95
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Writer Without a Clause: Harmony, Essay #2
We each have an instrument to play, a part to play in this great orchestra of the world. Are you playing in harmony with those around you, or are your notes clashing and dissonant? Maybe it's time to retune the instrument.
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Little Jack Horner...Not So Little Anymore: Short Fiction
The characters in our favorite fairy tales are not doing so well in the land of fairies. Time has passed and they have grown up to face all the trials that former nursery rhyme stars face. Jack and Mary are no exception, but they work together to find a way out.
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Trouble in Fairy-tale Land: A Poem
Trouble was brewing in Fairytale land, that world where fairytales are born. The old favorites were degenerating into tales of near horror. So the king took the lead to solve the problem the only way he knew how. Give Fairytale land the chance to create a new fairytale with a happy ending.
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Number Eleven: A Short Fiction Story by John Hansen and Chris Mills
Clark was happily remembering the special date he had with a woman the night before when a man attacked him in the hallway of his hotel and attempted to cut him to ribbons. Clark fought back and fled to the safety of a nearby monastery where he learns that confession is not always good for the soul.
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Writer Without A Clause: Essay #1
Writer Without a Clause. This is the first and probably only installment of what will likely not be an ongoing series. It's me sitting here in front of my laptop with nothing particular on my mind to write about. Maybe I'll get brave and publish capsule by capsule as I write.Yeah, that takes guts.
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Rise Up, Oh Humankind: A Poem
A lyrical poem designed to carry the reader from the humble beginnings of a man to the arrogance of a self-dubbed god.
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Arizona: A Land of Extremes
Arizona. I've just begun a contract job here, and I am enjoying the land and the people. Join me as I share some of the places I've visited and one of the interesting people I have met along the way.
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Unlucky Looters: 2018 NYC Midnight Flash Fiction Challenge
When a seasoned criminal agrees to teach an underachiever the crime trade, he quickly realizes the novice is not cut out for a life of crime. In the end, he sees no other choice but to throw the poor boy overboard.
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Two Hundred Miles: A Narrative Poem
This is a poem about my son, Dan, who made a promise to his mother even as she was passing away. This poem tells how Dan is, at this moment in time, keeping his promise.
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America: Her Greatness Is Being Weighed in the Balances
It is common to hear America touted as the greatest country in the world. But how is such greatness defined? By military might? Wealth? Is America being made great again?
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Orlie's Ire: A Narrative Poem
The people of Orlie's Bend were ready to put an end to the murdering rapist who preyed on their town. In this narrative poem, the people of the town set forth with revenge as their guide rage as the fuel in their souls. Could the end possibly be worse than what had been?
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The Audew 2-Cylinder Portable Air Compressor: A Review
The Audew 2-Cylinder Compressor was designed to inflate tires on cars, trucks, RVs, and travel trailers as well as other inflatables. Bicycle and motorcycle tires, basketballs and more can be pumped up if the compressor is all that the manufacturer says it is. Read my review based on my use of the p
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Ghosts in the Street: Flash Fiction
They are invisible most of the time. When they are seen, people are often frightened and call the police. They are the ghosts who walk the streets of our cities. They steal from us and scare our children. Society goes on with its daily routine while the invisible ones pass like thieves in the night.
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Sublime: A Poem
We all like to escape into a good book or film. For a moment, the world is different. But then we return to reality. Escapes can be a substitute for being a catalyst for peace and goodness in the world. This poem delves into the temptation to escape as well as hinting at a real solution.
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The Victor, a Free Verse Poem; My Response to the Challenge by Annart
A never-ending battle is being waged between the sea and the rocky cliffs that form the ocean's boundaries in many places around the world. It is a conflict as old as the Earth. Stone versus water. Which will be The Victor?
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A Promise to Keep: My Son's One Year Journey in Honor and Remembrance of His Mother
This is a true story about the true story my son will tell in the near future. He set out nearly a year ago to keep a promise. In the next few weeks he will accomplish that goal. Come read as I describe how he is preparing to tell this story himself.
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Checkers and King: Flash Fiction
Checkers was an old man who loved the game of checkers and each of the seven dogs he had befriended over nearly a century. His reign as king of the town's annual checkers tournament was about to be challenged once again and his love for his latest canine friend was being put to the test as well.
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I Killed a Man Today: Flash Fiction
Trevor goes to his high school as normal one morning, expecting to see his girlfriend and to go to football practice after classes. But another student changes everyone's plans that day when he brings a gun to school. Trevor wrestles with what to do. Does he risk his own life to save others?
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Good Harbor Bay, Michigan: An Essay for Ann Carr's Hocus-Pocus Challenge
This is an essay in response to fellow hubber, Ann Carr who extended a challenge to write, in poetry, fiction or non-fiction about our favorite bed ch. My article features Good Harbor Bay in northwestern lower Michigan near Traverse City.
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Storm Tower: A Short Story
Martha Storm is a star, not a rock star, but a star of the corporate world. In the year 2052, Storm enterprises is head and shoulders above the competition which is why her new skyscraper, her company, and her life have been targeted. Thriller. 5,000 well chosen words. This may be my best fiction.
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The Boar and the Wolf: A Poetry Challenge for My Hubber Friends
This poem is made with ten words that do not rhyme any other English words perfectly. Yes, it is silly, but I share it for your amusement. This is also a challenge for you to try doing the same thing. Write a poem using the ten words in the article.
