The Pit – by John Durgin
The first rule of Fight Club is…

John Durgin is the co-founder of Livid Comics, a novelist, and particularly fast when running through the woods. On his human legs, obviously.

Expose the Fur Below – by Rebbeca Rowland
If you like a good sandwich, this story might make you squeamish about adding cold cuts to it…

Rebecca Rowland is a Bram Stoker Award, and a Shirley Jackson Award nominee, and a Godless Award winner. She’s very approachable and easy to contact. Unless it’s the night of the full moon. There’s no reason for that or anything, it’s just coincidence that she tends to be unreachable only on that night of the month.

Who Keeps Shitting on the Memorial Fire Tower? – by Somer Canon
What kind of maniac would do such a thing? Two security guards hang back after their shift to find out…and maybe regret it.

Somer Canon is an award winning author and never ever ever leaves her clothes in a neat pile at the edge of the forest and disappears on hours for end, only to return covered in blood. So don’t even worry about it.

Lark – by Amanda Headlee
One of the most emotional and definitely the most unconventional story in the anthology. Is there anything a parent wouldn’t do for their child?

Amanda Headlee is an author, athlete, and lover of ice cream, the latter of which is amazing actually because canines tend to be lactose intolerant. I mean…a lot of people can’t have dairy and….oh look something shiny over there!

March of Night, Scratch of Claw – by Tim Lebbon
Tim Lebbon is an award winning pillar of the horror community, with a couple of his books making it to the screen (most recently, The Silence). He spends his time up mountains and on nature trails in the middle of nowhere, and sometimes swims in open water. As a human, of course.

Blackfish – by Stephen Kozeniewski
Have you ever seen werewolves in space?

Stephen Kozeniewski is an award winning author and also co-pack leader and editor. He runs an indie publishing company called French Press Publishing, which is weird because I didn’t think werewolves liked coffee.

Wait, what?

Bit Part – by Matthew R. Davis
What if werewolves were wolves all month and only human on the night of the full moon? And what if they were more dangerous in human form?

Matthew R. Davis is an award winning author and a musician, and I always wonder if his fur gets in the way when he’s using instruments. I MEAN HIS HUMAN HAIR, HIS LOVELY HUMAN HAIR.

Red in Tooth and Law – by Simon Clark
You’ve seen the end of the world a thousand times in fiction, but have you ever seen a werewolf apocalypse?

Simon Clark is an award winning author that’s been entertaining us for decades, and is a staple of the horror world. We don’t know how he finds the time to write so much when he’s always busy hiding the bodies he shredded during the…er…I mean, busy with other things. Normal human things.

We’d like to think we’ve covered something for everyone with this anthology, and eagerly welcome you, lovely readers, to the wolfpack with open paws!

Strange New Moons
by Stephen Kozeniewski

January 15, 2025
You can hardly swing a dismembered deer carcass these days without hitting a “No vampires, no zombies, and no werewolves” sign on an anthology.

Well, to that we say “Pshaw!” And also, “Awooo!”

Because what readers really don’t like are dull werewolf stories. So, we tasked the horror community with writing the weirdest, wildest, most creative, utterly bonkers tails (ha!) of lycanthropic lunacy possible.

And did they ever deliver! Wait until you read:

- a brutal, boneshattering peek at the kind of “dogfights” the super-wealthy watch to amuse themselves

- a story of two inquisitive city employees trying to find out who (or what!) keeps pooping on a local landmark

- a ride along with a delusional cop trying to prevent the total werewolf apocalypse. Werepocalypse!

Plus werewolf Frankenstein! And werewolves in space! This book is all gore and no bore.