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The Birds Begin to Sing: Flash Fiction
Sharon was his love, his life, his rose. When he went off to war, he promised he would return for her. But time takes its toll. Will love rise again?
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Checking for Traffic: Flash Fiction
A man is being pursued in the city, at night, after work. He tries everything to lose him, but in the end, he turns and becomes the pursuer. This crazy cat and mouse story will have you on the edge of your seat waiting and hoping.
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Hiking Up a Mountain, My Dog and I: A True Adventure
A happy-go-lucky dog and his overly-anxious-for-a-weekend-adventure owner embark on an afternoon hike that quickly becomes much more than they had anticipated. The scenery of the western Montana wilderness enhances this story of an afternoon walk which quickly becomes a struggle to stay alive.
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More Excitement Than Half an Hour With Pat and Vanna: Flash Fiction
Getting older doesn't mean all the excitement has to go out of life. But half an hour of Wheel of Fortune may be as close to the edge as some people need to get. Join this fellow as he gives up his safe routine for a walk on the wild side.
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The River Hastens: A Poem
Rivers present a paradox in their annual changes from quiet meandering to raging flows. This poem reconciles the two in a description of the roles of each stage of the river.
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I Went to the Forest Today: A Poem
A stroll in the forest becomes a challenge to climb to new heights, experiencing greater freedom and the discovery of inner strength.
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Sacrifice: A Poem
Self-sacrifice has never been a popular topic, but we all admire those who have been willing to live such lives. It is much more difficult to take that step ourselves, but when we do, amazing things happen.
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Dinner By the Campfire: A Personal Essay
A simple car camping outing presented me with a critical choice. Would I use good sense or throw caution to the wind and go on with my plans. A silly mistake and a foolish decision afterward could have put me in a life threatening position.
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The Fourth Plateau: An Essay
I came to a remote place where nature thrived and man, if he stayed, would have to survive. There was plenty to please the eye and challenge the mind, but to get there was a challenge to the whole being. In the end he was not king of the hill, but an attentive student, an inspired artist.
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The First Week with My New Border Collie Mix
A new pet dog means changes in how the household runs, in schedules, and in how we use our free time. A dog can bring much needed companionship, and a sense of safety. Here is an account of my first week with Darby, my Border Collie mix.
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We All Cry Sometimes: Flash Fiction
Tom was suddenly an orphan and the adults around him wanted to send him to an orphanage. Tom had different plans. In a 1939 setting, follow the footsteps of nine-year-old Tom as he seeks safety and a life in New York City among the children known as Newsies/Newsboys. Word count, 1480.
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Old Bart's Awakening: A Narrative Poem
A narrative poem about the night old Bart came to terms with his family history and great social evil. Written with both rhythm and rhyme.
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No Regrets: A Sci-Fi Short Story
In this post-apocalyptic setting, Jim is waiting to graduate into the life and work that would be assigned to him. Graduating was everything to someone his age. Failure to graduate held immediate consequences. A young woman waits as well, and Jim challenges her to join him in doing the unthinkable.
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Time Will Tell: A Poem and an Essay
The circle as a sign of eternity is well represented in nature. The shapes of celestial bodies, orbits of planets, solar systems and galaxies, follow the circular/elliptic form. Through poetry and essay, we look at the possibility that man, too, might be following the circular path.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Eight, The Conclusion
The final chapter. Rothfort and his companions confront Iyana, the head of the Dark Council. Everything depends on the outcome, freedom, or near slavery, even death.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Seven
The time has come for Rothfort and to fight for his kingdom. Queen Iyana with the Dark Council stand against Rothfort, Buragon, Edric, Brin and Buragon's spirit guide. Evening, night and morning, the battle rages until a victor rises and the peasants of the realm look on.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Six
Queen Iyana was the austere ruler of the kingdom of Dinas Gwyn, but unknown even to her subjects, she was not the true queen. She and nine others of the Dark Council had secreted away and murdered the royal family 100 generations before. The new Queen and Council ruled as immortals.
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Ode to the Darkness
This is a poem of a person who is lost deep in the heart of grief and loss. It describes a place of clouds called black rollers, wind, and dark magic. As he sits in his room with curtains pulled, the sun comes out. Only the curtain shields him from the brightness of the sun.
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4 Steps to Making New Friends
We all want to improve ourselves and become better people. In the process, we would like to meet like-minded people and make new friends. Here are four principles of communication that will set you apart from the crowd and make you a magnet for new friends.
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Two Brothers Three: A Humorous Poem
The silly poetry continues with a tale of two brothers who are pursuing the same, pretty girl. They lay it all on the line to see who will win the heart of the red haired girl.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Five
Rothfort, King in waiting for the throne of Dinas Gwyn, was making plans for war with the queen and the Dark Council. Queen Iyana was really a sorceress who had overthrown the royal family 100 generations before. But Eadric, the Spirit-King has information that could improve their odds of winning.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Four
Rothfort and those with him end their journey through the barren wilderness and arrive at the realm of Dinas Gwyn. The mission of taking back the kingdom is daunting, yet the price of cowardice, too high. They begin the task of winning the hearts of the thousands of peasants of the land.
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The Lake of Shades: A Fantasy, Part Three
Rothfort continues on his journey across the barren wilderness with a wizard and ghosts as his companions. The time has come for him to understand, accept and act upon who and what he is.
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Do We Care? My Response to Bill Holland's Story
Bill Holland wrote a short story called "The Old Man by the Side of the Road." It tells about a man who takes a homeless man to a restaurant for coffee and hears his story. It speaks of the effects of war and of homelessness and despair. This is my response
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The Lake of Shades: Fantasy, Part Two
Rothfort is on a journey for the Queen of Dinas Gwyn. He is to deliver a bag of stones taken from the Lake of Shades. But the stones are crying out to him with the voices of imprisoned royalty from ages past. A stranger visits and tells him that he has the power to release the spirits
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The Lake of Shades: Fantasy, Part One
Rothfort is a peasant in a feudal society. The place might be Earth in its distant past or another dimension. Or is it another planet? Rothfort is a bounty hunter who has taken on a mission for the Queen of Dinas Gwyn. Join him on his adventure to the Lake of Shades.
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What an Umbilical Hernia Is and What to Do About It
An umbilical hernia is a health issue that can be resolved by minor surgery and following a doctor's instructions. In this article is a description of what an umbilical hernia is and how to treat it.
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She's Too Hot: Comedy Poetry
This is a silly poem that tells the tale of a man's first date with a really hot woman. As it turns out, she's simply too hot.
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How to Read Very Short Fiction and Enjoy It
You will find an abundance of articles about how to write long and short fiction, but few regarding how to read short fiction and enjoy it. Here are seven ways for you to learn to enjoy a short story.
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Rebirth: A Reflective Essay
A hike up St. Mary Peak in the Bitterroot Mountains of Montana give me an occasion to consider my own personal struggles and those of the world around me. May we gain hope and courage from one another
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Crossing the Sands of Time: Reflective Flash Fiction by cam
A walk along a familiar beach brings back memories that seem to be from another life in which love, family, and joy were a reality. The future looms in contrast as a shadow of uncertainty.
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Cream of Wheat With a Twist, More Protein, Less Sugar
Here's a new way to use a good old hot cereal. For one 125 years, we’ve topped it with everything sweet under the sun. It’s time for a twist.
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Listen: Historical Flash Fiction by cam
This is the heartbreaking story of a psychiatric patient from the careless days of electroconvulsive therapy which was used, quite often it seems, as a means of behavior control in mental hospitals.
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The Undercity of Old Gotham: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
Ben met Sybil at the library where she worked. For six months they dated, although, strangely, she didn’t know where he lived. That might have been here first clue not to trust him.
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The Sea: Master and Mother
The ocean keeps giving long after the highest form of life on the planet chose to betray her. Read of the beauty, magnificence and generosity of the sea in contrast to the ugly behavior of man.
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Being Unique: The Fight Against Clichéd Humanity
Stereotype and cliché imply that all are the same. That's fine if we're talking about auto parts, but when applied to humanity, the result is a dead society. Oneness is unique people working together.
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Best Dressed: Comedy Flash Fiction
K'o and Rheca are aliens visiting Earth on Halloween. The peculiar behavior of humans baffles them as they observe an adult Halloween party complete with ghosts, corpses and jack-o-lanterns.
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When Is an Unborn Baby Alive?
When is an unborn baby a person? This debate is thousands of years old. Can the modern age answer the question which the ancients could not? A review of scientific and biblical positions.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci_Fi Short Story, Conclusion
Ghar and the Rhonk robots have been defeated. The world now faces a future unlike anything ever imagined. In a tiny, high desert town, jake listens to his homemade radio.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci-Fi Short Story, Pt. 9
The Rhonk robots are attacking. But the scientists, politicians, officers, and soldiers have not been idle. Many die in the first, unexpected wave. It is time for Earth's response. Word count 1136
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci-Fi Short Story, Pt. 8
Ruth and Toshu deceived and defeated the Rhonk robots on the derelict ark. Now it is time to face off with Ghar and his robots. Earth prepares to fight. Ground Zero? inside the D.C. Beltway.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: A Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Seven
Toshu sets her plan into motion to get rid of 1000 Rhonks on the derelict spacecraft. On Earth, the President hears the plan his team of scientists have developed for defeating Ghar. Word count 1189
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Not Your Fault: Flash Fiction for the 2017 NYC Midnight Flash Fiction Semifinal Round
Two scientists venture to the ocean floor to research geological faults of the Baja Peninsula. High water temp forces them to abandon the mission but places them in even greater danger. 1000 words.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: A Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Six
Aliens arrived at Earth in one derelict spacecraft and one fully functioning. with an ultimatum to surrender or face annihilation. Behind the ruse of capitulation, Earth schemes. Word count 1400
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch; A Sci-Fi Short Story, Pt5
Aliens have come to Earth. An Ultimatum has been issued; surrender the planet or annihilation. Washington and the world respond. The alien messenger, Toshu, makes a courageous choice. Word count 1350
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch, a Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Four
Two alien spacecraft are in the Earth's solar system, and they have communicated with The President of the United States. There will be a meeting on the South Lawn of the White House. Word count, 1375
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Unwanted Phone Calls and How to Stop Them
Marketers have discovered an inexpensive way to get the word out about their products and services...your telephone. Criminals use it to steal personal information. Here are ways to take control.