With a lineup running the gamut from brand, spanking new cubs to heavyweight timber alphas, you’d have to be the weakest elk in the herd not to slobber all over…

Featuring:
Somer Canon
Simon Clark
Matthew R. Davis
Kayleigh Dobbs
John Durgin
Amanda Headlee
Stephen Kozeniewski
Tim Lebbon
Keawe Melina Patrick
Rebecca Rowland
Mary SanGiovanni
EJ Sidle
Rose Strickman 

Amazon

Weird Wilderness: A Cryptid Bestiary Anthology from Wordfire Press

This captivating anthology explores the hidden world of cryptids. From Bigfoot to Nessie, Mothman to chupacabras, this collection features twenty short stories that bring legendary creatures to life, blending genres like fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, and romance. Edited by seasoned professionals Lisa Mangum and Jessica Guernsey, Weird Wilderness is packed with creative storytelling, using unique formats such as text messages, journal entries, and podcast transcripts to unravel the mysteries of cryptids.

Weird Wilderness: A Cryptid Bestiary
by Lisa Mangum, Jessica Guernsey, CL Fors, Azure Arther, Kate Dane, Julia Vee, Rebecca J. Carlson, Jason Kristopher, Jamie Sonderman, Bonnie Elizabeth
February 4, 2025
Genre: Fantasy Anthologies & Short Stories
You may not have ever seen them, but you know them: Bigfoot, Mothman, chupacabras, the Jersey Devil, and Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster. Cryptids exist everywhere around the world on land, in the air, and under the water. Some creatures are recent discoveries; others date back centuries. But where did they come from? What is their hidden history?

Collected in this anthology are twenty short stories featuring a wide variety of cryptids as well as the cryptozoologists who discover them, hunt them, study them, or shelter them. 

Alongside the classic creatures of legend and lore are pixies, aliens, lizard-men, and dopplegängers—plus a few original and newly discovered cryptids that will capture your curiosity. With genres ranging from fantasy and science fiction to historical fiction and romance, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As an added twist, each story utilizes at least one form of epistolary writing to help tell the story, including text messages, podcast interviews, newspaper articles, and journal entries.

So, tune in to Bigfoot’s podcast, write a love letter to Nessie, and then pick up a pair of tickets to the grand opening of the Cryptid Zoo. The world around us is full of the weird and the wonderful, and the creatures that were once long hidden are ready to come out of the woods.

Weird Wilderness: A Cryptid Bestiary is the tenth anthology edited by Lisa Mangum and Jessica Guernsey and published by WordFire Press. Profits support the various endowment and scholarship funds for the Superstars Writing Seminars.

Amazon

About the editors:
Lisa Mangum has worked in publishing since 1997. She has been the Managing Editor for Shadow Mountain since 2014 and has worked with several New York Times best-selling authors. While fiction is her first love, she also has experience working with nonfiction projects.

Lisa is also the author of four national best-selling YA novels (The Hourglass Door trilogy and After Hello), several short stories and novellas, and a nonfiction book about the craft of writing based on the TV show Supernatural. Her upcoming book Write Fearless. Edit Smart. Get Published. will be released November 2024.

She has edited several anthologies about various magical creatures, pirates, and food for WordFire Press. She regularly teaches at writing conferences, including hosting a writing weekend in Capitol Reef National Park through UVU. She lives in Taylorsville, Utah, with her husband, Tracy.

Jessica Guernsey writes fantasy and sci-fi short stories. With a BA in Journalism from Brigham Young University and a MA in Publishing from Western Colorado University, her work has been published in magazines and anthologies. By day, she crushes dreams as a slush pile reader for multiple publishers. Frequently, she can be found at writing conferences. She isn’t difficult to spot; just look for the extrovert. While she spent her teenage angst in Texas, she now lives on a mountain in Utah with her family and a bossy mini schnauzer. Discover more stories at jessicaguernsey.com. 

 

 https://www.superstarswriting.com/

The Pumpkin King and Other Tales of Terror & Asteroid 6 and Other Tales of Cosmic Horror by R. David Fulcher + Giveaway

 Step into a world where the Pumpkin King reigns supreme, and other tales haunt your every thought.
Or step out of this world into the sheer terror of the unknowable and incomprehensible deep space.

​The Pumpkin King and Other Tales of Terror
by R. David Fulcher
August 19, 2023
Genre: Horror Short Stories
Gravelight is pleased to present the first volume in a two-book series collecting the horror fiction of R. David Fulcher!