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An Arrow For an Olive Branch: A Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Three
The President has learned about the appearance of two alien spacecraft in the Earth's solar system. He is pulling together a team of scientists who will advise him on how to proceed. Word count 1161.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch: Sci-Fi Short Story, Part Two
Alien spacecraft approach Earth with no communication. President Alec Golden, first year in office, surrounds himself with the men and women of Science as he learns to deal with the crisis. 1086 words
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My Time on HubPages and Where the Site Is Headed
Reflections on my five-plus years on HP, how I intend to continue using the site, and suggestions on how to improve the creative writing niche site.
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An Arrow for an Olive Branch, Sci-Fi Short Story, Part One
Ruth Billings is an astronaut and an astrophysicist. After a close encounter with an unidentified spacecraft on the moon, she is asked to be the president's advisor during the crisis that follows.
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Courage to Watch Them Die: An Essay by cam
Death. The longer we live, the more of it we see. What does it take to watch loved ones pass on? What gives meaning in the midst dying? This essay is based on the courage and experiences of my mother.
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Giant Slayer: Flash Fiction by Cam for Annart's Challenge
Arthur was a giant slayer, that is to say, he would be as soon as he found a giant to slay. His searching leads him to Wilmington where he uses his two staves to save the village.
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Madcap and Marlin: Flash Fiction by cam; Happy Halloween
Two men, enemies for years, share a complicated history, parts of which each has blocked from his memory. The time has come for both to remember, one to be freed and the other to go. Word count 934
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A Fairy Field-Trip to Polliwog Pond
Miss Beebonnet and her twenty fairy students were enjoying the annual Polliwog Pond field-trip. But this year, things were not going as planned. [Based on a recent visit by my muse during a dream]
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If We Must Die: Flash Fiction; Updated With Competition Results 11/8
Charles has cancer...for the 2nd and time. His son talks him into visiting a clinic in a restored castle. While there, Charles finds hope in visions from past inhabitants of the castle.
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My Next New Home: An Essay by cam
We all seek to form a meaningful existence out of the bits and pieces of life we call our own. Here are some scenes from my life to entertain you and make you think.
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Two Treatments for Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can be a sign of serious health conditions. It can also be the result of two easily remedied problems. Stretching the torso muscles and drinking plenty of water can promote fr
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Four Ways for Fiction and Poetry Writers to Increase Page Views on HubPages
So you are a fiction or poetry writer on HubPages and want to do something about your less than stellar page views. Here are four ways I have found helpful to increase my overall page views.
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Ire of the Pike: A Personal Essay
This is an essay of fun, challenge, danger, fear and back to fun. A morning on the lake went from fishing for Northern Pike to fighting for our lives, or so it seemed at the time. `
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From Realms of Darkness: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
A man's home has been invaded by unknown prowlers. Unwilling to give up the ship, He chooses a hiding place with no way out. Word Count-936
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A Weekend With My New Best Friend: an Essay by cam
A weekend on the river with my canoe reveals a lot more than whether or not I am a good paddler.
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Hard Cheeses Prohibited: Comedy Flash Fiction by cam
Craig, Ralph and Jonesy are best friends––most days. On this day, cheese is the topic of discussion, a subject on which Craig is apparently an expert, especially when it comes to hard cheeses.
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The Message: Historical Flash Fiction by cam
May 4, 1970. A 4-day struggle between war protesters and the National Guard came to a bloody end at Kent State University.Sharon & her boyfriend try to go on with life but that may not be an option.
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The Tallest Buildings in the World & What's Next
Man's motivation to build higher is based on national pride as well as the need to conserve real estate. Here are the tallest buildings in the world now and those planned for the future.
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The Visitations: Horror Short Story by cam, 3/3
A retired school teacher receives three visitations which were each the delivery of a morbid and horrifying object. When put together, they become the key to an even larger mystery. (Word count-)
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The Visitations: Horror Short Story by cam, 2/3
A retired school teacher receives three visitations which were each the delivery of a morbid and horrifying object. When put together, they become the key to an even larger mystery. (Word count-1249)
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The Visitations: Horror Short Story by cam 1/3
A retired school teacher receives three visitations which were each the delivery of a morbid and horrifying object. When put together, they become the key to an even larger mystery. (Word count-956)
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Literary Fiction and Genre Fiction, What's the Difference?
Someone recommends a book which you grab off Amazon and kick back with expectations of your socks being knocked off. Somehow your socks stay on and the book gathers dust. What is great literature?
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Contemptible Eight: Flash Fiction by cam
What happens when the child wakes up one morning and admits that their father doesn't walk on water, isn't Superman? In fact, they confess, he isn't even a nice guy? What happens? A heart breaks.
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The Paradox: Drama Flash Fiction by cam
When I come to town, rolling through like a stone that has been dislodged on the side of a hill, it may look like a random, bouncing stone, but there is purpose. (Word Count 1220)
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Gilligan's Island, Why I Loved It as a Child and Still Do at 60 Plus
The show took the nation by storm, just as the storm took those on the S.S. Minnow on a little longer than a 3 hour tour. Fifty-three years later, we still watch and laugh. Only great things endure.
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Breaking Social Norms: Comedy Flash Fiction
Ralph came over to Craig's house after work and told him about his date the night before. Most of Ralph's stories range from funny to unfortunate. This one was beyond unfortunate. Word Count 621.
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Unexpected Encounters: Flash Fiction by cam for Genna East's Writing Challenge
Mighty leaders in high places contemplate how by any and every means they will remain in place or take their place at the top of the global heap. But humility and sacrifice may be a better way.
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Fitting Room 101: Comedy Flash Fiction by cam
Ralph fails to follow even the basic rules of using a fitting room in a clothing store. For Ralph, when one thing goes wrong, everything goes wrong. (Word Count-658)
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Nurture: A Reflective Essay by cam
Caring for one's possessions, especially if those things are part of your life sustaining occupation, is important. But when relationships are the topic, nurturing is indispensible.
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Vivid Dreams on a Park Bench: Flash Fiction by cam
You know how you have a stretch when you can't sleep, so you walk to the park and stretch out on a bench to get some shut-eye? No? Well, this guy tried it, and it worked for him, sort of. Word Ct-649
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A Miner Mistake: Short Story
Three boys, adventurers at heart, set out on a day hike in the coal mining region of West Virginia. The decision to explore a mine leads to a chilling encounter and a narrow escape. (1526 words)
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Grammarly – Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation Correction for Your Online and Offline Writing
Grammarly is a product that makes suggestions for spelling and grammar errors and even does commas (punctuation). Learn how to download, install and use Grammarly both for online and offline writing.
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Potty Mouth: Comedy Flash Fiction by cam
Ralph goes to the dentist and discovers a whole world of creepy crawly bacteria lurking, not only in his own mouth, but in the mouth of every woman he may kiss in the future. To kiss, or not to kiss?
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A Matter of Interest: A Short Story by cam
An old man spends his days shuffling around the city in search of the lost wealth of her citizens. For 30 years, he had persistently sought and found the lost coins, but for what purpose? (1260 words)
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Free Falling: Flash Fiction
Three were friends, two were lovers. When Steve was killed in a rock climbing incident, Edie set out to find out what had happened. Richie insisted the Sheriff was right, it was an accident. Was it?
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Hump Day: Flash Fiction by cam
Ted is leaving the workforce, and he has one more week, one more hump day until his retirement. Could there be anything worse than grinding your way through hump day, over and over again? Oh yes.
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The Ishi and the Witch: A Fantasy Short Story by Cam 1 of 3
Where a foot path once led through a woods from one boy's house to the house his best friend, a gate and a cobblestone cart path magically appeared. Billy made a choice that changed a world. (3 parts)
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The Ishi and the Witch: Fantasy Short Story by Cam 2 of 3
Billy is living in the land of the Ishi, creatures with intelligence and the ability to speak. A terrible witch makes life miserable, even deadly. The Ishi and humans form an alliance to fight back.
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The Ishi and the Witch: A Short Story of Fantasy by Cam 3 of 3
the Ishi and the humans carry out the plan to rid their world of the evil witch/queen. Billy and Orin must break into the castle to steal a critical element for the plan's success. Time is critical
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The Influence of Evangelicals on the 2016 Presidential Election
The 2016 presidential election is history. Part of moving forward is looking back to understand how we arrived at the present. Let's look at one of the election's primary influences, Evangelicals.
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Dust to Dust: A Short Story by cam
Charles and Foster ride a steam train across the US Great Plains on a desperate trip to California to find work. But drought, wind and Dust storms join forces to stop them and to destroy their hope.
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An Unholy Trinity: A Six Year Old's Perspective on Religion and World Events
Today's headline sent my mind back to yesterday, or several yesterdays, when I was six years old. To my mind, limited by inexperience and ignorance, three ruled the world, and they were evil.
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How the United States Will Elect The Next President in 2020 in Five Simple Steps
As we approach the 2020 presidential election, let's not forget how a president is elected. If we understand the process we will understand and accept the results. If we disagree with the process, we the people have the power to change it.
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The New York Times, Donald Trump, Stephen Bannon and Racism
Articles like this one in Monday's NY Times have one purpose and that is to create an illusion and to convince you and me that the illusion is real.
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The Rise of Eventide: Flash Fiction
After losing her parents to a horrible illness, the maiden, Eventide, faces harshness of people and challenges of nature as she seeks to keep the family farm and create a good life. Word Count 987
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An Ancient Evil: Short Story
Adam is in the midst of a 12 hr boring drive home. Rain has him pulled to the side of the highway. Boring becomes bizarre, but he finds himself strangely equipped to face a terrifying foe. Words 1672
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President Elect Donald Trump Wants Term Limits for Congress
In his “Contract with the American Voter,” Trump promised to take steps to set term limits for members of the U. S. Congress. Could this be a positive move that would give power back to the people?
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The Horror Next Door: Halloween Flash Fiction by cam
Halloween, a babysitter, a little girl and a nighttime visitor. Are there any better ingredients for a good horror story?
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Six
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1687)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Five
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1205)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Four
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1334)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Three
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1510)
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The Watchers: Short Story, Part Two
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1603)
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The Watchers: Fantasy/Vampire Short Story by cam, Part One
Three were chosen. Their task was to watch the cemetery and signal the vampire population should the fateful day come that would release a terror such as the world had never seen. (word count 1612)
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Open the Door: A Short Story by cam
Two lost loves cause Richard to seek emotional safety in isolation. Only his dog and his neighbor have a chance to help him become willing to open the door.
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Five Steps for Editing Mystery Flash Fiction Stories
Mystery genre has had a long history that has worked well in novels, novellas and short stories. Mystery flash fiction takes discipline to fit all the elements into the confines of 1,000 words.