THE PUMPKIN KING AND OTHER TALES OF TERROR offers up 20 works by Fulcher, each updated and revised by the author. Each tale has been fully revised by the author, making these the definitive versions of the stories.

The collection Includes
*Eulogy to E.A. Poe
*Marienburg Castle
*The Pumpkin King
*Heavenly Strains
*A Matter of Taste
*My Days With Mahalia
*A Night Out With Mr. Bones
*Merry Are We of the Lake
*The Night Flyer
*Pumpkin Seed Spit
*A Night for Animals
*The Man Next Door
*Extra! Extra!
*The Flight Dummy
*For the Children
*The Watcher’s Web
*Dreaming, The Copper City
*The Huntress
*The Faerie Lights
*The October Man

Features a wrap-around cover and contemporary design. Perfect for Halloween or dark, rainy nights.

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Asteroid 6 and Other Tales of Cosmic Horror
by R. David Fulcher
October 31, 2024

Genre: Science Fiction Horror Short Stories
Introducing ASTEROID 6 AND OTHER TALES OF COSMIC HORROR! The companion book to R. David Fulcher's 2023 indie horror hit, THE PUMPKIN KING AND OTHER TALES OF TERROR!

In this newest collection, Fulcher explores concepts of the insignificance of human existence, terror of the unknowable and incomprehensible, and more motifs found in edlritch horror. Fulcher draws his influence from a wide assortment of authors ranging from Poe and Fritz Leiber to Stephen King and Dean Koontz.

The title story features an astronaut named Jones who, while on asteroid-clearing duty, crash lands onto a massive asteroid where he is drawn to an alien monolith and discovering an ancient race trapped in stasis. Does he dare set it free?

Don't miss this one-of-a-kind collection!

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

 

 

About the Author:
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R. DAVID FULCHER is an author of horror, science fiction, fantasy, and poetry. Major literary influences include H.P. Lovecraft, Dean Koontz, Edgar Allen Poe, Fritz Lieber, and Stephen King. Fulcher’s first novel, a historical drama set in World War II, Trains to Nowhere, and his second novel, a collection of fantasy and science fiction short stories, Blood Spiders and Dark Moon, are both available from authorhouse.com and  Amazon.

FULCHER’S work has appeared in numerous small press publications including Lovecraft’s Mystery Magazine, Black Satellite, The Martian Wave, Burning Sky, Shadowlands, Twilight Showcase, Heliocentric Net, Gateways, Weird Times, Freaky Frights and the anthologies Dimensions and Silken Ropes. Fulcher’s work can also be found in the DPP collection Halloween Party 2019, available at Amazon and at the DPP online store. A passion for the written word has also inspired Fulcher to edit and publish the literary magazine, Samsara (samsaramagazine.net), which has showcased writers and poets for over a decade. Fulcher resides in Ashburn, Virginia, with his wife Lisa, and their rambunctious cats.

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Cover Reveal + Preorder: Romancing the Rogue: A Fantasy Romance Anthology (Charming the Damsel, #2)

Romancing the Rogue: A Fantasy Romance Anthology
(Charming the Damsel, #2)
Publication date: April 27th 2025
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Welcome to Romancing the Rogue: Volume 2 – Charming the Damsel

What happens when the villain decides to play the hero’s game? Welcome to a world where charm, wit, and cunning take center stage, and the damsel isn’t as helpless as she seems. In this volume, the most notorious rogues set their sights on winning the heart of the woman they never thought they’d love.

From dark lords with hidden tenderness to charming scoundrels who can’t resist a challenge, this collection of clean, closed-door romances explores the art of wooing the unsuspecting damsel. These villains know how to spin a tale, outwit their enemies, and—most importantly—captivate the woman they desire.

In Romancing the Rogue: Charming the Damsel, passion brews as dangerous allure meets irresistible charm, and love blooms in the most unexpected places. Get ready to fall for the villains who dare to win it all—and the women who just might let them.

After all, isn’t there a little bit of villainy in every love story?