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Sky Heist: Flash Fiction
Rance, a passenger on a high tech hydrogen airship, is also a PI. He meets two women transporting a valuable collection of jewelry to London. A thief is also aloft and it's up to Rance to nab him.
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Some Thoughts on The Hubbie Awards, 2016
If you are like me, you had been anticipating changes to the Hubbie Awards but were disappointed when those changes were unveiled. What has been your response. Here's mine and I welcome your comments.
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Superman I Will Be
A man seeks the high of all highs, the feeling that he is finally in control of his own life and the lives of those who have, up to the present, controlled him. Someday, he will be Superman.
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Mole on a Mountain: Action/Adventure Short Story by cam
Tony is a DEA mole in a Mexican drug cartel. On his first drug run, a shipment of meth, he encounters two kinds of trouble, airplane trouble over the mountains and his arch enemy as his new boss.
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Defining Moment: Poetry
A defining moment. A gambler might call it betting the whole stack. It is a moment of decision, after which nothing will ever be the same.
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Lake of Fire: Flash Fiction by cam
A group of wildland firefighters known as smokejumpers, parachute into a canyon and spot two hikers trapped by fire on the shore of a lake. Craig volunteers to hike to them and oversee their rescue.
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Flash Fiction: "Jacomo," Read on Video by the Author
Dave's life may end at any moment by a bullet from the gun of an angry, former coworker. Dave thinks of his wife, his daughter and is determined to live. Many have already died. Who will be next?
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Family Reunion: Flash Fiction by cam
A fun flash fiction about Wendell who discovers a man camping on his lawn. Things get out of hand with more visitors pulling onto his property. Local law enforcement isn't much help. Read by author.
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Mommy-Girl: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
A couple adopts a baby, but after only a few weeks, the biological mother shows up and demands the return of her child. But there's a tragic twist to this story that already has a tragic beginning.
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Adriana on the Slide: A Horror Short Story by cam
Adriana was on the run. From what and to where she didn't know, but waiting around for the next round of assault by an evil specter was out of the question. (word count-1334)
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Seven Years Bad Luck: A Short Story
Chris Mills Three boys led their ponies out of the red barn, jumped on and rode bareback down the lane toward the central Indiana, county road. “How much money you guys got?” said twelve year old Tom to the brothers. “I got a quarter,”...
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Master Minded: A Short Story
I was seventeen when you took me from my family, crept into my bedroom where stuffed animals and family photos told the story of a happy childhood. But today is the day of my revenge.
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Love Letters From Stefano: Flash Fiction by cam
Wayne goes on a tour of one of the oldest houses in the city. The others in the group see the building and furniture, but Wayne and a little girl named Melody see the lives lived and lost there.
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The Long Way Home: SciFi Flash Fiction by cam
Five years after being abducted from Earth and taken to Orbis, Christy has accepted the place and people, but Mark still longs for home. Mark discovers a way to escape, but can he go without her?
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Up Where We Belong: Flash Fiction by cam With Movie Clip
Navin was a drone. That is not to say that he was a continuous low hum or a remote controlled airplane but that he was a stingerless male honeybee with one purpose in life.
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The Drifter: Flash Fiction by cam
The Drifter arrives with too little, too late as far as this frustrated fellow is concerned. But by the time The Drifter wanders off, the man is inspired and back to work.
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No Reply: Flash Fiction by cam
Bosley was simply too thorough as an international bank accountant. He found a loose end, tied it up and wham, he's sitting on a log beside a campfire looking over his shoulder.
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The Convergence: Flash Fiction by cam
Calvin purchased a home and was making remodeling plans, beginning with the master bedroom. In that very room, fantasy and reality seemed to be converging to create a whole new world. But was it real?
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Mountaintop Gnome: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
Jeremy visits a natural hot spring on a mountaintop and leaves all his worries behind. But a mischevious gnome appears and spoils the heavenly bliss. Word count, 420 words.
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City Bus 352: Flash Fiction by cam
Charlie visits the wreck of an old city bus and relives its horrific last run. The memories are enough to drive a man mad.
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Oh, My Babies: Flash Fiction by cam
An old woman pushes a shopping cart around the city and rescues the lost and discarded. She adopts them as her own and gives them a second chance at life.
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Gene Drive: Science Can Now Alter Entire Species
Gene drive seeks to insert or remove a chosen trait in the genome of an entire species. Future applications include eliminating malaria, the zika virus and other diseases.
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Homegrown: Terror Rising in the Desert, 1st of 4 Sample Chapters of a Novel by cam
Blake is driving his Ferrari across the Mojave Desert. At a ghost town, he discovers people tending large gardens. But this is only cover for the terror which Eryk, the man in charge, has in store.
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Homegrown: Terror Rising in the Desert, 2nd of 4 Sample Chapters of a Novel by cam
Blake and 4 others are being held in an abandoned mining town. Eryk, the man in charge, has kidnapped and hypnotized hundreds. These 5 could not be hypnotized and will be killed unless they escape.
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Homegrown: Terror Rising in the Desert, 3rd of 4 Sample Chapters of a Novel by cam
Blake and the other 4 prisoners are taken to Eryk, the man responsible for their captivity. He attempts his mind control technique on Blake, and nearly succeeds. Time for escape is growing short.