Featuring charming stories by:
Sophea Chan
Harper Lynn
Tasha Creed
Jada McCrary
C.N. Noble
Jes Drew
Rae Summers

Preorder Amazon

 

Book #1

Excerpt: Beyond Earth: A Limited Edition Collection of Sci-Fiction Romance (Book 14)

Beyond Earth: A Limited Edition Collection of Sci-Fiction Romance (Romance Collections Limited Editions Book 14)
by Stephanie Morris, Lola Blix, Celia Breslin, Leslie Chase, Candice Gilmer, Alina Riley, Robin O’Connor, Sky Robert
December 10, 2024
Genre: Sci-Fi Romance, Science Fiction Romance
Publisher: Carnal Imprint
Discover passion among the stars…

Blast off to the future with this limited-edition collection of sizzling, science fiction romance stories!

Otherworldly seduction and intergalactic adventures await you in these high-heat, open-door tales from a diverse group of authors. Meet alien gladiators, cyborgs, AI lifeforms, psychic aliens, interstellar royalty, psy-changelings, fearless humans, and more. Visit alien worlds, travel on high-tech vessels, and immerse yourself in red-hot seduction blazing brighter than any quasar.

The Beyond Earth anthology is a pulse-pounding, toe-curling journey into the cosmos. If you enjoy out-of-this-world romance with guaranteed happily ever afters, lovers from different worlds, fated mates, enemies to lovers, grumpy-sunshine, rescue romance, and more, then you’ll love this treasure trove of spicy, steamy, futuristic stories.

Order your copy of Beyond Earth to begin your passion-filled voyage into the galaxy today!

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Excerpt from “Claiming Kaden” by Celia Breslin

The station’s vid screen flared to life, blocking her view. A handsome and angry male face filled the space. The brightest amber eyes she’d ever seen glared at her.

“Stop shooting,” the man growled.

The face disappeared.

“Who the hell was that, Athena?” A Zyphorran? She ignored the gorgeous stranger and kept firing at the battleship.

The face reappeared. Dark brows furrowed over his blazing whiskey eyes. “Desist, woman!”

“Desist this, you jerk!” She shot at the enemy. Continued to miss. “Ugh!”

She didn’t care how handsome he seemed, with his pale, silvery blue skin and spiky dark hair, and those glowing eyes which looked like they could melt a girl’s panties.

No one told her what to do, and no one would force her into servitude.

Never again.

The green vessel took out two enemy ships before it planted itself in front of Calie’s station.

Angry Guy’s face filled her screen. “I’m trying to help you. Stop firing!”

Oh… Cranky Guy was the pilot of the green ship. Possibly a good guy? Calie lifted her hands away from the controls.

As she watched, he took out every single destroyer then turned his attention to the warship.

“Shield at eight point seven percent,” Athena announced. “Hm…”

“What do you mean, hm? Should we head for an escape pod?”

“This is most intriguing. And disconcerting,” Athena murmured, not answering her escape question.

“What, that guy’s amazing battle prowess?”

“No. He infiltrated and took over my communication system to speak with you.”

Okay, now Calie was doubly impressed with good-looking Mister Frowny, because Athena was a powerful genius. No one bested her.

Calie plastered her palms on the controls. “Let’s help him kick that warship’s ass.”

“Don’t you dare,” their unknown ally barked, audio only.

“Are you eavesdropping on us? Rude!”

“The unknown male is attempting to take control of all station systems, Calie.”

“Cut it out, whoever you are,” Calie warned him. She aimed one of the station laser cannons at his ship.

“Who I am? I’m the male who’s going to disable and commandeer the warship, then eliminate everyone on board it while you sit on your pretty ass and stay out of my way.”

He thinks I’m pretty? She shook off the frisson skating down her spine. “Screw you. I’m blowing up that warship. Athena, take it out.”

About the Author:
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Celia Breslin lives in California with her husband, daughter, and three feisty cats. She writes urban fantasy, paranormal and sci-fi romance, and has a particular fondness for werewolves, vampires, the Fae, and cyborgs. When not writing, you’ll find Celia exercising, reading a good book, hanging with her family, or indulging her addiction to fantasy TV shows and movies.

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