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Homegrown: Terror Rising in the Desert, 4th of 4 Sample Chapters of a Novel by cam
Blake and the other 4 captives break out of the root cellar prison. Outside a desert sandstorm is raging, the perfect cover for an escape. They run in the only direction they can....into the desert.
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Victors and Lesser Men: Free Write by cam
Two men battle to the top of a mountain on a quest for domination. Through blood, sweat, and tears they come to a mutual realization about man's relation to man. Word count-480
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Ain't Never Comin' Back: Flash Fiction by cam
Joey Orsino works for one of the New York City crime families. He gets busted dumping a body into the harbor, and the cops make him a potentially deadly offer....Joey's boss for Joey's freedom.
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An Ideal Venue For Revenge: Flash Fiction by cam
This really is the ideal venue for revenge, isn’t it? Them together. Me watching from the kitchen with all the food and drink they will consume this night at my fingertips.
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The Weapon
I’ve talked until I’m weary of talking. Nobody listens. Nobody does anything. So I will. It’s taken planning and guts, and today I’ve brought my weapon with me to school. I intend to use it.
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It's a Double Date Weekend
Abner and Festus may not be the best dressed, most handsome men with magnetic personalities that attract women......No, they aren't.
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A Working Vacation
Donald was wealthy, handsome and, if the ring on his left hand meant anything, not available. The sexy redhead seated on the bar stool next to him seemed to consider the last point irrelevant.
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Protecting Sarah: Flash Fiction by cam
Connie had a crazed rooster and an enraged husband. Both posed a threat to her her and her Daughter, Sarah. The time had come to take the initiative and resolve the problem once and for all.
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A Night in the Forest: Part 2 of 2, A Drama Short Story by cam
Johnny, age seven, wanders off from his drunken father while morel mushroom hunting. In the night, he meets an old woman, but is afraid to trust her and fears she's a witch. Word Count 2249
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A Night in the Forest: Part 1 of 2, A Drama Short Story by cam
It was an exciting day for 7 year old Johnny. His rarely present dad was taking him camping and mushroom hunting. Excitement turns to fright when his father makes a poor decision. Word Count 1714
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An Unsettled Estate: Part Four
Nola escapes Philip's grasp and runs through the trees for her car, but she must pass through the sculpture garden first. Philip catches up, and they both are halted by an impossible scene.
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An Unsettled Estate: Part Three
Philip has caught Nola in the forest at night. They argue about whether the statues of Sebastien and Keera are alive and about Philip's plan to keep Nola as his secret mistress on St. Pierre estate.
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An Unsettled Estate,, part two
Part two: Nola sits in the sculpture garden, excited about her growing relationship with philip, but then she notices the sculptures of Keera and Sebastien. Their facial expressions have changed.
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An Unsettled Estate: A Short Story, Part One
Things are looking up for Nola, who gets a dream job and falls for a man who seems perfect. She arrives at St. Pierre Estate to find only a dusting of normalcy and strange happenings at every turn.
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Hungry Jack: A Horror Short Story by cam
Two men, war pals and fishing buddies, have a relationship cemented by one heroic act. Can the favor be returned when the enemy is unknown, hidden and very, very hungry? Word Count 1741
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A Message to My Friends on HubPages; Updated on 3/1/2016 With Competition Results
I've updated this hub with results from the 2016, Writer's Digest Competition results and how I placed.
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Baby Back Ribs and Russian Vodka: Short Story by cam
Among Tony’s three best friends is Boris, a recent Russian Immigrant who has a bone to pick with the mayor. He attempts to even the score over a dog pooping citation using tactics from back home.
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The Three Main Concerns About Genetically Modified Foods
When it comes to genetically modified foods, many object, others embrace them. What are the main concerns regarding GM foods? Potential effects on the environment, human life and plants are described.
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Destiny of Destruction: A Short Story by cam
Centuries after abandoning a ruined Earth, mankind is established on terraformed Mars. Dependence on fossil fuels still plagues them. One man has a plan to return to Earth and finish the devastation.
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Kombucha: How to Brew This Sparkling, Black or Green Tea Drink
Kombucha is a beverage produced by fermenting black and green teas that results in a refreshing, naturally effervescent, flavorful drink that can be used to replace soft drinks and alcoholic drinks.
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The Bones of Boo: Part Two, A Short Ghost Story by cam
Part 2-Ten year old, Jennifer was adventurous enough to almost drown. As a Thirty year old detective, she was determined enough to solve dozens of child abductions. Common factor? A ghost named Boo.
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The Bones of Boo: Part One, A Short Story by cam
Part 1-Ten year old, Jennifer was adventurous enough to almost drown. As a Thirty year old detective, she was determined enough to solve dozens of child abductions. Common factor? A ghost named Boo.
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Who Will Lead in the Age of Terrorism?
In the wake of the Paris attacks we of the free world must choose our response to anti-freedom, murderous terrorist groups. Civilization sits on a narrow precipice. It is time to rise up or fall.
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The Last Corn Game: A Short Story by cam
Boys on a farm can find creative and dangerous fun anywhere. Tom, Rick and Rodney were not exceptions. A gravity bed wagon loaded with corn is the setting for this frightful and nearly tragic story.
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Too Late to Run: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
Jack's morning runs in the woods had been a way to escape life's complexities. On this morning, it was the woods he needed to escape from. By the time he gave up the fight, it was too late to run.
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Children of the Pond: Flash Fiction by cam
Ten year old Jennifer wanders into the woods one day to return in a few hours with a new perspective on life, death and those who dwell between the two.
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Sleeplessness and Mental Health
Sleeplessness affects many causing difficulties which include cognitive impairment. Two causes of sleeplessness are Restless Legs Syndrome and sleep apnea. Here are suggestions for how to cope.
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The Search for Amy: A Short Story by cam
The Search for Amy: A Short Story by cam
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Perfect Day: RomCom Flash Fiction by cam
Randy was about to ask Brenda to marry him, but the place he chose to pop the question was not up to his obsessive standards. But he was determined to make it the perfect place and the perfect day.
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Trysts and Turns: Ghost Story Flash Fiction by cam
Greg has courage issues and a problem with someone sneaking into his apartment late at night. Mrs. Crepps, an elderly tenant, has a huge ring of keys and a secret.
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Lumens and the Brightness of an LED Flashlight (Torch)
Whenever you see flashlights being advertised, the number of lumens is mentioned as a selling point. Often it is tied to the brightness of the light. Is this really accurate though? What is a lumen?
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Rodney to the Rescue: A Short Story By cam, Part Two (of2)
Five boys on an a hike return to find the 6 year old sister of one of them is missing. They set their minds on solving the mystery and return to the dark woods where the child may be lost and alone.
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Rodney to the Rescue: A Short Story by cam, Part One (of 2 posted)
Tom, Rick and Rodney are excited the migrant workers, including their two friends, are coming for tomato harvest. To Rodney's consternation, little Lucía is coming as well, and love is in the air.
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The Liberation of St. Croix: Historical Flash Fiction by cam
The Caribbean island of St. Croix, a popular vacation spot today, was an exporter of sugar from sugar cane, produced by slave labor for 200 years. Until one man decided it was freedom's day.
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Why Are Many Evangelical Christians Opposed to Yoga?
Many Evangelical Christians oppose the practice of Yoga. Many non christians wonder why. Here is a concise and understandable explanation of the controversy.
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Chopin in the Asylum: Horror Flash Fiction by cam
A man goes exploring in tunnels beneath a shuttered asylum. His past comes alive, seeking retribution for wrongs done and the score between him and an old play thing is evened.
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Six Steps to Writing a Solid Flash Fiction Story
It's difficult to stay under the 1,000 word limit commonly adhered to with flash fiction. Here are 6 steps that will guide you to writing a tight, solid story for publishing or competition.
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Butterfly Breezes: Fantasy Flash Fiction by cam
Sometimes, the places and things that feel safest and most familiar, can deliver the oddest experiences. Come see what Michael and Jen learn when they enter....The Butterfly Zone.
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First Contact Mission: Flash Fiction by cam
Dr. Janis Ogilvy has been given charge of the lone survivor of a destroyed alien space craft. Tina, the female alien, and Dr. Ogilvy become friends until the aliens return, demanding her return.
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My Mother-In-Law's Cushion: Flash Fiction by cam
What to do with a gift from your mother-in-law when you love the woman, but hate the gift. In this flash fiction story, Roger uses his skills of persuasion to unload the unwanted item.
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A Red Herring Murder: Flash Fiction by cam
In the spirit of Nero Wolfe mysteries, Private Detective Owen Darby expertly unravels a tangled web of murder and robbery, pinning the perpetrators and leaving them with no way out.
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The Parrot's Bell: flash fiction by cam
An old victorian home sits silent after an old man dies in bed. On the same night, the man's parrot falls, never again to ring the bell hanging beside its roost. Buyer of old homes, beware.
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How to Get a Large Mattress to an Upstairs Bedroom
Moving a mattress upstairs is difficult, but what if it's too big to fit up the stairway? Here are tips for how to have the size bed you want where you need it.
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A Heartless Ruse: Flash Fiction by cam
A man sees a prostitute and the money begins flowing. Then he realizes that what he is trying to get out of this relationship isn't working for her or him. But bowing out isn't as easy as getting in.
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The U.S. Supreme Court and Same Sex Marriage
Is it the responsibility of any government to impose upon its citizens a moral code based on the Bible? Using the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling on same sex marriage, I attempt to answer this question.
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Catch That Pigeon: A Short Story by cam
Three boys in rural Indiana in 1970 come up with an idea that ends to a crime spree that had spread across the entire county. This is the third in a series of short stories about the three boys.
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A Consequential Gift: Historical Flash Fiction (With a Twist) by cam
A young woman named Violet embarks on a new career as a stewardess aboard ocean going cruise ships. Her small gift to a fellow crew member proves to be the right gesture at just the right moment.
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Emerge: The Awakening--A Book Review, Updated 15 October 2016, New Award
Review of the book Emerge: The Awakening, by Melissa A. Craven. Allie has always believed life is simple. You’re born. You live. You die. But she's about to learn those rules don't apply to her.
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Alexander the Great and India: History With an Alternate Ending; flash fiction by cam
An alternate outcome of one of the most momentous decisions in all of history.
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3 Ways to Stay Awake At the Wheel
Most of us don't want to admit to driving while drowsy or falling asleep while driving, but it does happen. Here are some drastic measures to take when you are drowsy and need to get off the road.
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Memories of Dunkirk: a short story by cam
As I finish writing this short story of the Evacuation of Dunkirk, it is the final day of the 75th anniversary of that historic event. This story is an historical fiction account of those days.